'Unlimited land searches raise privacy concerns'

A development official expressed concerns that the lack of restrictions on land record searches could lead to privacy issues, leading authorities to modify the system. The proposal for legislative amendments suggests that land record searches must align with one of nine designated purposes. Doris Ho, Permanent Secretary for Development of Planning and Lands, spoke to lawmakers about the need for media to perform investigative reporting, allowing searches in the public interest, including reporting on large-scale unauthorized building works.

She believes a mechanism should be in place for the media to carry out such reporting, stating that while an application and some information would be required in the future, the likelihood of approval is high. Ho added that despite the absence of an appeal mechanism, applicants could submit grounds for reconsideration if their application is rejected.

Authorities are also considering introducing a mechanism to notify homeowners whose properties are being searched.