{
  "id": 18481933,
  "title": "'Unlimited land searches raise privacy concerns'",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/06/unlimited-land-searches-raise-privacy-concerns-18481933",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-11-06T09:07:06.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "RTHK News",
    "slug": "rthk-news",
    "url": "https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1876833-20261106.htm"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "A development official warned on Friday that unrestricted land record searches could result in privacy concerns, leading authorities to revise the process. This issue arose following the government's suggestion of legislative changes, which require land record searches to have one of nine specific purposes. During a meeting with lawmakers, Permanent Secretary for Development of Planning and Lands Doris Ho reiterated the need for a mechanism to allow media to investigate matters of public interest, such as large-scale unauthorized building projects. Ho expressed confidence that future approval for such reporting would be \"very high,\" provided an application and necessary information are submitted.\n\nWhile there is no formal appeal process, Ho noted that applicants could submit previously unconsidered grounds for reconsideration if their application is denied. Additionally, authorities are exploring the implementation of a system to notify property owners when their land is being searched.",
  "summary": "A development official on Friday said a lack of restrictions for land record searches may lead to privacy concerns, prompting the authorities to adjust the mechanism. Her remarks came after the government proposed legislative amendments, saying land record searches must meet one of nine specified purposes. Speaking to lawmakers, Permanent Secretary for Development of Planning and Lands Doris Ho…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}