‘Underground palace’ undermines Tang’s chances
Henry Tang was yesterday resisting growing pressure to drop out of the electoral race after reporters unearthed sketches that revealed the unauthorised 2,400-square-foot underground addition included a wine cellar and home cinema.
Local newspapers dubbed it the “underground palace” and splashed blueprints and photos on their front pages of the sleek and modern house, owned by Tang’s wife, which is set in a walled compound in the wealthy Kowloon district.
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Hide AdMr Tang blamed the oversight on his wife, Lisa Kuo, who wept as she stood next to him while apologising. She said she oversaw the renovations because her husband was busy with work.
People who build without planning permission face a fine of up to HK$400,000 (about £32,500) or up to two years in prison. Building officers have inspected the extension but have not said if charges will be filed.
Mr Tang, a former senior government official, has been widely tipped as Beijing’s preferred choice to take over from Hong Kong Chief Executive Donald Tsang, who steps down in July.