The Hong Kong government is currently in search of alternative locations for the office of former Chief Executive Carrie Lam as the lease for the current office is set to expire next May. The cost of running Lam’s office is estimated to be around HK$9.17 million for the 2023-24 fiscal year, with a large portion of that sum being spent on rent and related expenses at Pacific Place in Admiralty.
Unlike the offices of other former chief executives, which are housed on government property at the Grade I historic building in Mid-Levels, Lam’s office is located in Pacific Place due to space constraints. The Office of Former Chief Executives accommodates ex-leaders Tung Chee-hwa, Donald Tsang, and Leung Chun-ying.
Lam’s office has notified the Administration Wing that it is making arrangements before the lease expires in mid-2025. The government has suggested relocating Lam’s office to other premises, including government property. Lam has expressed her willingness to cooperate with the arrangements.
Since leaving office, Lam has maintained a low profile, with her most recent public appearance being at an opening ceremony for the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen’s School of Public Policy in September. During her term, Lam faced challenges such as the 2019 protests and the Covid-19 pandemic.
The use of public funds for running the office of former chief executives has raised questions among lawmakers. Each former leader’s office is equipped with staff to assist in daily operations and activities such as receiving guests and participating in media interviews. Lam attended over 700 promotional and protocol-related functions during her tenure.
Lawmaker Michael Tien has questioned the costs incurred for running Lam’s office and suggested exploring cost-saving measures. Chief Secretary Eric Chan emphasized the need for the office to be commensurate with the status of a former chief executive and considered the Central and Admiralty districts as suitable locations based on operational requirements.
As the government continues to handle the matter in accordance with policies and procedures, the search for an alternative location for Carrie Lam’s office underscores the need to balance operational necessities with cost-effective solutions. The fate of Lam’s office post-lease expiry remains to be seen, as discussions and arrangements are ongoing to ensure a smooth transition for the former Chief Executive.
