HK$1bn extra allowances for police questioned

Eddie Chu says more transparency is needed for police expenses. File photos: RTHK

Legislative Councillor Eddie Chu has asked the government for details of at least nine additional allowances given to police officers during the ongoing unrest, after officials revealed that food- and work-related allowances for the past six months amounted to HK$130 million.



Taking into account overtime pay accrued over the same period, this brings the total amount of allowances to HK$1.08 billion.



Referring to the extra food money, Chu said authorities have not disclosed the number or frequency of meals, or how the allowance is calculated.



He also said no reference figures for previous years have been provided.



He said people have a right to know if there are any more "hidden" items, and whether public funds are being reasonably used.