Hongkongers can observe the first open meeting of an independent committee set up to investigate the cause of the city’s deadliest fire in decades, which will set the framework for subsequent hearings.

The Independent Committee in relation to the fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po announced on Tuesday that it will hold a “direction conference” on February 5, during which its chairman, Justice David Lok Kai-hong, will provide instructions on the arrangements for coming hearings.

This would include identifying individuals or organisations – or their legal representatives – who intend to participate in the hearings, the language to be used, and the procedures for submitting witness statements and other documents, the committee said.

“There will not be any presentation of evidence or examination of witnesses at the direction conference,” it said.

The February 5 meeting will be held at City Gallery, which is located at Edinburgh Place in Central.