A partner of a construction and engineering company, charged by the ICAC, was today (Monday) sentenced to eight months' imprisonment at Eastern Magistracy for lending his private car to an Inspector of Works of Highways Department (HyD) for use over a lon g period of time, while having dealings with HyD.

Lau Wah-hing, 46, a partner of Ying Fung Construction and Engineering (Ying Fung), was found guilty of one count of offering an advantage to a prescribed officer, contrary to Section 8(1) of the Prevention of Bribery Ordinance.

In delivering his verdict, Magistrate Mr Joseph To said the defendant was convicted upon circumstantial evidence well prepared by the prosecution.

The court heard that in 2002, HyD awarded a $240 million road maintenance contract to a contractor, which subcontracted part of the works to Ying Fung.

An Inspector of Works of HyD came to know the defendant as the inspector was assigned to supervise Ying Fung's works, issue works orders and recommend interim and final payments to Ying Fung under the contract.

The court heard that on October 17, 2004, the HyD inspector was arrested by the Police for contravening traffic offences by driving a car in Tuen Mun while his licence was suspended.

ICAC enquiries revealed that the car was lent to the HyD inspector by the defendant for at least 235 days between April 27, 2003 and October 17, 2004, the court was told.

The case arose from a corruption complaint referred by HyD, which had provided full assistance to the ICAC during its investigation.

The prosecution was today represented by prosecuting counsel Selwyn So, assisted by ICAC officer Ken Wong.