Former Deputy Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data Anthony Lam appeared in Eastern Magistracy today on charges of alleged misconduct in public office and using false documents to claim overseas subsistence allowance. The case was adjourned until November.

Anthony Lam, 58, faces one charge alleging that between February 8 and July 12, 2005, he misconducted himself while serving as Acting Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data.

He is alleged to have dishonestly claimed the cost of return airfares for travel from Hong Kong to Melbourne, Australia to attend meetings, and to have dishonestly claimed 100% overseas subsistence allowance to cover the cost of his accommodation, meals and other expenses while attending the meetings.

The other charges allege that between August 11, 2001 and October 20, 2003, he used false documents to apply for overseas subsistence allowance totalling A$4,288 (HK$25,300), with intent to deceive the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data.