Carrie Lam apologizes over face mask remarks

Chief Executive Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor apologized for her remarks about wearing face masks yesterday, saying that she did not expressed herself clearly and caused public misunderstanding.

In a press briefing today, Lam clarified that because the government needs to ensure the supply of face masks for front line medical workers and other staffers who provide services to the public, and hence she encouraged principal officials to set an example and reduced the usage of masks unless it is necessary.

The Hong Kong leader said yesterday because the government has difficulties procuring masks amid global shortage, she urged her colleagues not to wear masks unless in specific situations, and have to take them off even if they are wearing them.

Some civil servants had criticized the government for not caring about their health.