John Lee vows legal action against Alliance Medical Group's abrupt closure

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu emphasized on Tuesday that authorities will take legal action against the suspected closure of Alliance Medical Group to protect consumers' rights.

His remarks came after Hong Kong Customs and police reported receiving 1,462 complaints as of 5pm on Monday (May 5), following the private healthcare provider’s sudden shutdown of its Tsim Sha Tsui and Sha Tin clinics the previous Friday.

The city leader stressed that the government is highly concerned about the incident and has established a task force to address the issue, while Customs and police will pursue legal action under the Trade Descriptions Ordinance.

Lee said the Department of Health will arrange for affected children to receive their remaining required vaccinations and will provide free services to eligible patients.

He added that the Consumer Council will also safeguard consumer rights, and has received 658 complaints as of 5pm yesterday (Mon), involving over HK$3.67 million.

Meanwhile, Lee stated that authorities are set to review the regulatory framework of the Private Healthcare Facilities Ordinance, particularly provisions related to prepaid services.

He added that the government will consider introducing statutory cooling-off periods and contract term limits, as the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau will submit a report as soon as possible following the completion of its study.