Medical Council reverses shock decision in anchor baby brain damage case

On Saturday afternoon, the Medical Council of Hong Kong withdrew its controversial ruling to permanently stay a disciplinary inquiry into the doctor linked to an anchor baby left with cerebral palsy, finally giving the family hope that justice may still come after a 15-year wait.

Following a three-hour review hearing, council chairman Professor Grace Tang Wai King announced the panel had revoked the earlier permanent stay, citing public interest and the need to uphold the reputation of the medical profession. The case will now restart.

The government immediately welcomed the decision, saying it hoped the inquiry would proceed smoothly while confirming that sweeping reforms to the council’s complaint-handling system are already in motion.

A bill to amend the Medical Registration Ordinance and boost public accountability is slated for introduction in the first half of 2026.

Outside the hearing, the boy’s parents, told reporters the sudden termination last month had left them devastated, but Saturday's reversal finally felt like seeing daylight.

They thanked the media and public for keeping the case alive and urged the council to schedule the resumed inquiry without further delay.