HK govt slams BBC over 'false' Jimmy Lai health report

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government on Thursday strongly condemned the BBC for what it called a false report on media tycoon Jimmy Lai Chee-ying's health, saying it aims to mislead the public and create sympathy to cover up his crimes.

A government spokesperson said the court's 855-page verdict in Lai's case was fully public and showed the ruling was based on law and evidence without political considerations. The court stated Lai's sole intent was to seek the downfall of the Communist Party of China, even at the cost of national and Hong Kong interests, and he was the mastermind behind conspiracies threatening national security.

The spokesperson said Hong Kong upholds the rule of law, and suggesting certain people should be immune from legal consequences grants them privilege to break the law.

On health claims, the spokesperson said correctional services treat all detainees equally, providing secure, humane and healthy conditions with proper medical care. Lai has received comprehensive medical services, including dental and cardiac care when needed. His senior counsel stated in court last August that Lai received appropriate treatment and daily medical checks, with no complaints, and the judge praised the Correctional Services Department.

The spokesperson said Lai's daughter and certain media ignore facts, repeat lies and smear the government and department to mislead the public about his detention and medical care. The government firmly opposes and strongly condemns this.