Lee draws line on Covid probe

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu has dismissed calls for an independent inquiry to look into Hong Kong's handling of the Covid pandemic.

Speaking before the Executive Council meeting yesterday, Lee said: "Some individuals believe there is a need for us to conduct an independent probe into our anti-epidemic measures. Others disagree. I, too, disagree with that proposal."

His comments came a week after health experts, including government Covid adviser Yuen Kwok-yung, proposed an inquiry similar to one in the aftermath of 2003's SARS outbreak.

Yuen's suggestion was backed by some medics and included Legislative Council medical and health services sector representative David Lam Tzit-yuen.

It was, however, opposed by another government adviser, Wallace Lau Chak-sing, who believes a review should be done but not necessarily by an independent panel.

And the chief executive said a review would be useful for authorities to improve measures from time to time as well as to update anti-epidemic guidelines.

But he added: "The reason I disagree with setting up an independent inquiry is that we have entered a new era of the pandemic. There are two goals I would like to achieve - to fully support our economic development and prepare for something more forward looking.

"I agree we should conclude our experience to ensure we are capable of adapting to new risks."

He said various government departments, including the Labour and Welfare Bureau and the Hospital Authority, will continue to draw from experiences and include effective measures into the guidelines "to make them regular principles."

Third Side member and legislator Tik Chi-yuen said an independent inquiry and regular updating of guidelines are not mutually exclusive.

"The aim of the review is not to blame anyone," he said, "but we should learn from our mistakes."

He added that the inquiry after SARS had made many inspiring recommendations.

Back on immediate concerns, Lee said authorities will only decide when to cancel the mask order after the winter flu season has passed.

From this Monday, citizens who tested positive for Covid were no longer required to observe mandatory quarantine for five days, meaning they can go to work as usual and designated Covid clinics can be closed.

Infected residents are encouraged to consult private doctors, with some 500 partnered with health authorities giving out oral Covid drugs free.

Some private practitioners have, however, refused to treat Covid sufferers in person, and others have supposedly charged them additional fees.

Medical Association president Cheng Chi-man went on radio to say doctors must prescribe oral Covid drugs to SAR residents free, but they may charge patients more if they have a complicated medical history.

Also yesterday, the president of the Institute of Dining Professionals, Ray Chui Man-wai, said restaurant operators would prefer that infected employees did not go to work.