The Health Bureau today clarified that the Government never requested the CUHK Medical Centre (CUHKMC) to repay its government loan ahead of schedule.

The bureau noted that the proposal for early repayment was initiated jointly by the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) and the CUHKMC.

In a press statement, the bureau said the CUHKMC formally notified the Government in writing on April 22 of its proposal to fully repay the loan ahead of schedule, citing its gradually stabilising financial position.

Taking into account various considerations, the Government has agreed to the proposal in principle that the CUHKMC may repay the full loan amount on March 19 next year. Specific arrangements are being finalised.

The bureau added that the Government will maintain close liaison with the CUHK and the CUHKMC to complete the necessary procedures. It will also closely monitor the CUHKMC’s compliance with deed-related obligations to ensure proper operations before and after the repayment.

The Government, the CUHK and the CUHKMC will report the latest updates on the loan arrangement to the Legislative Council Panel on Health Services on May 8.