Hong Kong government serious about curbing illicit births

Here's how the government is addressing the issue.

The Government is confident it can curb the number of Mainland mothers with no ties to Hong Kong giving birth in the city, and it will handle illegal birth agents seriously, Chief Executive CY Leung says.

Speaking to the media before an Executive Council meeting, Mr Leung said the situation is of concern to the public and the Food & Health and Security Bureaus will closely monitor the situation. He added private hospitals will continue to follow administrative measures in tackling the problem.

Mr Leung also urged the Legislative Council Finance Committee to approve the Government’s request for the old age living allowance. The committee will discuss the funding application on November 16. The sooner LegCo approves the funding, the sooner the Government can roll out the scheme, he stressed.