(To watch the full media session with sign language interpretation, click here.)

Chief Executive John Lee today said he has instructed the Education Bureau to look into the University of Hong Kong’s operations, and will make a decision after hearing the bureau’s report.

Responding to media questions ahead of the Executive Council meeting this morning, Mr Lee said he had met the university’s vice-chancellor and also the chairman of the council, reminding them that good communication and co-operation are important.

Noting that the university does not belong to any single person, he said: “I also reminded them to take the interest of the university as the overriding principle in all their business.”

As regards the Government’s provision of public money for universitiy operations, Mr Lee stressed: “Public money must be spent with good value.”

University governance and administration have to be compatible, and must conform to the requirements laid down in the agreements in relation to the provision of public money, he noted.

This afternoon, the Government announced that the Chief Executive had accepted the Education Bureau’s proposal to establish an investigation and study group on the university’s recent operational controversies.

The bureau explained that the group aims to clarify facts and understand the issues of all parties. It will also facilitate internal co-ordination, assist various parties to work together and strengthen co-operation.

Moreover, the group will provide advice based on the investigations and studies, and propose recommendations on improvement measures and good practices to ensure that the university operates in accordance with the requirements of the University Accountability Agreement and uses public funds properly.