Hong Kong leader John Lee vows to review IVF support for women over 40
Hong Kong leader John Lee Ka-chiu has vowed to examine whether the government can better support women aged over 40 who are seeking assisted reproductive treatment, while acknowledging that financial incentives alone would not reverse the city’s falling birth rate. Lee made the pledge during a radio phone-in programme on Thursday, when residents described obstacles to having children, including…
Hong Kong leader John Lee Ka-chiu has pledged to investigate ways to better support women over 40 seeking assisted reproductive treatment. During a radio phone-in program, Lee acknowledged that financial incentives alone won't reverse the city's declining birth rate. He expressed the need for a comprehensive and family-friendly environment, addressing factors like job insecurity, housing constraints, workplace demands, and childcare needs.
Lee noted that the government's approach was based on surveys and research from various institutions. Concerns about job security were a significant issue, with residents expressing worry about repeated layoffs and the fear of long-term commitments. Lee confirmed that Hong Kong's economy was growing, with a revised growth forecast of 3.5-4.5 percent for the year.
The government has increased the newborn bonus to HK$30,000 for families with second or subsequent children, expanded childcare services, and increased assisted reproductive treatment capacity at public hospitals.
Written by urgent.news from South China Morning Post - Hong Kong's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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