Pro-govt Lawmakers Also Plan Voluntary Pay Cuts

Pro-government lawmakers said on Thursday they were planning to follow in the footsteps of officials by taking a voluntary pay cut as a “gesture” to show solidarity with Hong Kong people struggling during the coronavirus pandemic.

New People's Party chairwoman Regina Ip said she would donate 10 percent of her salary as a lawmaker until the Legco session ends in September, although she said she hadn't yet decided who to give the money to.

Ip is also having a 10 percent reduction in her salary for being an executive councillor.

“Because the legislature has not been able to hold meetings as usual, we’re doing less work. So I think it’ll be a good gesture to the public to show we’re willing to take a salary cut,” she said.

DAB lawmaker Holden Chow said his party colleagues are also considering donating their wages.

“The crux of the matter is people expect us or the government officials to show a good gesture to the society that we need to go through this very painful period but at the same time we will offer help to those in need,” he said.

Chief Executive Carrie Lam said on Wednesday that she and principal government officials will take 10 percent pay cuts for 12 months as the city struggles to cope with an economy hit hard by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.