Rumours Over Teacher Death 'put Lives At Risk'

A school governor has cautioned people against spreading rumours about the case of a teacher who jumped to her death at a school in Tin Shui Wai, warning that unfounded gossip could even cost more lives.

Speaking on RTHK's City Forum programme, Stephen Lui said the death of Lam Lai-tong should be investigated in a "serious but low-profile manner" after reports that she was under pressure from her principal. The school's sponsoring body, Tung Wah, has announced an independent probe.

"A lot of so-called information is actually just rumours, or something collected second or even third hand," he said. "This independent investigation should be done in a low-profile manner. However the result should be made public.

"This is how we can prevent society from creating a negative atmosphere or even hatred towards a particular group of people, like the principal."

However teacher Simon Hung, who also spoke on City Forum, said it was right for the investigation to be carried out in an open and transparent manner.

"It's a matter of accountability," he said. "When we have a tragedy like this we should keep it open to the public instead of putting it in a dark box."

The Professional Teachers' Union had earlier called on the coroner to investigate Lam's death on March 6.