Masks provided for HKDSE candidates

     In response to media reports on online allegations that masks provided for this year's Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education Examination (HKDSE) candidates were not up to standard or had expired, a Government spokesman made the following clarification today (March 11):
      
     The Education Bureau announced earlier that this year's HKDSE candidates would be provided masks distributed through the Hong Kong Examinations and Assessment Authority (HKEAA). These masks were supplied by the Government Logistics Department (GLD), including one batch from Mainland China with an expiry date of August 2023, and another batch from Russia with an expiry date of December 2024. Upon receipt of these masks, GLD conducted random checks in accordance with the established procedures and found them in order.
      
     Since GLD procures masks from different suppliers and places of origin to meet the huge demand of government departments, the appearance and thickness of these masks may slightly vary. GLD has sought the professional advice of the Department of Health on the standards of masks and placed orders on this basis. It also ensures that the masks have not expired before distributing them to departments.
      
     HKDSE candidates may report to their schools if they find any masks received damaged or unclean. Schools will follow up suitably with the HKEAA.