The government learned about Tang Siu-pun's request for euthanasia a few years ago, the Commissioner for Rehabilitation said yesterday.
'We have been in close contact with his parents and family,' said Stephen Pang King-leung. 'We learned about his thought of dying a few years ago.'
Mr Tang is a quadriplegic who wrote to the legislature last month, asking for the legalisation of euthanasia. He made the same request in a letter to Chief Executive Tung Chee-hwa in November last year.
He had not publicly mentioned any previous contact with government officials.
Mr Pang said the government has 'no intention to review the policy on euthanasia,' and that the existing medical and counselling services could provide all the help Ah Pun needed.
'We have provided psychological help accordingly over the years for Ah Pun, and we will continue our work to help Ah Pun to get through the hardship, and support him to live on.' he said. Mr Pang said there is adequate financial support currently available for disabled patients.