Billionaire philanthropist Eric Hotung has applauded his estranged sons for having the 'gumption' to face up to him in court, saying he would not rule out a family reconciliation.
Despite the rancour of the legal proceedings, Mr Hotung, 78, said it was still possible he would bury his differences with his sons Anthony and Sean.
'Time is a great healer,' he told the South China Morning Post. 'Families are always having disputes and reconciliations, so why not?'
But Mr Hotung indicated it was up to his sons to make the first move. He said he had 'no immediate plans' to contact them but added: 'My phone is open to anyone who calls me.'
Speaking before yesterday's verdict, Mr Hotung said he only communicated with his sons through lawyers.
Asked how he would describe relations within his family, he said: 'Everything is very normal. I am married to a lovely woman and a compassionate woman and we get on fine.'
He gave his sons credit for fighting the court case, describing the experience as 'rather refreshing in a way' and saying: 'My kids felt they had a case - they showed some gumption.'
