Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam at highest popularity since she was elected four months ago: poll
First HKU survey after July 1 change in administration shows her net approval rose 15 percentage points to 19 per cent
Hong Kong’s new top official has received a favourable report card, with all but two ministers from the previous administration scoring positive marks in the first popularity survey conducted by the University of Hong Kong since July 1.
Her popularity increased dramatically, by 11.5 marks, to 63.7 out of 100, as compared with two weeks ago. And her net approval rating – the difference between a vote of confidence or no confidence in an individual – rose 15 percentage points, to 19 per cent.
Chan’s rating increased by 11 percentage points from June, putting him at minus 19 per cent. Lau’s stood at minus 10 per cent, after surging 15 percentage points.
The study polled 832 Hongkongers between July 3 and 6, and came against the backdrop of Lam’s efforts to mend ties with the legislature.
Her efforts to undo several of Leung’s controversial policies have led some to argue she seeks to ditch accusations that she is “CY 2.0”, in a reference to her predecessor.
Meanwhile, labour and welfare secretary, Dr Law Chi-kwong, the only newcomer and pan-democrat appointed to the cabinet, emerged as most popular mnister, with a net approval rating of 44 per cent.
He was followed by commerce and economic development chief Edward Yau Tang-wah, and food and health chief Professor Sophia Chan Siu-chee, whose net approval ratings were 41 per cent and 38 per cent.
Education minister Kevin Yeung Yun-hung outperformed his predecessor, Eddie Ng Hak-kim, the most unpopular minister in Leung’s cabinet. Yeung’s net approval rating was 21 per cent, while Ng’s was minus 51 per cent.
Edward Tai, of HKU’s public opinion programme, said while no one from the cabinet reached the category of “ideal” performer, the results for Lam and Law could be deemed “successful”.
