The statement from the University of Hong Kong's faculty of medicine on Wednesday night was blunt: 'The faculty will not comment on any speculation related to Professor S.K. Lam's resignation.'
The e-mail from a faculty spokesman was in response to questions about reasons for the sudden resignation of faculty dean Lam Shiu-kum.
The university yesterday confirmed it set up a committee of inquiry on January 27 after it received complaints 'relating to certain billing arrangements in respect of private patients of a clinical department of the university'.
A spokeswoman said investigations were continuing and university procedures required that such inquiries be conducted behind closed doors.
Reporters heard of Professor Lam's sudden resignation during a Medical Council hearing on Wednesday. He is a council member.