weigh out different options" and "we will actively consider any options". In December 2022, Lee said that talks with mainland authorities on quarantine-free travel had recently restarted again. SCMP reported that in December 2022, Lee would go to Beijing to further discuss the quarantine-free reopening of the border with mainland China. In December 2022, Lee said that "I can now announce that the much-awaited reopening of the border with the mainland can now be achieved" in January 2023, though Tam Yiu-chung warned that it would be opened in a gradual manner and not fully. On 8 January 2023, Lee said that he would strive for a full reopening of the border, without a quota. As part of border reopening plans, those from overseas are required to be vaccinated against COVID-19, but those from mainland China will not be required to be vaccinated. Medical experts Ho Pak-leung and Leung Chi-chiu both disagreed with the vaccination exemption and suggested that those coming from mainland China should be vaccinated as a condition to enter Hong Kong, to prevent the local healthcare system from being overloaded. Lawmaker Michael Tien also said that unvaccinated mainland visitors "would actually increase congestion in terms of the availability of beds in our public hospitals." In January 2023, a government spokesperson said that all travelers from Hong Kong to mainland China would need a PCR test, including children and babies; however, children under 3 years old traveling from mainland China to Hong Kong would not need the PCR test. Lee said he "will communicate" with mainland authorities on the discrepancy. Paul Chan On 1 November 2022, Chief Executive John Lee said that Financial Secretary Paul Chan would have to take a PCR test upon arrival in Hong Kong, and will have to isolate if he tests positive; Lee stressed that Chan would not be allowed any exemptions. On 2 November 2022, SCMP reported that Chan tested positive with his PCR test, but did not have to isolate, contradicting Lee's earlier remarks. National education In July 2022, Lee said that the government would spare no effort to enhance patriotic education, and said that national identity and nationalism would need to be fostered to students from an early age. In August 2022, Lee said that schools must teach students to respect and safeguard national security. In September 2022, Lee said that teachers would be required to "be cautious" about their conduct,