All the papers favoured the campaign.
Their comments were mainly on Compensation for Victims of Violent Crimes, Sir Ivo's comment on the Crime situation in Hong Kong, and 'raising a hue and cry"
I
II.
The following are their views:
Compensation for Victims of Violent Crime
Kung Sheung Evening News (24.5.73), Sing Tao Jih Po (26.5.73), Hong Kong Times (26.5.73) and Wah Kiu Man Po (26.5.73) agreed that the compensation scheme for victims of violent crimes has its positive meaning in encouraging citizens to help police fight violent crimes.
Sing Tao Jih Po added that the compensation scheme is more than just an encouragement. It also shows that the Government recognises the bravery of citizens who help combat crimes.
The paper also suggested that souvenirs of encouragement such as certificates of award, plaques and honour of titles should be presented in open ceremonies to victims who are wounded in helping fight violent crimes.
Wah Kiu Man Po hoped that those responsible for the compensation scheme will not be too rigid in administering the fund. Under certain circumstances such as when the number of dependants of victims is large, they should make special arrangements to give more compensations.
Hong Kong Times said that the scheme should be welcomed by the public. But, it stressed that the Government should explain clearly that the setting up of a compensation scheme does not mean that citizens are encouraged to fight with criminals under unfavourable conditions. As long as the citizens report crimes and help police fight criminals under safe conditions, they have already fulfilled their responsibilities, the paper said.
Sir Ivo's Criticism on Crime in Hong Kong
Hong Kong Times (28.5.73), New Life Evening Post (29.5.73 and 30.5.73) and Wah Kiu Man Po (29.5.73) strongly criticised Sir Ivo's views on Crime in Hong Kong.
The papers said that Sir Ivo's views can only represent those of the Barristers and other privileged classes but not those of the general public.
"We do not deny that to help young offenders to have a new life and to strengthen the Police are ways of eleminating crime. But we can hardly understand how the launching of a Fight Violent Crime Campaign, coupled with tougher sentences could be contradictory to the recruiting of more policemen and helping young offenders to have a new life." expressed Wah Kiu Man Po.
"Sir Ivo's previous experience should tell him that one cannot be lenient and merciful to delinquents and potential criminals.
We believe that the majority of Hong Kong will disagree with Sir Ivo's views". said New Life Evening Post.
15.