}
NUKKIV
17
Friday, June 29, 1973
COMPENSATION SCHEME INTRODUCED TO MEET PUBLIC DEMAND
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The scheme to compensate victims of violent crimes was introduced
because the people of Hong Kong wanted it.
This was stated today by Mr. Stephen Chau, Principal Social
Welfare Officer (Accident Compensation), who is also Secretary to the
Compensation Boards.
Speaking at the monthly meeting of the City District Office, Kowloon
City, he said that before the scheme came into operation, the need for
having compensation from the government for victims of crimes of violence.
had been repeatedly advocated in the press and by local groups. In other
words, the scheme represented the wish of the people.
Because of these comments, he explained, a working party was
appointed to study the matter resulting in the scheme being introduced on
May 23 this year.
"The scheme is a permanent measure under the developing social
security system of Hong Kong for the protection of victims of violent crimes
against undue financial loss as a result of injuries, disability and fatality."
It came into effect at an appropriate time as it coincided with the
current anti-crime campaign, but, he stressed that it was not a by-product
of the campaign.
"It is contributory to crime fighting in the sense that people
who are accidentally injured as a result of fighting, resisting, or assisting
in the prevention of crime are compensated.
/"It is