Mrs Pryor is concerned also that since officers of the Attorney General's Department work in the Operations Department of the ICAC, their independence might be affected. I am sure that this fear is groundless. I am advised that they value their professional reputation too highly to allow their integrity to be undermined by this arrangement. They are situated in the ICAC's offices in order to expedite the course of justice.
Mrs Pryor also raised the question of legal costs in connexion with cases arising from ICAC investigations. I am informed that a Bill dealing with costs in criminal cases in both the Supreme Court and the District Court is expected to be introduced into the Legislative Council during its current session. It is proposed that costs should be at large, subject only to taxation by Court Officials. The question of the limits of financial eligibility for legal aid, which Mrs Pryor also raised, is currently under revie and proposals for an increase in the limits will, I under- stand be presented to the Executive Council shortly. These measures should help to ensure that the rights of the indi- vidual in Hong Kong are fully protected. I can assure you that both HMG and the Governor of Hong Kong will remain concerned to see that the rights of the individuals are properly safeguarded, and to improve, wherever possible, provisions for this purpose:
George Gardiner Esq MP
House of Commons
London SW1
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