quality of our service lies in our ever-increasing concen- tration on training, as evidenced not only by its quality but also by the numbers involved. Trainees, ranging from raw recruits to officers studying at university, account for some 10 per cent of our total strength at any one time. To offset consequential deficiencies in working strength, a training reserve of 1,000 posts was created on April 1, 1976. Studies are not restricted to the narrow professional field of criminal law, police procedure and discipline, but encompass an ever-widening range of academic studies and include such important matters as functional leader- ship and human relationships.
It remains a matter for grave concern that our ranks still harbour a number of individuals who continue to betray our organisation. They are being singled out and brought to justice but, thankfully, both we and the public are keep- ing these events in perspective. The vast majority of the Force deserve our thanks and respect for the manner in
which they have conducted themselves and the way they have stood up to ever-increasing pressures. I am in no doubt that the Force, today, is more efficient and more responsive to public need than at any time during its long and distinguished history. We have been stretched very considerably by the demands made upon us but the challenge has been met in a most heartening way.
Although our general progress over the past two years is encouraging, we are under no illusions but that we must continue to strive for yet greater success if we are to meet the expectations of the public. Nevertheless, the public, Government and the Force deserve recognition for their combined and tireless efforts in helping to, at least, stabilise the situation.
All things being equal and given teh continued support of the community, running in tandem with the improved quality of service by the Royal Hong Kong Police Force, I believe the portents for the future are good.
Sie
2
Brian Slevin Commissioner