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3. The Governor then described the present state of the RHKPF.
Their operational efficiency is first class, as is shown by the recent
decline in the crime rate after 5 years of steady increase. The morale of the Force is difficult to gauge, but it appears to have improved significantly since last November, largely due to the "act of oblivion" represented by the amnesty. Such an action, to mark the virtual end of ICAC's investigation of past corruption, was essential if the RHKPF was to be put back on an even keel, although the timing of the amnesty was obviously most unfortunate. The visit of Mr Crane and his colleagues has emphasised the level of the Government's concern about the RHKPF, who no longer feel neglected and unfairly abused. They have faith in the efficiency and impartiality of the Crane team.
4. Mr Crane has now produced roughly 20 papers on different facets
of the RHKPF: his overall conclusion is that a natural desire to
stop the rising crime rate had led to an over-rapid expansion of the Force and to neglect of some of the basic rules of administration. In particular, the rapid promotion of young Inspectors meant that there was no continuity at this level so that in practice, NCOs were leading
the Force. The events of 1977 emphasised the need for new blood to improve the organisation and discipline of the Force. To this end, the Hong Kong Government has already recruited Major-General Purdon to be a supernumerary Deputy Commissioner, in charge of personnel relations and administration. Mr Crane is now looking for other recruits to support him at a lower level. The Hong Kong Government are keen to act on Mr Crane's proposals as soon as possible. Sir Murray concluded by saying that the Force is now calm and operationally effective and expressed his confidence that no immediate crisis is in the offing. A blueprint for the complete overhaul of the Force should
soon be ready.
5. Lord Goronwy-Roberts expressed his satisfaction at these developments but emphasised the need for continued vigilance to
prevent renewed outbreaks of corruption, now that the problem has been
/reduced
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