4
Supplementary to Question o
in Lego Meeting on 27.4.88
Mr. SOHMEN: Sir, would the Secretary for Security
consider asking the department's concerned to investigate
how to deal with these illegal activities at their root
rather than just by increasing surveillance staff to
deal with the manifestations of the problem? In other
words, could the Government consider strengthening the
sanctions that presently apply to provide more of a
deterrent effect, i.e. penalties which clearly bear a
very close relationship to the size of the profits that
can be generated by these illegal activities habitually
pursued?
SECURITY FOR SECURITY: Yes, I have noted the emphasis.
on the word "habitually". This will certainly be
considered, as I said, in the light of the quantification
of the problem, which we are trying to determine through
the departments concerned. And, as I say, I am aware of
certain sanctions which could be perhaps extended in this
area outside surveillance and an increased coverage on
the ground.
Prof. POON: Sir, according to the first paragraph of the
answer, if the measures available are considered generally
adequate, why did the Commissioner of Customs and Excise
argue recently that 15 additional posts were required for
the surveillance of these activities?