on
I have since consulted the Bar Committee further
the compromise as mentioned by the hon. Mrs. Rosanna
TAM and it is still of the view which I share that this is
not a satisfactory compromise because it is discriminatory
against a class of people who are thought to be suffering
from mental disorder, so that the principle that no person
be deprived of his liberty without a
liberty without a court order will not
though it applies to all acused
apply to them, even
persons
alleged
to have
committed serious criminal
offences like murder or rape. In this context, may I quote
a very famous though perhaps ancient line : "It is a rule
as old as the law, and never more to be respected than
now, that no one shall be personally bound until he has
had his day in court." Stephen J. FIELD in 1873.
вид
Sir, this is a particularly apt reminder for us
as we approach 1997.
vote
In the circumstances, I have to decide whether to
against this Bill on principle or to give my
qualified support to it. I bear in mind that overall this
is a very useful piece of legislation for Hong Kong that
it has taken much time and trouble to reach this stage and
that any further delay may mean it cannot be passed during
this current session. I, therefore, decide with reluctance
to give my qualified support. Sir, I understand
I understand that the
Administration
will
provide a
safeguard
by
way of