HONG KONG LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL - 1 June 1988
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Sir, the length and complexity of some modern commercial crime cases and the problems encountered in their trial are a matter of concern to the whole community. This was recognised as long ago as 1984 when the original proposal for reform was made. Since then much has been learnt through the collective wisdom of the Hong Kong Select Committees, the ad hoc groups, the Roskill Committee and the legislation implementing its recommendations.
The initiatives contained in this Bill will not solve all the problems but they do go a long way towards ensuring a more logical manner of trial. The Bill reflects the wishes of the community. In any criminal trial, it must be remembered that the community too are a party. The accused and the community both have the right to expect fair, impartial and efficient justice. All of us involved in the process of criminal trial must continue to keep in mind that the interests of both parties are important. Sir, if that attitude is maintained then this Bill will be successful in reducing the length and cost of complex commercial crime trials without any encroachment on the rights of the accused, and the collective good of the people of Hong Kong will thereby be protected.
Sir, I move that the debate on this motion be now adjourned.
Question on adjournment proposed, put and agreed to.
EMERGENCY RELIEF FUND (AMENDMENT) BILL 1988
THE SECRETARY FOR HEALTH AND WELFARE moved the Second Reading of: 'A Bill to amend the Emergency Relief Fund Ordinance'.
He said: Sir, I move that the Emergency Relief Fund (Amendment) Bill 1988 be read the Second time.
The primary purpose of this Bill is to change the date by which the audited statement of accounts and annual report of the Emergency Relief Fund should be tabled in this Council. At present, the Emergency Relief Fund Ordinance requires this to be done by 30 September each year; this has proved to be impractical because this date always falls within the annual recess. To avoid specific approval having to be sought each year for late tabling, the Bill proposes to change the date to 31 December.
Sir, I move that the debate on this motion be now adjourned.
Question on adjournment proposed, put and agreed to.
HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC (AMENDMENT) BILL 1988
THE SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION AND MANPOWER moved the Second Reading of: 'A Bill to amend the Hong Kong Polytechnic Ordinance'.