GF 323
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Blackmail
CONFIDENTIAL
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15
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機密
28.
The estimated 145,000 or more male homosexuals in
Hong Kong are found at all levels in the community. For the
most part they are discreet. Apart from their homosexual
activities They are probably as law abiding as the general
population. But, because of their sexual practices, they are
criminals and they live in fear of prosecution and blackmail.
Some are known homosexuals, others are not. All live under
the threat of being derided and ostracised by the community as
a result of prosecution and conviction.
29.
Even in those countries where homosexual acts are not
criminal offences, opportunities for blackmail remain. Unless
public attitudes towards homosexuality change, homosexuals
will continue to be particularly vulnerable to blackmail
because of the social stigma that can result from any public
revelation of their homosexuality. The law in Hong Kong, by
making all homosexual acts criminal, substantially increases
this burden on homosexuals and makes the task of any would be
blackmailer much easier. Victims of blackmail are
understandably reluctant to report to the police because they
fear they risk investigation and prosecution.
If homosexual
conduct in private between consenting adults were no longer a
criminal offence the risk of blackmail would be lessened but
although not entirely eliminated.
CONFIDENTIAL
機密