1
CUNI TAL
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3.
The Probation of Offenders Ordinance, Cap. 298 was enacted in Hong Kong in 1956. Section 3 of that Ordinance allows that a probation order can be made in appropriate cases i.e. where the circumstances of the offence and the offender
make it expedient to do so and where no sentence is fixed by law.
10.
The Detention Centres Ordinance, Cap. 239 was enacted in 1972 and provides alternatives to imprisonment for young offenders i.e. persons over 14 and under 25 years of age.
11.
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The Training Centres Ordinance was enacted in 1974
and provides alternatives to imprisonment for young offenders i.e. persons between 14 and 21 years of age. I am advised that these forms of training provide an effective and economical alternative to other form of punishment for young offenders. In relation to Detention Centres, statistics show that since 1972 only 22% of those detained there were re-convicted during the first three years following their release. In relation to Training Centres, only 37% of males and 9% of females were re-convicted within the first three years following release from these Centres since 1974. Furthermore a statistical
analysis comparing the incidence of recidivism after sentences of caning and sentences of Detention or Training Centre tends to support the view that periods of training in these Centres are more effective deterrents than strokes of the cane. It should be mentioned in the passing that the Correctional Services Department, quite apart from declaring their distaste for corporal punishment, are of the view that it can be counter- productive and does not in any way contribute to rehabilitation particularly if it is an additional punishment to a long term imprisonment.
CONFIDENTIAL
/P.8