9851 N. Thornapple Ln.
Mequon, Wi.
53092
July 4, 1991
U.S.A.
The Honourable A. P. Asprey, Secretary for Security Ex-officio member, Legislative Council
Security Branch
Central Government Office
Lower Albert Road
Hong Kong
Dear Mr. Secretary:
I am writing about the recent actions in Hong Kong's Legislative Council concerning the death penalty. It was gratifying to learn that the government will consider bringing forward legislation providing for abolition.
In my country, as the use of capital punishment has gradually ex- panded, homicide rates have not declined. As our Federal government
seeks to allow the death penalty for even non-violent crimes, evidence piles up that in fact capital punishment is no deterrent at all. Instead, it raises societal violence to a new level and instills a spirit of vengefulness in our dealings with each other.
Therefore, I respectfully ask that your best efforts go into ensur- ing the early submission to the Legislative Council of a bill providing for abolition of capital punishment.
issue.
Thank you for your consideration and time spent on this important
copies to:
Yours sincerely,
Elizabeth Clem
(Mrs. Frederick D. Clem)
His Excellency the Governor, Sir David Wilson His Excellency the Prime Minister, John Major Ambassador Sir Antony Acland