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at the end of the year. A total of 323 persons were prosecuted, 104 were cautioned for minor offences, and six were warned for trivial election malpractices.
To strengthen its ability to investigate corruption, the department introduced a centralised system during the year to expedite the collection, collation and assessment of information and statistical data. The system forms the basis for improved investigative targeting and resource allocation.
To cope with the continuing increase in corruption reports, specially-trained staff of the Community Relations Department in various ICAC regional offices work closely with investigators of the Operations Department to deal with the initial stages of the investigation of complaints.
This new procedure has sped up the response to complaints and ensures an efficient use of the commission's human resources.
In 1995, the department's accommodation will be expanded and refurbished to create a more centralised operational headquarters.
Corruption Prevention
The Corruption Prevention Department identifies and eliminates opportunities for corrup- tion. Most of its work is for the government and the public sector, but it also advises companies and businesses on request.
The department studies new procedures or policies, monitors the implementation of previous studies and gives corruption prevention advice through consultation and participation in a wide variety of committees and working groups. In 1994, the department conducted 93 studies and reviews.
The department continues to be consulted by government departments and public bodies involved in major construction projects. Advice was given on anti-corruption aspects of consultancy agreements, the introduction of new legislation relating to site safety, the appointment of contractors, the preparation of tender documents, security of tenders, and assessment and acceptance of tenders and award of contracts.
The Trade Department's textile export control and quota allocation procedures were reviewed, and tighter supervision recommended. The procedures of the two municipal services departments for restaurant inspections were also studied; and recommendations were made to ensure more effective inspections, and the detection and closure of unlicensed premises.
The department worked closely with the Legal Department and the legal profession to develop a system to monitor compliance with professional codes of conduct. It also took part in a review of the Corrupt and Illegal Practices Ordinance to improve the regulation of elections.
Its Advisory Services Group advised 144 businesses during the year on purchasing, merchandising and the legality of offering or accepting rebates.
Community Relations
The Community Relations Department educates the public against the evils of corruption and enlists community support to fight the problem. It also aims to promote higher ethical standards in social and business matters. It works through the mass media and personal approaches by its eight regional offices to different target audiences.