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is
after unremitting work and the expenditure of considerable resources, evidenced today by the record prices of drugs on the streets, the very large numbers of addicts in treatment, rehabilitation and aftercare, the declining involvement of young people in the drug scene, and the greatly reduced number of those convicted of minor drug offences.
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Nevertheless, in a world in which drug-abuse is increasing dramatically, producing profits for the trafficking criminals which are so enormous that, in a number of countries, they dwarf legitimate trade, we cannot afford to relax our efforts in any way. We must continue to rely on
the skill and commitment of our law enforcement authorities who have played a large part in our current successes, of a those in government departments and voluntary agencies who look after the large numbers in treatment and after-care, and of those responsible for the work of prevention, education and publicity. But of equal importance is the support of our efforts by the general public: it is just as much for their benefit that we strive, as for those who are already addicted to drugs, or for those who are at
risk of being enticed into addiction. We are well aware that, once drug
abuse becomes established in a society, it is difficult to control, let
alone eradicate. Fortunately, as a result of strenuous and devoted efforts by a great many people working in campaigns such as this, there is solid evidence that the people of Hong Kong are now more acutely aware of the problems and dangers of drug abuse, and better informed about them, than
ever before.
Over the next four weeks, Mr. Ho Chi-ping and his Committee, with
the active collaboration of the Action Committee Against Narcotics and a
large number of local organisations, have organised one of the biggest campaigns ever to take place in Tsuen Wan. There will be 89 separate events, including recreational programmes, visits, competitions, exhibitions,
seminars, and film shows; all have been designed to entertain as well as to inform, and all will carry an anti-narcotics message. The objectives
will be to advise young people never to experiment with drugs, even once; to develop a more sympathetic and understanding attitude amongst residents
towards those who have, unfortunately, become drug abusera; and to encourage
the public to report any drug trafficking activities. Particular emphasis will be laid on young people, to encourage their participation in healthy recreational activities in their spare time through the 28 member bodies of the very active District Sports Association, and to enlist their further support for future campaigns and other anti-drug voluntary efforts.
The Government's.....
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