37.
Reply:
Mr President,
I would like, first of all, to express the Hong Kong Government's deepest regret at the tragic death of Mr Kang Sang-bo and to convey our condolences to Mrs Kang.
As regards the first part of the question, innocent victims (or their dependants in the case of death) who are injured or killed during crimes of violence or law enforcement actions may apply for compensation under the Criminal and Law Enforcement Injuries Compensation Scheme administered by the Social Welfare Department. Immediately after the shootout in last October, staff of the Social Welfare Department passed a copy of the pamphlet and the application form for the Scheme to Mrs Kang through the Korean Consulate. Another application form was sent to her through her legal representative in December last year. So far, we have not received any application from Mrs Kang or her representative. If Mrs Kang decides to apply, we will do everything we can to assist her and ensure that her application is handled as quickly as possible.
As regards the second part of the question, the Government is in the process of seeking legal advice on the question of liability in the light of the evidence presented at the death inquest. If civil or criminal proceedings are subsequently initiated, matters relevant to these proceedings will also be taken into account. Before legal advice on the question of liability is obtained, it is premature to decide on the question of compensation, or on whether Government should negotiate directly with Mrs Kang's legal representative on this matter.
End/Wednesday, July 5, 1995
Non-local workers in Hong Kong
Following is a question by the Hon Lee Cheuk-yan and a reply by the Secretary for Education and Manpower, Mr Michael Leung, in the Legislative Council today (Wednesday):
Question:
Will the Government inform this Council: