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We accord the highest priority to have a modern and efficient Police Force. The Police Management Review, begun in 1992 and completed in 1994, critically examined ways to improve the command structure, the use of modern technology and the manning levels of the entire Police Force so that it will be properly structured and equipped to meet future challenges. We have made a start to implement some of the recommendations arising from the Review this year; we will take forward the rest in the next few years. Furthermore, by implementing the Police Information Technology Strategy, work currently done manually will be done by computers. This will create the opportunity for even more police officers to be re-deployed for operational duties in the future. Plans are also being formulated to modernise report and interview rooms in police stations, so as to provide a more pleasant environment for members of the public to report crime.
Facing the Future: 1997 and Beyond
In addition to keeping abreast with the community's aspirations, we are actively planning for our future post-1997. We are committed to resolving the key transitional issues, working closely with our Chinese colleagues. Concern was expressed by Honourable Members on the progress of discussions with the Chinese side on the Right of Abode, on the issue of the HKSAR passport and on travel convenience for Hong Kong residents in the future. These are matters of great importance to our community, and their early and satisfactory resolution will enhance confidence. We will continue to work with the Chinese side to assure third countries that the HKSAR passport will be a first class document, that it will be up to international standards and can be accepted as a secure travel document. Indeed, we shall soon be seeking funds from this Council to develop a sophisticated computer system to enable HKSAR passports to be issued from 1 July 1997. We will be working hard to secure arrangements that will give the greatest possible degree of travel convenience for Hong Kong residents post 1997. We will continue our efforts to resolve the Right of Abode issue in discussion with the Chinese side, with the object of enabling Hong Kong people to retain or acquire their right of abode through simple procedures.
Our planning for a smooth transition goes well beyond these important immigration issues. To name a few others :