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Monday, July 16, 1973

COMMISSION AGAIN APPEALS FOR ASSISTANCE FROM THE PUBLIC

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The Commission of Inquiry headed by Sir Alastair Blair-Kerr, is

still appealing for public assistance in its investigation into the effectiveness

of the Prevention of Bribery Ordinance and what changes, if necessary, should

be made.

The Secretary to the Commission, Mr. L.A. Richardson, said today

that anyone who feels he has facts or observations relevant to this second

term of reference should contact the Commission.

People voluntarily offering evidence to the Commission will be

given the option of being heard in open court with the public and press

present, or in chambers in complete confidence.

When the Commission of Inquiry was announced on June 13, Sir Alastair

was asked to submit his report on the second term to the Governor within

three months.

The report on the first term of reference, which dealt with the

circumstances in which a person being investigated for alleged corruption,

was able to leave Hong Kong, was submitted last week.

The full terms of reference of the Commission of Inquiry are:

(a) To report on the circumstances in which a person, whose

prosecution under the Prevention of Bribery Ordinance was at an advanced stage of consideration, was able to leave Hong Kong.

(b) In the light of experience of the working of the

Prevention of Bribery Ordinance, and having regard also to the need to preserve basic human rights under the law, to:

(i) report on the effectiveness of the Ordinance

and to suggest amendments;

(ii) to suggest any other changes in current arrangements

considered necessary.

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