XN000022-1974-02-03 — Page 2

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Sunday, February 3, 1974

To assist him in his new task, he was attached for 6 weeks late

last year to the British Home Office to understudy the inspectorate system.

"I was impressed with the wealth of knowledge of the inspectors,

and the experience has been hoth instructive and useful," he said.

"To set out on the work of the new post," Mr. Hampton said, "much

systematic information is required of the establishment and work of the

various institutions in Hong Kong."

These number 14 at present

――

12 penal institutions and a Halfway

House in addition to a Staff Training Institute.

"And in order to be effective and to carry through any recommendations,

credibility is essential," he said.

This, he was confident, after 26 years' service in the department.

he had. So had the Chief Officer and four Principal Officers who will assist

him in his inspection work.

"As Inspector of Prisons, I will make systematic arrangements to

report to the Commissioner of Prisons on any short-comings and needs of the

prisons institutions, and to ansure that policies and standing ordera are

effectively carried out," he said.

"I will also make recommendations where inspection reveals that

alternatives to existing procedures are preferable.

"There will be follow-up inspections to examine the implementation of

recommendations and to look at the progress, " he added.

Mr. Hampton emphasised, however, that his work was not a fault-finding

mission but rather constructive efforts in helping the various

institutions to perform their roles better.

"A fresh look at things is always helpful," he said,

Note to Editors: Copies of a picture of Mr. Hampton are available for

collection at the GIS press room, Beaconsfield House, 6th floor.