XN000022-1979-11-18 — Page 11

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The Government's own objectives in the anti-narcotics field are clear and unequivocal; to stop the import of illicit drugs into Hong Kong and to eliminate drug abuse from the community. We are making significant progress in this long battle, through the dedicated efforts of those

involved, at the official, unofficial and community levels. But an enormous

task still lies ahead we still have between 35 000 and 50 000 addicts;

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this is, therefore, no time to relax our endeavours.

I wish to thank Mr. Ho, his three Vice Chairmen and all who have participated in organising this Campaign. Hong Kong owes much to the public spirit of its community leaders from all walks of life, who devote a considerable amount of their time, ability and enthusiasm to ensure the success of campaigns such as this. Social evils such as drug trafficking and abuse are a stigma on the good name of Hong Kong, and it is encouraging to see such well-led and well-supported efforts being made to remove them. I wish all of you the success in your efforts which you so richly deserve.