XN000022-1996-03-27 — Page 27

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Handling of incidents caused by soccer fans

Following is a question by the Hon Chim Pui-chung and a written reply by the Secretary for Security, Mr Peter Lai, in the Legislative Council today (Wednesday):

Question:

Regarding the conflict amongst spectators, players and the management staff of a soccer club at the Hong Kong Stadium on 12 January 1996, will the Government inform this Council:

Reply:

(a)

(b)

Mr President.

how the police handle incidents of soccer fans or spectators using foul language cursing or insulting the players or management staff of soccer clubs inside a stadium; and

how the police classify a complaint about such an incident lodged by the players or management staff of a soccer club where a third party has indicated willingness to give evidence?

The answer to the two parts of the question is as follows:

(a)

(b)

Police officers are deployed to the stadium during sporting and cultural events to maintain law and order and to preserve public peace. The Police will decide whether an act is likely to cause a breach of the peace in the context of each incident and having regard to prevailing circumstances. Barracking of soccer players or management staff of soccer clubs by spectators is a common phenomenon throughout the world and is tolerated as long as it will not cause a breach of the peace. The Police will take appropriate action, such as cautioning the spectators concerned, when such barracking is likely to cause a breach of the peace.

Each complaint will be investigated and classified according to the circumstances of the case, including statements made by the involved parties and independent witnesses.

End