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(c)

58.

Also, a defendant may be subject to the maximum penalty of life imprisonment in case the incest victim is below the age of 13. As regards the maximum penalty for incest of seven years, this only applies to cases involving victims aged 13 or above.

We believe the maximum penalty of life imprisonment for rape is appropriate. We are reviewing the maximum penalties for certain sexual offences including incest.

HK/Singapore civil servants exchange programme proposal

Following is a question by Dr the Hon David Li Kwok-po and a written reply by the Secretary for Civil Service, Mr W K Lam, in the Legislative Council today (Wednesday):

Question:

In view of the report that the Governments of Hong Kong and Singapore are exploring an exchange programme for civil servants of the two Governments, will the Government inform this Council:

(a)

of the objective of this exchange programme;

(b)

of the expected commencement date of the programme and its duration;

(c)

of the criteria to be adopted in selecting civil servants to participate in the exchange programme; and

(d)

whether the Hong Kong Government will consider expanding the exchange programme to include other countries?

Answer:

Mr President,

The Hong Kong and Singapore civil services have had initial discussions on a proposal for an exchange programme for civil servants. The objective of the programme is to enrich and broaden the exposure of the personnel employed in the respective civil service, and to enable cross fertilisation of experience and expertise.

Z