XN000022-1997-01-15 — Page 4

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"The proposed legislative amendments would send a strong and clear message, to drug traffickers and the general public, that the exploitation of young persons in this way is a serious crime," Mrs Lo said.

The following offences under Part II and Part V of the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance are defined as specified drug offences upon which a heavier sentence may be imposed:

Part II

Part V

trafficking in a dangerous drug;

trafficking in a purported dangerous drug;

supplying or procuring a dangerous drug to or for unauthorised persons;

manufacture of a dangerous drug;

possession of a dangerous drug otherwise than for trafficking, and consumption of a dangerous drug; and

offences related to the cannabis plant and opium poppy.

keeping or managing a divan for the taking of a dangerous drug;

possession of equipment fit and intended for consumption of a dangerous drug; and

permitting premises to be used for unlawful trafficking, manufacturing or storage of a dangerous drug.

The bill extends the court's power to pass a more severe sentence to cover conspiracy to commit, inciting another to commit, attempting to commit, and aiding, abetting, counselling or procuring the commission of a specified drug offence.

It prescribes that information relating to the involvement of minors in the commission of specified drug offences which would be admissible in evidence in criminal proceedings may be furnished to the court, and allows the person convicted of a specified drug offence to object to the reception of the information.