TNAG-0111-FCO40-147-Detainees-and-prisoners-following-19671968-disturbances-1969 — Page 181

INTERNATIONAL

COMMITTEE

GENEVA

OF THE RED

CROSS

Page 4 -

K. HEFTI

PAUL CALBENAHAN

HONORARY DELEGATE I. C. R. C. G. P. O. BOX 659

HONG KONG

CABLE ADDRESS: INTERCROSS HONG KONG

TEL. BAIXA 236131

As a matter of fact, it appears that the prisoners are very well behaved and the authorities are trying to · increase privileges by extending exercise periods and the possibility of installing radios (HK channel only) is presently being studied.

The staff has been carefully selected and is specially trained for the job. The entire matter is so delicate and could be explosive that it can be taken for granted that the authorities ensure proper and correct treatment of detainees at all times.

Meticulous records are kept on each prisoner which includes regular weight control, the exact timing of the daily exercise periods, medical history etc.

I was allowed to speak to prisoners of my choice and I had short interviews with 1 female and 5 male detainees. There was no complaints but one prisoner thought the quality of the rice could be better (best quality broker rice is supplied as in Stanley Prison). Another would like to see a more varied diet (there is a set rotation of; diet which is as varied circumstances permit). Still another said the daily routine was extremely boring and one would like to see hand-fans supplied for the hot season. This last request is now under consideration by the authorities. Only one of the detainees I spoke to wanted to turn the interview into a "protest". He wanted to know who I was, why I came and then protested his innocense and "illegal" detention.

Whilst the detainees are held under a warrant, they have not been tried by a Court of Law. For the purposes of the ICRC they should no doubt be considered as "political prisoners" althouth this definition is not acceptable to the HK Government. There is freedom of political beliefs in the Colony and being a member of a political party or certain Trade Unions is no offence. The detainees are considered a security risk to the Colony due to subversive activities.

1

I trust that to-gether with my report on the visit to Stanley Prison this report completes the picture to your satisfaction. If there is eny further information you require please let me know. I would like to put it on record that I received all the assistance and co-operation from the authorities and the staff at the Detention Centre.

Pag

co. Mr. A. Todd

Colonial Secretariat.

Yours fait)

K

L

Well

H. Hefti