TNAG-0198-FCO40-234-Prevention-of-bribery-bill-1969 — Page 131

CONFIDENTIAL

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XCC(69)32

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(e) Establishment Officer's representative;

(f) a secretary.

In view of the heavy emphasis on the assessment of assets in the Bill it is considered that the presence of an accountant in the Anti-Corruption Branch would prove invaluable and it is accordingly proposed to second to the Branch an accountant from the Treasury or Inland Revenue Department.

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It is also proposed that two Crown Counsel● be seconded to the Anti-Corruption Branch. One Crown Counsel would be a semor and experienced man (of the rank of Principal Crown Counsel) who would advise whether a prosecution should be instituted without reference to the Director of Public Prosecutions, and also on whether disciplinary action should be taken, He would maintain a direct link with the Attorney General personally. The second Crown Counsel would assist the senior officer.

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It is further proposed to set up a preventive section within the Anti-Corruption Bureau. This section would concentrate on the examination of Government procedures with a view to eliminating or at least minimising opportunities for corrupt activities.

Conclusion

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Honourable Members may wish to note that it is proposed to seek the views of the three staff Associations of the Hong Kong Public Service, the Bar Association, the Law Society and the Exchange Banks Association on the provisions of the bill.

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Honourable Members will be asked to advise whether the Prevention of Bribery Bill 1969 as annexed should be published. When subsequent comments have been collated, it is proposed to re-submit to Council for advice regarding introduction into Legislative Council.

(The Commissioner of Police (Mr C, P. SUTCLIFFE) and the Establishment Officer (Mr J. N. HENDERSON) will attend before the Council for the discussion of this item.)

26th June 1969 CR 9/3231/68 II)

COUNCIL CHAMBER

CONFIDENTIAL