TNAG-0330-FCO40-366-Visit-of-Parliamentary-Under-Secretary-of-State--Anthony-Roy-1972 — Page 6

Minister

(cont'd)

Rex Ellis/ Radio H.K

Minister

to Hong Kong. It is something which I welcome and

I know that the amount of time and trouble which is spent by many people in explaining the problems of Hong Kong to visitors is well worthwhile.

Were there any specific matters which you wanted to discuss with Government Officials? Were there any problems you wanted more enlightenment on?

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There was no specific matter. As I said it was a working visit to up-date myself. I have mentioned some of the subjects in which I have been briefed on and which we have discussed. There have been many others of course. I have been briefed on the narcotics situation with the Narcotics Commissioner, on the Chinese Language position, on the Mass Transit Scheme, these are all matters which have come under discussion and, of course, I have had a very full briefing and I have been studying very carefully and I have noted very carefully, the great concern about the increase in crime in Hong Kong, particularly robberies and assult. This has struck me during my visit as probably the most important issue which is giving cause for concern to people in all walks of life throughout Hong Kong.

I was very struck with the concern which is being felt. I was also very struck with the determination of all parts of Goverment to deal with this. You have all read and I have read, and I very much support the measured amounts to strengthen the police force which were made by the Governor in his speech. I have known the Hong Kong police for many years and I have the highest regard for this force which in my view is second to none in the world. A first class force, well run with a devoting group of officers and Constables who work hard in the interest of the people in Hong Kong. But they are facing, what is today,