2600224
C.S. 84
A & B
3
RESTRICTED
For discussion
on 17th April 1973
XCR(73)90
Copy No...
MEMORANDUM FOR EXECUTIVE COUNCIL
MEASURES AGAINST CRIME
This memorandum contains, for the advice of Honourable Members, a number of measures which it is proposed to take in the near future as part of the Government's campaign to reduce violent crime in Hong Kong.
2
The various proposals which are considered below have been included in one composite paper because it is felt that they should all be announced publicly at the same time. This should achieve the maximum effect by way of publicity and would, it is considered, be more effective in persuading the public that the Government is tackling the problem seriously than the announcement and introduction of the various measures piecemeal.
Powers of Punishment of Magistrates and District Judges
Bill
At Annexes A and B are the District Court (Amendment) 1973 and the Magistrates (Amendment) Bill 1973, the object of which is to increase the powers of punishment of District Judges and certain magistracies.
4
The great increase in the volume of serious crime during the past few years has imposed serious burdens on the Supreme Court and the District Court. In order to relieve these courts, it is proposed to arrange for more indictable offences to be tried in the District Court and the magistrates' courts.
5
However, it is considered to be essential, if more serious cases are to be tried in less senior courts, to confer on the latter courts enhanced powers of punishment. Annex A, therefore, increases the present maximum sentence of imprisonment which can be imposed by a District Court Judge from 5 years to 7 years.
6
The Bill at Annex B, confers on selected magistrates a power to impose up to 4 years' imprisonment for one offence (and 5 for consecutive offences) as opposed to a maximum of 2 years (and 3 years for consecutive offences) at present enjoyed by permanent magistrates.
RESTRICTED
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.