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drug addicted on admission and there are probably about 100,000 addicts in the Colony. The success rate of cure in prisons is very high (currently 41% still drug free three years after completion of treatment) as is that of Government financed private agencies. But the problem can only be solved by successfully attacking the sources of supply and the criminal distribution network in
Hong Kong; and by providing a suitable mass cure. There have been
notable successes in seizures and in prosecution of distributors following the reorganisation of the Narcotics Bureau of the Police
and improved liaison with Thailand; but so long as there is a demand some drugs will find their way into the Colony. Similarly, even if a mass cure is available, demand for drugs will continue as long as it can be met comparatively easily. All the various departments involved in Hong Kong, together with some private welfare agencies, have been brought together in an Action Committee Against Narcotics staffed by its own secretariat to provide co-ordination,
impetus and direction.
19.
Corruption. To combat corruption the Independent Commission Against Corruption was set up two years ago and has had considerable success in prosecuting offenders through the Courts. The Commission is also responsible for a scrutiny of procedures in the public service and for implementing a programme of public education. It is now reaching full strength and can be expected to extend its activities considerably over the next two years. The cost in the present financial year will be HK$37.7m.
AMENITIES
20. The following items are examples drawn from a large programme designed to improve the quality of life:
(a)
(b)
a virorous and continuing campaign to improve tidiness and cleanliness;
an extension of the area of playing grounds, parks and sitting-out facilities in the urban areas and also the tree planting programme;
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