Computerisation
One of the main ways in which an organisation like the Force can improve its efficiency and services is by taking advantage of the considerable advances in computer tech- nology, as applied to law enforcement. Following extensive studies over recent years the Force has arrived at a blue- print of its aims which have proved to be very similar to those formulated independently in other sophisticated countries. The Force makes extensive use of Government facilities which will increase as development in this area progresses.
In spite of limited current resources progress has been and is being made in line with the overall plan in a number of areas, such as personnel records, a computerised modus operandi index for CID, police use of the computerised driver and vehicle records, the computerised command and control system with the beat radio scheme and a recent custom-designed and successful promotion selection process for criminal investigation personnel.
An integrated law and order statistical system which involves the use of a mini-computer, to be operated by the Force and used by other interested government organisa- tions, is being planned. The system has a capability of being linked to the Force teleprinter system. This will provide further internal benefits, such as a tactical information system.
Hopefully, further developments will be possible with the enhancement of central government facilities.
Equipment
As in other spheres the Planning and Research Division monitors developments in equipment and other aids to law
enforcement throughout the world, in order to ensure that the Force is equipped with the most modern and effective resources available to meet its needs, taking into account cost effectiveness and the availability of funds. The division also evaluates a wide range of equipment, weapons and so on and, additionally, custom-designs and often produces specific items to meet particular needs. Recent develop- ments have been the design and production of mechanical aids, prisoner escort devices, protection kits for vehicles and a number of aids to internal security operations.
Police buildings
Following a review in 1975 priorities in the Force building programme were adjusted to ensure that the most needed projects, such as the Police Cadet School, Rank and File quarters and stations in new towns and developing areas, went forward. With the gradual easing of financial con- straints, the Force is now pursuing projects which were deferred and, where necessary, modifying their nature and scope to meet current and future needs. Examples of this are the redevelopment of the existing Police Tactical Unit and Dog Unit sites, in preference to those originally planned at Lung Cheung Road; redeveloping Central Police Station as Hong Kong Island Police District Headquarters; and locating the New Territories Police District Headquarters at Sek Kong, instead of at Fanling Depot. Phase II of the new Kowloon District Headquarters was also completed.
At the end of 1976 there were 47 projects in the building programme and nine projects were in the course of con- struction, including five divisional police stations, one sub- divisional station and two blocks of police married quarters. It is not expected that many additional major projects
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The new personal beat radio control centre in operation at Hong Kong Island headquarters.
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