TNAG-0687-FCO40-836-Disturbances-by-police-in-Hong-Kong-1977 — Page 15

CONFIDENTIAL

2

4.

5.

However, many thought that the effective date of the amnesty

should have been set at the time when ICAC was set up or

about a year after its operation. To announce the amnesty

at this time when there was the Police threat of industrial

action etc. had not been timely.

The public were generally unaware of the Police's virtual rejection of the amnesty as such, although they knew that the Police had demanded clarifications on the amnesty policy. This demand was interpreted to be unreasonable and an excuse

only for more concession. Such a move by the Police was considered to be a clear indication that they were corrupt

and irresponsible.

6. Some members of the public felt that this continued aggressive

action by the Police might have been instigated by the more aggressive elements within the Rank and File. They pointed out that some 17 out of the 19 officers of the preparatory committee

for the establishment of the Rank and File Federation were in

fact interdicted, hence there was the possibility that this minority was trying to exploit the other officers to their own advantage. It would be dangerous if the majority of the Force and Government at large was to yield to their unreasonable

demands.

7. Members of the public also indicated that it would not be

necessary for Government to over-react by making any statement before Wednesday, when A.G. would be making clarifications on

the amnesty policy. It was thought that it would be adequate if a Government spokesman was to comment on the various press reports on the past events, so indicating that there was strong

public resentment towards the Police demands for unconditioned

amnesty.

Reaction of Community Leaders at a Meeting

convened by Home Affairs Department at 1450

8. Community leaders have also expressed their opinion on the amnesty policy and the Police's demands for virtual unconditioned pardon of all corruption offences. The concensus of opinion was the the amnesty was already a very generous offer that was accepted by the majority

of the Force. Government should therefore stand firm and resist

further unreasonable demands for concessions by the small minority.

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