TNAG-0690-FCO40-839-Review-of-narcotics-problem-in-Hong-Kong-1977 — Page 39

AIR MAIL

CONFIDENTIAL

LE

0.51

Our ref. CR L/M 49/77

Dear work.

16 MAR 1977

DKK 385)

(BY BAG)

GOVERNMENT SECRETARIAT.

HONG KONG.

8th March, 1977

33

LAST

RCF.

T

20

A /

Drugs:

PQS by Mr. Frank Hooley, MP

NAT

Thank you for your unreferenced letter of 11th February

I apologise that our draft answer made no specific reference to opium or to persons who remain in Hong Kong but organise illegal exports.

2.

Whilst we do keep records of the number of persons arrested in possession of drugs while attempting to leave Hong Kong and subsequently prosecuted, I am afraid the compilation, on a regular basis, of pertinent details regarding the number of persons involved in the illicit export of drugs and remaining in Hong Kong is not a simple task. I am glad that the Secretary of State did not promise Mr. Hooley fuller information !

3.

I would be most reluctant to divert Narcotics Bureau (RHKP) manpower to go over the files for the past three years: this would be a substantial exercise and the resources of this effective section of the Police is much more constructively employed on the law enforcement as part of its work. We do however know of a number of recent cases (i.e. over the past year) where ve can immediately recall that prosecutions have been brought against persons significantly involved in the illicit export trade (although they were not charged specifically with export offences). A brief note is attached, for your information. I should emphasise however

that this list is not comprehensive and for the reasons I have given it is as far as we can go.

4.

As regards Mr. Hooley's Question to the Home Secretary, I agree with you fully that the reply was highly satisfactory from our point of view though I would hope that in future the Home Office will consult you so that if nothing else we get advance warning B that a question involving Hong Kong is to be asked and if necessary

can advise on the reply.

jaws wer

Mr. D.F. Milton,

Hong Kong Department,

Foreign and Commonwealth Office,

London, SW1A 2AH,

England.

(L.M. Davies) Secretary for Security

kulár Mr. David

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c.c. Mr. S.T. Kidd, Hong Kong Commissioner in Londen

Commissioner of Police

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