TNAG-0737-FCO40-941-Hong-Kong-annual-review-for-1977-1978 — Page 38

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Subject

Though the immediate cause of the breakdown was ICAC pressure, the rapid expansion and reorganisation of the Force were contributory factors. A partial amnesty was granted to avoid a breakdown in law and order. The position is outwardly calm but the Force must be rid of trouble-makers before the situation is secure. The power and prestige of the ICAC

is so high that there is little chance of a resurgence of corruption.

The pace and pressure of change in Hong Kong inevitably involve risks of an explosion. Since so much must be done so quickly they are acceptable.

CONFIDENTIAL