SECRET. Page No. 5 of 5 Pages
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Conclusions
13. Action under CR55 has the potential to provoke sympathy for those affected from a wide sector of the population, the media and particularly from the rest of the Police Force, other Government staff associations and some pressure groups. The JPOA could be forced to give its full support and would provide them with a convenient vehicle throug which they can arrange activities and communication with the press and other organisations, if the Yaumatei group decides that such actions.
are necessary.
14.
The hard core of the Yaumatei group and those who consider themselves innocent will be under strong emotional pressure and may consider organising some form of mass militant action which could lead to violence. Many of them will feel that they are placed in a desperate situation, where they are being victimised and have little or nothing to lose, and that this is an ideal opportunity to try to recreate the mood of the confrontation in October/November 1977. Accordingly the most likely initial step by these officers would be to attempt to stage a gathering of all Rank and File, probably including families and friends, and the most likely location would be at the Hong Kong Police Sports Association in Boundary Street. Other possible action may incluže a protest march, or demonstrations, at Police Headquarters or other Government premises, attempts to resist arrest or refusal to attend Court and a publicity campaign.
15.
The remainder of the Yaumatei group, who may see the Government action as an acceptable compromise, are unlikely to pursue any form of militant action on their own behalf.
16. If the hard core in the Yaumatei group are able to muster support for further action the loyalty of some members of the Police Force could be placed in doubt.
17.
The degree of sympathy and support for the Yaumatei group will, of course, be dependent largely upon their ability to maintain an acceptable public image. If they take extreme or unlawful action which outrages the community as a whole any potential support could rapidly fade leaving them relatively isolated with only a small core of supporters
113. Матий, Marmi,
J.J.E. Morrin
Acting Director of Special Branch
for Commissioner of Poliçe
Distribution
Secretary for Security Political Adviser
PLEASE RETURN TO SPECIAL BRANCH
BY 22 APR 1978
"The contents of this report must not be
quoted or further seminated without
specific authorisation from Special Branch."
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