TNAG-1830-FCO40-2598-Hong-Kong-laws-on-homosexuality-1988 — Page 61

CONFIDENTIAL #

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Homosexuality and Young People

26.

The Law Reform Commission's proposal (12) to remove

homosexual activity between consenting adults from the

criminal law was strictly limited to adult males over 21 years

In all other circumstances such acts would continue

to be a crime. The proposal would not therefore pose a threat

to young boys. The protection of young people is discussed

further at paragraphs 40 to 42 below.

of age.

Public behaviour

27.

The Law Reform Commission has recommended the

creation of an offence of "indecent behaviour" (20) which it

is suggested should be widely defined. The proposal reflected

the Commission's view that if the law were to be changed it

would be unacceptable for homosexuals to behave in a manner

likely to cause offence to the public. The present law is

adequate to contain most such behaviour but at paragraph 44

below it is proposed to strengthen one area of the law

soliciting for an immoral purpose. Public concern that a

change in the law would lead to unacceptable public behaviour

is understandable. With the amendments outlined at paragraphs

42 and 44 the law would be entirely adequate to deal with any

deterioration in public behaviour. This includes behaviour

such as prostitution, soliciting and the regulation of such

establishments as bathhouses.

CONFIDENTIAL #