TNAG-2093-FCO40-2979-Royal-Hong-Kong-Police-Force-1990 — Page 79

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very worrying.

9. In summary Mr Glover and Mr Li confirmed that they were

fully aware of the restraints imposed on the Hong Kong Government by the major development projects being

undertaken and by the slow-down in the economy. However they observed that all these matters would amount to little

if the Police Force were to collapse. They therefore urged

a resolution of the current problems.

10.

Asked about how the ratio of police to population compared in Hong Kong to other places, Mr Glover explained that this was not an easy comparison to make because the Hong Kong Police undertook many functions which other forces

did not. For example, the Marine Police had a US Coastguard

function; the Police Tactical Unit had a quasi army

function; and the Special Branch in Hong Kong fulfilled a very much wider role than its counterpart in the UK. It was not his view that Hong Kong was over-policed and he observed

that the Hong Kong public were very keen on law and order.

11.

Asked about the public's view of the dispute, Mr Glover

said that in his view there had been quite a lot of support

in general and in the press. He noted that the Government had tried to counter this but in his view with little

success.

12. Mr Paul thanked Mr Glover and Mr Li for their clear and

concise explanation of the concerns of the Force. This had

been useful. He would ensure that these concerns were

brought to the attention of Ministers. HMG atached great importance to the maintenance of an effective and well motivated Police Force in Hong Kong. They had an essential role to play in maintaining Hong Kong's stability and prosperity in the crucial years up to 1997, including the planned assumption of border duties. The situation which

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