78. We still have a serious problem with cross-border crime. I am very concerned about the illegal activities associated with smuggling, including car theft, and I am determined that the penalties for involvement in these activities should be increased substantially. I am particularly concerned by cross-border triad activities and the violent crime which this has brought to our streets. I welcome the co-operation. of the Chinese Government in posting here two senior Public Security Bureau officers to assist with anti-crime liaison. There have already been a number of successes as a result of the closer co-operation between the two sides: the return of criminal offenders to Hong Kong, for example, and the exchange of intelligence and information on criminal activities.
79. A rash of recent incidents involving potentially dangerous incursions by Chinese vessels into Hong Kong's territorial waters highlights the importance of cross-border co-operation. If China is worried about smuggling, I can say without equivocation-"so are we". But the right way to deal with this problem is through planned, sensitive and effective co-operation between properly controlled forces, acting within their own boundaries.
80. I am glad that the very serious incident of 25 September was quickly resolved. I want to end smuggling, and I want to do more to avoid putting the lives of our policemen at risk in our own waters. So I shall propose to the Chinese Government that we plan and publicly implement a joint anti-smuggling drive. I feel sure they will welcome this. It will show strong, executive-led government on both sides in defence of our common prosperity and stability.
The Spectre of Corruption
81. It is important that Hong Kong remains a society which will not tolerate corruption, no matter who may be involved, and no matter what the criminals' high-placed connections, access to power or financial resources. Corruption is a menace to us all. The ICAC, with my support, will work to ensure that the evils of corruption are clearly understood, the opportunities for corruption are minimised, and the chances of being caught and punished are recognised to be too great to be worth the risk. The stability and prosperity of Hong Kong require a relentless assault on corruption before and after 1997.
23
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.