ENG-1989 — Page 278

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PUBLIC ORDER

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HIGH priority is given by the Hong Kong Government to the fight against crime and the maintenance of public order. This is reflected in the work of the Fight Crime Committee under the chairmanship of the Chief Secretary, which provides advice and recommenda- tions on areas of public concern and for the maintenance of law and order.

Operationally the Royal Hong Kong Police Force is responsible for crime prevention and detection, and the maintenance of public order.

In anti-narcotics operations the police maintain close liaison with the Customs and Excise Department. The latter also maintains links with overseas customs authorities, and plays a major part in combatting smuggling and enforcing the Copyright Ordinance.

The Independent Commission Against Corruption enforces the Prevention of Bribery Ordinance and promotes greater community awareness of the evils of corruption.

The Correctional Services Department administers the penal system and runs cor- rectional and rehabilitative programmes. The department manages closed centres and detention centres for Vietnamese refugees and boat people.

In the crowded areas of Hong Kong, fire fighting is not an easy task. The Fire Services Department, nevertheless, continues to work efficiently on fire protection, fire fighting and rescue work, and ambulance service.

Fight Crime Committee

In 1989, the Fight Crime Committee continued to reflect the high priority given by the government to the fight against crime. The committee and its sub-committees gave advice on a wide range of issues, such as tougher measures to counter organised crime, corporal punishment, approaches to juvenile crime and young offenders, and regulation of the security industry.

The committee continued to follow up on the action required arising from the recommendations in the discussion document Options for the Changes in the Law and in the Administration of the Law to Counter the Triad Problem. The Triad Renunciation Scheme was formally launched on December 8, 1988, and it has produced a positive response from potential renouncers. From the inception of the scheme up to the end of 1989, a total of 2 467 enquiries and 644 applications were received, and a total of 150 genuine triad mem- bers had successfully renounced their triad membership. The administration of the Triad Renunciation Tribunal will be streamlined so that applications can be processed faster and further publicity will be arranged to attract additional triad renouncers.

Amendments to the Gambling Ordinance were put before the Legislative Council to provide for heavier penalties on people running illegal gambling operations. Amendments