ENG-1991 — Page 307

PUBLIC ORDER

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dogs are deployed either from the unit's headquarters at Ping Shan or its operational base at the Airport Police Station.

With the commencement of the phased resumption of border security by the police, dogs and handlers are deployed in support of the Police Field Patrol Detachment. The strength of the unit will be increased to cover this additional duty without reducing current watch and ward commitment on the streets.

Complaints Against Police

The Complaints Against Police Office investigates all complaints from the public concerning the conduct and behaviour of members of the police force - including civilian staff and auxiliary police officers. The investigation of all complaints against police is monitored by the Police Complaints Committee.

In 1991, 3 158 complaints were received, 266 cases fewer or 7.8 per cent less than in 1990. Over 79.2 per cent of complaints in 1991 were made by persons either involved with or subjected to constabulary action. Complaints of assault, negligence of duty and conduct/manner made up the majority of the complaints, which represented 80.4 per cent of the total. Investigations into 3 333 cases were completed and 76 cases (2.3 per cent) were substantiated, 26 cases (0.8 per cent) were classified as false, and 2 410 cases (72.3 per cent) were either withdrawn or not pursuable. A total of 22 police officers were disciplined and five charged with offences resulting from complaints.

The Complaints Against Police Office is also responsible for advising force members on how complaints can be avoided. Throughout the year, lectures and seminars on complaint prevention continued to be organised for junior police officers with the aim of improving public relations and reducing situations of conflict.

Personnel

At December 31, 1991, the force establishment totalled 27 245 and 5930 for disciplined and civilian staff respectively.

During the year, 9 271 applications were received for the post of constable, with 1 246 applicants being appointed.

With regard to the recruitment of inspectors, 39 local candidates were appointed from 1 382 applicants, while 20 overseas officers were taken on strength during the same period. In addition, 51 junior police officers were promoted to inspectors.

This year saw some improvement in the recruitment of constables. Compared with 1990, the number of applications for the post of constable increased by 4 162, or 81.5 per cent, while the number appointed to the rank rose by 384, or 44.5 per cent.

Training

Training in the force is divided into four levels: basic (induction), in-service, promotion, and sponsored external training.

Basic training for inspectorate and constable recruits takes place at the Police Training School at Wong Chuk Hang, a modern 42-acre campus. The 36-week inspectors' and 24-week constables' initial courses cover similar subjects: criminal law, social studies, police and court procedure, drill and musketry, first-aid, life-saving skills, and self-defence. The inspectors' course also includes training on management and leadership. Additionally, expatriate officers have to undertake an eight-week colloquial Cantonese course.