ENG-2003 — Page 395

PUBLIC ORDER

of instant X-ray scanning. The technology applied has proved efficient in curbing smuggling. Two additional sets of a Mobile X-ray Vehicle Scanning System are also being procured. For operations at sea, four high-speed pursuit craft were procured to reinforce the Customs fleet, enhancing the department's deterrent patrol and interception power in Hong Kong waters.

Two Explosive Detector Dog teams were formed in September to increase the department's capability in the detection of explosives.

The department continued to liaise closely with the Police Force and law enforcement agencies in other jurisdictions in exchanging intelligence and this contributed considerably to the successful interdiction of smuggling activities. Enhanced cooperation with Mainland counterparts in exchanging information and mounting parallel operations at the land boundary crossing points continued to produce satisfactory results.

Information Technology

Since April, carriers have been able to submit electronically their cargo manifests for air, ocean, river and rail modes, a service that facilitates trade and heightens the efficiency of government operations.

Performance Pledges

The department published its 10th set of performance pledges, together with its vision, mission and value statements. These reinforce the department's commitment to quality service. For better public accountability, the department regularly reviews the quality of its services with the four customer liaison groups connected with the air freight, sea freight, cross-boundary transport and dutiable commodities trades. A home page on the Internet provides comprehensive and updated departmental information to the public.

Effective Measures Against SARS

The department's priority task during the SARS outbreak was to maintain an uninterrupted service to the public including customs clearance at all control points. and at the same time to provide sufficient protection to its staff, especially those on front-line duties.

The preventive measures taken included providing staff with protective gear such as face masks, gloves, gowns and shoe covers. Cleaning materials were provided to individual offices according to their respective operational needs. Safe and hygienic conditions were maintained at offices and workplaces, and public facilities were sterilised.

The department also ensured there was timely dissemination of relevant and useful information to staff, including information about the disease, precautionary measures to be taken, and guidelines on the proper use of protective gear, cleaning equipment, tools and vehicles, as well as the handling of any arrested persons having SARS symptoms.

In addition, the department set up a working group headed by an Assistant Commissioner to coordinate and monitor its preventive and follow-up measures, and it also established a system for staff to report on any matter involving SARS, such as contact with a person suspected to be infected. Overall, the department's preventive

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