Financial Secretary (FS) Mr Paul Chan praised the Police Force for its outstanding performance, and for keeping pace with the times and maintaining a favourable law and order situation in Hong Kong. He made the remarks at a passing-out parade at the Hong Kong Police College on September 15.

Speaking at the parade, Mr Chan said in the first half of the year, a total of 26 550 crime cases were recorded, down about 1 700 cases when compared with the same period last year. It is the lowest figure since 1977 when half-yearly crime statistics were first kept. He attributed the low crime figure to the efforts of police officers.

Noting that police officers have strived to serve the public and maintain public order, Mr Chan said the officers' efforts would be recognised and affirmed as long as they keep their mission unwavering and maintain good communication with the public.

He added the results of the Police Service Satisfaction Survey in 2018 showed that 84 per cent of the respondents were satisfied with Police services, the highest rate since the inception of the survey in 2000. About 80 per cent of the respondents said they had confidence in the Force. The figure has increased significantly over the past few years.

Mr Chan said the Police Recruitment Day (Summer) was well-received and attracted lots of graduates from local and overseas tertiary institutions as well as non-ethnic Chinese applicants. He was glad to see young, courageous and promising people have decided to join the Force and serve Hong Kong.

Mr Chan urged the graduates to continue lifelong learning to acquire different kinds of knowledge to meet the changing needs of society and enhance their capability to fight crime.

A total of 45 probationary inspectors and 230 recruit constables graduated on that day.