The Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Frederick Ma Si-hang, said the Force had an important role to play in maintaining good public order in Hong Kong, which helped create a desirable business and living environment for foreign investors, and was conducive to Hong Kong's economic development.

Inspecting a passing-out parade at the Hong Kong Police College on September 22, Mr Ma said the Force won international acclaim in attending to the security of the Sixth Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organisation held in Hong Kong in 2005. The professionalism and dedication of the Hong Kong Police Force were for all to see.

"With a number of major international conferences and events to be held in Hong Kong in future, we will continue to count on the support of the Force," he added.

Commending the graduating officers for their determination and perseverance demonstrated in completing their vigorous training, Mr Ma said: "As you are law enforcement officers, the public has high expectations of you. They expect you to be impartial, efficient and well disciplined. They look upon you as paradigm of personal conduct and integrity.

"Police officers should be upright, honest and responsible; respect the rights of individuals; and discharge duties in a fair, unbiased and understanding manner," he said.

Noting that competent police officers were indeed the valuable asset of the Force, Mr Ma commended the instructors and staff members of the Police College for their efforts and achievements in cultivating talents and providing new blood to the Force.

He also called on the graduating officers to put into practice the discipline, knowledge and skills they had acquired from training, and shoulder the responsibility of serving the community and maintaining law and order.

The Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Frederick Ma Si-hang, inspects a contingent of 15 probationary inspectors and 173 recruit constables