Public indebted to Force
for maintaining law and order
Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Mr Stephen Lam, inspecting a passing-out parade at the Hong Kong Police College on August 30, said the Force was a most professional and outstanding one amongst its peers in the world.
He said Hong Kong was indebted to the Force for maintaining her law and order situation in good form.
"Internationally, Hong Kong is a very safe city, with the lowest overall crime rate among other metropolises, like Tokyo, Toronto and others. Also, Hong Kong's overall crime detection rate of 45 per cent is the highest, among cosmopolitan cities.
"The crime rate in the first half of 2008 has dropped by about five per cent, including certain more serious crimes," he explained.
Mr Lam said apart from striving to maintain law and order, the Force also played many other important roles and one of its major tasks was to ensure the smooth running of large-scale events such as the Handover Ceremony in 1997 and the WTO Ministerial Conference in 2005.
He noted that Hong Kong was responsible for holding the Equestrian Events for the Beijing Olympics in August. During the competition period, public order was maintained and the events were held smoothly under the spotlight of the international community.
Mr Lam pointed out that the success of all these large-scale events is attributable to the dedication of all Force members. This has enabled Hong Kong to showcase ability in hosting international events, and to enhance Hong Kong's image as a cosmopolitan city.
"The fourth Legislative Council election will be held next Sunday. Once again, we will be relying on the Police Force to maintain public order," he said.
With the continuous development of society and enhancement of civic awareness, members of the Force were facing more and more challenges, he said.
He encouraged all the graduating officers to maintain law and order and play a part in enhancing Hong Kong's image as a cosmopolitan city.
He hoped all the graduating officers would maintain the fine traditions of the Force of being a clean and fair disciplined service, and serve the community according to the spirit of the rule of law.
A total of 11 probationary inspectors and 173 recruit constables passed out that day.
Mr Lam inspecting the smart turnout
Leaving the Police College after the passing-out parade