§ Mr. Blakerasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what are the arrangements in Hong Kong for the review of sentences of long-term prisoners.
Mr. Anthony BoyleIt is normal for the sentences of all long-term prisoners in Hong Kong to be reviewed regularly by the Prison Board of Review which makes recommendations to the Governor. The prisoner's state of health and conduct in prison and the circumstances of his offence are all taken into account during this review together with any other relevant factors. At a recent meeting, for example, the Board recommended that the varying250W sentences passed on a number of prisoners for comparable offences should be brought into line. As a result some 24 prisoners are being released on 25th February in accordance with the Governor's instructions.