HC Deb 07 February 1972 vol 830 c257W
100. Mr. Rankin

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether he will instruct the Hong Kong police to take action to eliminate the demanding of protection money from small tradesmen in the Colony.

Mr. Anthony Royle

The Royal Hong Kong Police Force attaches great importance to the elimination of the practice of demanding protection money in any circumstances. This is a continuing task in which it has the full support of the Governor and myself.

Mr. Rankin

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether he will increase the rate of pay in the Hong Kong police force as a measure to reduce the prevalence of bribery.

Mr. Anthony Royle

The Hong Kong Government has recently approved a substantial increase in the rate of pay for the rank and file of the police force. Increases for more senior officers are under consideration. The Government's purpose is to improve recruitment, and it is hoped that as a result of the increases in pay the force will be in a better position to combat all forms of crime, including corruption.