The Fight Crime Committee has been spearheading the fight against crime since its establishment in 1973. With the Chief Secretary for Administration as its Chairman, the committee provides advice and recommends measures to prevent and reduce crime. It also coordinates crime-fighting efforts and monitors their results.

    In 2002, the committee discussed a number of crime and related issues. Given the public concern on the rising number of family violence cases, especially those involving the homicide of children, the committee agreed that multi-disciplinary collaboration should be adopted to tackle the problem of child abuse, spouse battering, sexual violence and elder abuse. The committee also supported the adoption of various prevention and intervention strategies at different levels to strengthen support for families and to increase the Government's efforts by providing more responsive, integrated and targeted assistance to those in need.

    Separately, the committee noted that there had been increasing community concern regarding the mode of operation of a growing number of Internet computer services centres, particularly over young patrons having access to pornographic material and Internet gambling opportunities, and the possibility that these centres might become additional places for vice and triad activities. There were also concerns over fire safety and public safety aspects. The committee asked the Government to look into the feasibility of regulating these centres. In order not to unduly hamper the proper use of information technology and minimise hurdles against setting up businesses, it advised the Government to consider issuing some operational guidelines or a code of practice for operators to follow.

    To enhance the community's awareness of the importance of public support in facilitating rehabilitated offenders' reintegration into society, the Correctional Services Department launched another round of a publicity programme in cooperation with 18 District Fight Crime Committees (DFCCs) in 2002–03. The major publicity and public education activities included a variety show, a TV series, posters and Announcements in the Public Interest.

    Under the existing Police Superintendents' Discretion Scheme, a police officer of the rank of superintendent or above, may, at his discretion, caution a young offender aged under 18 instead of initiating a criminal prosecution against the person. Upon completion of a review by a committee appointed by the Secretary for Justice to consider whether it was expedient to extend the operation of the scheme, the Secretary for Justice submitted a report to the committee. It was noted that the majority view of the review committee was to maintain the status quo and not to extend the scheme to persons aged over 18.

    The partnership with the DFCCs remains important in the fight against crime. During the year, these committees continued to organise district fight crime publicity activities in collaboration with the Police Force, with funds provided by the District Councils and other sponsorship. The activities have enhanced public awareness of crime prevention and helped encourage community participation in fighting crime. The DFCCs also monitor the crime situation in their districts and help to canvass public views on law and order issues.

    To reinforce the close link between the Fight Crime Committee and the DFCCs, reports and feedback on the various issues discussed were exchanged through established channels. Committee members also took turns to attend DFCC meetings and functions. The Fight Crime Conference, attended by DFCC members, was held in December. It provided a forum for discussion of crime issues of public concern and exchange of views on ways to combat them.