I would like to share with OffBeat readers two minor incidents which reminded me of the recent discussions on Police use of discretionary power.

The first occurred in a fast food shop during lunch hours when a lady accidentally overturned her food tray, messing her coat and leaving her in a rather embarrassing situation. Luckily, a cleaner came to her assistance quickly and mopped up the place. The touching part was that, after cleaning, the employee on her own initiative brought the lady another cup of lemon tea.

The second incident took place at a medium-priced restaurant in Sha Tin where I had dinner with my family one Sunday. Impressed by its good coffee, I asked if I could have a refill. After seeking advice from her supervisor, the waitress politely replied that I had to pay for it. I was surprised somewhat but, that being the house rule, I did not bother to order another cup.

The two situations suggested to me that it is indeed necessary for frontline officers to exercise discretion in discharging their daily duties subject to prevailing circumstances. On major issues like combating triads, drugs and crime, Police will simply carry out their functions in accordance with the law.

In handling minor cases, however, officers clearly could and should exercise discretion based on their professional judgment and the nature of the incident. In this regard, more experienced officers could share their views and observations with their less experienced colleagues. The image of the Force will suffer if officers indiscriminately resort to summons action on all minor contraventions.

Senior Superintendent
Wong Chi-hung