In a message published in the Force Notice Board, Chief Superintendent PPRB Alfred Ma Wai-luk says that the existing "Media Bank-Dealing with the Media" already contains a checklist of "dos and don'ts" for colleagues to appraise in advance should they be giving press interviews. He points out that the objective of the additional information is to provide colleagues with an insight into the media techniques used by professionals in the press and public relations field.

"For those who have previous experience in a related field and are thus au fait with such techniques, this could serve as a reminder for things to watch out. Hopefully this would help our colleagues to become more confident when performing PR functions," he notes.

In his message, Mr Ma also reminds colleagues of the Force's Public Relations Strategy listed on the PPRB Homepage. He re-iterates that the strategy is "a dynamic process intended to gain public understanding and support". "It will co-ordinate Force efforts in public relations and strengthen its effectiveness in countering negative criticism. It will be continuously refined as knowledge increases and will develop effective practices to reinforce positive perceptions," he notes.

The additional information provided in the "Working with the Media" chapter covers a variety of topics, including the media's assignment and work systems; the characteristics of working journalists; press, TV and radio interviews; answering media inquiries; relations with the media; press conference and letters to the editor.

"Later in the series, we shall post another topic on 'Writing Press Releases' as we continue to share experiences with colleagues," Mr Ma adds.