Commissioner Lee Ming-kwai says he has every confidence in the preparations, plans and, most importantly, the men and women of the Force to make the World Trade Organisation's Hong Kong Ministerial Conference (HKMC) a success for Hong Kong.

Speaking at the HKMC Briefing at the PHQ Auditorium on November 30, he added: "With less than two weeks before the start of the WTO HKMC I know that all officers in the Force are working at fever pitch to ensure that we can provide the best service that we can to the delegates from around the world, visitors, demonstrators and the people of Hong Kong.

"No doubt we will face a big challenge but I am sure we can succeed and demonstrate our rightful claim as one of the best Police Forces in the world."

On planning for the HKMC, Mr Lee said officers had traveled to other countries to gain experience and brought back the best of policing practice to Hong Kong. The special duty teams and working groups had worked hard to ensure the Force is well equipped and well prepared.

He told the audience: "You have all received a variety of training in new tactics, which have modernised our Force response to violent protestors. It will certainly be a challenging few days but I have every confidence in you. It is important for commanders at all levels to maintain a disciplined and professional response to prevent what is preventable, manage what is manageable and engage what is not acceptable. All officers need to prevent and disrupt actions by would-be violent protestors and respond within the law and the Use of Force Continuum."

The Commissioner reminded officers that not all protestors are violent, and not all are criminals. "Facilitate all lawful demonstrations in accordance with our tried and tested procedures for which we can all be proud of. Demonstrations surrounding the HKMC are no different and we are well experienced in dealing with large crowds," he noted.

Finally Mr Lee said: "Some of you were front line commanders in major public order and security operations, including the Vietnamese Boat People camp riots; the Handover; the World Bank and International Monetary Fund Annual Conference; the Millennium and the July 1 processions. You are all experienced officers and key commanders who have led the Force through these events. Using our experience, common sense and training we will ensure that Hong Kong remains one of the safest cities in the world.

"For officers of the younger generation, this will be an excellent opportunity for you to gain the experience not only for your personal development as a police officer but also the long-term development of the Force."