Over the years, the impartiality with which the Force enforces the law has won the confidence and high regard of the public. Public satisfaction with the performance of the Force has long remained at high levels, which is a clear recognition of the Force's work.

The Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Henry Tang, said this when he took the salute at a passing out parade at the Police College on February 16. He also praised the Force for moving ahead with the times and making continuous efforts to enhance the professional standard of police officers and the efficiency of the Force.

"Thanks to the untiring and concerted efforts of members of the Force, Hong Kong has maintained its reputation as one of the safest cities in the world. While we are proud of our prosperity and stability, we also pride ourselves on having a professional and outstanding Police Force.

"We should be acutely aware that social progress - the lift in civic awareness, pursuit for individual freedoms, changes in social values, monitoring of the media, plus the advances in technology brought in particular by the boundless internet world - brings new difficulties and challenges to law enforcement and imposes unprecedented pressure on law enforcement officers," he noted.

Mr Tang told the 12 Probationary Inspectors and 199 Recruit Police Constables on parade: "However, I am confident that you will continue to keep up the fine tradition of the Force and uphold the very values which drive the Force's success, including fairness, impartiality and compassion in your dealings; acceptance of responsibility and accountability; responsiveness to changes; and effective internal and external communication. You would apply what you have learned in the Police College to your work. No matter what challenges and difficulties lie ahead, you will brave them with indomitable courage and commitment and serve with pride."

Earlier, Mr Tang reminded the officers that their passing out parade was an important milestone in that it signified an end to months of exhausting professional training. It also signified the time they begin a new chapter in their lives, shouldering the duty of eradicating crime and protecting the community at various frontline posts.

Lastly, the Chief Secretary pointed out that it was particularly meaningful for the officers to have joined the Force when Beijing is hosting the Olympic Games and Hong Kong is co-hosting the Equestrian Events in August this year. "During the Olympic Games, you will work closely with all members of the Force to ensure the smooth running of the events in Hong Kong, and demonstrate to the audience from around the world our good public order as well as the Police Force's professionalism. This will be your contribution to the country and to Hong Kong," he concluded.

Mr Henry Tang, accompanied by CP, chats with the graduating officers