***************************************

The following is issued on behalf of the Judiciary:

The Tsuen Wan Magistrate Court was aware of the enhanced security measures put up by the Police relating to a criminal case (TWCC 2182/2000) tried there yesterday (July 25). However, the Court had not given any permission to anyone to refuse access to the courts by members of the public or the media because it is of paramount importance that court proceedings are conducted in an open, just and fair manner.

The Hon Chief Justice Mr Andrew Kwok-nang Li has ordered an internal investigation to be headed by the Acting Chief Magistrate, Mr Patrick Li to ascertain the facts and what improvements, if any, should be introduced.

End/Wednesday, July 26, 2000

NNNN