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In response to media enquiries on a court case today (November 20), the Correctional Services Department (CSD) issued the following statement:
The CSD strives to provide a secure, safe, humane, decent and healthy environment for people in custody.
The department has clear guidelines for staff on the use of force on persons in custody. The use of force by CSD staff is clearly addressed in the Prison Rules (Cap 234A) and the Laws of Hong Kong as well as in the departmental Standing Orders and Standing Procedures. Based on the relevant ordinance, the department has formulated guidelines and produced training materials for its staff on the various circumstances in which appropriate force can be used.
The department cares greatly for the health of persons in custody. All correctional institutions have a centre hospital or medical centre, manned by medical officers seconded from the Department of Health and correctional officers with nursing qualifications. If necessary, doctors in centre hospitals will refer inmates to the casualty departments of government hospitals for further treatment.
The department respects the judgment of the Coroner, and will study the recommendations made by the jury thoroughly in order to take appropriate follow-up actions.
Ends/Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Issued at HKT 18:32
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