The Commissioner of Police, Mr Tang Ping-keung, today (May 21) met with representatives from the Hong Kong Journalists Association, Hong Kong Press Photographers Association, Hong Kong News Executives' Association and Hong Kong Federation of Journalists to listen to their opinions on recent problems encountered by journalists when covering police operations.

     During the meeting, both sides exchanged views on issues such as difficulties encountered, safety problems, press arrangements, co-ordination and identification, and communication mechanism. Participants also discussed the Police’s enforcement action in the vicinity of Mong Kok on May 10.

     The Commissioner said the incidents happened in the vicinity of Mong Kok on May 10 was not satisfactory and apologised to journalists who felt insulted. He added that the Police would deal with the incident seriously and look for improvement. The Force would investigate the incident in a fair and impartial manner and further information from the associations would be welcome.
 
     The Commissioner also said that Police will increase the manpower of the Force Media Liaison Cadre to strengthen officers’ capability in co-ordinating media activities at large-scale public order events. The Police will enhance cadre’s communication with the journalists at operations.
 
     To conclude the meeting, the Commissioner expressed gratitude to the representatives for the frank exchange. He said the meeting was only a start and that the Force would maintain communication with the media on problems of mutual concern. Opinions and concerns of the media would be conveyed to frontline police officers with a view to facilitate media reporting on condition of not affecting police operation and safety.  It is hoped that Police will maintain a harmonious relationship with the media on the basis of mutual respect and understanding.

     Separately, the Police noted that four media unions (Ming Pao Staff Association, Next Media Trade Union, RTHK Programme Staff Union and CitizenNews Staff Union) issued an open letter to the Commissioner of Police last night.   Taken this opportunity, Police wish to express its willingness to arrange meetings with their representatives and will take forward specific arrangements in due course.
 

Ends/Thursday, May 21, 2020
Issued at HKT 22:00

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