Press Release

CSD issues statement on treatment of persons in custody

     In response to recent media reports and enquiries regarding the treatment of persons in custody (PICs), the Correctional Services Department (CSD) issued the following statement today (November 8):

     The CSD upholds professionalism in discharging its duties in accordance with the laws of Hong Kong and the relevant regulations. While the PICs are encouraged to participate in various rehabilitation programmes, the CSD has to strike a balance on specific factors, such as security risk and institutional operations, in establishing appropriate mechanisms in order to forestall any acts of indiscipline in institutions and to ensure that all PICs receive appropriate treatment according to the principle of fairness, legality and reasonableness. The department will not formulate policies based on the choice or preference of any individuals.

     For instance, the department provides plain and wholesome food for PICs, as prescribed by law, which fulfills the prevailing international dietary guidelines. The standard quantity and nutritional content of food in the existing Dietary Scales are designed by qualified dietitians and supported by the Department of Health. When feeling unwell, PICs can seek assistance from correctional officers at any time, and they will be referred to the institutional hospital for follow-up immediately.

     The CSD provides every PIC with a complete outfit of clothing adequate for warmth and health in accordance with the law. In addition, extra clothing items will be issued to PICs as necessary for the sake of their health according to the advice of the institution Medical Officer. The CSD will from time to time review the materials used for the PICs' clothing to enhance the performance of the clothing in keeping them warm. In 2016, the CSD replaced the crewneck long-sleeved wool pullovers and nylon padded jackets with double-sided fleece pullovers and three-layer laminated fleece jackets, as part of the winter clothing for PICs.

Ends/Wednesday, November 8, 2017
Issued at HKT 20:23