It took Hong Kong 31/2 years to enact laws that make the possession of child pornography a crime. Now, there is a need to ensure they work in a way which achieves their objective - to protect children from abuse.
The first cases involving people who have downloaded obscene images from the internet are just beginning to come before our courts. Two men were sentenced this month. And more cases are expected soon.
At last, the police are able to move against those who patronise this intolerable and despicable trade. The convictions demonstrate that the legal vacuum, which was becoming an embarrassment to our city, has finally been filled.
However, as we report on page 12 today, valid questions are now being asked about the way in which such cases are handled.
This is a new type of crime, and it is often committed by a new type of criminal. The traditional approach to sentencing may not be sufficient.
The Prevention of Child Pornography Ordinance, which came into force last December, allows for maximum sentences of five years' imprisonment and a fine of $1 million for those caught in possession of such material. Producing or reproducing obscene images involving children attracts tougher penalties.
