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Jeremy Wong

Jeannette Lee

Each week our two teenagers debate a hot topic. This week ...
Jeremy Wong, 17, Hong Kong International School
E-mail is without doubt one  of the most efficient forms of communication.
It allows us to send messages to anyone across the globe, with just a  single click.
There's no longer any need to write letters and mail them or make costly telephone calls.
E-mail is fast and effective, but it has one major flaw.
All e-mails go through the internet, so a computer hacker can easily access anyone's e-mail account.
Computers run on a private network are vulnerable, too. For example, if just one computer is linked to the internet, all the terminals in that particular network are at risk of being exposed to hackers.
For this reason, heads of state should not be allowed to use e-mail. Government departments use the latest technology to protect their online data. Still, many leaks have been reported. In some cases, people's personal data has ended up on the Web.
Occasionally, we hear about people who have found ways to infiltrate government websites and obtain classified information.
Heads of state deal with a lot of sensitive information. These may include national secrets.
If these e-mails fall into the hands of bad people, such as terrorists, national security could be threatened.
Instead of sending e-mail, heads of state should communicate through secure phone lines or face-to-face meetings. This will protect international security.
Jeannette Lee, 17, Diocesan Girls' School
We hold these truths to be  self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
This statement is from  the United States Declaration of Independence adopted on July 4, 1776.
It stresses the importance of freedom and has proved an inspiration for millions of people. This is why I support heads of state using e-mail.
Presidents, prime ministers and monarchs have a lot of power but they are still human. They should not be denied the use of modern technology.
Think of all the benefits this can have. They can simply use a computer to keep in touch with ordinary people whose voices are rarely heard these days.
Also, heads of state are entitled to go online and communicate with their friends, relatives or supporters during their  free time.
It is also a good way to relax after a hard day in  the office.
However, they should be careful when sending e-mail. Most Spiderman fans must be familiar with the phrase: 'With great power comes great responsibility.'
Heads of state have to protect their reputation. They have to be aware that private affairs, as well as state secrets, could be leaked through e-mail. So they should be ready to take responsibility for their actions.
I don't see why heads of state can't use e-mail, as long as they act responsibly.



Should heads of state  be allowed to use e-mail?