Letters | Why Hong Kong’s police commissioner has the best job in the world

The “best job in the world” label is often claimed by high achievers like Lewis Hamilton or James Blunt, or given to those we envy, such as Top Gear’s Jeremy Clarkson. But, as Hong Kong increasingly becomes a global focus, many have come to believe that its commissioner of police has the “best job in the world” without a doubt.

If he were the CEO of a reputable company with 175 years of history, he would have been sacked long ago for allowing the company’s brand and image to be damaged so severely under his leadership. But the commissioner is still earning his six-figure monthly salary and can look forward to millions of pension dollars from taxpayers’ money.

If he were the manager of an English Premier League club, he would have been sacked long ago for ordering his players to leave the goalposts unprotected. But the commissioner is still riding his chauffeured Volkswagen with the special number plate “1”, despite leaving the police headquarters, Legislative Council building, banks, restaurants and dozens of MTR train stations unprotected against damage.

If he were the head chef at a Michelin-starred restaurant, he would have been sacked long ago for insisting that his cooks use a hammer to stir fry or a spanner to carve meat. But the commissioner is still in command of more than 30,000 subordinates who are inappropriately and insufficiently equipped.

If he were an army general, he would have been dismissed or overthrown long ago for having no visible strategy against the enemy and for failing to protect the troops and their families.