Editorial | Hong Kong’s Lai Chi Kok prisoners are entitled to respect
- Overcrowding and conditions at 46-year-old city reception centre make its redevelopment a priority despite protests
The number of prisoners held on remand in Hong Kong has almost doubled over the past 10 years, with many detained at the Lai Chi Kok Reception Centre in Kowloon. It is a concern that the centre, built in 1977, has become overcrowded and dilapidated.
It no longer meets the needs of the prisoners or the expectations of society, a Security Bureau paper submitted to the Legislative Council warned. Government plans to redevelop the centre, therefore, urgently need to be implemented.
The work is expected to take eight years and cost a hefty HK$5.5 billion (US$705.3 million). But the plans have come under fire, including from some lawmakers, with suggestions public funds would be wasted providing “luxury” facilities for prisoners.
Secretary for Security Chris Tang Ping-keung hit back at opponents, accusing them of spreading false information and “making a fuss”.
Public money must be spent wisely, especially when the budget deficit is forecast to exceed HK$100 billion. People are entitled to express their views, but Tang is right to highlight the importance of redeveloping the detention centre to ensure it is fit for purpose.