Keeping order: Chief Superintendent of Police Public Relations Alfred Ma (right) says the force can handle any radical actions protesters may take.

Chief Superintendent of Police Public Relations Alfred Ma says Police can handle any radical actions protesters take, adding there is no need to ask for the People's Liberation Army's assistance.

Speaking at a press conference this afternoon, Mr Ma stressed the security arrangements for the WTO Sixth Ministerial Conference are the Hong Kong Police Force's job.

He said demonstrators tried to get close to the conference venue after the procession from Harcourt Garden to a number of consulates in Hong Kong this morning.

About 100 of them gathered at the junction of Marsh and Hung Hing Roads and attempted to break the cordon.

Mediations in vain

Although Police tried to communicate with the protesters through mediators, the protesters resorted to violent actions including kicking police officers and snatching their protective shields.

Although protesters did grab a few of the protective shields during the scuffle, Police used batons and sprayed foam to keep them from breaking the cordon.

No injuries were reported and no arrest were made so far, Mr Ma said.

Mr Ma reiterated Police have exercised the highest degree of tolerance and deployed the minimum level of response to handle today's demonstration.

When asked what actions would be taken if protesters upgrade their actions, he said Police are well-prepared for different situations.

Noting many members of the public support the handling of the recent demonstrations, Mr Ma said Police will strike a balance between respecting the freedom of assembly and ensuring a smooth and peaceful conference.

Traffic disruption expected

Principal Transport Officer Albert Su said protesters' radical actions may affect traffic on Hong Kong Island as they may need to close more roads for longer periods of time.

He reminded people to avoid driving to the affected areas and recommended parents maintain close contact with their children's schools and school bus drivers. They should also stay tuned to the Government's updates.

Public are also reminded to pay attention to the special arrangements for three processions to be held tomorrow morning, at noon and in the afternoon.

HK supports elimination of free-trade distortions

Speaking on Hong Kong's stance in the ministerial conference, Assistant Director-General of Trade & Industry Rosanna Law said Hong Kong supports the elimination of measures which distort free trade.

Noting Hong Kong will try its best to promote measures that facilitate development, Ms Law said Hong Kong supports WTO members' efforts to reduce or eliminate tariffs and scrap trade barriers in the service sector.

She added the negotiations on banana and cotton trade will start at 8pm tonight.