Legal team: Chief Executive Donald Tsang joins Director of Public Prosecutions Grenville Cross and guests to open the International Association of Prosecutors' 12th Annual Conference & General Meeting.

Hong Kong has placed great emphasis on promoting a prosecution service that is modern, just and receptive to community concern, Chief Executive Donald Tsang says, adding that a successful public prosecution system is fundamental to the rule of law.

Opening the International Association of Prosecutors' 12th Annual Conference & General Meeting today, Mr Tsang said Hong Kong, as a global hub for business and finance, has expanded its legal horizons and developed close links with prosecutors in other jurisdictions.

"Ten years ago Hong Kong faced a significant political and legal challenge - reunification with China. I am pleased to say we have met that challenge.

"Hong Kong has retained its distinct identity, and we continue to operate with a high degree of autonomy as prescribed under our Basic Law. The One Country, Two Systems principle, which preserves our way of life, is working well. Hong Kong enjoys a unique status within China as an autonomous common law jurisdiction. Our independent judiciary upholds the common law principles without fear or favour. Everyone has access to the courts and the justice system regardless of race, religion or rank.

"We are also proud of our reputation as a safe and law-abiding city. Our commitment to the rule of law extends to all corners of society."

It is the first time the Department of Justice has hosted the conference, which runs September 16 to 20.

Transparency crucial

Director of Public Prosecutions Grenville Cross said the nature of the relationship between prosecutors and various stakeholders has to be identified with precision, particularly when expectations from others are great and increasing.

He said transparency is central to the prosecutors' role. In Hong Kong, the department has published detailed prosecution policy guidelines which are subject to periodic review. In addition, annual work reviews are published.

"I would say that anything that we as prosecutors can do to de-mystify the decision-making process and to promote understanding of prosecution practice is healthy and has much to commend it, particularly as it places our activities in a proper context, free of misconception. It also keeps prosecutors on their toes, for they will proceed with care and in accordance with established policy guidelines if they know they may be called upon to account for their deeds.

"Transparency, effectively deployed, can defuse tensions and dispel myths," Mr Cross said, adding that independence is key to public confidence in the operations of prosecutors and the Basic Law has provided for prosecutorial independence in Hong Kong.