ACID BOMB THROWING

Mr Lee Choon Eng asked the Chief Secretary if he is aware of the increasing use of acid bombs by gangsters in gang clashes in which innocent persons have been blinded or injured; and what measures the Government has taken or proposes to take against the use or possession of acid bombs.

Mr John Ede asked the Chief Secretary to state the number of cases of acid throwing which have taken place since 1st January, 1958, the number of convictions in such cases; and whether this form of crime is on the increase.

Mr David: With your permission, Sir, I will answer questions Nos. 2 and 3 together.

The crime of using acid to cause hurt is on the increase. Between 1st January and 10th August this year, there were 15 known instances of such use. During the same period, three persons were convicted of offences under the Corrosive Substances Ordinance, 1955. Under this Ordinance, the carrying of acid for the purpose of causing hurt is subject to a maximum penalty of ten years imprisonment and using it for the same purpose a maximum penalty of imprisonment for life and whipping. Acid is very widely used for legitimate commercial purposes and it is extremely difficult therefore to prevent small quantities falling into the wrong hands. The Government is considering, however, whether any practical and effective measures are possible to control its possession and storage. The Government is also considering the imposition of the death penalty for the use of acid to cause hurt.