| Source | Latest linked headline | Age |
|---|---|---|
| News - South China Morning Post | BAR ASSOCIATION BROADLY BACKS NEW OFFENCE FOR PERSISTENT CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE | 1 hr ago |
The Hong Kong Bar Association has expressed broad support for a dedicated offence for persistent child sexual abuse, according to News - South China Morning Post. This comes after concerns over evidential issues in such cases were addressed in other jurisdictions over the past two decades. The association's backing marks a shift from its previous reservations on the matter.
Vice-chairman Martin Hui Siu-ting stated that while the association now supports the proposal, it emphasizes the need for safeguards to ensure fairness for both sides at trial, as reported by News - South China Morning Post. The details of these safeguards were not specified in the available information. The association's reversal of its previous stance suggests a significant development in the discussion around addressing child sexual abuse.
The proposal for a dedicated offence for persistent child sexual abuse is significant as it aims to address the complexities and challenges associated with prosecuting such cases, which often involve sensitive evidential issues.