Commissioner of Police Tang Ping-keung today met representatives from four media organisations to listen to their opinions on the recent problems encountered by journalists when covering police operations.

During the meeting attended by the Hong Kong Journalists Association, Hong Kong Press Photographers Association, Hong Kong News Executives' Association and Hong Kong Federation of Journalists, views were exchanged on issues such as difficulties encountered, safety problems, press arrangements, co-ordination and identification, and the communication mechanism.

Police enforcement action in the vicinity of Mong Kok on May 10 was also discussed. Mr Tang noted the incidents that occurred were not satisfactory and apologised to journalists who felt insulted, adding that the force would deal with the incident seriously and look for improvements.

It would investigate the incident in a fair and impartial manner and further information from the associations would be welcome, he noted.

Mr Tang also said Police will increase the Force Media Liaison Cadre's manpower to strengthen officers’ capability in co-ordinating media activities at large-scale public order events, and will enhance the cadre’s communication with the journalists at operations.

The commissioner concluded the meeting by thanking the representatives for the frank exchange, adding that the meeting was only a start and that the force would maintain communication with the media on problems of mutual concern.

The media's opinions and concerns would also be conveyed to frontline police officers to facilitate media reporting, on the condition that it did not affect police operations and safety.

It is hoped that the force will maintain a harmonious relationship with the media on the basis of mutual respect and understanding, Mr Tang added.

Regarding an open letter issued to the Commissioner of Police last night by the Ming Pao Staff Association, Next Media Trade Union, RTHK Programme Staff Union and CitizenNews Staff Union, Police said they were willing to arrange meetings with the unions’ representatives and will take forward specific arrangements in due course.