Walter's Blog |
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Reflections on recent events, plus the occasional fact free rant unfiltered by rational argument.
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"If you want to read a blog to get a sense of what is going on in Hong Kong these days or a blog that would tell you what life was like living in colonial Hong Kong, this blog, WALTER'S BLOG, fits the bill." Hong Kong Blog Review
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2/12/2025 1 Comment The Archaeology of the Recent Dead "With respect, every fragment is handled carefully, recognising the deceased and honouring their memory." A fire scene erupts as a hive of frenzied rescue efforts. Now that it's known there are no more survivors, the mood shifts. The urgency gives way to careful precision rather than haste. The site is declared a crime scene until proven otherwise, cordoned off with perimeter tape. A heavy, focused silence descends, broken only by the crunch of debris and quiet commands. Now, the painstaking task of identifying the human remains at the site is underway. Each day, a sombre procession of masked white figures, makes a subdued journey to the scene. Young men and women, who last week were in offices investigating deceptions and fraud, are now sifting the wreckage. It is a methodical, slow and profoundly challenging task that blends forensic science with grim physical and emotional labour. They undertake it with the core principles of preserving evidence and dignity. Charred floors and walls are susceptible to collapse. Toxic chemicals, sharp metal, and broken glass are scattered everywhere. The air is heavy with the unforgettable smell—acrid smoke, melted plastics, and the sickly-sweet odour of burnt organic matter beneath it. Everything appears in monochrome—shades of black, grey, and white. Familiar objects distort into grotesque shapes. The scene now a grid system with each sector designated to a team. The officers work from the least-damaged areas towards the most-damaged, and from the upper layers downwards. Debris is methodically removed piece by piece. This delicate task involves small hand tools such as trowels, rakes, and ultimately, gloved hands. The search is tactile as officers feel for irregularities, for the density of bone or tooth amidst ash and plaster. With respect, every fragment is handled carefully, recognising the deceased and honouring their memory. The goal is identification; each recovered fragment could be crucial for naming the victim, providing closure to grieving families, and supporting justice. Investigators encounter the most personal and tragic moments preserved in destruction— a child's toy melted beside a bed or photographs curled into ash-reminding us of the emotional weight carried by this work. The psychological impact on teams is well recognised; they support each other while professional help is on hand to cope with the emotional weight of the scene. This is one of the most demanding tasks in policing, requiring a rare blend of scientific detachment, physical endurance, and profound humanity. This is the archaeology of the recent dead—a meticulous, respectful reversal of destruction to recover identities and, with them, the potential for justice and closure.
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26/11/2025 0 Comments Disaster in Tai Po "Those responsible for the circumstances that created the risk must be held accountable for their decisions..." As I write this blog, the fires at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po continue to burn. Media reports tell me that 13 are dead, with many more critically injured. Those numbers are likely to be higher once a complete account is given. Meanwhile, distressed residents are desperately searching for missing relatives, which should inspire our collective concern and compassion. For the past two years, as a Tai Po resident, I’ve passed Wang Fuk Court, wrapped in bamboo and green plastic netting during renovations. I’d assumed the blocks were empty of residents. Therefore, I am shocked to discover that someone considered it acceptable to keep tenants in situ despite the apparent dangers. Have no lessons been learnt from the Grenfell Tower fire in London? Sure, it is premature to say what caused the fire. But what is certain is that once it took hold, controlling it proved extremely difficult for our brave firemen. That one has lost his life is a testimont to the dangers. Undoubtedly, there will be a thorough enquiry into this tragic incident. Those responsible for the circumstances that created the risk must be held accountable for their decisions, especially choosing to leave tenants, including vulnerable elderly residents, in place. Risks must no longer be ignored, especially in Hong Kong with its many high-rise buildings. It is essential that the government takes decisive action to understand what happened and lead safety improvements. Update: As dawn breaks, the fires are still burning although increasingly under control. 36 are confirmed dead and at least 279 are missing. Three people are under arrest on suspicion of 'manslaughter'. Meanwhile, the city is in shock.23/11/2025 0 Comments LegCo - All Change! "If Hong Kong aims to cultivate political talent, then fresh blood is essential." It's election season in Hong Kong. Elections? Yes, Hong Kong holds elections for the Legislative Council and district councils. On 7 December, we will vote to elect 90 LegCo members. Among serving lawmakers, 35 have decided to step down and not stand for re-election. Some commentators have called this an exodus, suggesting that councillors are either being encouraged to step down or are dissatisfied with the system. Although the turnover of LegCo members is marginally higher than usual, it is important to note that 12 of these 22 are over 70 years old and have served lengthy terms. It’s time for them to step aside. This change could bring new perspectives and approaches to governance, offering a hopeful outlook for our city's future. After all, if Hong Kong aims to cultivate political talent, then fresh blood is essential. These days, LegCo sessions receive less media attention, a welcome change now that the disruptive radicals and their antics are history. The era of shouting, throwing objects, physical skirmishes, and other attention-seeking behaviours in the chamber has ended, and we can all breathe a sigh of relief. A LegCo member snatching a female official's phone, fleeing to hide in the male toilets, and flicking through her messages was not the worst behaviour. That qualification should be reserved for the two young legislators who chose to insult the entire nation by invoking the Japanese name for occupied China when they were sworn in. These immature, foolish, and crass remarks earned them justifiable widespread condemnation. They knew their words poked a raw nerve. Even former Governor Chris Patten came out to criticise the pair, asserting their antics “… make a mockery of a serious political argument.” Later, the duo abandoned their taxpayer-funded offices, leaving behind crates of half-consumed alcohol and new, expensive game consoles, demonstrating that their priorities were never to serve as diligent representatives of the people. On 15 November 2016, the court disqualified the two legislators for failing to take their oaths "faithfully and truthfully." They attempted to force their way into the LegCo chamber, injuring security staff in the process. Both were convicted and served brief prison sentences. Subsequently, one fled to the U.S., and the other disappeared from public life. "With the highest life expectancy on the planet, we can take pride in the safety and quality of life our city offers. Despite the critics, it is clear that Hong Kong is doing many things right." It is also possible to draw a direct connection between the violence witnessed in the LegCo chamber and the rioting on the streets in 2019. The destruction caused by the Antifa-types, who stormed through our city and even the LegCo building, was tacitly encouraged by the radicals within LegCo. In doing so, they invited their own downfall.
For this election everybody is closely observing the turnout. The turnout rate in 2021 was just over 30%, following events in 2019 and Covid. In 2016, the rate was about 58%. The Hong Kong elections may not pass the litmus test with Western politicians. You know, the ones who question the legitimacy of LegCo, while they take an oath of office to an unelected King, his heirs, and successors, including some chap called Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. Yep, the former pedi-adjacent prince still remains in the line of succession. Similarly, the ones who sit in an unelected House of Lords packed with Bishops and other appointees. Then there is the fact that seats in the House of Lords can be purchased for the correct sum to the right party. Transparency International UK research found 68 nominations from political parties between 2013 and 2023 were political donors – handing over £58 million to various parties. Meanwhile, across the pond in the U.S., wealthy financiers fund presidential campaigns to install their preferred candidate. That's to say nothing of voter suppression. Anyway, the government here is already actively encouraging citizens to vote, as a low turnout will inevitably cast doubt on LegCo's legitimacy. Singapore has a voter turnout of about 96% in parliamentary elections. However, voting is mandatory. In fact, 22 nations worldwide require their citizens to vote. Those that do not have turnout rates ranging from around 98% (Laos) to 11% (Tunisia). To gain public support, political parties must clearly articulate their positions on holding officials accountable while avoiding the reckless behaviour seen previously. Various construction project scandals, along with the recent debacle over the procurement of bottled water, highlight key issues to watch. And on that note, I have yet to see any candidates in my area provide English versions of their campaign literature. Not even a link to a website where I can read and familiarise myself with their platforms. Considering that English remains one of the three official languages of Hong Kong and our politicians promote the city's international status, I would expect better. Meanwhile, worldwide, the public is becoming increasingly distrustful of politicians, a trend most evident in Western democracies, where radical parties are on the rise. The inability to secure national borders against illegal immigration, combat Islamic extremism, terrorist activities, and address rising inequality are some of the contributing factors. Hong Kong is fortunate that illegal immigration and terrorism do not tarnish our society. The streets are safe, and we benefit from excellent infrastructure, including the world's best public transport system. With the highest life expectancy on the planet, we can take pride in the safety and quality of life our city offers. Despite the critics, it is clear that Hong Kong is doing many things right. Nonetheless, housing remains a challenge, with cage homes revealing deep inequality. While the government aims to improve these Dickensian quarters, ongoing effort is necessary to maintain progress. And that's the key: the public desires to see consistent, incremental changes rather than radical, disruptive policies. So, get out and vote. 16/11/2025 4 Comments The BBC - Faking It "A YouGov survey this week revealed that only 19% feel the BBC is impartial" It's August 1988 at Kai Tak Airport. I stand beside the wreckage of a mangled CAAC Trident. Its nose has detached, while the remains of the fuselage hang precariously over the runway seawall.
Firefighters have finished recovering the six deceased crew members. A passenger will later die in hospital; fortunately, most of the others escaped uninjured apart from cuts and bruises. The press are now arriving at the scene to take their pictures. A BBC journalist rushes to the front of the press pack, demanding, "What's the name of the RAF officer in charge of the rescue. I need to speak to him?" I pointed out that there was no involvement from the RAF. Sure, the Royal Marines had arrived in their fast boats and helped in the initial moments. However, beyond that, the military did not participate. The BBC guy looked deflated. However, the BBC's coverage later that day claimed that the RAF had taken charge of the rescue operation, despite the truth being different. This blatant disregard for the facts disrespected the hard work of the Hong Kong Fire Services, the ambulance crews, and the police. The underlying message was clear: the locals needed the British military to take control in times of crisis, a narrative that was far from the truth. Triggered by the airport crash incident, I began to sit up and take notice. After each typhoon, the BBC provided extensive coverage of the British army's efforts in clearing roads and removing fallen trees as it showcased our 'brave lads' getting Hong Kong back on its feet. And yes, the army was involved, but its efforts were limited to the immediate vicinity of their bases. They were overshadowed by the much larger response from the Hong Kong government. All of this helped reinforce the myth that these colonial citizens relied on the British military to manage emergencies. To be fair, the military assistance was appreciated. However, the propaganda aspect of the coverage always seemed exaggerated to me. Skip forward to 2019, during Hong Kong's social unrest. BBC news clips often showed peaceful protesters marching before immediately cutting to police firing tear gas. What was left out were the hours of petrol bombs, criminal damage, and attacks the police endured before they responded. Was the intended message of that editing that the police opened fire on an innocent crowd? It seems so. In one instance, a clip of an elderly woman in Yuen Long standing inside the police lines shouting at officers is portrayed as her berating the riot police. Clearly, those who devised this story didn't speak Cantonese because the woman could be heard asking the officers to remove the protesters, whom she'd earlier challenged. The BBC's narrative and commentary were starkly biased: protesters were portrayed as good, while the police were depicted as bad. Then again, in 1984, BBC footage of the so-called ‘Battle of Orgreave’ during the UK miners' strike was edited and broadcast out of chronological order, falsely depicting miners attacking police and police responding with a mounted charge. In case you're wondering, that coverage mirrored the pro-establishment stance at the time. Thus, it should come as no surprise that the BBC faces accusations of bias: this has been evident for decades. What is surprising is that it has taken so long for BBC misconduct to explode in such a spectacular way to make headlines worldwide. President Trump can claim credit for that, although many incidents could have sparked a crisis. The entire Jimmy Savile scandal, along with the BBC cover-up —including their decision to shut down a documentary about their well-known in-house sex offender—serves as a notable example. To Savile, you can also add Rolf Harris, Hugh Edwards, Frank Bough, or various DJs who should have prompted a crisis. Think about the trap set for a vulnerable Princess Diana by BBC reporter Martin Bashir, who used fake documents to persuade her to participate in an interview that had devastating consequences. In March 2007, the BBC even stooped to faking a Blue Peter phone-in competition. The taint on this iconic kids' show reflects poorly on the BBC’s culture. Earlier this year, the BBC featured the 13-year-old son of a Hamas leader narrating a documentary about Gaza. Hamas is designated a terrorist organisation by the UK. In an apology, the BBC dismissed criticisms as ‘the omission of that detail’. These incidents, along with many others, illustrate that, despite claims by its defenders, the BBC is often quick to ignore its regularly cited values of fairness and integrity. And it is juvenile to suggest that institutions don't have an inherent bias, they clearly do. But the BBC went beyond the bias line into outright advocacy. In the 2019 publication 'Fake News Factory,’ author David Sedgwick convincingly argues that the BBC has a long history of fabricating news, distorting the truth, and shaping narratives through its reporting. The book describes how the BBC is an overtly political organisation, following an agenda and pursuing the Orwellian 'Right-think' versus 'Wrong-think'. Over time, the 'Right-think' shifts and the BBC adapts to the times, not to the truth. As a result, in recent decades, it has fostered a woke culture that has allowed radical activist groups, such as Stonewall, to flourish. Until as recently as 2021, the BBC's Diversity and Inclusion department primarily operated as an extension of the Stonewall organisation. Commentators have argued that this infiltration by radicals gave them influence over the BBC's output, which, in the case of Stonewall, distorted the coverage of the transgender issue. I'm not among those who wish to see the collapse or fall of the BBC. Quite the opposite. Some of its programmes, including documentaries, wildlife content, and science output, are of the highest quality. However, the impact of the woke (for want of a better word) is now apparent everywhere at the BBC. These days, comedy on the BBC has become unwatchable, while the legendary Doctor Who franchise has evolved into a platform for virtue signalling and social commentary, becoming a pile of nonsense. What annoys many Brits is that, by law, you must pay a tax to the BBC. Therefore, you are essentially forced to pay for the privilege of being fed biased coverage of world events. Not paying for a TV licence could result in a £1,000 fine. There is now a movement against paying for it. Over the past two years, the number of households paying the tax has decreased from 24.1 million to 23.8 million as opposition to the BBC has grown. This decline results in a loss of approximately £50 million in revenue for the corporation. A YouGov survey released this week revealed that only 19% of respondents feel the BBC is impartial. And recent events are unlikely to push those numbers in the BBC's favour. At the same time, staunch defenders of the BBC say mistakes will happen, which is true. However, there is ample evidence suggesting a pattern that indicates these are not just errors, but part of a narrative-shaping effort. Moreover, the British taxpayer is funding this process. Therefore, comparing the BBC to other news outlets is flawed. Trump, despite an apology from the BBC, is pursuing legal action. Whether this matter will go to court is uncertain; in the meantime, the BBC will now face intense scrutiny for signs of bias, narrative shaping, and potential deception. It's an uncomfortable position, but then again, the chickens are coming home to roost. The BBC needs to take a long, hard look at itself and move away from its old, self-created narrative that it is the best. Like the British police, another declining and failing institution, some honest reflection would help. Unfortunately, listening to the squealing of the BBC insiders and their defenders, there is no appetite for that. 9/11/2025 0 Comments The Unbrave New World Of Dating "According to a recent Reuters report, 50% of young men said they prefer dating AI companions because they fear rejection." K, the main character in Blade Runner 2049, is a replicant — a bioengineered human — tasked with eliminating other rogue replicants. In a profound twist, this artificial man seeks comfort with an AI companion.
It's a strange concept. Yet, this futuristic world is not just a creation of a screenwriter's mind. It is a reality that is unfolding around us, transforming the whole landscape of dating, romance, and companionship in ways we're only beginning to understand. Back in my day, the dating scene was a time of trial and error, a period when you matured a bit, took a few knocks, and moved on. Occasionally, you'd get lucky and some girl would go out with you. You'd learn to look for the right signs, the signals: eye contact, a smile, maybe she'd laugh at your antics. As a teenager, her mates would act as interlocutors: "My mate fancies you." Sometimes, the girl would make the first move. Walking home from school in the dark, a girl grabbed my hand, sending an electric shock through my body. We shared a quick kiss at her garden gate (don't go there - it's not a euphemism). And that was that. It was all part of the rich tapestry of growing up. In later years in Hong Kong, bars and discos proved enjoyable haunts for a lively young man with a pocket full of money and attitude. Still, you needed a thick skin to push past the posse of friends surrounding any Chinese girl who caught your eye. Alcohol can boost confidence, but the line between self-assurance and being a drunken twat is razor-thin. By the time my kids entered the arena, things had changed considerably. Online dating has become widespread. They reported mixed results, although my youngest met her now-husband online. After 'first contact', they went through the traditional courtship stage, including the often tricky meet-the-parents minefield. And these days, we are witnessing the most profound revolution in dating, romance, and companionship, which has effectively excluded one side from the entire dynamic. According to a recent Reuters report, 50% of young men said they prefer dating AI companions because they fear rejection. While 67% of lonely adults say they prefer AI companions over humans. The ripple effects of AI companions on society, marriage, population growth (or the lack of it), mental health, suicide rates, and national security are only beginning to be felt. Here in Hong Kong, data shows a rising trend of postponing marriage or choosing not to marry among both genders. To maintain a stable population, a birth rate of 2.1 per woman is required. In 2024, a year with a high birth rate in Hong Kong, the rate was 0.84. This places us among the lowest in the world. As Zilan Qian describes in a sub-stack article, governments are starting to take notice. However, they may be playing catch-up, as the AI companion issue is intertwined with larger social changes that politicians are struggling to manage. And it's happening rapidly. The US Federal Trade Commission launched an inquiry into ten AI companies, citing concerns that AI companions are fostering 'unhealthy dependence and manipulating people.' Meanwhile, China has promulgated its 'AI Safety Governance Framework 2.0' policy, which sets out guidelines for the ethical development and use of AI. The policy tackles explicitly worries about addiction and dependence on anthropomorphised interaction. In layman's terms, people are becoming increasingly addicted to AI companion chatbots and are less inclined to seek partners in the real world. What is intriguing is the different national profiles of AI companion users. In America, AI companions are predominantly hyper-sexualised female avatars targeted at heterosexual men. Meanwhile, in China, research indicates that most AI companions are fantasised romantic males aimed at wealthy, middle-class, well-educated women living in cities. These AI companions can mimic human behaviours on social media by posting regular updates based on Chinese social media trends. Greater integration with other platforms, such as gaming, healthcare, and shopping, is creating a 'total AI environment.' Therefore, K, an artificial human involved with an AI companion, doesn't seem so strange. It is likely to occur. And things become even stranger when you consider that people can create customised 'girlfriends' to sell online. You can see the immediate problem with this. In the UK alone, these platforms receive between 46 million and 91 million monthly visits (1.1-2.2 billion globally), with users spending an average of 3.5 minutes per session. Most users are males engaged in 'personal interactions' with their AI companion. I'm sure I don't need to explain further. And these figures are on the rise. Meanwhile, in the real world, we recognise that China's social landscape has undergone profound changes, with millions of unmarried men in rural areas and single, well-educated women living in cities. This trend mirrors what happened in Japan in the 1980s with the emergence of the himono-onna (干物女), which translates as 'dried fish woman.' It's well established that women tend to choose partners who are equal to or higher in status than themselves. Evolution has shaped them this way so that their offspring gain the best advantages. Therefore, as women improve their social standing, their pool of potential partners diminishes. Consequently, it's not surprising that they seek romance with AI companions. Meanwhile, efforts to promote real-world dating struggle against these changing forces and have a limited impact. Further, we are living in an era of a well-documented 'loneliness epidemic,' with rising rates of social isolation impacting both mental and physical health. This epidemic is rampant among the elderly, who often face social isolation due to reasons such as retirement, the loss of a spouse, or physical limitations that hinder their participation in social activities. For those who feel lonely, AI companions offer a unique set of benefits. They are always available, ready to listen without passing judgment. They can engage in conversations, remember your preferences, and offer words of encouragement. For the elderly, they help reduce feelings of loneliness. This is the silver lining in this changing landscape of companionship. Nonetheless, in many ways, AI is intensifying the ongoing trend of declining birth rates, as countries build a middle class with well-educated women. And the fundamental question remains: can a relationship with an AI companion truly replace a human connection? Moreover, how will society adjust to these changes, such as a decline in population, lower tax revenues from fewer workers, and a shortage of young men to fight wars, among other issues? How should we respond to that? AI may have the answer. Can you get your head around that?  "Ultimately, Andrew Mountbatten Windsor’s departure results from a perfect storm of his own creation." Let’s be clear, the British Royal Family isn’t like your average workplace. You can’t just get “let go” for consistently failing to refill the coffee machine or for using the last of the milk and putting the empty carton back in the fridge (a truly treasonous act). No, their HR department involves centuries of tradition, a sceptre, and probably a disappointed corgi or two.
So, when the King orders the exile of his brother… well, it’s a massive event. It wasn't just a tough week for the man formerly known as Prince; this was a masterclass in how to wreck your reputation, your role, and test a nation's patience using a flamethrower of terrible decisions. Here’s, in layman's terms, why Andy had to pack his teddy bear collection and leave the royal payroll. The Interview That Launched a Thousand Memes Imagine, if you will, a PR team’s worst nightmare. After years of lurking in the shadows of a grim and revolting scandal, your client, a prince no less, decides to appear on national television to clear his name. His approach? To give an interview so perplexingly out-of-touch it could only have been coached by a haunted waxwork of himself. The key takeaways from his now-legendary Newsnight appearance were:
The “No Regrets” Tour” Most of us, when making a mistake, offer a simple, “My bad.” Maybe we buy a pint. Prince Andrew’s approach was different. His only expressed regret was… getting caught. It was the royal equivalent of being sorry your dog ate the homework, not that you didn’t do it in the first place. This lack of contrition, paired with the gravity of the allegations, made him about as popular as a fart in a spacesuit. The “Family Business” Has a Brand to Protect The Firm, as the royals refer to themselves, is essentially the world’s oldest and most prestigious corporation. Their product is dignity, their logo is a crown, and don’t ask too many questions about rebranding. They have never been Germans. Honest. Having senior staff embroiled in a sordid scandal, who then give a car-crash interview that becomes a global laughing stock, is what the business world calls “a bit of a problem.” He wasn't just a liability; he was a walking, talking, non-sweating reputational hazard. The brand was being dragged through the mud, and the only way to stop the bleeding was to perform a ceremonial amputation. In the process, the ex-wife's hanger-on is advised to look after herself, after all, she’s already been awarded a diverse settlement. Fergie seemed constitutionally incapable of understanding the staid, stuffy rules of the House of Windsor. Her transgressions were numerous, and from a media perspective, they were delicious. The Titles Were Weighing Him Down You can’t hold the rank of Colonel of the Grenadier Guards when your main public association is with a scandal that has its own Wikipedia page. It isn’t good for morale. You can’t expect soldiers to salute a man the internet has nicknamed “Randy Andy.” In Conclusion, It Was the Sweat… or Lack Thereof Ultimately, Andrew Mountbatten Windsor’s departure results from a perfect storm of his own creation. A disastrous interview, a shocking lack of self-awareness, and a refusal to show genuine human remorse made him indefensible. His failure to stand up and provide evidence of what he did, saw, and heard in Epstein's company reveals Andrew Mountbatten Windsor as a hollow man. He had to go because you cannot have a “non-working royal” who works so very, very hard at making everything worse. The Palace, in its own quiet, clipped way, essentially said, “Andrew, love, you’re fired. And for heaven’s sake, don’t do any more interviews.” In the cryptic world of royal communications, the statement from the Palace hints at Andrew’s guilt. “These censures are deemed necessary, notwithstanding the fact that he continues to deny the allegations against him. Their Majesties wish to make clear that their thoughts and utmost sympathies have been, and will remain with, the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse.” Now, he’s just a private citizen, free to pursue his passions: avoiding journalists, puzzling over maps of Pizza Express locations, re-arranging his teddy bear collection, and, one assumes, remaining miraculously, medically dry. 28/10/2025 2 Comments A New Prospective: The Boat People "You feed us, kept order, didn't demand or accept bribes and most importantly, Hong Kong didn't push us back out to sea. And for that, we are profoundly grateful" I approached an evening talk on the Vietnamese Boat People with some trepidation. Dr Carina Hoang and former Marine Police Superintendent Les Bird spoke on "Revisiting Hong Kong's Vietnamese Refugee History." Dr Hoang has compiled an oral history of the boat people, while in his books, Les Bird has documented the Marine Police's role.
My colleagues in the Marine Police rescued many boat people, earning their lasting gratitude. Mr Bird reconnected with several of the individuals he helped rescue and spoke about the new lives they’ve built overseas. I was in a different situation. As a member of the Police Tactical Unit, my duties included fighting riots, conducting weapons searches, and organising extractions for deportation or repatriation flights. I had long believed that none of this essential work made us popular with the boat people. The fact that innocent kids were caught up in the riots and weapon searches left its mark on all of us. Anyone who witnessed the tragic events at Sek Kong camp during the 1991 riots that resulted in 24 refugees dying understands the challenges faced by police officers and Correctional Service Department staff trying to maintain order. My first encounter with the boat people was suppressing a riot at Kai Tak North Camp in 1982, as a young platoon commander. I have detailed this event in an earlier piece. Little did I know this would be the first of many operations that would occupy me for decades. For the record, I was deployed to Tai Ah Chau Island, Sham Shui Po Camp, Erskine Camp, High Island Camp, Whitehead Camp, and Sek Kong. As the boat people saga fluctuated through its various stages, the police, along with the CSD, were constantly involved. My experience is typical, as most operational police officers have been involved in similar roles. Perhaps less typical was sending a team of women officers to Sham Shui Po to buy several hundred pairs of ladies' underwear for refugees who had nothing. I had taken command of Erskine Camp for a short period; it housed families. The refugees lacked many essentials, but the ladies soon had the kitchens operational, while the men worked to make the sparse accommodation as comfortable as possible. As the evening talk progressed, I realised that former boat people formed a significant part of the audience; many had settled in Hong Kong. They took turns sharing remarkable stories. To my surprise, the lady sitting next to me was born in Kai Tak North Camp in 1981 and was present during the riot I dealt with. Naturally, she had no memory of the events. When I said I had been in the camp, she hugged me and sincerely thanked the police for their efforts. This unexpected reaction took me aback, as I was expecting a rebuke for the tear gas we had used in several operations and the hand-to-hand fighting that caused injuries on both sides. I met several CSD officers who had remained close to the Vietnamese they looked after. Through them, I was introduced to older Vietnamese individuals who stepped forward to shake my hand and also thank me. I had to ask, "I was expecting some kickback." The response I received can be best summed up as, "You feed us, kept order, didn't demand or accept bribes and most importantly, Hong Kong didn't push us back out to sea. And for that, we are profoundly grateful" I left the event with a lump in my throat and a new perspective. Dr Carina Hoang, herself a boat person who fled in a small boat at 16 and made her way to Indonesia, repeatedly expressed her gratitude to Hong Kong. She recognises that the challenge of managing hundreds of new arrivals daily — feeding and housing them — places a significant burden on our society, a burden that we should all acknowledge. Furthermore, at the same time, Hong Kong returned illegal immigrants to China daily, including the relatives of Hong Kong citizens. This difference in treatment became a sore point with the local community. Additionally, the fact that the UN promised to cover Hong Kong's costs for housing the Vietnamese boat people but never did remains an issue. Various estimates suggest the cost to Hong Kong ranges from HK$1.16 billion to HK$8.71 billion. While the UN made a few token payments, these stopped, and in 2003, the UN requested that Hong Kong waive the debt. According to an audit report dated 12 September 2025, the Hong Kong government continues to pursue an amount of HK$1.16 billion. On a more positive note, Dr Hoang and Mr Bird collaborated with artist Eric Okdehto to create a mural depicting the history of displaced people's movements through Hong Kong. The mural is accessible to the public at F Hall, Tai Kwun. 19/10/2025 0 Comments Andrew Windsor Slinks Away (Maybe) "...if Andrew believes that relinquishing his titles will help de-escalate the situation, he is mistaken." In a right royal fudge, Andrew Windsor — the man who paid £12M for sex he claims he never had — has agreed to stop using his titles. Well, except for the honourific 'Prince'. This move looks like a half-measure borne of fraught negotiations at the palace, in an attempt to get ahead of the Andrew/Epstein story.
None of Andrew's many titles is officially revoked because that would require an act of Parliament. And, of course, he can keep the title 'Prince' as the son of Queen Elizabeth II. Likewise, constitutionally, nothing has changed. He remains in the line of succession, albeit low down. Andrew, being as thick-skinned as ever, was likely resisting any moves against him, while it appears that Prince William, the heir to the throne, took a firm stance and orchestrated matters. The question remains: is it enough to appease public opinion, and has Prince William's attempt to future-proof the monarchy been effective? I’m afraid not. The media is generating a lot of coverage around the latest developments in the Andrew/Epstein story, which is now engulfing Fergie, the unfortunate ex-wife and live-in partner of Andrew. Through a drip-drip feed of emails and other evidence, it is clear that Andrew and Fergie have lied repeatedly about the nature and details of their relationship with the convicted sex trafficker Epstein. The UK's Mail on Sunday reports that Epstein bankrolled Fergie's lifestyle for 15 years, and she was so close to him that she took her daughters to celebrate his release from prison in the US. Take a moment to reflect on that. Here is a man convicted of trafficking young women, and Fergie thinks it's appropriate to take her daughters to his release party. This woman is clearly lacking any modicum of sense. And if Andrew believes that relinquishing his titles will help de-escalate the situation, he is mistaken. The story is already heading in another direction that could cause more harm. It is now alleged that he sought the assistance of the London Metropolitan Police in 2011 to investigate his accuser, Virginia Giuffre, by providing officers with her date of birth and social security number. He apparently sought dirt to use against her. The Metropolitan Police has started an investigation into the claims. This allegation is a double blow for the police because they failed to investigate the sexual trafficking of women to the UK by Epstein. And that includes claims that Andrew had sex with trafficked women in London properties belonging to Epstein's girlfriend, the imprisoned Ghislaine Maxwell. And to spice things up a little more, there are suggestions that Andrew encouraged online commentators to attack Giuffre and discredit her claims. If true, these claims could have legal implications for Andrew. Giuffre committed suicide in April this year. Her posthumous memoir, out this week, will add to Andrew's woes. We can also expect more email leaks, while the appearance of a second accuser will complicate matters for Andrew and the House of Windsor. If the House of Windsor truly sought to stop the endless cycle of media coverage, they would remove Andrew from the line of succession, reveal how the civil settlement with Giuffre was funded, and be transparent about what public resources he used to fight the allegations against him. Likewise, Andrew Windsor and his partner would be wise to stay out of the spotlight. Until then, expect more media coverage as the credibility of the House of Windsor continues to decline, thanks to this awful man and his clueless partner. 12/10/2025 1 Comment A Death In Hong Kong "Collett's narrative unveils the manipulations of a colonial government more focused on maintaining appearances than seeking the truth." When asked to recommend books that shed light on Hong Kong's colonial period, I always mention 'A Death in Hong Kong' by Nigel Collett. Below is my review of the book from January 2023.
The MacLennan case, a significant event in the history of Expat Hong Kong, revealed a darker side of the colonial era. The death of the colonial police inspector in 1980 has consistently attracted significant attention, sparking discussions and speculations that have persisted for decades. This case, with its complex web of conspiracy theories and amateur sleuths, serves as a microcosm of the colonial era's underbelly, shedding light on the power dynamics and the struggle for truth and justice. I cannot remember how many times people have told me, 'It is impossible to shoot yourself five times with a gun.' Then follows a futile attempt to dispute the facts of MacLennan's suicide. In fairness, it is difficult for the layman accustomed to Hollywood shootouts, when a single bullet sends a body flying, to comprehend the truth. 'A Death in Hong Kong' is probably the definitive account unless new evidence emerges. Nigel Collett, the author, has conducted meticulous research, a testament to his dedication and thoroughness. He has combined these details with a clear explanation of the timeline. His account is forensic and generally balanced, as Collett aims to provide an honest telling of events. He describes the key players, sets the scene, and discusses their motivations. Additionally, he includes significant details, some of which are new to me. As a young inspector, I read Justice TK Yang's 1981 inquiry report on the case. After the public outcry, the Governor Sir Murray MacLehose was forced to order an inquiry. The attached death report served as a template for all of us struggling to master the art of an investigation. Yang's report left me with a sense of sadness. Collett's book deepens that feeling. Collett's narrative unveils the manipulations of a colonial government more focused on maintaining appearances than seeking the truth. No one emerges unscathed from this story. Even passionate campaigner Elsie Elliott (later Tu), who sought to expose the truth, was not above making misleading statements. However, she is the least responsible in this unfortunate tale. The same cannot be said of government officials, including Sir Murray MacLehose, whose actions and alleged meddling in the case expose the falsehood of 'British' justice. This story spans 'from the gutter to Government House'. As the Inquiry drew closer to the Governor, having 'misfired' and run out of official control, Collett concludes that the colonial regime reacted. Ultimately, Governor MacLehose fought to rein in TL Yang and the outspoken counsel John Beveridge. No doubt, if the post-1997 administration attempted a similar move, London would be yelling about the 'rule of law'. This book reminds us that colonial governments wielded power with ruthless tendencies. MacLennan was a small fry, while allegations against more senior figures went uninvestigated. The evidence points to colonial officials, including legal officers, being involved in paedophile activities. These individuals walked free. As we have since learnt from such cases in the UK, you cannot take official denials at face value. During my service, I observed senior personnel ignoring or justifying their infractions to avoid causing an 'unwanted scene.'. Meanwhile, infractions by junior officers led to the destruction of their careers, as the entire weight of the disciplinary system fell upon them. The response to indebtedness exemplifies this point. In one instance, a senior official was allegedly given an overseas posting to earn an allowance and thereby clear his debts. The lower ranks received no such consideration. I've spent many evenings debating the MacLennan case, including with people mentioned in the book. Yet, I never knew that he had a wealthy lady friend who provided him with a car. Furthermore, it's now clear he was bisexual. This detail changes the way the story unfolds. The story told to the public was that a rogue police unit was independently pursuing MacLennan, and under that pressure, he took his life. However, Collett's thorough investigation and analysis in 'A Death in Hong Kong' dispel this myth. He shows that the SIU remained under strict control of senior legal officials, which dispels the myth that MacLennan was chased in a vendetta by a reckless police force. And, admittedly, while some investigators held anti-gay views, this is incidental to what unfolded. We know that briefings went up the chain of command and that instructions came down. MacLennan was targeted, not by the police but by the colonial administration. Meanwhile, Collett suggests that MacLehose, alarmed at claims of paedophilia within his inner circle, wished to shut down the inquiries. If true, this blatant exercise of power undermines his achievements. My only minor quibbles with the book do not undermine the main narrative. For example, I do not believe the suggestion that officers turned to corruption due to a lack of funding. The example of purchasing typewriters is mentioned. The scale and organisation of corruption suggest that greed was probably the real motive. The book mentions hapless reporter Ian Whitely attempting to prove it is possible to access MacLennan's flat through a bathroom window. He was seeking to establish how an assassin could gain access. I remember watching that attempt on TV, which was unsuccessful. Whitely nearly fell down the building's light-well. Then again, he had a history of such stunts, including testing security at Government House. On one occasion, he climbed the perimeter wall but injured himself on a spike. The book is essential reading for anyone wanting to understand a tragic chapter in Hong Kong's history. Collett insists that the simple idea of murder as a cover-up is complete nonsense. However, you will still hear that scenario mentioned today. The truth is more complex and fascinating, but just as disheartening. January 2023 8/10/2025 0 Comments Typhoon City "What we are seeing are typhoons with greater intensities, slower movement, and more prolonged impacts." Are we experiencing more typhoons than usual, and are they more powerful? It certainly seems like it. And is climate change a factor, or is something more nuanced going on?
Hong Kong has seen the highest number of typhoons in a year since records began in 1917, according to the Hong Kong Observatory. By mid-September 2025, Hong Kong had already raised typhoon warning signals 12 times, a figure that could increase. Of course, not all these typhoons made a direct hit; in fact, far from it. Typically, we’d see 10 typhoons each year, although only one or two would warrant the highest signals. The Hong Kong typhoon season normally begins in May and lasts until November. Although it might seem like there are more typhoons in Hong Kong recently, it’s not that the overall number has increased; instead, a combination of factors makes their effects feel more severe. What we are currently experiencing are typhoons with greater intensities, slower movement, and more prolonged impacts. In addition, the impact of larger storm surges brought about by warmer ocean temperatures increases unpredictability, requiring forecasters to work harder. Furthermore, a government that is more attentive to the potential effects of the typhoon has emerged. Consequently, there is an increase in publicity and precautionary messages, raising awareness of the dangers. This improved stance by the government is welcome, especially considering the swift recovery efforts and well-coordinated responses we have observed. The truth is, Hong Kong lies in 'Typhoon Alley.' We border the South China Sea, a warm body of water; typhoons are driven by warm ocean water above 26.5°C or 80°f. The Northwest Pacific Basin, located south-west of us, is the world's most active tropical cyclone basin, producing about one-third of all such storms. Hong Kong is directly in the usual path of many storms that form in this basin, especially those heading west or northwest towards the Asian mainland. Although the total number of typhoons hitting Hong Kong may not have risen significantly, we are noticing increased intensities. The science behind typhoons is well understood: warmer sea surface temperatures provide more energy for these storms. This leads to storms that form having a greater potential to become stronger and undergo rapid intensification more often. A stronger typhoon, even if it does not make a direct hit, can cause substantially more damage. Furthermore, a warmer atmosphere holds more moisture. This causes typhoons to bring significantly more rainfall, heightening the risk of severe flooding and landslides in Hong Kong's steep terrain. Meanwhile, modelling of typhoon tracks suggests that climate change may be causing slight shifts in their paths, potentially increasing landfalls in Southern China, including the Pearl River Delta, where Hong Kong is located. Nevertheless, attributing all the blame to climate change might be mistaken. We could be observing a shift within a much longer cycle of typhoon behaviour. Typhoon activity follows a multi-decade pattern influenced by natural climate variations, such as the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO). From the 1990s to the early 2010s, Hong Kong saw a relative period of fewer direct hits from very intense typhoons. Since around 2017, the region has entered a more active phase. This is part of a natural cycle, but scientists suggest it's now amplified by climate change, making the storms during this active period even more powerful. This contrast gives the impression that many typhoons are occurring now, compared to the quieter times many residents remember. Furthermore, increased urbanisation and land reclamation have heightened our vulnerability. Hong Kong’s unique cityscape, with its forest of skyscrapers, is more susceptible to high winds funnelled between buildings. For public safety, the government adopts a cautious approach by closing the city earlier. As a result, each typhoon becomes a major economic and logistical event, attracting extensive international media coverage. In the future, as I mentioned in another blog, the government will need to strengthen measures to reduce the impact of tidal surges. Similarly, building regulations and zoning laws for construction will need updating. To sum up: Hong Kong isn't necessarily experiencing more frequent typhoons. However, it is encountering more intense and destructive storms because of its location, a return to an active natural cycle, and the potential amplifying effects of climate change. |
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December 2025
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