A director and two officials of Adflame Pharmaceuticals have been fined and imprisoned for manufacturing adulterated paracetamol syrup which killed 76 children in the 1990s .
The company was one of several manufacturers accused of the same malpractice under the 1982 Drug (Control) Ordinance. It is claimed that cases against all the companies involved were stalled by official indifference and interference in the pursuit of justice against influential business persons.
While it is not satisfactory that this case, which was originally filed in 1992 was delayed for many years, the conclusion of this case represents a step forward in enforcing the rule of law.
It is significant that a director has been held personally accountable in this case. This sends an important signal that individuals can be held responsible for corporate wrongdoing.
Far too many similar cases, in many industries, have occurred over the years, of justice being delayed or ignored. From accidents on ferries and in factories to adulterated food illegally sold in many markets, a culture of impunity exists which prevents the law being properly upheld to protect public safety.
The government must do more to root out individuals who obstruct the course of justice in such cases.
As well as ensuring timely enforcement of rules, it should also consider tougher penalties, whether in the form of higher compensation payments or by bringing in more stringent laws on corporate accountability, to hold to account organisations and businesses which disregard basic safety requirements.