Secretary for Security TK Lai says Police have clear and strict guidelines and procedures for properly handling recorded information.
Mr Lai told lawmakers today footage kept as evidence will be retained until investigations and court proceedings are concluded, and will then be destroyed. Any footage not useful for investigation or evidence must be deleted 31 days after recording, he said.
"If the footage is to be retained for more than 31 days, authorisation from a Senior Superintendent shall be obtained and such an authorisation shall be reviewed on a monthly basis by the authorising officer."
Police have been using hand-held video recording devices since 2006. The background, field trial and operation guidelines on the use of the Body Worn Video Camera have been uploaded to the Police webpage for public view.
Mr Lai said Hong Kong citizens enjoy the rights and freedoms of expression which are protected under the Basic Law and the Hong Kong Bill of Rights Ordinance.
"It is the operational policy of Police to strike a balance by facilitating all lawful and peaceful public meetings and processions on one hand, and on the other hand minimising the impact of public meetings and processions on other members of public or road users, and to ensure public safety and public order."
People participating in public meetings or processions should do so in a peaceful and orderly manner, observing Hong Kong law without affecting public order, he said.