Ang Nam Piau
Singapore
“Sir, the Deputy Prime Minister does not have to worry about the problem of providing enough places for children of school-going age every year, since the success of family planning has reduced the yearly number of school-going children from a peak of 63,000 in 1964 to 49,000 this year.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, will the Senior Minister of State consider granting approval to persons to continue to use a portion or the whole of their dwelling-houses, chicken-huts and pigsties for manufacturing, if they have been engaged in this business for more than 20 years?”
“Minister for Finance that our Financial Policy is not only to continue to pursue our long term economic strategy programme for our economy's transformation to an industrial centre and a base for regional and international services but to see that our per capita income distribution is always towards equity. As we know.”
“Sir, through ASEAN cooperation and as a group, I believe that we have a better investment climate than Latin America, the Middle East or Africa. Therefore, I believe that our future investments from foreigners are still bright. Sir, the Budget Statement is not perfect.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the allocation of Housing Board flats is made on a "first come first served" basis according to the registration of applicants. The applicants have to wait for at least three to four years before a flat can be allocated to them.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, many people have told me that there are far too few taxis in Singapore. I think this is quite possible because from personal experience I have to wait for a taxi for a very long time. On several occasions I have to wait for as long as 15 to 30 minutes before I could get a taxi.”
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“Sir, can the Minister for Home Affairs say from what countries most of the illegal immigrants come?”
“Sir, can the Minister give details of the development of the area?”
“Sir, can the Parliamentary Secretary explain to the House what he means by "borderline" cases of hippies?”
“In this respect, I would like to ask the Minister whether the department concerned has analysed the contents of the various brands of fire crackers. I feel that imported fire crackers should not be banned, but investigations should be made into the causes of the incidents. 2.57 p.m.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the firing of crackers to celebrate certain festivals and on certain auspicious occasions is a habit as well as a custom of the Chinese. In recent years, the people of Singapore, irrespective of their race, creed, faith and language, have been living in close contact and harmony with one another. So under this influence not only do the Chinese celebrate their festivals and auspicious occasions by firing crackers but other races also resort to this means to celebrate. The Minister for Defence has introduced this amendment Bill which will inconvenience and embarrass those people who want to fire crackers, and put them in some sort of difficulty. When this Bill is passed into law, the firing of crackers will be prohibited and there will not be liveliness and merry-making during festivals. Sir, this is the first time that the firing of crackers has caused deaths and loss of property in Singapore. I think this Bill may lead to abuse and to other unpleasant consequences. For instance, at the meet-the-people sessions, there will be crowds of people complaining to Members of Parliament about the banning of the firing of crackers and about matters regarding the issue of licences. I think the Minister himself will also meet with this kind of situation. In view of the recent incidents, what we should do is to look into the causes of these incidents and study whether the manufacture and the contents of fire crackers have been against our laws. This is the first time such incidents happened in Singapore. This is also the first time that the people of Singapore resorted to the purchase of locally-produced fire crackers and the manufacturers had been working round the clock to meet the local demand.”
“I beg leave to withdraw. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, That the sum to be allocated for Head 1302 be reduced by $10 in respect of subhead 1068. Sir, the medical services in our country can be considered as one of the best in South-east Asia. This is an acknowledged fact of which the people of Singapore can be proud. The medical services have improved in many ways recently, but there is still more room for improvement. For instance, we should expand and improve the services of the Outram Road General Hospital casualty ward. Very often I have been around this casualty ward and I see that it is very busy and crowded. There are many patients, and many of those who are injured have to wait for more than an hour or two before they are admitted. If the Minister says that this is due to inadequate staff, then my view is that perhaps they lack efficiency. I hope he will do something to improve the efficiency of this casualty ward, so that our medical services can become even better.”
“(3) That the sum to be allocated for Head 1001 be reduced by $10 in respect of subhead 1051.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I would like to ask the Minister whether last year his Ministry has received complaints from principals, parents, or members of the public about the inefficiency of English teachers in Chinese schools. These English teachers often adopt an unco-operative attitude towards the principal. They also physically punish the students without the consent of the principal. They also often make applications for transfer back to English schools. If there are, in fact, such complaints, I would like to ask the Minister what steps he proposes to take against these irresponsible English teachers.”
“Sir, I strongly feel that if the Ministry is to be able, to quote the Minister for Finance, "to provide for effective economic and statistical evaluation as, well as to determine the needs of industry with greater precision", then the present staffing position, as outlined in the Estimates of Revenue and Expenditure of Singapore for the financial year 1st April, 1970, to 31st March, 1971, is far too inadequate. Sir, under subhead 3005 for this Ministry, I observe that $70,000 has been set aside, subject to Treasury sanction, for the employment of staff and $1 million under the Development Estimates for the establishment of the Popular Science Centre. Sir, I welcome the setting up of this centre, but with $1.7 million to start off for personal emoluments and the development of the Science Centre, I begin to wonder what kind of centre it will turn out to be and how it is going to achieve its desired objective of giving the citizens of Singapore a better understanding of what modern science is all about, although ultimately the building will cost $5.2 million. Sir, we know that even to set up a good laboratory in a secondary school costs much more than a million dollars. Sir, I beg to move.”
“Sir, I beg leave to withdraw my amendment. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. Mr N. Govindasamy (Telok Blangah): Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move. That the sum to be allocated for Head 0301 be reduced by $10 in respect of subhead 3005. Sir, in moving such a reduction, it is not my intention that we stop making continuous attempts to instil into the people the importance of science and technology. These two important aspects of the modern economic development of nations have been ignored for too long, during the colonial period and the early post-war period. To make up for the loss of time, the Government has wisely set up a Science Council recently, and in accordance with its policy of promoting the study and practice of science and technology, the Ministry of Science and Technology was set up in 1968. Regrettably, however, the functions of the Science Council, as well as those of the Ministry of Science and Technology, remain not quite well known to the man in the street. Whatever have been the achievements of the Ministry of Science and Technology in the past two years, there have been some at least that have not been well publicised. If the achievements have been modest, it is quite understandable because a relatively small allotment has been made to this Ministry in the past budget. The total allotment covering the 15 months was only $390,200, whereas this year it has been increased a bit. It now stands at $455,280.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, That the sum to be allocated for Head 0301 be reduced by $10 in respect of subhead 1104. Sir, this is a new post in the National Museum. Can the Minister tell us the duties and functions of the Education Officer in the Museum? And is it necessary to have such a post in the Museum?”
“I beg leave to withdraw. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn.”
“Sir, the Citizens' Consultative Committee wrote to the Director of the National Museum and if the matter did not come within his jurisdiction, he should have written to the Committee earlier. The delay was deplorable.”
“Yes. He replied to our letter but he took a long time to do so.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, That the sum to be allocated for Head 0301 be reduced by $10 in respect of subhead 1101. Sir, the present Government came to power in 1959 and under the capable leadership of the People's Action Party, the administration is efficient, honest and clean and has won the acclaim of people from all over the world. If we compare our country with the other countries in South-east Asia, we can say that the administration in Singapore is the most efficient. Sir, this good reputation should be maintained at all costs and it should not be spoilt by certain officers who are arrogant and proud. I have received complaints from my constituents and I would like to cite an example. The Citizens' Consultative Committee in my constituency wrote a letter to the Director of the National Museum on 31st October, 1969, stating that there was a hornets' nest along Island Club Road and requesting him to clear the nest. There was no reply. They wrote another letter on 14th November, 1969, and still there was no reply. On 2nd December, 1969, they again wrote to him. A reply was received on 5th December, 1969, informing them that, owing to the shortage of staff, the National Museum was not able to take any action in this matter. Sir, hornets are dangerous insects - Order.”
“This can only result in the poor quality of their products. Such ventures and enterprises will not be able to survive for long. They are a source of disruption to our economy. Sir, such investors and enterprises should be controlled by the Government so that they will not misuse the incentives and concessions offered to them. 4.09 p.m.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, last year when the Minister for Finance tabled his budget, many new tax proposals were made. However, under his expert guidance, he presented on the 9th of this month a budget which does not contain any new tax proposals. This brings great delight and relief to the people. I fully support this painless budget, and I hope that the next few budgets will be as painless as this one. According to the Minister, the reason for the favourable balance between revenue and expenditure is due to "fast economic expansion and improved tax administration to provide increased revenue". The Government has put in much effort to expand the economy of our country so as to arrive at a balanced budget. This is an ideal policy. However, whether our economic expansion will be sustained is the crux of the problem. Whether the present economic boom will only be transient or whether there will be economic crises are the uncertainties of the future. Mr Speaker, Sir, we should not be complacent about what we have achieved in our economic programmes. The complete withdrawal of British forces by the end of 1971 and the world-wide economic recession will affect the economic progress of our country. This was clearly pointed out in the Minister's Budget statement. It is a warning signal to our people - that if we do not take steps now to prepare for such adverse eventualities, we shall be faced with all sorts of threats. Sir, no doubt we have experienced an economic expansion over the last decade. But whether this will be sustained is a problem into which we must look. Investors have taken advantage of all the incentives and concessions that the Government has offered them. But they are only concerned with the short-term returns and interest on their investments.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the Parliamentary Secretary has not answered the second part of my question. I would like him to assure the House that the concessionary rate will not be withdrawn by the Government.”
“Sir, why have these six political parties not complied with the Societies Act? And why does the Government not close them down?”
“Sir, will the Minister be able to give the names of the six political associations which have not complied with the Societies Act? Mr Lim Kim San: Mr Speaker, Sir, the six political parties are: the Barisan Sosialis Party, the U.P.P. (United People's Party), the Workers' Party, Parti Kesatuan Ra'ayat (United Democratic Party), Parti Rakyat Singapore State Division, Persatuan Islam Setanah Melayu, Singapore (Pan-Malayan Islamic Party, Singapore).”
“Can the Parliamentary Secretary inform the House when this project will start?”
“We should plan ahead and find fair and rational solutions to these problems. I believe that the liberalisation of the law of abortion will reduce the population growth rate and this will be beneficial to our economy. Secondly, the Abortion Bill will ensure that children born in the Republic will be of a very good quality. They will be able to obtain proper care and have a fair chance of a good education. Thirdly, the Abortion Bill will provide a last resort for women when contraceptive measures have failed. Liberalisation of the law on abortion is not a substitute for family planning, it is only a supplementary method, especially for those women who do not wish to have any more children. In other words, it is a very safe last resort. Mr Speaker, Sir, bearing in mind the national interests and the requirements of our environment, the future of our children, family welfare and the safety and personal welfare of our women, I fully support this Abortion Bill in principle.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the Abortion Bill is a complex issue and its implications are extremely wide, for this is not only a problem of medicine but also a problem of social life, family welfare and personal health. It is to be expected, therefore, that the attitude towards this problem will not be uniform among the people. The reason is quite simple. There are some people who persist in following certain moral and religious concepts and, as a result, lack the courage to adopt positive measures in the face of a very important problem. Attitudes of this sort are likely to obstruct the efforts of the Government to change our society. Mr Speaker. Sir, the Abortion Bill is designed in accordance with the needs of our people and the requirements of our society. I personally have gone through very carefully the clauses of this Bill and I have the following reasons to advance in full support for the liberalisation of the law on abortion. My view-point is a completely independent one and I am not influenced by any medical ideas or religious concepts. We all realise that our country is in a peculiar situation and we should not be satisfied with our present situation. We should plan ahead for the future as our country does not have enough natural resources to accommodate the increase of our population. At present, our population growth rate is 2.5 per cent, a figure slightly higher than that in some Western countries. At the same time, we also have some 50,000 people who are unemployed, and on top of all this, the British forces are going to withdraw, it is to be expected, therefore, that the problem of unemployment will become more and more serious. As a responsible Government we must pay attention to these problems.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I was just now not engaged on the topic of kindergarten classes. My question was this. Last year the Parliamentary Secretary, in reply to a question I raised in this House, said that two community centres would be built in my constituency, but so far no action has been taken. I wish to ask the Minister when these two community centres will be built, because my constituents have asked me why the promise has not been fulifiled. 4.45 p.m.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the Minister has not replied to my question.”
“Sir, I wish to remind the Minister that he has not replied to the question I raised.”
“Mr Speaker. Sir, I remember that in 1967 I did request the authorities concerned to build two community centres in the Thomson Constituency. The Parliamentary Secretary, on behalf of the Minister, told the House at that time that the two community centres would be constructed at the end of 1967. But up till now there has been talk only and nothing has been built. I hope the Minister will not forget the promise made by his Parliamentary Secretary at that time. May I ask him when the two community centres will be constructed?”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, can the Minister for Foreign Affairs inform the House how many independent Asian countries have already established diplomatic relations with Singapore?”
“Can the Minister tell the House how many residents and shop-keepers will be directly affected by this project?”
“Another amendment is in relation to sick leave. Also the amendments to clauses 46, 47 and 53. Sir, I wish to put forward the views of the people of Thomson for the consideration of the Minister for Labour. The first point is whether he will consider restricting the application of this Bill to the Jurong Industrial Estate only so that workers in other sectors will not be affected as they are covered by existing agreements. If the experiment turns out to be successful in Jurong in attracting more foreign capital and creating more employment opportunities, then we may perhaps consider extending the scope of the application of the Bill to other sectors as well. If this Bill can really bring about the success that is envisaged for it, then the Jurong Industrial Estate will become more and more prosperous. The second point I wish to suggest is that before the provisions of this Bill are enforced, adequate publicity should be given to the intention of the Bill which is to safeguard the long-term interest and the survival of Singapore. The people must be told that it is their responsibility to make some sacrifices to ensure the survival and the continuing prosperity of Singapore, notwithstanding the withdrawal of the British forces. The people must be made to believe that it is in their own interest that this Employment Bill has been introduced. It is only then that they will realise the necessity of this Bill. When they are properly informed, we will be able to enforce the Bill more effectively. 4.25 p.m.”
“So we will have to defend ourselves. As a result, we will have to build up our military capability. We will have to shoulder the responsibility of ensuring our security. Sir, in order to overcome these problems, massive economic financing is needed. We know that capital is a motivating force in industry. Without capital, industrialisation will be a flop. The success of industrialisation depends on the building of factories and this requires capital. Therefore, the Government has to encourage both local and foreign capitalists to invest in Singapore. The Government has also given investors many incentives and tax holidays as well as concessions. For instance, profits earned in Singapore by foreign capital will be allowed to be remitted back to the country of origin. We are fully aware of the problems and the necessity of concessions. But in spite of the attractive terms that we are giving to foreign capitalists, we have not been able to get enough foreign capital to invest here. That is why the Government has introduced the Employment Bill. It is to give better and favourable terms to the employers, even at the expense of the workers to some extent. I think this is unavoidable. But to ensure the survival of the country as well as safeguard the interest of our future generations, we have to view the Employment Bill dispassionately. I appreciate that the provisions in the Employment Bill are necessary and quite inevitable. I support this Bill in principle. However, there are certain clauses in the Bill which require amendments. I must indicate my support for the proposed amendments to be moved by the Member for Bukit Ho Swee, especially the deletion of clause 15 relating to compulsory retirement of employees at the age of 55.”
“Steps have already been taken for a rainy day, as was indicated by the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Labour in this House yesterday. Mr Speaker, Sir, the Minister said that the Employment Bill was introduced for various reasons. He then outlined these very carefully in this House. The Employment Bill, he said, was intended to pave the way for greater economic growth in Singapore in order to ensure our survival in the next few years. He also assured the House that it is not the intention of the Government to allow labour to be exploited through the Employment Bill. The long-term interests of the workers in Singapore will be safeguarded. It is also the intention to ensure that Singapore will be able to overcome the difficulties arising out of the accelerated withdrawal of British forces by the end of 1971. The problems have been picturesquely painted by the Minister. Because of the withdrawal of British troops, a sum of $450 million, representing the expenditure of the Forces, will be withdrawn from circulation in Singapore. As a result of the British withdrawal, more than 50,000 people will be unemployed, both directly and indirectly. 21,000 civilian employees in the British bases will be directly affected. Furthermore, a lot of other ancillary services provided by taxi drivers, amahs, shopkeepers, restaurants, bars and others will be adversely affected by the withdrawal of British Forces from Singapore. And added to all this will be the school-leavers numbering some 25,000 coming into the labour market every year. These massive figures of unemployment are frightening and indicate the seriouness of the unemployment problem in Singapore. When the British troops are withdrawn, Singapore will not get the assistance of the United Kingdom in its defence.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, under the colonial government of Great Britain and later, during the semi-colonial days, the workers of Singapore were entirely at the mercy of the employers. They were exploited to the full and things took a better turn only when this Government assumed office in 1959. The conditions of employment of workers in Singapore then became more reasonable and rationalised. Various benefits were given to them. All these benefits were granted on a reciprocal basis between labour and management. The aim was to maintain social and industrial stability. As a result of this, there was tremendous improvement and progress in the commercial and industrial field. There was prosperity all round. A trade union house was erected for the working class under the leadership of a democratic trade union movement. This is a glorious page in the history of Singapore. It is a great achievement by the P.A.P. Government in striving for the interests of the workers of Singapore. This is an undeniable fact. It is there for everybody to see. It is a monument to the pro-labour policy of the Government. Mr Speaker, Sir. Singapore is a small island lacking in natural resources and an agricultural base. Ever since it was opened up as a port, it has been a base for the United Kingdom. Therefore, the accelerated withdrawal of British troops from Singapore will inevitably have grave repercussions on Singapore. Within the next few years, the problems confronting Singapore will be of the utmost importance. This will be the greatest challenge we have ever had. It will be the most difficult period that we have to go through. I am glad to know, however, that the Government has already taken steps to prepare for the worst to come.”
“Will the Parliamentary Secretary consider giving old identity card holders, say, a month's grace to apply for the new laminated identity cards without action being taken against them?”
“The Minister for Social Affairs has correctly timed the introduction of this Bill to incorporate the Singapore Council of Social Service. It will undoubtedly help to strengthen and perfect the existing voluntary organisations or welfare bodies and will further benefit the people of Singapore. 3.59 p.m.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I fully support the Bill introduced by the Minister for Social Affairs. It is introduced in time to cope with the social welfare services which will be limited in expansion because of the increase in defence expenditure in the approaching crucial years ahead. The Minister for Social Affairs has promptly taken appropriate and practical steps to maintain and enhance the reputation that the social services in Singapore are acknowledged to be the best in the whole of South-east Asia. I am sure that all Members of the House will agree with me in my appreciation. Mr Speaker, Sir, in the past, the Singapore Council of Social Service was in existence as a voluntary organised body formed by some social workers and civic-minded citizens who saw the need to co-ordinate whenever and where-ever possible the work of voluntary welfare bodies and to avoid duplication of their activities. In addition, they tried to encourage efforts in fields not presently covered either by voluntary workers or the Department of Social Welfare. Mr Speaker, Sir, the existing Council has done good work. Let me mention here one commendable and most striking example. On 13th February, 1959, when the Tiong Bahru fire rendered 5,000 persons homeless, the Council undertook the tremendous task of raising $700,000 within a month for the relief of the homeless. There were other fires and floods from time to time. In each case, the Council was able to raise funds and obtain relief for the victims at short notice. Mr Speaker, Sir, the praiseworthy welfare work done by the Council and other voluntary bodies in Singapore is a matter of great credit to the good people who are engaged in this work. They deserve our appreciation and thanks.”
“One of them is that it is necessary to have bars and night-clubs in order to promote tourism. Another explanation is that this is possibly the beatnik philosophy of those people who try to satisfy their needs for excitement and stimulation in a turbulent world. Sir, let us return to reality to understand this problem. First of all, as far as I understand, the people who frequent these places of pleasure are not really tourists. In terms of proportion, among those who frequent bars to get a drink, over 90 per cent come from the lower and middle classes of our population. Furthermore, 70 per cent of these people are wage-earners. If we allow our citizens to frequent bars, then it will be a test of our future. Excessive indulgence by a number of our citizens in womanising, gambling, drinking and all sorts of debauchery, will have an Un-favourable influence on the structure of our society, which is a newly emergent society. This will lead to its deterioration. Sir, man cannot withstand temptation.”
“The next aspect to consider is that we must be able to maintain and improve our social and political stability. The third aspect is that through social construction must come about a spirit of national consciousness among the people which would lead to the enhancement of the moral values of our people. To sum up, we should inculcate in our people a national spirit which is the starting point of all our efforts in nation-building. Mr Speaker, the life of an individual is the same as that of a nation. If a man is without a soul, then he is nothing but a perambulating corpse. A nation must have a national spirit which is the national soul. Without a national soul a country will not be able to last forever. If a nation has no national spirit, it will be disunited, corrupted, degenerate and disorganised. On this basis, let us look at our own nation. What is the present situation? Ever since we became independent, our Government has spared no efforts to carry out social and economic development. It has also spared no efforts to strengthen our defence. We have made an appeal to our people to build a rugged society with a view to nurturing the next generation so that it will be able to stand firmly on our own soil. These are the principles governing our development. Mr Speaker, there is another aspect of our social development. This is pathological. I refer to the fantastic mushrooming of bars and night-clubs in Singapore. As evident in the recent past, there is a great deal of prosperity in Singapore, and hence a boom in night-clubs and bars. We have more and more night-clubs and bars coming up in Singapore. At the same time, many so-called artistic troupes have come to Singapore to give public performances. There are several explanations for the mushrooming of night-clubs.”
“The constitution of a country lays down that its citizens have the right to take part in elections or be elected to office. But it does not lay down what political party should be in power to rule the country. In fact, political parties are the product of the provisions in the constitution which say that the people have the right to elect their own government. The P.A.P. was elected according to the constitution of this country. It is a party that has been entrusted by the people with a new mandate. The P.A.P. has formed its government which is entirely based on the wishes and action of the people. We do not see any political philosophy in other political parties. Therefore, fundamentally, they do not receive the people's confidence. They cannot appeal to the people to support their policies. It is no wonder that all the people are supporting the present party in power. In the present situation, the new Government is taking up the onerous task of nation-building as an independent State in a practical manner. It has become the core of the whole nation. It is implementing the task of laying a sound foundation for a democratic system of government. It is showing that it can even do without the assistance of an opposition party. Mr Speaker, at the present juncture, we must understand the objectives and principles involved in nation-building. In this way we will be able to chart better the destiny of our people. As we all know, the basic work in nation-building involves military, economic and social aspects. That means that we must try to build up our political strength in order to influence the development of our economy. The policy is that our economy should be geared to our defence needs.”
“On the other hand, when we look at the other political parties, we see that they only come into existence when a general election is due to be held. They have no long-term political objectives. In fact, most of our colleagues in this House have already had the experience and taken up the responsibilities and task of an Opposition in this House. They have contributed much as an Opposition. Therefore, it speaks volumes for the present Government that it has principles and can fulfil the tasks which the people have entrusted to us. The P.A.P. is a party which has long political experience. Sir, talking about the new political situation, many people have an erroneous concept that when we talk about democratic politics, there must be an Opposition in the House. Otherwise, they say, there is no democracy. This concept, I feel, is without any foundation in democratic politics. A political party comes to power not from the theory of democratic politics or from the constitution, but as a result of the free expression of the will of the people. Democratic politics is a system by which the people manage their own affairs. It is a system established by the people themselves so that they will have the opportunity and the right to rule their country. Provided the party in power can carry out the tasks given to it by the people, it does not matter even if there is no opposition party in this House. On the contrary, if there is an opposition but because of self-interest it discards its responsibilities and even goes to the extent of doing things contrary to the interest, well-being and livelihood of the people of the country, then the existence of such an opposition party is no good at all. In fact, a lot of harm will be done.”
“It is most unfortunate that it will cost the loss of public assistance to a family if one of its members joins the Army to protect our country. He will bring financial disaster upon his family. This will probably deter our young people from joining the Armed Forces. I hope the Minister will take corrective action in this regard. 3.43 p.m. Madam Chan Choy Siong (Delta)(In Mandarin): MrSpeaker, Sir, the basic creed and belief of the People's Action Party is the building up of a non-Communist, democratic multi-racial society. At the recent general elections, the people exercised their democratic right to elect once again the P.A.P, into office and gave it their trust and confidence. As a result of this, all the Members here today are members of the P.A.P. This is a new situation that we are witnessing today. I believe that all my colleagues are proud of this fact and will be greatly encouraged. In fact, the duty to develop and defend our country rests on us. Without the presence of an Opposition in this House, we should all the more keep an eye on any changes in the situation, and see to the need of nation-building. We should carry out with renewed effort the tasks which the people have placed on us so that the "stars" in our midst, on whom many eyes are fixed, may rise and give off their brilliance in Southeast Asia. Sir, in this new situation, my colleagues and I will try our best to carry out the basic policies of our Government with confidence, endurance and ability in order to achieve success. Ever since the P.A.P. was entrusted by the people with the management of the affairs of the country, we have weathered many storms. We have been thoroughly tested. Events have proved that the P.A.P. is a party standing on solid ground. It is able to withstand any test.”
“But, unfortunately, as far as I know, the situation is rather disappointing. Perhaps it is because the funds allotted to public assistance are not sufficient. I understand that from the beginning of this month, the head of a family will receive $16 per month. This will put us back to the position in 1961 and it is one step backward. We should be very concerned for the needy and unfortunate members of our society. I hope the Minister for Social Affairs will assure this House that public assistance will not be cut in future. Mr Speaker. Sir, with regard to our defence, I hope the Minister will take note that a problem exists as regards public assistance. If a member of any family joins the National Defence Corps or is a national serviceman, public assistance to that family is withdrawn. We all know that national service and military service for the protection of our lives and property and for the defence of our territory should be encouraged. In fact, we have given those of our youths called up for national service a big send-off at various community centres. A member of the National Defence Corps is given only about $2.50 as transport allowance, and members in the Reserves or in the regular Armed Forces are given only some allowances which are barely enough for them. So you cannot expect national servicemen or members of the Armed Forces to be able to support their families with the allowances that they receive It is, therefore, wrong to withdraw public assistance from such families. Mr Speaker, Sir, we know that at the present juncture, we are encouraging our young men to join the Army to fill the vacuum which will be left behind by the accelerated withdrawal of British troops from Singapore.”
“On education, it is also stated that all available resources will be utilised in the organisation of the secondary education system so that more students will be rechannelled into technical education. At the same time, the standard of secondary languages will be raised to suit the practical needs of our society. We will require more professional and technical personnel to man our industries and improve our commercial activities. Therefore, in view of all these improvements and reorganisation. We will be on the right path to greater success and prosperity. All these policies are welcomed by the people. Let us turn to social affairs. It is to be noted that the social services in Singapore have been acknowledged to be the best in the whole of Southeast Asia. We must continue to maintain this reputation and even improve on it. So I hope that public assistance will not be reduced. The people who require public assistance must continue to get it all the same. We know that there is provision for public assistance to be given to the poor and sick in our society. Under the public assistance scheme, there are certain conditions and the rates are as follows: $21 per month for the head of family; $10 per month for the wife; $ 8 per month for each dependant above 16 years; and $ 5 per month for each dependant under 16 years. The total amount in public assistance to a family shall not exceed $90 per month. This assistance in itself is not enough to maintain the livelihood of a family particularly at the present juncture, as the cost of living has been rising over the years. I suggest that the unfortunate members of our society be given more public assistance, if finances permit. At least they should be given public assistance to subsist.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, on behalf of the people of Thomson, I express my full support for the motion in the name of the Prime Minister thanking the President for his policy speech in this House. In the President's Speech and the Addendum to his Speech, he has correctly and practically outlined the policies of the Government, particularly in regard to the ways and means of solving the problems arising out of the accelerated withdrawal of the British Military Forces from Singapore, in order to ensure the continued prosperity and stability that we enjoy. These policies receive and deserve the full support of the people. Mr Speaker, Sir, in the Addendum to the President's Speech, there is one section which deals with the Social Welfare Department. Social welfare may be curtailed because of the defence expenditure involved. I wish to amplify on this section. We know that the social services of a nation must be geared to the social organisation and the actual needs of society. We should not curtail our expenditure in this respect because of an increase in our defence expenditure. On the contrary, we must continue to provide social services to look after the less fortunate people in our society, particularly in the trying years ahead. If we do not have well-organised private charitable organisations to continue looking after the needy people in our society, we will see these people roaming in the streets. Therefore, Mr Speaker, it is heartening to note that there is no curtailment of expenditure in health and education because of an increase in defence expenditure. It has been stated in the Addendum to the President's Speech that the standard of health, particularly public health, will be raised. This is praiseworthy and deserving of our support.”
“Bearing in mind the business volume and the turnover of the unsecured loan facilities granted and executed by finance companies, I have no doubt that the ceiling of $1,000 warrants reconsideration. As far as I know, Sir, there are finance companies who grant unsecured loan facilities to borrowers to as much as $10,000 to $20,000. The turnover of unsecured loan facilities to within $1,000 does not constitute much of a total. I will pause just a while to ascertain the implications of unsecured loans. Do we, Mr Speaker, Sir, consider a loan granted to a borrower who has a guarantor willing to undertake to indemnify the repayment as an unsecured loan? If the Bill considers loan facilities granted with some personal guarantee are unsecured loans, then I maintain that the $1,000 ceiling warrants recon sideration. If the Bill considers that as a secured loan, I shall withdraw my observation in respect of this restrictive clause. Mr Speaker, Sir, I should be very grateful if the Hon, the Minister for Finance would kindly assist in clearing up my uncertainties. In conclusion, Sir, I wish to give my full support to the Finance Companies Bill as introduced by the Hon. Minister for Finance. 4.11 p.m.”
“But while we recognise the need for such a Bill to be introduced to protect the interests of depositors and the general public against unscrupulous finance institutions, there is also the need to review some of the clauses and certain provisions included in the Bill for the implementation and administration of the Bill. I know that the object of the Finance Companies Bill is to safeguard the depositors and the general public against any malpractices by some of the unscrupulous finance houses. I also know that impractical restrictive control will curtail business activities or even make the finance institutions extinct. The possible adverse effects will no doubt bring home serious negative consequences to the State. While supporting the Finance Companies Bill in imposing control on the operations of finance companies and welcoming the introduction of the Bill, I wish, Mr Speaker, Sir, at this juncture to make some constructive criticisms of some of the provisions of the Bill. Firstly, clause 20 limits the investment of finance companies to the extent of 25 per cent of the paid-up capital. The purpose of including this restrictive clause in the Bill is presumably to prevent finance companies from engaging in risky investment and investing in unsound propositions. It may be necessary to ensure the sound investment policy of each finance company, but a flat percentage may not be a good yardstick in ensuring a sound investment programme. Secondly, there is the provision prohibiting finance companies from granting loan facilities of an unsecured nature of more than $1,000. Without the support of any statistical information, I can safely maintain that $1,000 is too insignificant, and to take that amount as the ceiling is very inadequate.”
“The banking corporations in Singapore, as elsewhere, owing to certain limitations, statutory, economic or otherwise, have not been able to serve the economy to the best of their ability and because of this, finance companies have come into the picture. One of the financial activities which the finance companies undertake to supplement those of the banks is the tapping of the financial resources at large and collectively channel them into fruitful investment and development projects. Another financial activity undertaken by finance companies to supplement those of the banks is to providc loan facilities, it is very well known that practically all banks in Singapore are reluctant to provide long-term loans and even their short-term credit facilities are available only to selected clients and with the provision of security. In the light of these wants and demands, finance companies come in to make available hire-purchase financing, house and property mortgage loans to individuals, machinery and equipment loans to industries, and general unsecured loan facilities. In summary, finance companies provide services and conduct financing activities which are not available from banks and these supplementary activities help in accelerating the economic growth of the State. Mr Speaker, Sir, knowing the significant role the finance companies are playing in the economy, we recognise without any reservation the urgency of a Bill to regulate and control the operations of finance companies as financial institutions, lest they run wild and give rise to inflation, business disorder and economic destruction. In addition to recognising the need of a Finance Com panies Bill, I wish to reiterate my appreciation of our Minister for Finance in introducing the Finance Companies Bill.”
“They are apt to charge the borrowers exorbitant interest rates. Mr Speaker, Sir, having described the aforesaid categories of financial institutions, my uncertainty, which I hope can be clarified, is this. Is the Finance Companies Act, 1967, as introduced by the Hon, the Minister for Finance, to be adopted for regulating and controlling all categories of finance organisations, firms, houses and companies? Sub-clause (1) of clause 3 provides that no financing business shall be transacted in Singapore except by a company that is in possession of a valid licence granted by the Commissioner for Finance Companies, and "financing business" as interpreted in clause 2 means the business of borrowing money and lending money. Am I to understand that a licence is essential for all types of financing business organisations irrespective of whether they are under the regulations and restrictions of other Ordinances? Mr Speaker, in our society where public economic planning and private enterprises are operating hand in hand, certain projects are operating under statutory bodies as monopoly under takings and as an encouragement to commercial and industrial activities. In the absence of national finance organisations, financial institutions operated by private entrepreneurs become the baby to be taken care of by legislation. From the economic point of view, the financial institutions in Singapore are playing a supplementary as well as a complementary role to the banks as evidenced by the fact that most banks establish finance houses of their own. A banking corporation in any country, even in totalitarian States, is a vital financial institution.”
“As we have as yet no legislation or a statutory prescribed rate of interest payable by pawnshops to the depositors of money, the consideration allowed for the deposit of monies with the pawn shops remains a subject for bargaining. Mr Speaker, Sir, we require very little imagination to visualise a simpleminded member of the public, with a sum of money and without any investment opportunities, going to a pawnshop and bargaining with a highly business-minded pawnshop proprietor. Then we have the business-front organisation of the banks, i.e., the finance companies wholly owned by the banks. Openly these finance houses are set up to conduct business transactions which the banks are prohibited from doing. For instance, the Banking Ordinance controls the payment of rates of interest by banks to depositors for fixed-term savings, but the finance houses are at liberty in this respect. Of course, we cannot afford to deny the importance of moneylenders licensed or unlicensed, in the money market. Licensed moneylenders, on obtaining a licence, automatically come under the restrictions and regulations laid down in the Moneylenders Ordinance. Unlicensed moneylenders, though not legally recognised, or to be more correct, they are operating illegally, certainly have some business influence in business circles. Last but not the least are the finance companies incorporated under the Companies Ordinance. They form the major arm in financing business. They deal in heavy borrowing and lending, yet they may or may not come under the restrictions laid down in the Moneylenders Ordinance, depending on exemption provided in the Ordinance being granted. On exemption being granted, these finance companies have a free hand in financing activities.”