Chua Sian Chin
Singapore
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I rise to speak on this Bill as a person who had been in Government for many years and before that in legal practice for more than eight years and now back in legal practice. While I was in Government, I had cognizance of the shortcomings of the legal profession.”
“It is 62 members out of a total of 1,335 practising lawyers. This has brought about a situation which no responsible government can let it pass in the public interest. The Government has good reasons to deal with this situation firmly. In fact, the present amendments have only made a small inroad in self-regulation.”
“At the same time, a minority group of activists has also chosen to take on the Government by calling an Extraordinary General Meeting of the Law Society to pass fierce resolutions against the Government. This group comprised only 62 members.”
“Though he has only limited Constitutional powers and acts on the advice of the Cabinet, he is the symbol of the unity, loyalty and aspirations of the people of Singapore.”
“- to hold classes for children of his constituents. What right has he got? The PAP MPs equally have no such rights. It is the right of the Government, if they think so, to have such classes. In fact, through the People's Association, they have been holding kindergarten classes in the community centres.”
“It is the Government who says that, and the Government has the right to say it because they are responsible for the Government of Singapore. And it is not what I say or what you say. Let me turn to the Member for Potong Pasir. He also produced some exhibits which are equally bogus.”
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“Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I am afraid it is not true because they can always marry abroad.”
“Sir, the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Labour can better answer the question. But I think that applies only to those who are work permit holders. Whereas in this case they are stateless persons who are not work permit holders.”
“I would invite him to give particulars of the case because, as far as the Immigration Department is concerned, the officers no doubt have a difficult job to do. But there is no reason for them to be rude and unsympathetic. I hope I have answered all the questions.”
“If, for example, we make it easy for our people to take foreign wives, give their wives permanent residence, then not only are we encouraging the present non-permanent residents who are living here to get permanent residence and later become a burden to the State, but we are also encouraging other people from outside Singapore to come in. So the policy must be such that we have not only to deal with the wives who are already here but also to see that other foreigners may not be encouraged to marry our citizens because, as I said, more foreign wives may mean extra burden to the State. The Member for Kim Seng brought up the point about a lady who has been given a two-week pass. I think there is no point in airing this matter here because we will be hearing cursory facts of the case, and I do not think we can do justice to the case because to do so all factors will have to be considered. I therefore invite the Member for Kim Seng to write to me or to the Controller of Immigration. With regard to stateless persons, if they are stateless it means that they are not citizens of any country. Therefore, if they have occasion to travel abroad on business or to visit a relative, they cannot get any travel document except in Singapore, in which event they can only apply for a certificate of identity. In fact, there are stateless persons who have been granted certificates of identity. But if they can get travel documents from elsewhere, then the need to apply for a certificate of identity does not arise. 7.00 p.m. The Member for Anson has mentioned something about the Immigration officers being very unsympathetic, rude and so on.”
“Sir, we are not here to debate on arithmetic skill. We are here to debate on a policy and the facts of the matter. May I say again that it is not a case of the Immigration Department being arbitrary. They have a task to perform and it is no doubt an unpleasant task. We have to be strict in our immigration policy. As far as possible we should not allow more people to come into Singapore. We have to keep to a very strict policy. As far as the Member for Kim Seng's queries are concerned, I have already answered them, no doubt, in general policy terms. What is most important is that we have to decide not only whether or not we should grant permanent residence to the non-citizen wife but also decide on the criteria whether the husband can well support his wife. Maybe he can support a wife! But we must also take into consideration that his circumstances may change. What happens when he cannot support his wife? Then, on humanitarian and sympathetic grounds, he becomes a burden to the State. The consideration is not only that he can support her but that he can well support her to the extent that, if his circumstances change for the worse, there is no likelihood that his wife will become a burden to the State. We have certain income criteria too, but it is no point of mine to state specifically the income criteria because there are other factors, like ownership of property. So each case must be taken on its own merit. The other point is about population. That we are doing all this is because we will not want to negate all our efforts to restrict our population growth. This is not just a superficial attitude towards population growth.”
“The Minister for Finance said something and he computed from that. He says that if a wife has been here for ten years she would have contributed $600,000 to the State. That is just superficial arithmetic. I would like ~o remind the Member for Bras Basah that she would also have consumed social services and so on to the tune of that amount or even more.”
“In 1975, no less than 19 traffickers were arrested, charged and convicted in court. In the same year, 278 employers and 108 harbourers of illegal immigrants were also prosecuted in court. Under an amendment to the Immigration Act, longer terms of imprisonment plus caning have been meted out to the traffickers. This has accounted for a further decline in the number of illegal immigrants in Singapore. Sir, coming to the Member for Kim Seng, he asked about the application for permanent residence. Non-citizens who wish to apply for permanent residence can submit entry permit applications on a prescribed form to the Entry Permit Section of the Immigration Department. The prescribed forms are obtainable there. The Schedule to the Immigration Prohibition and Entry Order, 1973, allows a non-citizen wife to apply for permanent residence if her lawful husband is a Singapore citizen and if they have not at any one time after their marriage been living separately from each other for more than five years There are no provisions in the Order for the grant of permanent stay to the husband of a Singapore citizen. However, the husband may apply for permanent residence on his own merits under the Professional Skilled Personnel Scheme or the $250,000 economic investment scheme. In those cases, if both the husband and wife are not permanent residents, the husband can also apply for permanent residence on his own merit under the two schemes I have just mentioned. Once the husband is granted permanent residence, his wife .will also be considered favourably for permanent residence. 6.45 p.m. With regard to his other queries, I think I have covered them in my answers to the queries from the other Members of Parliament. Turning to the Member for Bras Basah, he made some computation”
“This boy carried a passport which was issued to his father, with the boy's name incorporated in it, and he tried to enter Singapore without his father. The international immigration practice, this is not only the practice in Singapore, that a minor should not be allowed entry into a country unless he is accompanied by an adult who is the minor's legal guardian under whose passport the minor is travelling, since such passport does not constitute a valid travel document for the minor. If the minor is unaccompanied by the legal guardian under whose passport he is travelling, then in this particular case it raises a doubt whether the father has consented to his son travelling to Singapore. However, in spite of this doubt, the Immigration check-point was prepared to admit the boy if documentary evidence could he produced from the Malaysian authorities as the boy is a Malaysian - it is just across the Causeway - - to ensure that he would return to Malaysia after his visit to Singapore and that he is not stranded in Singapore. Sir, a total of 1,043 illegal immigrants were arrested during the year 1975 in spite of our stepped-up enforcement. This represents a significant decline as compared to 2,223 arrested in 1973 and 1,365 in 1974. Our check-points are adequately manned, to reassure the Member for Anson. But our coastline is easily accessible to small craft carrying illegal immigrants to land at unauthorised entry points. The Marine Police is getting more boats to patrol our waters and this should help to keep our coastline less accessible to traffickers. No effort has been spared by the Immigration Department intelligence unit and the Police in tracking down traffickers, checking on worksites and other places where illegal immigrants could find temporary work.”
“This restrictive `criterion for the grant of permanent residence to foreign wives is to discourage our citizens who can barely support a wife and children to marry a foreign wife, thereby giving extra burden to our Republic. It is quite clear that we are not trying to raise revenue by this six-month or three-month extension. As far as the Ministry of Home Affairs is concerned, we have no interest in the raising of revenue. Turning to the Member for Anson. The Immigration Department issues various types of passes to foreigners of varying periods of validity. Passes for purposes of employment or for study in our educational institutions normally exceed six months. However, passes for social visits are normally for a duration of two weeks in the first instance and renewable for periods not exceeding three months. That is for social visits A foreigner who seeks further extension of his stay for another three months in the Republic, either as a tourist or to visit relatives, approval for such extension will depend on the merits of each case In the case of a foreigner who is a relative of a Singapore citizen, he may be given a stay of more than three months at a time. It is considered that the extension o' three months is adequate for staying as a tourist or for social visits to relatives. This policy of periodic extensions for social visits, each subsequent extension being for a shorter duration, is necessary to discourage foreigners from taking advantage of long periods of stay to pursue activities other than as a tourist or as a social visitor. The Member for Anson has quoted the case of a Malaysian boy who could not come into Singapore.”
“Sir, may I answer the Member for Jalan Kayu first? As in the case of citizenship, the grant of permanent residence is not a matter of right but a privilege. This is the case in most countries of the world and Singapore is no exception. It stands to reason that Singapore with a small land are~ which is already about the most densely populated country in the world should be particularly strict in granting permanent residence to foreigners, even though they have become wives of Singapore citizens. After much strenuous effort we have been able to bring down our birth rate and our population growth. Let us not negate this by relaxing our immigration controls on permanent residence, thus putting a strain on our housing, social and other services Singapore citizens may submit applications for permanent residence for their foreign wives and dependent children. But each case is processed and decided on its merits. Among the number of factors considered is whether the husband is well able I emphasise "well able" to support his wife and children such that they are unlikely to become a burden to the State. However, if an application has been refused, the wife and children of a Singapore citizen are still allowed to stay in Singapore on a visit pass which can be extended every three to six months. If at a later stage the applicants circumstances change and could meet the requirements of the Immigration Department's policy, their application can be reviewed for approval. It rarely happens that a visit pass of a foreign wife and children of a Singapore citizen is extended for one or two weeks as has been mentioned. This is important.”
“Sir, I agree with the Member for Jalan Kayu that we should try to give them a more meaningful role. That is the reason why, as I have said, 5� months ago I have appointed a committee to look into this matter. In fact, measures have already been implemented to give them a more meaningful role. As regards the two part-time national servicemen who were sent to Chua Chu Kang instead of Yio Chu Kang, as pointed out by the Member for Jalan Kayu. I will take note of that. As far as possible, for the benefit of everyone, national servicemen will be given duties nearest their homes. I have already stated that in the Neighbourhood Policing Scheme, we are assigning personnel to units and groups nearest their homes as far as possible.”
“Sir, that is a supplementary point. The point I wish to make is that we have got to be fair to both the part-time and full-time national servicemen. If a concession is made to the part-time national servicemen, then it is unfair not to make a concession to the full-time national servicemen. As far as the full-time national servicemen are concerned, the period of service is 2� years. Therefore, those who do part-time national service must do it for a longer period.”
“No. If they are fulltime, we would have taken them as full-time national servicemen. They are the youths who have applied for deferment of full-time national service, and they are therefore, put on part-time National Service. They have already been given a concession and. therefore, we have got to be fair to the full-time national servicemen. We just cannot reduce the number of hours of duty for the part-time national servicemen and cannot similarly reduce the period of service for the full-time national servicemen.”
“Sir, may I say that when we impose .the burden of duty on the part-time national servicemen, we have also to be fair to the full-time national servicemen who are doing 2� years of full-time national service. In fact, the part-time national serviceman has already been given a concession.”
“The response so far has been very encouraging. This project is being evaluated and, if successful, it will be extended to all the other housing estates. Lastly, may I refer to the suggestion by the Member for Telok Blangah that instead of the 12-year period of part-time national service we should shorten it to four or five years. Firstly, the Member for Telok Blangah need not be unduly worried that the Ministry of Home Affairs will not be able to put increasing numbers of national servicemen to perform meaningful roles. Most of them are doing so now with the reorganisation that is being implemented. Under the present system of 12 years' part-time national service, the part-time national servicemen perform duties comprising three hours per week or six hours per fortnight or 12 hours per month, plus seven days in-camp training or for a period not exceeding in the aggregate 40 days annually. If the liability for part-time service is to be reduced to four or five years, as has been suggested by the Member for Telok Blangah, all part-time national servicemen will have to perform duties more frequently per month. Instead of the usual frequency of once in 10 days or four hours per session, they would be required to perform duties several times a week. This would certainly disrupt their employment and will cause difficulties for themselves, and the employers. It may also not be good for our economy.”
“Prior to the reorganisation the Special Constabulary's average absentee rate in all the eight Divisions was 9.32% as at August 1975. This has dropped to 5.64% as at February 1976. 6.15 p.m. The Special Constabulary patrol teams are subject to surprise checks by their supervisory officers during their tours of duty to ensure that they are carrying out their patrol duties in accordance with the deployment plan. This arrangement, which has already been employed by the regular force, has been found to be satisfactory. As I have mentioned before, the Special Constabulary Provost Unit will soon be set up to tighten further disciplinary control over these men. I am glad that the Member for Katong has mentioned about the pilot project in the Joo Chiat Division which involved some Katong boys. A pilot project on detached youth work was introduced in the Housing and Development Board estate in the G Division, that is the Joo Chiat Division, in September 1 975. This project was aimed at achieving two objectives. The first objective was to win over the detached youths in this area and to inculcate in them the value of social discipline by organising games and activities and finding jobs for those who are jobless. The second objective was to involve the families of these youths in crime prevention and other police projects within the housing estate. To-date a total of 60 police personnel comprising regulars, special constables. S.C, volunteers and special constables in the national service are involved in the projects. The number of youths participating in the projects is approximately 130. In March this year a similar project was launched in the Jalan Batu housing estate with the assistance of the community centre there, and perhaps with the encouragement of the Member for Katong.”
“However, with regard to the rest of the professional men in the Special Constabulary, various schemes have been implemented and others are under study to give them more meaningful roles as follows: (1) The dentists in the Special Constabulary have been organised to run dental clinics to service our special constables: (2) Most of the veterinary surgeons have also been deployed to exercise their skills at the Police Dog Unit; (3) More recently, a scheme has been introduced for doctors, social scientists and psychologists to be utilised to provide rehabilitative and counselling service to drug addicts admitted to and discharged from the Drug Rehabilitation Centre. (4) National servicemen in the legal profession will also be selected to man the supervisory posts in a proposed Provost Unit. The other schemes include the establishment of the following special units and squads:- (a) Research Unit: (b) Education and Indoctrination Unit; (c) Publication and Publicity Unit; (d) Drug Detection Squad; (e) Task Force responsible for intelligence gathering, special anti-crime rounds and other special duties which have also been mentioned. It is our policy, as far as possible, that professional men in the Special Constabulary will be utilised in their professional capacity. However, it must be recognised that it is not possible in the context of Police service to utilise all these national servicemen in roles strictly relevant to their profession. As a result of the reorganisation and the various measures, which I have mentioned since the appointment of the Planning Committee some 5� months ago, there are now signs of improvement in the Special Constabulary. Discipline for one has been tightened.”
“In the past, special constables were divided into units of 150 men, each comprising one ASP, four Inspectors, one Station Inspector, eight Sergeants and 136 special constables. This Unit Structure has been found unsatisfactory in that the span of control was too wide. As national service officers, like other special constables, are required to perform their duties in the Special Constabulary only once in 10 days, national servicemen in the unit were often left without supervisory officers of the rank of inspector. This has resulted in national servicemen not being properly briefed and supervised and hence the complaints which Members have enumerated. A new Unit Structure which is smaller and comprising more supervisory officers has been introduced. This should ensure closer supervision and better deployment and leadership on the ground. (3) Utilisation of better educated national servicemen like the professionals. The one result of the creation of more supervisory posts of sergeants and inspectors to man the Unit Structure is that there are now more opportunities for professional men and those with tertiary educational qualifications with leadership qualities in the Special Constabulary to be deployed in supervisory roles instead of having to do beat duties. I hope our professional men in the Special Constabulary will rise to the challenge and take on these leadership roles.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, in reply to the Members for Katong and Telok Blangah, let me say that I am very keenly aware of the shortcomings of the special constables which the Hon. Members have mentioned. In fact, I had referred to some of them in my address at the annual dinner of the Special Constabulary in November last year. At that dinner, I announced the appointment of a Special Constabulary Planning Committee under the chairmanship of my Parliamentary Secretary with the following terms of reference:- (a) To review the role and system of deployment of part-time national servicemen and volunteers in the Special Constabulary; (b) To formulate plans, guidelines and new roles from time to time for more effective and efficient deployment of the Special Constabulary and through greater interest and motivation in the work. Since then a series of remedial measures have been taken and new schemes introduced as part of the reorganisation of the Special Constabulary which is now going on. This should pull the Special Constabulary out of the present malaise. Examples of the measures taken are:- (1) Neighbourhood Policing Scheme. The Special Constabulary part-time national servicemen will soon be deployed at all the land divisions under a new Neighbourhood Policing Scheme whereby each unit of 120 national servicemen will be assigned to specific responsibility of patrolling a fixed area within the Housing and Development Board estates every night. This will offer each patrol team a more clear-cut role and area of responsibility. They will as far as possible be deployed in the neighbourhood where they live. Their familiarity with the areas of operation will help to enhance their effectiveness. (2) Change of Unit Structure.”
“Sir, I agree entirely with what the Member for Aljunied has said with regard to jaywalking. In fact, jaywalking has been made an offence under the recent amendment to the Road Traffic Act. However, before it can be enforced, a new set of rules and regulations will have to be made under the Act. The drafting of these regulations are currently being undertaken by the Ministry of Home Affairs in consultation with the Attorney-General's Chambers. It has been proposed that under the new regulations it would be an offence for any pedestrian who is within 50 metres of either side of a pedestrian crossing, be it an overhead bridge, a tunnel, or a zebra-crossing, if he does not make use of the crossing. Sir, we have specified metres and not yards, since we have gone metric. It is also proposed to exempt pedestrians who are sick, physically handicapped, or over 60 years of age, from such requirements. Perhaps a mass campaign against jaywalking will be launched before the law is implemented.”
“Sir, may I just say, in reply to the Member for Aljunied, that if only he had written to me earlier there would have been no reason for him to say that I would not be aware. In fact, I am aware that there are complaints. What is important is that complaints are gone into seriously and action is taken. I have also stated that if the complainant is not satisfied with an answer from the Police Commissioner, there are other avenues for the complainant to resort to. He can write a letter to the Minister, or he can go to the CPIB, and so on. So there are procedures to ensure that if any Police officer attempts to cover up someone eIse, he will be discovered. That is all that I can say. There may or may not be cover-ups. It is not fair for me to say one way or the other. What I say is that if there are cover-ups, there are procedures whereby these cover-ups would be brought to the attention of the higher authorities, so that further investigations could be carried out because these are serious allegations. To be fair and impartial, I say again there are avenues for further investigations. I am not making excuses. I am not saying that if there are cover-ups, we should not go into it. If there are cover-ups, we should go into it. If any member of the public thinks that the Commissioner of Police is not in a position to deal with his complaint, he can go higher up, and it will go. I can assure the House that it will be so because this is a very serious allegation and this should not be in any case tolerated. I hope the Member for Aljunied will write to me giving me the details and I will have it reinvestigated.”
“Sir, it is best for the Member to put in a Question for Oral Answer or a Written Answer, and the figures will be published.”
“Sir, I am afraid I cannot give detailed figures at the moment. If the Member for Jalan Kayu were to write to me, I would give him the figures. The point to note is that there will always be complaints. But what is important is whether `they are major complaints or just minor complaints. From what I know of these complaints I can say that the number of major complaints has declined. I cannot speak the same for the minor complaints; the number may be the same or there might be a slight increase or decrease. What is evident is that the number of major complaints of Police brutality and so on has gone down.”
“However, crimes committed by secret society elements have decreased significantly in the last two years. There were only 36 secret society incidents in 1974 and 30 in 1975 compared to 68 in 1971, 78 in 1972 and 75 in 1973 respectively. However, the House can rest assured that there will not be any let-up in our action against secret societies.”
“Member, if necessary, and may also acquire a mobile crime laboratory and evidence collection van. As for computerisation, the Police has a unit doing research and planning into the feasibility of using computers for Police work. This unit is working closely with the Computer Services Department of the Ministry of Finance. If necessary, the acquisition of a computer solely for Police use will be considered. A start has already been made to programme criminal records on computer. Similarly, traffic accident records have also been computerised. Sir, turning to Police vehicles, the Force has a fleet of 313 saloon cars comprising (a) 1 52 team policing cars; (b) 67 radio patrol cars: (c) 95 general purpose cars. Of these, 182 were acquired in the fiscal years 1973/74 and 1974/75. The remaining vehicles which average four to five years' use will be replaced in stages. Hence, although some of the Police vehicles are relatively old and well-worn in terms of usage, they are not really bone-shakers in the conventional sense of the word. As regards extortion, 356 cases were reported to the Police in 1975 as compared to 312 cases in 1974, an increase of 14%. However, a breakdown of reported cases in 1975 shows that 100 cases of extortion and attempted extortion were committed through the post as compared to 68 in 1974. It is believed that quite a number of extortion letters were written by cranks or pranksters. Nonetheless, the Police did not take any chances and each case was fully and promptly investigated; ambushes were also set up in appropriate places and with successful results as well. Our statistics also show that only one case of extortion was committed by a secret society in 1975, whilst there was none in 1974. These are reported cases.”
“There is a plan to move the CID to the proposed Ministry of Home Affairs and Police complex at Mount Pleasant in the future. The Member for Anson has asked whether the Police Force is equipped to deal with criminals who use sophisticated and scientific equipment. First, let me assure him that our Police Force has yet to encounter criminals resorting to the use of sophisticated and scientific weapons in the commission of crimes as enumerated by him. However, this does not imply that we are taking a back seat on the matter or to use the words of the Member "hoping that the criminals will not be that sophisticated". There is a committee comprising senior officers constantly reviewing Police equipment with a view to updating and withdrawing obsolete ones. The committee is also responsible for examining new weapons used by advanced police agencies in other countries to see whether they could be acquired for local use. As regards the use of helicopters, a study has been made on its use, but it was found to be unsuitable from the point of view of operation. Cost-wise it is also not justified. However, if and when there is a need to use helicopters, the relevant body who has the helicopters will be approached to assist the Police. Much has already been done to upgrade the techniques of criminal investigation so that we will always be ahead of the criminal. A Criminal Intelligence Unit was established in April 1973. A Scene of Crime Unit was also set up in 1975 to undertake specialised investigations into serious crimes. It will ensure that there is a systematic approach in the application of forensic science in Police investigations. This Unit will acquire modern and scientific equipment including some of those named by the Hon.”
“As compared to 1974, robberies in 1 975 dropped by 23%; housebreaking and theft by 4%; theft of motor vehicles by 21% and other thefts by 7.3%. As far as his comments on sex offences are concerned, I will not repeat what I have stated just now. But may I say again that we will not hesitate to seek a mandate from this House to introduce more severe penalties if these are found necessary. However, I can assure this House that the proposal will certainly not be as drastic as that in Angola where an all-women firing squad executed the rapists. Sir, with regard to Police stations, may I say that except for Queenstown Police Station which was built only in 1963, all the old stations will be phased out and replaced. The new Police stations will not only be built along new lines in architecture but will also be geared towards greater operational efficiency and will provide a more congenial working environment to both the Police officers as well as the public who have occasion to visit the station. The construction of Toa Payoh Police Station has begun and is expected to be completed some time in 1977. The new site of the Orchard Police Station is at Napier Road, and there is also the new Jurong Police Station. The construction of these two Police stations will start as soon as funds are released. With regard to the Paya Lebar Police Station, we have decided to resite it in Ang Mo Kio because it is envisaged that Ang Mo Kio will have a larger concentration of population, but this move will only be taken in about three years' time at the earliest. In the meantime, consideration is being given to renovate the present Paya Lebar Police Station and to install modern sanitation. As for the CID building, there is no plan to move the CID for the present.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, if the Member had given me the particulars earlier, I could have given a fuller explanation. But the point I am making is that if a complaint is lodged against so-and-so, it is an open report and is not confidential. It can be made available to the accused person on payment of a fee. However, when members of the public give information to the Police on suspicious persons or activities of suspected criminals, etc., the source and identity of the persons giving such information are always treated with the strictest confidence. Such information is treated as intelligence and classified as secret and will not be revealed to any member of the public, much less the accused. If this case which the Member for Aljunied has cited falls within the second category, and if the information given is revealed to members of the public, then it is a very serious offence and the officer responsible has committed an offence. Sir, the other matter raised is about loss of cash and the allegation that the Police officer has said, "This is a small matter. It should be settled mutually." Whatever report or complaint that has been made by a member of the public against another member of the public and an offence has been disclosed, the Police will and must investigate it. If they do not, then they are failing in their duty. I would like the Member for Aljunied to bring this matter up to me so that it can be investigated and if it is substantiated that the officer has contravened the procedure, he will be dealt with. Turning to the Member for Anson, he said, that it is as a result of Police action - I hope he said that - that the crime rate has declined. That is true because the figures will show that.”
“The Member did raise a point that when the members of the public complained about any criminal offence being committed against him or her, such complaints were not held with the confidentiality that they deserve. It happened sometimes that a complaint came to the notice of the accused or the person against whom the complaint was made. Let me clarify to this House about this question of confidentiality of complaints and information given to the Police. With regard to a report lodged with the Police, it is usually done at a Police station. This is an open document and the accused person mentioned in the report has the legal right to obtain a copy of the report on payment of the requisite fee. In the circumstances, an accused person must necessarily become aware of the complaint made against him. Perhaps this explains the case which the Hon. Member has mentioned.”
“This may have been the case with the reply from the Police to wh'ch the Member has referred in his speech. In a case where a reply given by the Police is that the complaint is unsubstantiated, the complainant can, if he is not satisfied and, in fact, suspects a cover-up by the Police, further complain to his Memoer of Parliament, or write a letter to the Minister, or complain to the CPIB. The procedure in the investigation of complaints is thus not only impartial but has the necessary checks to ensure impartiality. I do not think, therefore, it is fair to make a general allegation that Police officers will always protect their own kind. There are sufficient checks and very heavy penalties for those who may be foolish enough to do so. A Police officer with years of service and on the pensionable establishment will have much to lose if he does so. There will always be complaints against Police officers. The important thing to bear in mind is that each and every case is investigated and action taken. By the nature of their job. Police officers often come in contact and deal with criminals and antisocial elements in our society. Thus, some complaints against police officers were genuine and well founded. But quite a number of them were found to be unfounded, in fact, even malicious or exaggerated. The record bears this out. In 1975, a total of 314 complaints were received from the public against Police officers. Forty-two of the complaints are still under investigation. Of the remaining 272 complaints, only 40 cases or less, that is, 1 5%, were substantiated. Out of these 40 cases 20 were for minor infringements and departmental disciplinary action was taken against the officers. This action resulted in three officers being dismissed from the Police Force. 5.00 p.m.”
“In any case, the Member for Anson has praised the CID. He has also mentioned about the drop in the crime rate, which I shall deal with later. Coming back to the Member for Aljunied, my only regret is that he has not brought to my attention by writing to me earlier of the specific cases which he has mentioned. I would have had the matter looked into and action would have been taken against the offending Police officers if they were found guilty. I would like to reiterate here that there are always two sides to a story. To be fair, the matter must be investigated impartially and with an open mind. It is unfair to jump to conclusions one way or the other until the full facts have been established. To ensure impartiality, the procedure laid down is that every complaint against a Police officer is investigated by a senior officer from a Police division or unit other than the one in which the officer is attached. The investigation papers are then scrutinised by the respective Commanding Officers and the Ministry of Home Affairs where the complaint is brought to the attention of the Ministry. If an offence is disclosed, the officer is put on a departmental charge and his case will be heard before an independent board of inquiry or even prosecuted in court. On the other hand, if the allegation is not substantiated, no action, of course, can be taken, but the complainant will be informed of it. However, there may be cases where although a complaint has not been substantiated, in the course of the investigation it was found that the complaint could have been prevented or avoided if the officer had been more tactful, polite and use his commonsense. In such a case the officer would be warned to be more tactful and polite in his future dealings with members of the public.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, may I first deal with the Member for Potong Pasir? Since he has chosen to bring up his point under the subhead "Commissioner of Police", my answer is that the Commissioner of Police is not in charge of either registering or deregistering illegitimate children. May I now deal with the points raised by the Member for Aljunied. I am very glad that he has brought up these points in this House, particularly the complaints about the Police Force. It gives me an opportunity to put the issue of these complaints in its proper perspective. We do get criticisms now and again. The Member for Anson, on the other hand, has given praise to the Police Force. It is not often that the Member for Anson gives praise instead of criticism in debating the Budget.”
“Over the last two years this averages 35% for rape and 45% for outraging of modesty. Police investigations have been hampered by the skimpy description of offenders in most cases. Another serious setback is the absence of eye witnesses or the reluctance of witnesses to come forward to give information to the Police. In the recent cases the Police have to painstakingly piece together bits and pieces of information obtained from the young victims before a composite picture could be drawn up. This was passed on to the press and television, which have been very helpful, to appeal to the public to come forward if they have any information. I am informed that the response has been most encouraging. On their part, the Police, with the support of the national servicemen in the Special Constabulary and the Community Security Force, will intensify patrols in the crime prone or rape prone areas. But to what extent they can be successful in all these will depend very much on the cooperation of the public.”
“However, Sir, we are seriously studying certain legislation which is in force in one or two states in the United States whereby a convicted rapist can opt for voluntary axe-sexualisation or castration in lieu of sentence of a long term of imprisonment. This law is based on the medical grounds that the only cure for a compulsive rapist is voluntary axe-sexualisation. Apart from deterrent sentences I would like to stress the importance of preventive measures and early detection. For this year there are, to-date, 1 5 cases of rape and 47 cases of outraging of modesty. In 10 out of the 1 5 cases of rape the offender is known to the victim. In the cases of outraging of modesty five of the offenders are known to the victim. In 1975, cases where the offender is known to the victim number 36 out of 59 cases of rape, and 14 out of 239 cases of outraging of modesty. These figures are sufficient to show that a very high proportion of offences, in particular, rape, could have been avoided or prevented if the victims had been more careful. This brings me to the point that the public have a very important role to play in stamping out or at least minimising these offences. They have been constantly reminded to be wary of strangers and to avoid dark or lonely places. Parents have also been advised that they should always make sure that responsible persons accompany their children to and from school and on outings, and to instil in their children the evils of tempting offers of sweets, toys or other little worldly things. Regrettably, the recent spate of rape cases and outraging of modesty has given me cause to believe that some members of the public have not taken such advice seriously. The rate of detection of sex offences is low.”
“I am glad that the Member for Bras Basah has clarified. Coming to the specifics, in the case of sex offenders the maximum punishment under our law is imprisonment for life. In addition, offenders shall also be liable to fine or caning. Persons guilty of outraging modesty are punishable with imprisonment of up to two years, or with fine, or with caning, or with any two of such punishments. Caning is, however, not mandatory. Punishment is at the discretion of the court, according to the circumstances of each case. Our statistics show that the number of reported rape cases in 1975 was 59 as compared to 76 in 1974. This represents a 22% decrease, contrary to popular opinion. Outraging of modesty cases, however, increased from 172 in 1974 to 239 in 1975. It is, however, debatable whether sex offenders are actually on the increase or because the victims are now more willing to come forward to report such offences. However, the Police are extremely concerned over the situation and are monitoring the situation very carefully. 4.30 p.m. A review of the legislation pertaining to these offences is now being undertaken. If necessary, enhanced punishment including mandatory caning may be introduced for rape offences. I note that the Hon. Member for Bukit Ho Swee has suggested that rapists should be castrated (*Hansard, 15th March, 1976, col. 282.) When recommending amendments to the law on rape, I do not think we should go so far as to adopt the suggestion of the Member for Bukit Ho Swee, or even propose capital punishment as suggested by the Member for Kallang.”
“Sir, I am glad that the Member for Bras Basah and the Member for Kallang have brought up this matter of increasing sex offences being committed in Singapore, as it gives me the opportunity to inform the House of the matters which the Ministry of Home Affairs is considering at the moment with regard to dealing with such offences. I am glad that the Members for Bras Basah and Kallang are in support of deterrent sentences against such offenders. Let me first refer to the address by the Member for Bras Basah. He said that since we have taken over control of Singapore from the British colonial authorities, those British laws should be amended from time to time in order to cope with the social and economic development of the Republic. May I say that since we took over, many new laws have been enacted and old laws amended to make them more adequate to deal with criminals in accordance with the changes in our way of life and social development. However, I do not think we want to legislate to the extent of becoming tyrannical as with the Ching Dynasty's pattern of rule, as suggested by the Member for Bras Basah.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, visitors to Singapore who are citizens of ASEAN countries are allowed to enter and stay in the Republic for up to two weeks without visas, in accordance with the ASEAN Agreement on this matter, As an additional facility to improve and strengthen the relationship with the peoples of other ASEAN countries, such visitors are normally allowed to extend their stay in Singapore if they make application for an extension. 2.48 p.m. BILLS INTRODUCED COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL SECURITY CORPORATION (AMENDMENT) BILL "to amend the Commercial and Industrial Security Corporation Act, 1972 (No 18 of 1972)". recommendation of President signified; presented by the Minister for Home Affairs and Education (Mr Chua Sian Chin), read the First time, to be read a Second time on the next available sitting of Parliament, and to be printed PARLIAMENTARY PENSIONS (AMENDMENT) BILL "to amend the Parliamentary Pensions Act (Chapter 51 of the Revised Edition)". recommendation of President signified, presented by the Minister for Finance (Mr Hon Sui Sen), read the First time, to be read a Second time on the next available sitting of Parliament, and to be printed. ANNUAL BUDGET STATEMENT Order read for Resumption of Debate on Question I 1st March, 19761. "That Parliament approves the financial policy of the Government for the financial year 1st April, 1976 to 31st March, 1977 " [Minister for Finance] Question again proposed 2.51 p.m.”
“Sir, school records, medical certificates, and so on, may form part of the documentary proof. But, nevertheless, they may not be conclusive evidence of birth in Singapore. Much depends on the merits of each particular case, because an applicant may not have been born in Singapore. He may have been brought into Singapore to do his schooling here, which does not mean that he was born in Singapore. As I have said, each case will be treated on its own merits, and documents like school records may help to establish one way or the other whether or not he was born in Singapore. ASEAN CITIZENS IN SINGAPORE (Request for longer stay) 5. Mr Teong Eng Siong asked the Minister for Home Affairs and Education if he will consider allowing citizens of ASEAN countries to visit and stay in the Republic of Singapore longer than the period presently allowed so as to improve and strengthen our relationship with the peoples of the other ASEAN countries.”
“Mr Speaker. Sir, I cannot give examples. But the point is that "satisfactory proof" would be documentary proof that will enable any person to come to the conclusion objectively that the applicant was actually born in Singapore. Otherwise, without that satisfactory proof any person who was not born in Singapore could make such a claim and therefore it would not be objective and fair to grant that person the benefit of the doubt.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I am aware of such cases. But if it is a matter of mis-spelling of a name in the birth certificate, and if there is any other documentary proof that the applicant was actually born in Singapore, then of course the old identity card would not be withdrawn. If there is no documentary proof, then there is no conclusive proof that this particular person was born in Singapore and he would not be entitled to either citizenship or permanent residence. As a result, the identity card which was issued by mistake would be withdrawn. Nevertheless, on humanitarian grounds, he is given a Special Pass to enable him to continue to stay in Singapore.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, as on 31St January 1976 there were 1,302 persons who were issued with Special Passes to stay in Singapore. They cannot be granted permanent residence because they do not qualify for it. However, on humanitarian grounds they were issued with Special Passes to enable them to continue to stay in Singapore for the time being. Under the law, only a Singapore citizen or a permanent resident is eligible for the issue of an identity card. So long as these Special Pass holders are not granted permanent residence in Singapore in accordance with Immigration rules, their applications for identity cards will have to be refused.”
“Mr Ng Kah Ting asked the Minister for Home Affairs and Education if he will ascertain from the Industrial Training Board the breakdown figures of students who successfully completed the various Industrial Training Board courses in 1975 and the number of the graduates who have obtained employment in the jobs for which they have been trained.”
“Mr Speaker. Sir, the Singapore Police Long Service and Good Conduct Medal Rules. 1974, stipulate that the Medal may be awarded to officers of the Singapore Police Force who have completed 12 years' continuous service and have a good record of conduct in the Force. The assessment of an officer's conduct is guided specifically by a set of criteria laid down in Police General Order A58 dated 6th December, 1969. The Order sets out the mode of assessment of character and conduct. It also lays down the types of offences which would disqualify an officer from consideration, differentiating between major and minor offences. In addition, the award of the Medal is withheld for those officers who are under disciplinary investigation. The criteria adopted in deciding on the award of the Singapore Police Long Service and Good Conduct Medal are more or less parallel to those in respect of the award of the Singapore Armed Forces Long Service and Goad Conduct Medal which are spelt out in Government Gazette Notification (Subsidiary Legislation Supplement) No. S 57 dated 16th February, 1973. The Commanding Officers and officers-in-charge of Divisions and Units make the first recommendation of award to the Commissioner of Police. The recommendations are then considered by the Commissioner of Police and the Ministry of Home Affairs before they are put up to me for concurrence. They are then sent up to the President for final approval. This procedure that has been established ensures impartiality and objectivity. INDUSTRIAL TRAINING BOARD (Particulars of Graduates in 1975) 5.”
“Sir, that has been considered and the answer is that the only way in which the problem can be solved would be as stated in my answer just now. However, we will look into it further. Perhaps we may put up some traffic signs to make motorists aware of the dangers at that particular junction. POLICE LONG SERVICE AND GOOD CONDUCT MEDALS (Criteria and procedure) 4. Mr Hwang Soo Jin asked the Minister for Home Affairs and Education what are the criteria adopted in deciding on the awards of the Singapore Police Long Service and Good Conduct Medals and what procedure has been established to ensure impartiality and objectivity.”
“Sir, may I explain that the strokes of the rotan when imposed by the court are administered in Prison under the authority of the Director of Prisons, under the Prison regulations. Usually they are administered at one session. But when the strokes are administered, a medical officer will be there to decide whether or not there should be any respite. Question put, and agreed to. INCOME TAX (AMENDMENT NO. 2) BILL Order for Second Reading read. 6.59 p.m.”
“Now, Sir,I beg to move, "That the Bill be now read a Third time." Question proposed.”
“Sir, I beg to move, In page 9, lines 4 to 6, to leave out the heading "Specified drug or specified quantity thereof involved" and insert "Specified drug or quantity thereof or drug with specified content involved". This, Sir, is again a consequential amendment.”
“Sir, I beg to move, In page 8, line 28, to leave Out the dash in the seventh column and insert - "Maximum 20 years or $40,000 or both Minimum 3 years or $5,000 or both". Sir, as I have explained, this penalty provision is deleted in amendment (9) and transferred to the next column in amendment (10). So I can assure the Member for Punggol that it will be there. Amendment agreed to.”
“Sir, this is a formal amendment to correct a drafting error. Amendment agreed to.”
“Yes. This is a formal amendment. It is not a deletion. It is a drafting error which is being corrected.”