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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“It is quite clear that family planning efforts will continue, and I have stated in my opening speech that we are only offering abortion as a last resort and as an important complement to a comprehensive family planning programme. As far as the Member for Katong is concerned, he has made certain remarks which, I think, are very diplomatic. On the whole, I do not disagree with his sentiments. In fact, some of the things he has stated are not contrary to what I have stated in my opening speech. He has stated that it is a vexed question. Yes, of course it is a vexed question. He has stated that there must be effective Government propaganda and so on and so forth to propagate these matters. Of course, if the Government thinks it is good, it will propagate it; whether it is accident-free, family planning or crime-free campaign, it will be done. But, of course, it does not mean that those who oppose abortion cannot themselves conduct their own campaign to persuade people not to have abortions. The other point he said was something about adequate counselling for those who are forced to have abortions. I have mentioned in my opening speech that the Family Planning and Population Board has made it a point to give adequate counselling to those who go for abortions. In fact, I have quoted figures and perhaps I may repeat that there has been adequate counselling or what they call post-abortal counselling. May I just repeat: `Further, there is evidence to suggest that overall contraceptive practice improved since the liberalisation of abortions, due to post-abortal family planning counselling. To quote figures in support. In 1972 there were 788 post-abortal sterilizations. This works out to about 14 per cent of the total number of sterilizations in 1972.”
“It is because we were very thoughtful about the need for safe abortions that I am glad to say after 4½ years of operation of the Act that there was not one single mortality, nor was there any disablement resulting from legalised abortions. As opposed to this, an illegal abortion, as you know, often turns septic and the woman dies. So it is not true to say that we do not recognise the risk. It is because we were able to maintain a good record of no incident of mortality and morbidity in cases of legalised abortion that we are preserving the same safeguards in this new Bill. That is to say, if abortions are to be done outside the Government hospitals, they must be done in approved institutions and by doctors who have the skill and experience in abortion. Let me now come to the Member for Potong Pasir. There again, the Member for Potong Pasir mentioned about murder and infanticide. As I have already said, it is a matter of belief -whether you believe that a foetus under 24 weeks is human or not. If you do not believe that it is human, then of course there is no case of infanticide when an abortion is done. About promiscuity and permissiveness, and so on, I have stated that after 4½ years of operation of the Act, there has not been any lowering of moral standards or permissiveness as a result of legalising abortion. There may be other causes, but certainly not because of abortion. The other point is about repeat abortions. I have stated quite categorically that repeat abortions have remained as low as 6.5 per cent, as compared with other countries like Japan, Sweden, and the UK where it is much higher. Another point is about education to reduce population growth. I think I must answer that.”
“Therefore, to say that doctors are unhappy or are compelled to perform an abortion is nonsense. The Member for Bukit Ho Swee stated that abortion should be only a last resort and that we should encourage family planning. This is exactly what I have stated. In fact, over the last five years family planning has advanced to such an extent that nearly 90 per cent of our eligible population have accepted family planning. Therefore, legalised abortion which we are introducing today is a complement to family planning. It is not a substitute to family planning and it will not replace family planning. Regarding the charges for abortion and the point that doctors should not be allowed to exploit their patients, as far as the Government hospitals are concerned, it is contained in the new Bill that a fee of $5 will be charged and no more. However, if private practitioners want to charge more, we cannot control them. So the pregnant woman has the choice of paying only $5 for an abortion in Government hospitals or paying more outside. Coming to the Member for Bras Basah, he said that I implied in my speech that there was no risk in abortion. That was not what I stated. I said that we recognise the risk not only now but also five years ago, and that is the reason why we have certain safeguards - that it must be done under absolutely safe conditions. That is why we said that if abortions are done outside the hospitals, they must be done by competent doctors and in institutions which are approved by the Ministry of Health as being capable of doing safe abortions.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, several Members have raised certain points which, I think, need reply. First of all, the Member for Anson who, unfortunately, is not here. He said something to the effect that abortion means killing the foetus and that amounts to killing a human life. That point has been repeated by some other Members who spoke against the Bill, e.g, the Member for Punggol. In fact, that was his only point - that abortion means killing the foetus, a human life. I have stated quite clearly in my opening speech that the question of whether or not a foetus under 24 weeks is human life is a matter which has been debated for centuries by learned people, both medical and non-medical. They could not come to any conclusion as to whether a foetus is human life, and therefore to equate abortion, i.e, the evacuation of the foetus from the womb, to killing, murder, or infanticide is something which cannot be accepted. Perhaps they have their own beliefs that it is human life. But there are others who do not think so. Therefore, as I have said, if we were to continue to argue this point till the cows come home, we will come back to where we started. But from the view of those who are in favour of legalised abortion, they are quite categorical about it. They do not consider that a foetus under 24 weeks of pregnancy is human life, for the simple reason that if a foetus comes out of the womb under 24 weeks, it will not be able to survive outside the mother's womb. The Member for Anson made comments that some doctors are not happy to perform abortions. I have stated quite categorically here that there is a conscientious objection clause where nobody is forced or compelled to perform an abortion if he or she has a conscientious objection.”
“I never used the term "cast". I said "found itself".”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I have never said that the opponents of this Bill be cast into the dustbin. I never said that. What I said was a quotation I made five years ago - that because of history the opposing stand that was taken "found itself in the dustbins of history". That is what I have said. I said that I respected the views of the opponents of the Bill but the stand taken "found itself in the dustbins of history".”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I cannot allow a misinterpretation of what I have said.”
“I never said that the risk was not there.”
“I remember in the debate in this House five years ago on the existing Act, I referred to a minority group who on their out-of-date beliefs had hitherto stood opposed to the introduction of birth control in Singapore. As I said then, Mr Speaker, the negative stand of this minority group had found itself in the dustbins of history. I had also stated then that the opposing stand to the Abortion Bill would in the course of time also end up in the dustbins of history. I can now say that the course of history in the last five years has proved this prediction to be correct. The Government, in respecting the religious and ethical beliefs of individual hon. Members, is withdrawing the Whip in this debate. However, Mr Speaker, Sir, I have every confidence in the good sense of judgment, fair play and high humanitarian principles of our hon. Members in that they will not oppose the re-enactment of the Bill when it is clear to them that it is in the best interest of the people of Singapore even though some, because of religious beliefs, may not personally be in favour of abortion. They will certainly not seek to impose their personal religious beliefs on others who do not share such beliefs. Sir, I beg to move. Question proposed.”
“Also retained is the provision that abortions can only be undertaken on Singapore citizens or their wives and, in the case of other women, only if they have been resident in Singapore for at least four months. Looking into the future when abortions may be procured entirely by prescription, a new provision has been introduced in the Bill which will allow any registered medical practitioner to abort a pregnant woman if it is procured solely by drugs. For the reasons that the law has proven to have met a need that it offers a safe and reliable method of terminating unintended and unwanted pregnancies and that many of the misgivings expressed by those who had reservations about the law have proved unfounded, I now urge the House to overwhelmingly approve this Bill that will further liberalise our laws on abortion. With the re-enactment of this Bill, the liberation of our women from unwanted and unintended pregnancies will be enshrined in a permanent statute of our Republic. This will also ensure that every child born in Singapore is a wanted child. I am, however, fully conscious that however overwhelming the evidence, be they medical, socio-economic, or humanitarian that is presented to prove that the re-enactment of the Bill is m the best interest of the people of Singapore, there will still be some who will oppose it on grounds of religious beliefs and conscience. But these opposing views must remain personal judgments. They will, of course, be respected. But it is not right in our multi-racial and multi-religious society that these personal judgments and dogmas be imposed upon those who do not hold such views and beliefs.”
“A Supreme Court ruling in the United States in 1973 by Mr Justice Harry Blackmun also rejected the demand that a panel of persons should approve abortions. The second major departure from the existing Act is that the period of pregnancy when abortions can be done has been extended from 16 weeks to 24 weeks. This may, on superficial consideration, be considered a risky step. It should, however, be noted that the existing Act allows for abortions to be undertaken up to the 24th week on medical ground but up to the 16th week on socio-economic grounds. Therefore, this extension does no more than reflect the basic change in the Bill which is that the decision to carry out an abortion should be made by a qualified doctor and his patient. As it should be, the decision will depend on the doctor's assessment of whether or not an abortion can be safely done. If in the doctor's assessment the abortion should not be done because it might be too advanced, even if it is at the 16th week, then the abortion should not be carried out. An upper limit of 24 weeks is imposed as it is generally accepted that a foetus may be viable outside the mother after the 24th week. Thus after 24 weeks of gestation the operation should be looked upon as inducing a premature birth. Among the safeguards in the existing Act which are retained in the new Bill are as follows. Abortions will have to be carried out in Government hospitals or in approved institutions. The doctors who carry out abortions will have to be officers working under supervision in Government hospitals or those who have the prescribed qualifications and experience. It is an offence to coerce a person to submit to abortion.”
“They are: (a) The abolition of the Termination of Pregnancy Board; (b) The period of pregnancy where abortion can be done has been extended from 16 weeks to 24 weeks. Under the existing Act all applications for abortions had to be authorised by the Board before any abortions could be undertaken except of course in cases of emergencies. Experience has shown that the need to go through the Board has resulted in delays. Although the Board processed applications with des-patch, it took about a week from receipt of an application to an abortion being done. This might appear to be a short period but a delay of a week is crucial in procuring abortions. The reason is that with every passing day the pregnancy advances and the more difficult and hazardous the operation becomes. From the figures, it is noted that between 12 per cent and 25 per cent of those who had their abortions authorised by the Board did not turn up for the operation. A study of these cases revealed that a large number were rather desperate and were unable to wait even for one week for their abortions to be done. Many thus went to have the abortions done illegally. One of the other reasons advanced as to why illegal abortions still flourish is that many persons who want an abortion are very reluctant to apply to a Board and have their applications assessed by a panel of persons. It is true that no matter how reliably secret records are kept, women would naturally shy away from making known their secrets. In the United Kingdom a Commission which was appointed to review their Abortion Act touched on the suggestion that a panel should be formed to consider applications for abortions. The Justice Lane Commission (as it was called) quite categorically rejected this notion of setting up panels for adjudication.”
“Unfortunately, these are still mainly experimental. We have on our own been conducting large-scale clinical trials of several of these drugs in our Government hospitals but they have not as yet been completely evaluated to justify release for general use. Hence with these new developments and with the changed climate of thinking and attitudes this new Abortion Bill is presented for re-enactment. The basic change reflected in the Bill over the existing Act which will be repealed, is that the decision to carry out an abortion will rest with the pregnant woman and the registered medical practitioner. I have deliberately avoided the use of this phrase "abortion on demand". It tends to be emotive. Some would use this term to describe the position when abortions can be done, but within prescribed conditions. This would mean removing from the penal and medical codes, all conditions that make abortion subject to special restrictions, penalties or procedures except those that apply generally to sound medical practice. Others would restrict usage of the term "abortion on demand" where the request for abortion must be acceded to on pain of penalty to the doctor approached by a pregnant woman. This, in fact, is the present position in Sweden under their legislation. The position envisaged in this Bill is akin to the former position plus certain special safeguards. The safeguards in the existing Act are retained. This has been done particularly to ensure that the abortion procedures are undertaken safely. The conscientious objection clause against participation in treatment to terminate pregnancy has also been retained. Nevertheless, two major restrictive provisions in the Act have been removed.”
“We therefore have the advantage of being able to make decisive amendments to the Act free from speculative doubts. Further, since five years ago the attitudes of the vast majority of our people towards family planning, legalised abortions and voluntary sterilizations have also undergone radical change. More than 60 per cent of our eligible population are currently using contraceptives. Another 17 per cent have used contraceptives some time earlier although not currently practising contraception for various reasons such as planning for a child, husband away and so on. Another 11 per cent have been voluntarily sterilized. Thus the attitude towards family planning is now one of acceptance on the part of the vast majority of our people. Favourable attitudes towards voluntary sterilizations and legalised abortions are fast gaining ground. Attitudes towards legalised abortions have also changed considerably in many countries of the world. There are now 55 countries in the world which have legalised abortions on "extended" grounds. Mr Speaker, Sir, since the passage of our Abortion Act there have also been advances in the techniques of procuring abortions. Technically the conventional method at the time when the Act was passed, was to evacuate the womb by dilation and curettage. Now there are simpler techniques which are just as effective, less traumatic and very much safer, such as evacuation by vacuum suction. But the most promising advances are in the use of drugs to procure abortions. There are now abortificant pills which are known in common parlance as "the morning after pill" and others euphemistically as "menstrual regulating pills". The ones under intensive testing are the "prostagladins" which appear to be the most efficient abortificants.”
“Abortions were resorted to by a relatively small segment of the population. It acted as an important complement to family planning by conventional contraceptive methods. A spin-off from this has been that legalised abortions have contributed to a small percentage of the total number of births averted in the population. There was, however, one objective, Mr Speaker, Sir, which was not reached. This was the reduction in the number of illegal abortions. We did not expect that illegal abortions could be eradicated completely but it was hoped that these would be reduced to an insignificant number. It is not possible, of course, to determine the exact numbers which have been done illegally. Nevertheless, an indication of their numbers is the number of septic abortions which are treated in the hospitals. These abortions are done through criminal interference, mainly by unqualified quacks. Although the number of septic abortions treated in our hospitals have more than halved what they were during the first two years when the law was brought into effect, it is still significant. This is a problem which was borne in mind when the new Bill now before the House was being drafted. The new Bill now before the House is the result of the sum total of experience gathered in the 4½ years of operation of the Abortion Act. Thus, Mr Speaker, Sir, we are now in a much happier position than when we were formulating the Abortion Act five years ago. We then had no experience of our own to go by but had to depend on certain assumptions as well as the experience of other countries. We then had to be extremely cautious. On the other hand, in drafting this new Bill we have before us all the concrete experience of the achievements as well as the drawbacks of the existing Act.”
“A psychiatrist reporting on the psychological effects of abortion had stated that the notion of post-abortion mental illness is probably a myth, and I quote: `Abortion far from being a precipitative of psychiatric illness, is actually a defence against it. For a woman who has let her life be directed by forces outside of herself, to make a decision to take charge of her life can be an extremely liberalising, positive experience. For the first time in her life she is master (or rather mistress) of her destiny.' Conversely, a British woman psychiatrist, contended from her studies on British women that - `If they are refused (abortions) their mental and physical health, their family life and often their children's future can be catastrophically affected.' With the introduction of various disincentives against large family size and to promote acceptance of small families, there should be made available the entire range of facilities ranging from family planning services to abortion facilities. Failure, Mr Speaker, Sir, to provide these facilities would be regarded as perpetrating a cruel fraud on our people. In concluding the review, it is with a sense of satisfaction and fulfilment to know that this historic social experiment was timely and had achieved its main objectives. It has freed our women from the tyranny of unintended and unwanted pregnancies. It has provided a reliable, safe method in terminating these unwanted pregnancies, particularly for the benefit of women who could least afford to continue with such pregnancies. These were achieved without the dire consequences, as prophesied by some, of a lowering of moral standards and increase in promiscuity. Nor has there been an abandonment of contraceptive practice in determining family size.”
“The mortality figures of abortions published in other countries had ranged from 2 to 30 deaths per one hundred thousand. We were very conscious of such hazards. But I am glad to announce that throughout this entire period of 4½ years, not a single death has occurred from abortions performed under the provisions of the Act. In contrast, you will have read recent reports in the press relating to deaths from illegal abortions. Complications resulting from abortions under the Act have also been of a very minor nature. There have been a few complications such as excessive bleeding. But in all of these the patients were restored to health without any permanent disablement. It had been suggested, in certain studies, that there might be adverse psychological effects, such as guilt feelings and emotional aftermaths resulting from abortions. A study on the psychological effects, if any, on patients who had undergone abortions was therefore undertaken by our psychiatrists and psychologists in collaboration with our obstetricians. The total number of persons investigated were all the cases done in the first year. They were followed up throughout the period. Although the full analysis of the results is not yet available, the preliminary indications are that there has been no major or minor psychological effects: such as emotional upset or mental anguish in the short term nor has there been any adverse effects observed in the women in the long term. On the contrary, the findings indicate that the women have been immensely relieved when the abortions were over and perhaps, for these reasons, have benefited mentally by having had the abortions.”
“A paper studying the various methods which have contributed to this fall in birth in Singapore ascribed contraceptive practice as being responsible for about 50 per cent of the births averted while abortions were responsible only for about 6 per cent of births averted. Further, there is evidence to suggest that overall contraceptive practice improved since the liberalisation of abortions, due to post-abortal family planning counselling. To quote figures in support, in 1972, there were 788 post-abortal sterilizations. This works out to about 14 per cent of the total number of sterilizations in 1972. In 1973, the number of post-abortal sterilizations rose to 2,056 which works out to 23 per cent of the total number of sterilizations in that year. In 1972, there were 428 new family planning acceptors through post-abortal motivation. This works out to about 2.4 per cent of the total number of new acceptors in 1972. In 1973, the number of new acceptors through post-abortal motivation rose to 483 which works out to 2.5 per cent of the total number of new acceptors in that year. It is therefore clear that contraceptive practice is the accepted and preferred mode of limiting the number of children in families. This is as it should be. Further, to encourage contraceptive practice, women must be confident that if these fail - as they do sometimes - they can fall back on readily available abortion. Thus legalised abortion is a very important complement to our already comprehensive family planning programme. Another expressed fear was on the safety of the procedures for an operation of abortion. Here no one could deny the fact that under any operative procedure there would be an element of risk, no matter how small.”
“Contrary to the warnings made by those who opposed abortions that legalisation of abortions would encourage promiscuity, the number of unmarried women who had abortions numbered only 5 per cent of the total number of abortions done in the first four years, and 9 per cent in the first half of this year. This is in contrast with the experience in other countries where abortions on the unmarried were very much higher. In the United Kingdom it amounted to nearly 50 per cent of all abortions done. All these are conclusive proof that our expectations of the Act were correct. The Act provided an avenue of escape for our married women, especially those in the lower income group, to be freed from the burden of an unwanted or unintended pregnancy. Another fear that was voiced was that our women would prefer abortions to the somewhat inconvenient contraceptive practice. It was argued that they will turn to abortions and come over and over again for repeated abortions whenever they become pregnant. This fear is now proved to be unfounded. The number of persons who have had more than one abortion have numbered only 6.6 per cent of the total number of abortions undertaken. This fear can also be put to rest on the basis of the following two facts: (a) since the Act came into operation 4½ years ago, the total number of family planning acceptors attending the family planning clinics has consistently been in excess of the targets set; (b) contraceptions must have been practised in increasing numbers to have reduced both the crude birth rates and the absolute number of children born in Singapore.”
“You will recall that the estimates given at the time the Act was introduced was that it would amount to about 10 per cent of all births. The rate of abortion recorded is thus within our original estimate. It is also well within the rates reported in other countries, which have similar liberalised abortion laws. In the United Kingdom the rate is 14 per cent of all births. In Denmark the rate recorded was 12.7 per cent in 1970, the United States 13 per cent in 1971, in Sweden 16.8 per cent in 1971 and in Japan 37.8 per cent in 1970. Contrary to the fears expressed in the original debate, our pregnant women have not been turning to abortions in great numbers. The categories of women who had aborted provide some further interesting information. The ethnic groups of those who had aborted were in approximate proportion of their numbers in the population. In other words, abortions had been sought equally by all our ethnic groups. This indicates that a common need for legalised abortion among these women which transcended cultural and religious barriers had been met. The breakdown of the abortion figures by class of persons on the basis of the combined income of family indicates that the vast majority of women who seek abortions are those in the lower income group. The median income is less than $300 per month. With regard to the marital status of the women who had abortions, more than 90 per cent of them were married women. The median number of children they had is 4.3 children.”
“The object was that Parliament should have an opportunity to review operations and effects of the Act at the end of the stated period. Parliament would then be able to determine whether the Act should be allowed to lapse and cast into limbo as a social experiment which has failed or to be re-introduced and made a permanent feature of the Statutes of Singapore. I would like to report to Parliament here that this social experiment on legalised abortions has been highly successful. In some instances it has more than fulfilled our expectations. I therefore urge this House to support and pass this re-enacted legislation which has been drawn up on the experience of operating the Act over the last 4½ years. The information of the past 4½ years is best given in the form of figures which should speak for themselves. The tables are given in the Addendum (Appendix I, cols 1151-4), to my speech which I have distributed to Members. Let me highlight some of the facts as we may derive from these figures. The number of abortions done each year since the law was brought into effect in 1970 was gradually built up, averaging around 4,000 a year. Relating these figures to the total number of live births, as it is usually done in reporting APPENDIX I - CHARACTERISTICS OF WOMEN WHO HAD LEGALISED ABORTION 1970-1973 (Cols 1151-1152) APPENDIX I - RESULT OF APPLICATION FOR LEGALISED ABORTION (Cols 1153-1154) such figures for purposes of comparison, the number of abortions which were procured under the Act was 7 per cent of all live births in Singapore from 1970 to 1972 and 10.3 per cent in 1973. The rate in 1974 projected for the whole year may exceed this figure.”
“The religious viewpoints must necessarily be based on one's own religious beliefs and faith as well as conscience. And these must differ from individual to individual. They include one's belief as to whether the foetus can be considered human life, which learned men, medical or otherwise for centuries have still not been able to agree on. Of course, the religious beliefs and conscience of any individual is to be respected. But at the same time, should not a pregnant woman be entitled as of right to request in good conscience for and be granted the termination of her pregnancy if it will lead to her greater benefit and happiness? Further, is it right in our multi-racial and multi-religious society for opponents to the liberalisation of the law on abortion to impose their moral or religious standards upon the entire community? However, in drafting the Act and in its introduction five years ago, it was in deference to some of the more valid arguments against unrestricted liberalisation of abortion that many safeguards were included in the Act. For some who supported legalised abortion it appeared to be rather too restrictive. In fact, Mr Speaker, Sir, you as one of the speakers supporting its introduction, as Member for Joo Chiat, stated then that the Act was too restrictive to be effective. It was for this reason that the Bill was sent to Select Committee. Here oral and written submissions were carefully considered and weighed, resulting in some of the suggestions being incorporated in the final version as passed by Parliament. It was also for the same reason that the Act was given a limited life span of four years of operation with the possibility of extension of one year, and one year only.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, "That the Bill be now read a Second time." Five years ago this House debated the Bill to liberalise the law on abortions. It was debated with an intensity not often seen in the recent history of our parliamentary proceedings. This was for the reason that it raised important social, economic, humanitarian and religious issues which touched the conscience of many. In the course of the debate, points for and against the Bill were exhaustively put and argued. The opposing arguments against the Bill that were put forward were of three categories. They were the Religious, Moral or Ethical, and Medical objections to the Bill. I had then refuted the opposing arguments, although many of them were highly theoretical and speculative. As it has turned out, nearly five years of experience of the operation of the Abortion Act has proved that many of the moral and medical objections to the Bill were unfounded. For example, availability of legalised abortions has not led to the breaking down of moral standards and increased promiscuity. Neither has it led to increase in maternal mortality and morbidity for our pregnant women. In fact, during the whole period of nearly five years there was not one single death or permanent disablement resulting from the several thousands of legalised abortions done. Of course, the religious arguments against legalised abortions for obvious reasons could not then as well as now be proved or disproved. As I have stated then, to allow ourselves to be tied up with the religious arguments for and against abortions, which in any case would never result in any conclusion even if the debate went on till the cows came home, was entirely futile.”
“Dr Tan Eng Liang asked the Minister for Health and Home Affairs whether he is considering the setting up of a board for the registration of drugs, and what measures are contemplated to ensure that drugs are of clinical and therapeutic efficacy and are proven safe from dangerous side-effects.”
“They also visit homes of habitual absentees to find out their problems and advise them to return for training or duty. Absentees working in shifts or at night are allowed to do their training during the day. Alternatively, they can attend make-up training subsequently, provided they are granted leave of absence from the usual training in advance. It should, however, be pointed out that the counselling service is not the decisive factor in reducing the absentee rate in the Vigilante Corps. With suitable punitive measures and an improved training programme, the Corps has now been able to cut down drastically the rate of absenteeism. As at 1st April, 1974, there were a total of 2,494 bad absentees and gazetted deserters in the Vigilante Corps. This number was reduced to 909 as at 30th September this year. Taking into account that the total strength of the Vigilante Corps today is 30,984 (excluding 105 deserters), the overall absentee rate has now dropped to an all-time low of 2.9 per cent. In a mass uniformed organisation like the Vigilante Corps, it is not possible for all members of the Corps to be provided with made-to-measure uniforms. However, every effort has been made to improve upon the style and comfort of the uniforms provided for members of the Corps. Prior to 1967, the national servicemen in the Vigilante Corps were provided with uniforms made of drill. This has since been changed to cotton for the shirts and teteron for the trousers. Junior officers in the Corps are issued with uniforms made to standard sizes owing to the large numbers involved. Slight alterations to the uniforms may have to be made by individuals. The senior officers are provided with made-to-measure uniforms in view of their smaller numbers. DRUGS REGISTRATION BOARD (Setting up of) 6.”
“The Vigilante Service is a mass youth organisation which seeks to inculcate in the men a sense of social consciousness, responsibility and discipline through civics and organised youth activities. Specific cultural groups have been formed to enrich the cultural life of our young citizens. In addition, a Lifeguard Unit was set up in February this year. Within a brief span of eight months since its inception, members of the Lifeguard Unit have saved the lives of 13 persons. In the Civil Defence Service, the National Servicemen are trained in rescue operations, first-aid and fire-fighting, so as to meet any national emergency. Included in this field of service recently is the introduction of Lift Rescue Training. It is hoped that the availability of a group of well-trained VC National Servicemen for such rescue work will help to minimise the inconvenience that can be caused to HDB flat-dwellers in the event of power failure. Since the Community Security Force became operational in January this year, there has been a significant reduction in crime between 7 p.m, and 11 p.m, in the crime-prone areas selected for CSF policing service. During the first six months of this year, there were on the average 21 days per month during which such areas were free of crime because of the presence of the CSF members. The ratio of instructors to members of the Corps is 1 : 125. However, as there are some vacancies in the instructorate, the actual ratio is 1 : 172. Steps are being taken to fill the vacancies. The Vigilante Corps has set up a counselling service for VC National Servicemen. It is part of the job of this counselling unit to go into individual cases of those who are habitually absent from duty or training.”
“Sir, the salary revision is for all the Prisons staff. But, as I have said, the improvements of salaries have been effected for the custodial staff. VIGILANTE CORPS (Particulars) 5. Mr P. Govindaswamy asked the Minister for Health and Home Affairs (a) if he will give facts and figures of the progress and work of the Vigilante Corps; (b) what is the ratio of members of the Corps to instructors; (c) what measures have been taken to counsel members of the Corps who are frequently absent from parades; and (d) if he is aware that due to the poor quality of uniforms supplied to members of the Corps many of them prefer to stitch their own uniform, and what steps are being taken in this matter. The Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Home Affairs (Mr Lim Guan Hoo) (for the Minister for Health and Home Affairs): Mr Speaker, Sir, I have been asked by my Minister to reply. The Vigilante Corps (VC) was reorganised into a National Service organisation for part-time National Servicemen in 1967. Since then it has a constant inflow of about 5,000 National Servicemen annually. With the intake of more members, the Corps was able to extend its service in 1971 to include Civil Defence training for its part-time National Servicemen. Early this year its service was further extended with the establishment of the Community Security Force (CSF). Today, the Vigilante Corps has emerged as a large and expanding disciplined force. Out of a total of 31,089 National Servicemen in the Corps as at 30th September, 1974: - (i) 11,208 are in the Vigilante Service; (ii) 13,318 are in the Civil Defence Service; (iii) 5,892 are in the Community Security Service; and (iv) 671 are in the Auxiliary Fire Service.”
“I have said that as far as the custodial staff are concerned, recommendations for a salary revision had been put to the Finance Ministry, and they have agreed to it.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I have already answered that question just now. As I said, all the recommendations of the Committee have been accepted, except those relating to salaries. As far as salaries are concerned, an agreement has been reached between the Finance Ministry and the Home Affairs Ministry with regard to the revision of salaries, particularly those of the custodial staff, and that the improvement in the salaries of the custodial staff has been implemented on 1st August this year.”
“Bill accordingly read a Second time and committed to a Committee of the whole House. The House immediately resolved itself into a Committee on the Bill. - [Mr Chua Sian Chin]. Bill considered in Committee; reported without amendment; read a Third time and passed. PROPERTY TAX (SURCHARGE) BILL Order for Second Reading read. 5.15 p.m.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, "That the Bill be now read a Second time." The re-registration exercise for persons born between 6th May, 1949, and 5th May, 1955, and who obtained their identity cards before attaining the age of 17 years ended on 29th September, 1973. However, in spite of the wide publicity given to this exercise and the provision of facilities for re-registration in practically all the community centres, about 19,000 persons Out of the 252,000 persons required to register under Regulation 15 of the National Registration Regulations, 1966, have not re-registered. These persons are liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term up to five years or to a fine up to $1,000 or to both imprisonment and a fine. In order to reduce further the number of persons who have not registered, the Government has decided to extend the closing date of the re-registration exercise to the end of this month. However, it is envisaged that there will still be some who will still not re-register by this new dead-line. This number may be further increased with future re-registration exercises. It would be impractical to bring every case to court. Besides the presence of large numbers of offenders will increase congestion in our courts. It is, therefore, proposed that the National Registration Act be amended to provide for the composition of offences prescribed under the National Registration Regulations, 1966. Consequent upon this amendment, the National Registration Regulations, 1966, will empower the Commissioner of National Registration to compound offences relating to late re-registration of persons who have attained the age of 17 years, by a fine not exceeding $100. Sir, I beg to move. Question put, and agreed to.”
“Bill considered in Committee; reported without amendment; read a Third time and passed.”
“The purpose of the Act is to control the people who have acquired the skill so that they would not use it for their own ends, in other words, for criminal purposes. That is the wide basis on which the definition is made. The Member brought up the specific example of tai-chi, or shadow boxing. I do not know very much about tai-chi. From what I can gather, tai-chi is actually a form of exercise and not necessarily a form of self-defence where one can cause injury to another person. If it is brought to my notice that it can cause injury, then I will exercise my powers under the Bill and classify it as a martial art. If it is just a form of exercise and cannot cause injury, then I will not consider it as a form of martial art. The word "martial" means "pertaining to warfare". So it must be an aggressive art, although used in self-defence. But I think an exponent of martial arts will be able to advise me whether tai-chi should or should not be considered a martial art. I do not want to decide on the matter right now. With regard to the point brought up by the Member for Tiong Bahru about what sort of instructors will be issued with certificates, of course, firstly, they will be screened and if they have a criminal record, then they will not be issued with instructors' certificates. Secondly, on the question of what sort of skill they should have, unless we have a board of examiners, we are unable to judge the skill of an instructor. But so long as an applicant has genuine skills and is not a pseudo, he may be certified as an instructor. Question put, and agreed to. Bill accordingly read a Second time and committed to a Committee of the whole House. The House immediately resolved itself into a Committee on the Bill. - [Mr Chua Sian Chin].”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I would like to thank the hon. Members who have spoken in strong support of the Bill. There is nothing more for me to add except to answer a few queries which Members have brought up. The first is from the Member for Bukit Ho Swee. He asked whether some form of martial art training is being given to Police officers. In fact, in the training of Police officers, they are given training on what is called unarmed combat. With regard to the VCs, particularly those who are now engaged in the community security force policing, they are also being taught or given training in unarmed combat as well. With regard to the queries brought up by the Member for Sembawang, who I understand is an honorary adviser to a pugilistic association, he asked whether the Controller of Martial Arts will be a person well versed in martial arts. May I say that he would have knowledge of martial arts but he need not necessarily be an exponent of martial arts. The Member also asked whether all martial arts associations must be registered. If they come within the definition of "martial arts" as has been defined in the Bill, they will have to be registered. The point brought up by the Member for Tiong Bahru is with regard to the definition of martial arts. I have in my speech given the definition as provided by the Bill. "Martial art" is defined to include taekwondo, judo, akido, kendo, bersilat, kung-fu, jiu-jitsu or a combination or variation thereof. However, as I have also stated, the definition cannot be exhaustive because it has a very wide meaning, and therefore the Minister has been given powers to declare any other art of pugilism, fighting, boxing or self-defence to be a martial art for the purposes of the Act.”
“Clause 22 stipulates the grounds on which the Controller may refuse to register any person as a trainee. Clause 24 empowers the Controller to revoke, cancel or suspend the registration of a trainee for any of the reasons stipulated in that clause. Clause 31 provides the Controller and Police officers with the powers of entry, search and arrest, in circumstances where there is reason to believe that an offence has been committed under the Act. Clause 34 empowers the Minister to exempt any organisation, person or class of persons from any or all of the provisions of the Act. The Minister may also make regulations generally for carrying out the purposes and provisions of the Act (clause 39). There are transitional provisions in the Bill to cater for those martial art associations which are in existence and for those instructors and trainees who are providing or receiving instruction in any form of martial art, as the case may be before the commencement of the Act (clauses 40 and 41). Sir, I beg to move. Question proposed. 4.20 p.m.”
“Clause 19 seeks to disallow any person from holding office in a registered martial art association if he has been declared, in writing, by the Controller to be unfit to act as an officer of a martial art association. The Controller may make such declaration upon any of the grounds stipulated in clause 19. Any person who acts in contravention of this clause will be liable, on conviction, to a maximum fine of $500 or to a maximum term of imprisonment of six months or to both such fine and imprisonment. Whenever it appears to the Minister that any officer, employee or member of a registered martial art association provides instruction in any form of martial art at a place of instruction provided by the association in an unlawful manner or for unlawful purposes or for purposes prejudicial to public peace, welfare or good order in Singapore, the Minister may order the cancellation of the registration of the association. A similar power is conferred upon the Minister where the association has contravened any provision of the Act or any regulations made thereunder. No person except an instructor who is in possession of an instructor's certificate issued under the Act may instruct any person in any form of martial art (clause 21). The Controller will be responsible for granting instructor's certificates. Clause 25 (3) stipulates the grounds on which the Controller may refuse to grant an instructor's certificate. Clause 26 empowers the Controller to revoke, cancel or suspend an instructor's certificate for any of the reasons stipulated in that clause. No person may receive instruction in any form of martial art from an instructor unless he is registered as a trainee under the Act (clause 22). The Controller will be responsible for the registration of trainees.”
“Martial arts, as defined in the Bill, include karate, taekwondo, judo, akido, kendo, bersilat, kung-fu, jiu-jitsu, or a combination thereof. However, in view of the fact that new forms of martial arts or variations of existing forms of martial arts are introduced into Singapore from time to time, this definition of "martial art" cannot be comprehensive. However, the Minister is empowered by clause 2 (2) to declare any other art of pugilism, fighting, boxing or self-defence to be a martial art for purposes of the Act. The administration of the Act will be in the hands of a Controller of Martial Arts. Assistant Controllers will also be able to exercise all the powers conferred on the Controller, subject to such limitations as he may impose (clause 3). Clause 5 of the Bill requires all martial art associations to be registered. The Controller shall refuse registration in the circumstances stipulated in clause 4 (3) and may refuse registration in certain other circumstances stipulated in clause 4 (4). An unregistered martial art association, which is organised in Singapore and whose officers, employees or members provide instruction in any form of martial art in Singapore, will be deemed to be unlawful. It will be an offence for a person to pursue certain activities in connection with unlawful martial art associations (clauses 5, 15, 16, 17 and 18). Clause 11 empowers the Controller to order any registered martial art association to furnish him with such information as he may require concerning the provision of instruction in any form of martial art at a place of instruction provided by the association or with any document, account or book of the association relating thereto.”
“Because of the laxity in admission and the general availability of these martial arts organisations to the public, many of these organisations have been penetrated by secret society members and the criminal elements who learn martial art to further their own ends. These secret society members use the art in gang clashes to glorify the triad which they belong and also to cow innocent victims from whom they extort money. In a recent study on some 115 pugilistic organisations in Singapore, it was found that 33 of these have been penetrated by secret society elements and 10 of them have elements with adverse security records. Although it is not the intention of Government to deter anyone who requires martial art training to build up a healthy body and for self-defence, it is recognised that organisations which teach martial art, be it a Chinese pugilistic art, or karate or taekwondo or judo or bersilat, in effect, equip their members with a potential weapon which, if abused, can have serious consequences for their victims and serious implications for the maintenance of law and order. As such, in the interest of society, Government has found it necessary to institute proper controls to regulate the activities of such organisations and to ensure that those whom they teach are not likely to abuse the art that they have acquired. In other words, the knowledge and skill of martial arts in the hands of disciplined and law-abiding persons can be of benefit to both the exponent and society. But if such knowledge and skill were allowed to fall into the wrong hands it can be very dangerous and detrimental to society. Hence, the Martial Arts Instruction Bill before the House.”
“It is noted that between 1967 and 1969 when these films were widely shown in the Republic, the number of new pugilistic organisations which applied to the Government for registration increased at the rate of 11 to 15 each year compared to very few in the 50's and in the early 60's. Although the Government has imposed strict censorship on these films last year, the number of martial arts organisations applying to the Government for registration has not abated. Up to March this year, there were 133 registered martial arts organisations with 11 new applications under consideration. The increasing interest amongst our population in martial art training has made many of these organisations become commercial concerns. Some pseudo martial arts organisations have also sprung up to exploit the market. Since there is little or no control over these organisations, any instructor who professes sufficient knowledge of any martial art can organise a class and apply for registration to the Registrar of Societies or the Registrar of Business Names by payment of a small fee. Both the Registrars have no means of checking whether such an instructor is qualified to teach this skill or to whom he should impart his knowledge. Similarly, instructors will readily accept any trainee as a student with scant concern about his background, his purpose in acquiring the art and whether he would benefit from it, so long as he is prepared to meet the fee required for receiving such training. There is, therefore, little control as to who is qualified to teach or who can learn the art.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, "That the Bill be now read a Second time." Hitherto, the Government has adopted a laissez-faire policy towards martial arts organisations in Singapore. This is because these organisations like the Chinese pugilistic organisations, the bersilat and judo clubs, etc., have been in existence for many years and have become part of the cultural life of our population. Hence any exponent of these arts is free to practise or to impart his skill to whoever wants to learn the art. The Government considers that the discipline and the training provided in acquiring the skill will develop a "healthy mind and healthy body" and thus help to build a rugged society in our Republic. These organisations were, therefore, allowed to function without impediment. In recent years there has been a proliferation of martial arts organisations in Singapore. At the end of 1973, there were 128 martial arts organisations registered in Singapore compared to only 32 in 1963. It is difficult to estimate the number of trainees learning martial arts, although this has been placed between 13,000 to 18,000. New arts like karate and taekwondo have emerged in Singapore, and variations of these arts like akido, kendo, jiu-jitsu, as well as the different Chinese pugilistic arts have been developed. The rapid growth of these organisations and the increasing number of trainees learning different martial arts can be traced to their popularisation by Chinese films especially from Hongkong and Taiwan in the late 60's which glorify the use of martial arts. These films which emphasise violence and bloodshed were one of the contributory factors resulting in an increase in the crime rate and a rise in violence in the commission of crimes.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I beg to report that the Committee of Supply has made further progress on the Main and Development Estimates of Expenditure for the financial year 1st April, 1974 to 31st March, 1975, and ask leave to sit again tomorrow.”
“With regard to the point brought up by the Member for Potong Pasir for effective control of traffic, I agree that traffic supervision is becoming increasingly difficult in view of the rapid increase in the number of motor vehicles and drivers on the road. Recognising the importance of this function, the Government is giving high priority to the Traffic Police. For the first time the Mobile Squad, which is the main traffic law enforcement arm of the Traffic Police, has been brought up to full strength early this year. The Mobile Squad is now operating with a full establishment of five senior officers and 184 junior officers, 137 motor cycles, 22 scooters, two pursuit cars and two sets of portable electronic traffic analysers, commonly known as speed traps. We have also a selective enforcement squad of traffic police organised since 1972. This is beginning to show results. The total number of road accidents for the year 1973 is 35,977 as compared with 36,125 for the year 1972, showing a decrease of 148 cases. At the same time, the death toll also registered a decrease. In 1973 a total of 380 persons were killed as compared to 390 in 1972, showing a decrease of 10 in the number of persons killed in road traffic accidents. The decrease is all the more significant considering, the fact that the motor vehicle population increases at the rate of 10 per cent per annum. It is because of mounting traffic accidents that we will be launching a mammoth "Keep Singapore Accident Free" campaign in October this year, and I hope Members of Parliament will support this campaign.”
“However, in future if the situation merits it, the Member's suggestion that such streaker offenders be caned or be subjected to other forms of drastic punishment will be considered. Until then, I do not think the Member for Anson should be too unduly worried about it.”
“However, in view of the prohibitive costs involved, both in terms of initial outlay to purchase the helicopters, to build helicopter pads, etc, and the recurrent costs of maintenance and operation of the helicopters as well as manpower training, since the Police has no qualified helicopter pilots, the project has been shelved for the time being. The main reason for wanting to introduce the helicopter service to combat crime, however, is not to chase criminals on land but rather to undertake harbour and sea patrol to combat smuggling activities and illegal immigration, to assist in traffic control and emergency evacuation operations and so on. It is not meant to chase criminals. In view of the need to economise in the face of the uncertain world economic situation, consequent upon the energy crisis, my Ministry will not be pursuing the project any further for the time being. Now, with regard to streaking. The Member for Anson's concern over undesirable trends, like the streakers infiltrating into Singapore, is very much appreciated. To-date the Police has not received any complaint of such incidents. However, it is envisaged that, except perhaps for a small minority, streaking would not appeal to our youths who are basically Asian in outlook where modesty is still one of our strong tenets, I hope. The Police, however, will deal severely with any streakers brought to their notice. Under section 24 of the Minor Offences Act, a first offender will be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $250 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding one month. On second and subsequent convictions, the offender will be liable to a fine not exceeding $500 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months.”
“Sir, I hope I can do justice to the two Members but the time is limited. First of all, I agree with the observation of the Member for Anson that the 13 civil servants who accompanied the four Laju hijackers to Kuwait had shown dedication to duty. In fact, the Ministry of Home Affairs is considering putting up recommendations for this year's National Day Awards for those who had given outstanding and dedicated service during the Laju affair. However, the award for commendation for outstanding service is considered collectively by the Government once a year. As it is not yet time for the Government to consider the annual awards, it would be inappropriate for me to comment further on this subject without pre-empting Government's decision. Immediately after the sabotage attempt at Pulau Bukom, the Government reviewed the security of all our vital installations, and hence security measures were immediately put into effect to prevent any similar attempt in the future. We have also tightened the security of our Airport and the various entry and landing points of our Island Republic. Coming to the Member's point about Police cars chasing criminals along Singapore roads, I would like to inform the Member that, contrary to what he has said, the patrol cars have been quite successful in apprehending criminals fleeing in cars after a chase. Only recently, a patrol car from "E" Division spotted a stolen vehicle, gave chase and finally caught up with the wanted man to recover the stolen vehicle and apprehended the culprit. There have been many instances where Police patrol cars have caught up with the fleeing vehicles. The point about the feasibility of introducing helicopter service to combat crime has been considered by my Ministry.”
“In addition, Police and Immigration Officers carry out surprise checks at various worksites all over Singapore. Such actions have resulted in continuing arrests of illegal immigrants throughout the year. When arrested, illegal immigrants are detained, prosecuted and removed after serving their sentences. Heavy court sentences are being pressed for against the traffickers whenever they are arrested. Amendments have already been made to the Immigration Act to provide for the imposition of heavier penalties for illegal immigrants, harbourers, employers and traffickers. With the enactment of the Immigration (Amendment) Act, 1973, with effect from the 1st of March this year, traffickers are now liable to caning and forfeiture of their vehicles or vessels.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, the law governing the entry of wives of Singapore citizens for permanent residence is set out in the Immigration (Prohibition of Entry) Order, 1973. Under paragraph 3 of the Schedule to the said Order, the wife of a citizen who has not at any time after her marriage been living separately from her husband for a continuous period of five years may be granted permanent stay in Singapore. This law has been in operation since 1959. The underlying presumption is that if a couple is really attached to each other, they would not at any time live separately for more than five years. It is not only possible for the Singapore citizen husband to visit his wife in her country of residence, hut the wife herself can also come to Singapore from time to time on a temporary social visit pass, even if she is not ready to settle down permanently here. To be equitable, the law has to he applied equally to all concerned. However, if it can be proved that the separation of a couple is due to circumstances beyond their control, my Ministry is always prepared to consider and approve their application on special compassionate grounds. With regard to the precautionary measures taken to prevent entry of illegal immigrants, may I say that concerted action has been and is being taken by the Police and Immigration authorities. The Marine Police, while patrolling the territorial waters of Singapore, are on the look-out for small vessels sneaking in with illegal immigrants. Members of the Police Force, on beat or other duties, carry out frequent checks to detect those who manage to enter. Surprise checks and raids are performed by the Immigration Department on information received.”
“With regard to the foreign woman married to a Singapore citizen, she must first apply to the Controller of Immigration for permanent residence in Singapore. Once permanent residence has been granted, she must reside in Singapore for two years before she can qualify to apply for Singapore citizenship. The Member will appreciate that owing to the large number of applications from such persons, it will necessitate some time for the application to be processed. Since 1969 to 28th February, 1974, there were a total of 32,257 applications from such persons. The applicant must also take her turn in the queue. Now, with regard to the query by the Member for Telok Blangah, regarding the stencilled reply that he gets, may I say that whenever he gets a stencilled reply, he can be assured that all enquiries have been seen to and personally processed by the Registrar of Citizens. The majority of these enquiries are for expeditious consideration of applications and for information on the progress of the application. As it is not possible to indicate the outcome of an application until a decision has been made, a standard reply that the application is under consideration is given. And in view of the numerous enquiries received daily at the Registry, not only from Members of Parliament on behalf of their constituents but also from members of the public direct, the reply is stencilled. If stencilled replies for such enquiries were not given, there would be a waste of material and manpower resources. However, may I point out to the Member that the reply saying that the application is under consideration means that there is hope that the application may be granted at a future date, no matter whether the reply was handwritten, typed or stencilled.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, may I deal with the Member for Anson first, and then the Member for Telok Blangah. I am glad the Member for Anson agrees with Government's basic policy on citizenship, that is, grant of citizenship is not a right but a privilege, and that there should be restrictions in granting citizenship by taking into account the economic and social problems of the Republic. I would like to inform him that there has been no basic change in this policy. The main criterion upon which citizenship is granted is that the applicant should not be a liability but should be able to make a positive contribution towards the economic wellbeing of the Republic. The concession referred to by the Member regarding service in the SAF applies only to persons born on or after the 1st of January, 1949, that is, those within the call-up age group for national service. Permanent residents who have completed full-time national service satisfactorily will be eligible for citizenship provided they have completed five years' residence in Singapore. Citizenship status will only be conferred after completion o five years' residence. The case brought up by the Member refers to an applicant serving as a regular in the Singapore Armed Forces. To enable the Registrar of Citizens to look into this case, I will appreciate it if the Member will supply more details. In respect of the application by the younger brother of the applicant mentioned, the application may have been rejected on the grounds that he has not fulfilled the residential requirement. More details will also be required. I am surprised that the Member has not written to me on these two cases.”
“Since the Misuse of Drugs Act came into operation in July last year, the Bureau arrested 111 drug traffickers and pushers. These purveyors of misery and death have since been convicted in court. Their sentences ranged from a fine of $5,000 and two strokes of the cane to seven years' imprisonment and two strokes of the cane. The activities of drug trafficking syndicates are always cloaked with tightly secured secrecy. Enforcement agencies in other parts of the world have great difficulties in penetrating or obtaining information about such sophisticated syndicates. The Central Narcotics Bureau faces the same difficulty. However, the Bureau's sources of information can be considered good.”