Ho Kah Leong
Singapore
“Sir, the Member is right that the sewerage fees comprise two components, a fixed fee and a variable one. The sanitary appliance fee, which is the fixed fee component, is based on the number of sanitary appliances. It is a charge towards the cost of providing the sewerage infrastructure which I think the Member should have no quarrel.”
“Sir, we do not require canned food to be date marked because they are sterilised during canning and will not spoil over a long period of storage. These foods have a long shelf life. Sir, My Ministry does not intend to date mark all foods since there is no need to, from public health considerations.”
“After months of hard work and with the full cooperation of the Joo Chiat residents to spruce up the neighbourhood, the situation showed immediate and impressive improvements. The number of premises found breeding Aedes mosquitoes dropped. Correspondingly, the number of dengue cases also dropped from 28 in 1993 to 11 in 1994.”
“Yes. The Member also touched on malaria disease. Although Singapore has been declared free from indigenous malaria by the World Health Organisation since 1982, Singapore will always be under the threat of malaria because we have many visitors and foreign workers from malaria-endemic countries in the region.”
“My Ministry will continue to educate the public on how to prevent the Aedes mosquitoes from breeding in their homes and properties. My Ministry will also continue to seek out breeding grounds in public places and tighten our control, surveillance and enforcement measures.”
“Let me now turn to the Member for Jalan Besar GRC. Let me first tell the Member that in the business called "promotion of the arts", even if you have done a lot, there is still a lot to be done.”
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“Sir, not just a few such tenants, but most of them find difficulty in getting alternative accommodation. As I have mentioned just now, the HDB is building thousands of units of flats near Jurong Town. Why can we not allow those who are already staying in Jurong Town to continue to stay there, and those late applicants who are allocated flats can be accommodated in the estate built by the HDB which is very near to Jurong Town?”
“If there are such instances, JTC is prepared to allow them a longer period to find alternative accommodation. 5.00 p.m.”
“Secondly, we should also, as JTC is doing, give them warnings if they insist on littering the premises. The employers should also be told about the anti-social habits of the workers whom they employ. With this collective pressure on the foreign workers who are staying in Jurong, we hope the standard of cleanliness in the estate can be improved. On the second point of inconsistency in the leasing policy of the JTC, far from being inconsistent, the JTC is, in fact, rather consistent. They follow the policy of the HDB in renting out JTC flats which are under their jurisdiction. On the particular problem mentioned by the hon. Member for Jurong, it is true that some tenants are being asked to leave. This is because there were about 1,700 vacant flats as a result of over-construction in 1976 and 1977. So, rather than leave the flats vacant which could result in vandalism and a loss of revenue for JTC, the JTC decided, with the approval of the Ministry of Finance, to waive the normal rules for renting public housing. In other words, those who did not qualify under HDB rules were allowed to rent these premises. But it was clearly made known to them that the rental period was one year and thereafter it was subject to a monthly renewal. So the tenants who moved in and who did not qualify under normal circumstances for public housing knew exactly where they stood. At the moment, there is demand for such flats from workers who qualify for such housing. Therefore, JTC has taken steps to rectify the situation by asking the occupants to leave so that the workers in Jurong who qualify for public housing can be given priority. There could be instances where individuals find difficulty in getting alternative housing at short notice.”
“The point is that this category of tenants are already residing there and are willing to stay on. They do not owe JTC a single cent on rental. Now they are being chased out. Where are they going to find alternative accommodation in Jurong Town, since all the flats are under the jurisdiction of JTC? My point is that so long as the tenants are willing to pay the enhanced rentals, let them stay on. Why bother to evict them? Why create problems for the tenants? Sir, the Housing and Development Board is currently building thousands of units of flats in both Jurong East and Jurong West which are actually not far away from Jurong Town. Those late applicants on the waiting list can be asked to take up flats in Jurong East or Jurong West when the flats in these areas are ready for allocation which is expected to take place in the very near future. The Minister for Trade and Industry (Mr Goh Chok Tong): Sir, first, on the question of cleanliness. Cleanliness is as much a duty of JTC as it is of the residents. If, as the hon. Member has said, the corridors have not been properly swept and chutes have not been frequently flushed, I shall ask JTC to ensure that this is done. But I would like to emphasise that residents themselves must play a big part in keeping any estate clean. If residents insist on littering the premises, then it will be difficult, even with constant sweeping and flushing, for an estate to be kept clean. For JTC, this is a problem because they have a higher number of workers who are from outside Singapore staying in Jurong. These workers have a standard of cleanliness which is lower than the average Singaporean. But, nevertheless, we have to educate them to help to keep the premises clean.”
“Sir, I beg to move, That the sum to be allocated for Head X be reduced by $10 in respect of Project 8201 of Subhead Code XB-01 of the Development Estimates. Sir, public cleanliness in Jurong Town is the subject of discussion at almost every monthly meeting of the Jurong Citizens' Consultative Committee. It seems that this is a perennial problem and I think the authorities concerned should look into the matter seriously with a view to finding a long-term solution. Right now, corridors and staircases are not regularly washed, rubbish chutes not regularly flushed, public places not regularly swept, so much so that more and more rats are found scurrying in the estate. I do not know whether these rats can constitute a health hazard. Perhaps some learned Friends in this House can advise me on this. Sir, the general impression given is that the contractors engaged by JTC to do cleaning work in the estate do not have enough labourers. So they will only attend to problem areas. Service is provided only when a complaint is lodged. This is certainly not the way to maintain an estate. The JTC should have a better arrangement for public cleanliness in Jurong Town. Sir, the other point I would like to bring to the attention of the Minister is that it seems there is no consistency in the leasing policy of public housing as far as JTC is concerned. At one time, when there were many vacant flats left, whoever wanted to rent flats, so long as they could afford to pay a rental higher than normal, were entertained. Now that JTC is running short of flats, it begins to evict this category of tenants. Those who prefer to stay in Jurong Town must have very good reasons, either they are running a business or working in Jurong. They must be in one way or another connected with Jurong.”
“Without the advertisement of motor cars in our newspapers, the desire to own a car will be lessened and the people will not be encouraged to buy cars. Otherwise it would seem that while we adopt a policy of discouraging ownership of motor cars, we are on the other hand tempting the people to buy motor cars through advertisements in the cinemas and newspapers. Moreover, I hope that the Ministry of Communications would take further steps to improve the public transport system so that car owners will be encouraged to take public transport instead of driving their own cars. Since the proposed MRT may take some time to build, the number of buses and taxis should be increased to meet the demand of the motorists who are willing to give up driving. 2.45 p.m.”
“This has resulted in the number of cars registered last year to reach a peak of 140,000. As we all know, the space on our public roads is limited and we cannot accommodate more and more cars with the limited space available. The ever-increasing road tax and additional registration fees (ARF) are not the most effective measures to curb the increase in the number of vehicles. From the statistics available to us, we know that the number of cars registered in 1978 was 136,000 and by 31st September, 1979, the number had risen to 143,000. This goes to show that with increased incomes our people are prepared to bear the burden of higher road taxes and ARF. Thus, the number of cars on the road keeps on growing. With this trend, traffic congestion will certainly become a big problem for the Ministry of Communications to solve. Sir, in order to effectively curb the increase in the number of cars, I would suggest that legislation be introduced to impose a higher down-payment for cars on hire-purchase. In this way, those who have only a few thousand dollars to spare will be discouraged from buying cars. On the other hand, the Ministry of Communications may consider introducing the quota system for the registration of new cars. Under this system, registration of cars may be entertained on a first-come first-served basis. Once the quota is filled, no more new cars should be accepted for registration. In this way the number of cars will be effectively kept under control. Another suggestion I would like to make is to impose a ban on motor car advertisements just as we have prohibited the adver- tisement of cigarettes to discourage smoking.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I share the sentiments expressed by my colleague, the Member for Serangoon Gardens. I wish to draw the attention of the Hon. Minister to another problem, that is, noise pollution. Sir, the price hike on motor cars and the inadequacy of public transport have driven many people to buy motor-cycles. Soon our roads will be crowded with such vehicles. The end result will be the unbearable noise of motor-cycle engines. This irritating noise at the moment is getting more and more pronounced everyday. Sir, since we are so conscious of keeping our environment as pleasant as possible, the pollution, caused by this noise which is seriously detrimental to our otherwise tranquil environment, cannot be overlooked. I wonder whether the Minister has any measures in mind to curb the noise produced by motor-cycles. Perhaps it may be necessary to insist or compel the installation of a noise suppressor or a special silencer to the exhaust pipes of motor-cycles. May I have the Minister's comments on this matter? Mr Tan Cheng San (Paya Lebar)( In Mandarin): Mr Speaker, Sir, over the past few years the Ministry of Communications has implemented several measures, such as increasing the road tax and additional registration fees in an attempt to curb the increase in the number of cars on the road. These measures have been effective for a time in preventing the number of cars from increasing rapidly as it would, if allowed to go unchecked, pose serious problems of traffic congestion. In this respect, credit must be given to the Ministry of Communications. However, in the past one or two years the standard of living of our people has risen and their incomes have also increased. As such, it has become the desire of many people to own a car as a means of transport.”
“No. I do not want to withdraw my amendment. I would rather put it to a vote, Sir. Question on the amendment put, and negatived. The following amendment stood in the name of Mr Tan Soo Khoon - (9) That the sum to be allocated for Head M be reduced by $10 in respect of Subhead Code M D-01 of the Main Estimates.”
“Sir, I think the Minister is a very difficult person to convince. An hon. Member: Withdraw your amendment?”
“Sir, the farmers have been given a deadline, i.e. by the end of 1981. It is a matter of two years. At this juncture, why do we press them to construct cess-pits within six months' time? Sir, it is a waste to spend a substantial sum of money on cess-pits. This is the point I want to make.”
“That is another matter. Sir, it takes time for the pigs to mature. We just cannot dispose of them prematurely. Since there will be a loss of income as a result of the cessation of pig-rearing, they have to be given some time to make the necessary adjustments. It will be too harsh to ask them to stop pig-rearing suddenly. If there is no alternative but to construct cess-pits at this juncture, may I ask the Minister whether the Government is prepared to subsidise the affected parties, as in the case of the farmers in Lim Chu Kang.”
“Sir, it is not a question of whether or not they are moving out. I think the Minister is not quite aware of the living conditions of the rural folk.”
“Sir, I fully endorse the Minister's view that our water sources should be kept as clean as possible. There is no argument on this point. The question is that in general the rural folks are financially depressed and some of them rear pigs to complement their family income. They are, in fact, small-time farmers. The authorities are now asking them to spend a big sum of money between $2,000 and $3,000 to construct cess-pits when the economic returns are almost nil. I hope the Minister will be fair to them. I hope the Minister will be kind and sympathetic enough to exempt the poor rural folks from installing cess-pits, since they are in the process of phasing out pig-rearing. Will the Minister consider this?”
“In view of the explanation, I beg leave to withdraw my amendment. Amendment by leave, withdrawn. Mr Ho Kah Leong: Sir, I beg to move, That the sum to be allocated for Head M be reduced by $10 in respect of Object Group 1210 of Subhead Code MC-01 of the Main Estimates. Sir, this is another example of a lack of co-ordination between two Government departments. Some of my constituents who rear pigs in the rural areas have received notices from the Primary Production Department requesting them to phase out their pig-rearing activities by 1981. As law-abiding citizens, they are complying with the instruction now. However, until very recently, they have received another notice from the Ministry of the Environment requesting them to install cess-pits to contain the waste from the pig sties. The construction of a cess-pit can easily cost a few thousand dollars. This is a big sum of money to the rural folks. The point really is this. If the farmers have to spend a substantial sum of money to install cess-pits, then pig-rearing should be allowed. If pig-rearing is to be phased out in two years' time, then the poor farmers should not be asked to spend money on cess-pits. I hope the Minister will comment on this matter.”
“Sir, I beg to move, That the sum to be allocated for Head M be reduced by $10 in respect of Project 8101 of Subhead Code M B-05 of the Development Estimates. Sir, in moving this amendment, I merely wish to seek information from the Minister concerned as to when the Jurong Food Centre 1, I believe now known as the Corporation Food Centre, will be rebuilt. This particular food centre was built from old materials, some years ago. The ceiling is particularly low and the centre is therefore warm during the day, especially at noon. However, the condition is no better during the rainy days. When it rains, the roof leaks and the rain water splashes in from the eaves of the roof. The beams and columns are rusty and some of them are badly corroded. It is high time that this food centre was rebuilt. Mr Chor Yeok Eng( In Mandarin): Sir, the Taman Jurong Market 1, referred to by the Member for Jurong, now known as Corporation Drive Market, has a market and a cooked food section. The market was constructed in earlier years. The other section which is the cooked food section was added in 1974. It was built out of old materials. In 1977 and 1978 we continued to improve and renovate this market, just as the Member has said. But because the roof is too low and since we are in the tropics the temperature is very high. We are now studying methods to improve the situation. Renovation work is continuing. This year we are going to whitewash or repaint the market and to make other improvements to it.”
“Sir, since flexibility is allowed in this instance, there is a leeway for the shopkeepers to extend their business beyond their shop premises. I therefore beg leave to withdraw my amendment. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn.”
“Member for Jurong, I would say that in principle for the sake of maintaining environmental cleanliness and hygiene in public places and in consideration of public interest, we cannot allow coffee shops and eating establishments which are supposed to operate their business within their premises to extend such business to five-foot ways and other public areas such as an open space. The reason is that this may cause pollution and obstruction to members of the public. On the other hand, if the business is extended to premises or open areas belonging to private property owners who have given permission for such use, then, if public health conditions are satisfied as suggested by the Member, we will be prepared to consider such request.”
“Sir, I beg to move, That the sum to be allocated for Head M be reduced by $10 in respect of Object Group 1100 of Subhead Code MA-01 of the main Estimates. Sir, flat dwellers have always been said to be lacking in neighbourliness. Hence the setting up of community centres and the formation of Residents' Committees to pro- mote neighbourliness. However, the community centres and the RC centres are not the only places for such a purpose. Coffee shops in housing estates where people, especially the older generation, meet and chit chat, can serve as useful social centres as well. Hence it is not an uncommon sight to see coffee shops packed in the evenings, so much so that the shopkeepers have to extend their business to five-footways and con-courses. This has become a pastime for the flat dwellers, if not a way of life. However, the recent action taken by the Ministry concerned to restrict the business of coffee shops within the premises has caused much inconvenience to the shopkeepers as well as those residents who are regular customers. I therefore appeal to the Minister concerned not to deprive the people of their little enjoyment of a cup of tea or coffee in a cool and comfortable environment in the evening. If environmental health is the thing that is worrying the Minister, I am sure the shopkeepers will be too pleased to comply with the necessary health requirements. The Senior Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for the Environment (Mr Chor Yeok Eng)( In Mandarin): Mr Speaker, Sir, on the question raised by the hon.”
“The laboratory test and X-ray examination are now free, but from next month, it will cost 50 cents per test or examination. Up till now there is no charge for a surgical operation but from next month onwards each operation will cost $30. In maternity cases the present fee for delivery of the second child is $90. On revision, it will be $100, an increase of $10. Mr Speaker, Sir, if we were to look at the rates for the various classes, we will find that certain fees for A class and B class remain the same, whereas all kinds of fees for the C class wards have been increased. This is unfair to the lower income group. Why should the various fees for the C class wards be jacked up? Why should families in the lower income group be made to bear such a burden? Generally speaking, patients in the A class and B class wards can afford to pay the extra charges but patients in C class wards are mostly people with meagre incomes. 1, therefore, feel that the Ministry of Health should readjust the fees for the C class wards. As for accouchement fees, the fee for delivery of the third child has been increased from $120 to $200; for the fourth child from $240 to $300 and for the fifth child from $300 to $400. This is in line with the Government's policy to curb population growth and in keeping with our policy on family planning, namely, "two is enough". However, the increase of $10 in fees for delivery of the second child is rather unreasonable. We all know that the target of our family planning programme is two children per family. But now people are made to pay a higher fee for having a second child. I think this is incompatible with our objective of family planning. I hope the Minister will reconsider the increase in accouchement fee for the second child.”
“Sir, I thank the Senior Minister of State for his very satisfactory reply. I beg leave to withdraw my amendment. Amendment by leave, withdrawn. The sum of $595,721,600 for Head L ordered to stand part of the Main Estimates. The sum of $80,439,890 for Head L ordered to stand part of the Development Estimates. 5.30 p.m. Head P - Mr Tan Cheng San (Paya Lebar)( In Mandarin): Sir, I beg to move, That the sum to be allocated for Head P be reduced by $10 in respect of Object Group 1100 of Subhead Code PA-01 of the Main Estimates. Sir, our medical and health services are famous in countries far and near. Due to its well-developed medical services, the Republic has become a regional centre for medical care. Patients from neighbouring countries have come here for treatment. This indicates that the standard of our medical services is comparable to that of advanced countries such as Europe and America. This achievement can be attributed to the hard work and efforts of the Ministry of Health in the past. The Government has spared no effort to provide health care for the people. However, I feel that the increase in hospital charges which would take effect on 1st April, announced by the Minister for Health in this House should be reviewed. Charges in the polyclinics and maternity hospitals, including ward charges, and fees for daily treatment, laboratory test, X-ray examination, accouchement and surgical operation will be revised upwards. The revision of fees in the C class wards is particularly burdensome to the lower income group. For instance, ward charges will be increased from $4 to $5. At present patients in such wards are enjoying free treatment, but soon they will have to pay $1.50 for treatment.”
“Thank you, Sir. Sir, while attention is focussed on the fundamental areas in our education system, which debate has just been concluded in this House before the tea-break, the school environment should not be relegated to a matter of second importance. I have noticed that the playing fields in some schools have not been properly maintained, Some have not been mown for extended periods and a few have been transformed into a sea of lallang, rendering them impossible for any extra-curricular activities or PE lessons to be conducted. The Minister may not be aware of this but certainly this should not escape the attention of the administrative officers. Sir, my second observation is in regard to the unnecessary wastage of electricity in schools. Whilst the idea of energy conservation is being taught to the pupils, I suggest that this lesson be extended to school watchmen, or perhaps even the school staff if they are, in fact, those who order that their schools be lit at night and during school holidays. Whilst I appreciate the need to deter vandalism, I do feel that it is unnecessary to switch on all the lights, especially when many of these schools are guarded by watchmen although they are being phased out gradually. I suggest that individual schools should locate strategic areas where lighting is absolutely necessary and only in these areas that the light be switched on for security reasons. Sir, these are little areas of administrative slip-ups or indifference which can be irritating. I know that the Ministry cannot issue directives on all minor and sundry matters, but it would be wise if the Ministry could issue a general directive to all schools reminding those concerned that it is up to them to exercise general initiative over these and other administrative areas,”
“Sir, I beg to move, That the sum to be allocated for Head L be reduced by $10 in respect of Object Group 2110 of Subhead Code LC-01 of the Main Estimates. Sir, with your permission, can I speak on the other amendment standing in my name?”
“Science has been scrapped from the Primary 1 and 2 syllabi, and Education for Living which incorporates a sprinkling of Civics, History and Geography, will be replaced by Moral Education. I wonder how our pupils are going to cope with the relevant subjects at the secondary school level if they are not given a good foundation at the primary level. In particular, I would like to know whether History and Geography will have a place in the primary school curriculum. Whilst the introduction of allowances for principals and vice-principals is a good thing, it has nevertheless created an anomaly in the event they are transferred to the Ministry headquarters. They will find that this results in a loss of income and an increase in workload. The reluctance of these officers in accepting postings to the Ministry headquarters is, therefore, understandable. The situation at the Ministry headquarters does not help either. Those in the Ministry quietly hope that they can be released as soon as possible from the turbulent bitter seas (koo hai [ ] in Chinese), a term which has become synonymous with the Ministry. High morale can hardly be expected in the circumstances. I wonder if the Minister will enlighten the House as to how he proposes to resolve this anomaly. It may well be that the recent decision to transfer out some officers back to the schools is a step in solving this problem, but there are still those who may still have to suffer.”
“It is quite natural for many parents to think, and indeed most people would agree, that the innate ability of a child will not be evident, much less conclusive, after only three years of primary education. Whilst a child may have settled down to school routine, his inclination and his mental capacity is just beginning to develop. He is more inclined to playing and frolicking rather than to serious studying. It is precisely the very understanding of a child's nature that an appropriate degree of play has been injected into the teaching methods for a child of his age. Without proper supervision, he will show slow progress and poor results. Moreover, the new primary school curriculum places emphasis on the learning of languages in the first three years. It must be pointed out that not all children are linguistically endowed. This point has been admitted by many, if not all, of our leaders. In the end, children from the lower income group and those who are less linguistically-inclined are destined to lose out. Is it fair to this category of children, may I ask? I realise that it is difficult to place the lever at the right point to strike a balance between fairness and the practical needs of society, but is the present system and its emphasis the best and equitable? The question of co-ordination between the primary and secondary school curricula is another gray area. The setting up of the Curriculum Development Institute of Singapore is a timely move to tackle such problems, but it will take time to put things right. The pressing problem is that pupils find it particularly hard to cope with subjects like Science, History and Geography when they are promoted from Primary 6 to Secondary 1. This apparent gap has to be bridged immediately.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, there is a saying in Chinese which goes: Ying xiong suo jian lue tong, ( ). It means "Heroes think alike." I have no intention whatsoever to upgrade myself as a hero. However, I share the sentiments expressed by my colleagues who have spoken before me, except that I will not be so critical. Sir, the Goh Report has been implemented just over a year ago. Its progress is keenly watched by many who are concerned with educational development in Singapore. Of course, it is still too early to comment on the merits and demerits of the new system. I fully appreciate the many teething problems that must have surfaced in a large scale revamping of the hitherto ailing education system. Any loose ends must be tightened up and all blank spaces must be filled. However, it will be beneficial to the Ministry of Education and all those concerned if there can be an initial feedback on the irritating issues so that the new system can progress without undue hindrance. It is with this spirit that I wish to bring up a couple of points to the attention of the Minister concerned. Sir, the question of streaming of pupils after Primary 3 has always been a controversial one, and it still is today. The House and the media have exhausted all possible arguments in an extended discussion over the matter. Although the number of pupils who have been streamed into the monolingual course and the extended bilingual course in the first of such exercises last year is very much less than the figures predicted, as pointed out by the Member for Moulmein just now, this problem is still pricking the minds of many parents who have great misgivings of the possibility that their children might be wrongly streamed.”
“It is the intrinsic value and returns that we should be concerned with, and a project like the provision of an indoor stadium cannot but achieve the objective. Sir, I am a sports lover, though not a sportsman. I sincerely and strongly feel that the Government should act quickly on the matter of bringing into reality its Master Plan for Sports drawn up a few years ago. Any delay will mean higher construction cost. May I, Sir, conclude my remarks with a quotation from the Senior Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Defence, as reported in the Straits Times of 9th September 1979. He said: 'The building of an indoor stadium is imperative and is the cherished desire of our sports enthusiasts in Singapore.' I am sure hon. Members in this House will share the same view. We want a modern indoor stadium, and we want it quick. 5.47 p.m.”
“To ensure that it is economical to the lessees, the stadium must have a seating capacity of between 15,000 and 20,000 which is the normal economy size. The addition of this new facility will create a tremendous impact on the local sports scene. The indoor stadium can be put to other uses. It could probably include stage performances, not to mention competitive sports like boxing, wrestling, and all forms of pugilistic art. Its primary function is not to be a show-piece. A greater interest in sports and healthy recreation has been given emphasis by the Government, and the Singapore Sports Council, in its role as a Government agency to undertake this function, has done well in so many fields. Besides the National Stadium, the Sports Council has been extremely successful in providing a host of other sports facilities, such as swimming pools, tennis courts, and squash courts, even though the latter two, for obvious reasons, may not have so many spectators as basketball. The Government should not drag its feet any longer. The Singapore Pools Pte Ltd, which was originally set up with the primary objective of helping the development of sports in Singapore must have now collected sufficient funds from gamblers to finance not just one but several indoor stadia. Or has the Singapore Pools Pte Ltd changed its basic obligation to sports? Would not the Company reaffirm its obligation? Sir, the money-men are a lot of tough nuts to beat. All hon. Members know that. But certainly monetary returns should not be the sole objective in implementing its policy. They are tough, but we can beat them. But if they are nuts, then we have to crack them. Anyway, if we fail to crack them in the end, it is only because they are nuts.”
“Toilet facilities and changing rooms are not only far from adequate but they are also in a terrible state of disrepair. There is no ventilation to speak of as the old ceiling fans have been out of order for quite some time. Another major defect is that there is no buffer between the spectators and the players which renders crowd control and an orderly game not far from being impossible in a capacity crowd. One can go on to list out the hundreds of such defects at this Stadium. Sir, it is not my intention to expose the deficiencies of the stadium which stand out like a sore thumb. It is doing quite well on its own. Many foreign sportsmen and their officials cannot help but wonder why a progressive country like Singapore, ironically noted not only for its progress in the construction industry but also for its declared policy of a rugged society and sport consciousness, should allow the situation to pass without proper indoor stadium facilities for so many indoor sports. Six thousand spectators that evening could not be wrong. The hundreds of thousands of sports enthusiasts who visited the stadium on dozens of occasions could not be wrong. The point I really want to make is: It is high time that the Government built a modern indoor stadium without further delay. Such a stadium will, without doubt, be an added impetus to the promotion of other indoor sports apart from basketball, because basketball as a spectator sports perhaps commands a popularity slightly better than the other games which require the facility of an indoor stadium. The indoor stadium, when completed, will prove to be a viable project as its multiple usage, apart from volleyball, table tennis, badminton, sepak takraw, etc., will ensure that its facilities will be put to maximum use.”
“He slipped and injured his head on the hard cement ground. Fortunately, the injury sustained was not serious and the player recovered after treatment at the hospital. Sir, the Championship I have mentioned was the Pesta Sukan International Basketball Meet organised in response to the Singapore Sports Council's annual sports promotion. The Basketball Association of Singapore, which has the honour of having the Senior Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Defence as its President, emerged the embarrassed organisers, not so much for the act of Providence which we have no control, but for the Sports Council and the Singapore Government. The Gay World Stadium which was built more than 40 years ago is one of the two indoor stadia and the only one suited for this sport and with a seating capacity of around 6,000. An international tournament of such a scale has no alternative but to expose the players to the ridiculously poor facilities by present-day standards. I suggest the Building Control Division should seriously examine the Stadium before it grants any certificate of fitness for its continued use. The Sports Council can hardly be blamed for this despicable condition, the indignation we suffered notwithstanding. Although the hirer has to pay to the Council 20% of the gate collection on top of the rental charge, the annual revenue collected hardly justifies extensive repairs as the tenancy is on a yearto-year basis. It certainly is not prudent to commit the expenditure in the circumstances. Just to name a few of the many defects of the Stadium. Besides the leaking roof, the floor is not constructed with the parquet flooring which is the standard requirement of the game.”
“Sir, the need for a modern indoor stadium has been the subject of intermittent discussions in the public media for some time now. Indeed, it has been quite vocal among the sports circle and I believe that it is very much in the minds of the planners for sports facilities too. There has been no argument to the contrary over the need for such an indoor stadium, at least not that I know of. I suspect, however, the problem bugging the minds of the planners must be the ever-present need to justify its need against the question, "Will it be a financially viable proposition?" Sir, I have the privilege, rather the misfortune, to be counted as one of those ardent supporters for the indoor stadium project. It was a personal experience shared with no less than 6,000 other people. The Minister concerned may be interested in the following first-person report: Nine pm, 3rd September, 1979. This was the Pesta Sukan Basketball Invitation Championship at the Gay World Stadium and the game was played to a capacity crowd of 6,000. The Gay World Stadium was far from gay when suddenly the heavens opened up with a heavy downpour. The roof began to leak badly. Soon splashes of water collected into puddles. In good spirit, the two rival teams continued the game. It was a chaotic situation. The game hardly resembled basketball, neither did it qualify for water polo, and the skids reminded one of ice hockey. Perhaps a more appropriate description would be water basketball played on skates! Singapore proudly announced its discovery of a new game, but I am afraid that it will never find its place in the SEA Games or the Olympics. What was needed to complete the whole show was umbrellas! But it was not at all funny for the players. At least one player from abroad found that out - the painful way.”
“To ask the Minister for National Development if the Public Works Department will erect proper signs to warn motorists of pedestrian zebra crossings ahead. 37.”
“of course it must include proposals to separate research from teaching, effort to enlist more students to work with scholars in their research activities, and attempt to devise now methods of teaching appropriate o changing circumstances. Such actions are supported not only by those academic men and women who have maintained a commitment to education and teaching but also by those administrators, scholars, and scientists ho have recognised that the future progress of knowledge requires appropriate training of the next oration." Resolved, "That the debate be now adjourned." - [Mr E.W. Barker].”
“I think this has been fulfilled by the appointment of the Deputy Prime Minister, whose ability and capability has withstood the test of time, and who, in the short space of six months, has produced for us a comprehensive report to inspire confidence in the society as to the direction of our education system. Except that we ought to give him a little time to implement policies, perhaps not to the extent of two years as was the case with Anthony Crosland, the Education Minister for Great Britain, in 1964, who then said: "I reckon it takes you six months to get your head properly above water, a year to get the general drift of most of the field and two years really to master the whole of the Department." He also argued: "In your two years you can certainly lay down long-term objectives in the central fields ... though ... you will seldom see them finally achieved." I would only like to add that if the Hon. Mr Goh Chok Tong's prediction that 10 to 15 years hence the present Government will continue to govern materialises, as I think it will, it is possible for Dr Goh to see the fruits of his labour. Finally, I reckon that the programme to offer some form of reward for the views and suggestions of teachers is a positive measure which will not only enhance the morale of teachers but also, in the final analysis, represent a positive contribution towards the activities of the Ministry of Education and the level of progress of a country. At the same time, relentless efforts in the development of the country must be pursued, I would like to quote two persons, Peter Blau and Richard Scott, who have drawn a most significant conclusion concerning national development. Inter alia, they said: "....”
“" We are convinced that this situation does not prevail here and we would like the professionals to know and understand that they are a part and a prerequisite of modernisation, and it is important to maintain a situation such as the one mentioned by Karl Manheim who stated: "Bureaucracy has a tendency to turn all problems of politics into problems of administration." This is an important issue because the professionals and the problem of bureaucracy have an historical interest. Although some of the professionals have been discarded from the colonial era, there still exists the middle-class group who hold strategic positions in national affairs. If this middle-class mentality is not completely eradicated, there is a possibility that the administration of the people will suffer, as they comprise in the main the moderate group. Only recently we saw the effort of the former Senior Minister of State for Finance, Mr Goh Chok Tong, when he extended the tax concession to pensioners, which I deem commendable, and was misconstrued by some as an attempt to protect the interests of the high income group. What more then, at some future date, if the professionals do really attempt to besmirch the Government as had happened in Third World countries. In conclusion, Mr Speaker, Sir, as regards the Minister of Education and his political leadership, there is no gain-saying that a full Minister is justified and that he be given a sufficient length of time to head the Ministry of Education.”
“The irregular officers had their own supporters, and they wielded considerable political clout. The habits of caution and consensus are not easily changed. Hence your discovery of endless committee meetings in search of unanimity, when there should have been firm decisions by the officer in the chair." I think the reasons advanced by the Prime Minister should be examined. It gives an in-depth understanding of the extreme difficulty that an era of education had undergone. It also shows that the powers of politicians are not obstructed. This point is vital. This is a good sign and should be the hallmark of a government. Besides the minor defects it has also extended some form of credit to the existing professionals. We can still be grateful for the good rapport between the professionals and politicians in a healthy situation. For there are many nations which are unfortunate due to the absence of such a rapport and the situation is compounded because of the constant change of governments. Nonetheless, we should be alert to nip in the bud those professionals who deviate. Experience has shown that an advanced country like Great Britain has suffered this malady. Here, I shall quote Lord Hailsham when he was the Education Minister, as I think it is pertinent to our Minister of Education and ex-Minister of Defence, Dr Goh Keng Swee. Lord Hailsham said: "In the admiralty if you are a person with authority, you say to one person 'Come', he cometh, and another 'Go' and he goeth. It is not so in the Ministry of Education. You suggest rather than direct. You say to one man 'Come' and he cometh not and to another 'Go' he stays where he is.”
“As far as they are concerned, Islam supersedes their traditions, or the least is that traditions and Islam must be viewed alike. The Malay man would be incomplete were he to discard either of the two ingredients. Non-Malay society should through interesting stories ascertain the reasons into matters that constantly provoke their minds, like chicken taken by Muslims must be slaughtered according to certain religious rituals and the reading of the Koran on Friday night. True, Muslims cannot eat pork or handle dogs, but it is meaningless if a Muslim fails to render service to a pig or dog that has been knocked down. He should remove the animal to safety and dispatch it to the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Having discharged this obligation, he could then perform the ablution to cleanse himself from the pollution by the pig or dog. For, Islam is not merely a doctrine or thought that ALL MEN ARE BROTHERS. Living is devotion and devotion is to God and God's creatures and God's creatures are not confined to humans only, it embraces animals as well as plants. Similarly, the other values of this religion should be understood in our multi-religious society. On the eleventh point. Professional and Bureaucracy. In his letter, the Prime Minister stated that: "The grave problem you spotlighted in your report, the unwillingness of officials in the Ministry to take hard decisions, to make difficult choices, springs from this history. (about 1950's and 1960's detention of communist school teachers, and informers were assassinated.) An irregular group of forces was normally brought under one command in the 1950's. The government commander's authority was for some time tenuous and ambiguous.”
“Tenth, on Moral Education and Culture. Human beings cannot live in isolation. We are social animals and not isolated creatures. We inherited four great cultures, Chinese, Malay, Indian and Western culture. Out of these four cultures we will forge one national culture. So, for the present, it is like five buds in the process of flowering. However, before we reach our goal, it is necessary for us to exchange national culture. We should understand that culture, inter alia, depends on how it can convey a special kind of knowledge and technique to enable mankind to be safe and survive socially and physically and, as far as possible, master the world around him. Generally, we emerge safe and sound simply because of the fruits of our learning, unlike animals which depend on their instincts. If we are able to use this to best advantage, then this vitally important God's endowment, intelligence, is not futile. Even today it has been proved that we have made proper use of our intelligence. Politic as "the art of the possible" has been utilised not to gain power but to mould mankind. Our children and our society must be imbued with good values even though from the West, because the good will remain good irregardless of its source. I consider that besides learning their own culture and morals, the study of the morals and values of the other races domiciled here should not be ignored. For example, Indian and Malay pupils should appreciate Chinese values and vice-versa. One point that I wish to say here is that as regards Malay society, their values do not stop at traditions only. Upon the advent of Islam, followed by conversion, by and large, the Malays embraced Islam.”
“Both extremes are usually found in every situation. The present situation should therefore be closely watched. Now, ninth, there are three general matters on which I would like to air my views. (a) Recently the Senior Minister of State mentioned five-year olds in pre-primary classes. It is imperative that qualified teachers are provided for these pre-primary classes so that the scheme will be carried out smoothly. This is because the task of teaching children at this very tender age is indeed a much more delicate task than teaching older children, and therefore the teachers need to be specially trained. (b) On Principals and Vice-Principals, there are 138 secondary schools presently. This means that 276 Honours graduates or Pass Degree Graduate teachers are involved in school administration. For the Vice-Principals, they only teach six periods a week. I should think that the Ministry has already solved the problem of the 276 Honours graduates who have vacated their posts. At least 138 posts. There is also a rather awkward situation when a Senior Assistant is placed under a Vice-Principal who is a newcomer, as the Senior Assistant is usually a non-graduate teacher. The Senior Assistant also is normally an older person and has been longer in service. I hope the Ministry can find ways to ensure that the feelings of those who have long been in the service are not hurt by such arrangement. (c) Interview. It is imperative that every post, such as that of the Vice-Principal, is confirmed by the PSC before the person concerned is sent to a certain school. Otherwise, as is the case now, there is a fear of embarrassment if someone, who has been selected as a Vice-Principal, is unsuccessful in the interview by the Public Service Commission for this appointment.”
“It cannot be denied that ECA is necessary because mental health goes hand-in-hand with the physical health of the body. But, like any other policy, flaws can be seen here and there, and these are usually the result of misinterpretation of the policy or are due to over-enthusiastic or over-zealous officials. Let us just take the school band, as an example. But before I give my critical view, let me state that the standard of performance of our school bands, including those of the primary schools, is high. Many people, including people from outside Singapore, agree with me that our schools, as well as the Ministry of Education should be congratulated for such high performance. The only point that should be questioned is the amount of time spent by the children for school band activities. Once again, I would like to suggest that a survey be conducted and set a maximum time for the school band, and if necessary, impose prohibitions so that no school will be allowed to exceed the limit as it can adversely affect the students' studies. If competition is the reason for the school to devote so much time and effort on its band activities, it might be a good idea for this matter to be given careful consideration. For instance, competitions should not be held once a year but rather once in two or three years. To do away with competition altogether would mean to cut off the climax to a course of study. But, to hold competitions annually or even twice a year, indoor and outdoor, will create adverse effects and flaws. Studies should also be carried out for other extra-curricular activities. I hope that the schools which do not have school bands of their own will not use what I have just said as a ground to continue to be without a school band.”
“Specifically on this subject, I had once expressed my fear in this House. However, recently after I had personally asked the students themselves, I found that so far there had been no such cases. I am most thankful for this state of affairs. I hope this is also the case with students in the other immersion classes. As immersion requires the longest possible exposure time (five full days), reducing it to 3 days, for instance, will constitute a defeatist move. Nevertheless, it would do well for the Ministry to conduct a survey on this. In such a survey the essential question to be asked of the students is whether, in seeking success in the immersion class, they have found it necessary to stop their extramural activities such as music. If it is so, then a discussion between parents and teachers must be held to find possible means of enabling the student to continue with such activities or, alternatively, to indulge in other activities or hobbies which the students themselves were originally interested. These are good efforts, as occurred in the case in 1923 when Malay students were put in special Malay classes after completing Standard III. The following year, that is 1924, after having completed Standard IV, they studied English for two years under the special intensive course. After successfully completing this course, they were put in the English stream in Standard III while the brighter ones were put in Standard IV. This system was adopted under a scheme in 1950 but it was opposed by the Malay community. It is important to realise that the 1924 system was suitable at that time, and we hope that the immersion scheme is suitable for the present time as well as for the future. Eighth, extra-curricular activities.”
“One thing teachers should realise is that not all students are enamoured of visits to their homes by teachers. Those students whose family income is low or whose economic standing is not so good sometimes feel ashamed of such visits. I had an occasion once to meet one of my students. He tried to run away on seeing me, as he was selling cakes. He did not run off after being told that his teacher at one time was also selling cakes. Coming back to the question pertaining to the Ministry, it is important that those who are unable to live up to the expectation ought to be cast aside. What is expected is as stated by the Prime Minister sometime ago: "You can be firm, you can be strict but, above all, you must be POLITE." Those who lack these important qualities should not move around in the company of teachers or at places where the main aim is to socialise. Seventh, on Language Exposure Time (LET). The views expressed by the Prime Minister are, I think, most correct. They are correct not only in respect of the languages in our country. They hold true even in the case of nationals who are exposed to Japanese, Arab and French communities and the like. There is no doubt about it. I believe that Principals, Vice-principals and Senior Assistants can play an important role in deciding this, particularly with respect to those students in the immersion classes. The degree of success of this scheme should be closely watched, particularly in respect of: (a) The response of teachers and students of the recipient schools. This is very important from the psychological point of view, especially if the immersion students are evidently weak in English. (b) Observation of their health to see if there are those among them who suffer from mental or physical fatigue.”
“This occurs at the international level. Perhaps, on this matter, our Singapore teachers are more fortunate. It is a different matter if a person is teaching at a college or a university. The question of inferiority complex does not arise. On the contrary, they will state their profession as a matter of course, even if they do not state it with pride. I think the Ministry's effort to raise the integrity and image of teachers is most welcome but it is still not enough. Teachers should, at the very least, be proud of their profession. Salary increment and promotion are not the sole criteria in raising the teacher's image. Students' appreciation of the teaching profession as a result of the dedication shown by teachers, is one of the most important criteria. This does not necessarily mean just the effort to make them succeed in, their examinations. There are students who have failed in their examinations but they still remember their teachers because of the love and understanding shown by the teachers. And when I say "love", I do not mean that the teacher should always pamper them or shower them with praises. Rather, the teacher should be frank with them in correcting their faults, and even scolding them if necessary. This attitude is imperative, because the teacher, next to the parents, is the person closest to the students. This feeling of closeness is ever present in their minds, and the good example that the teacher sets will have a permanent impact on them. It is through the words they use that the parents at home will form impressions and arrive at their own conclusions as to whether the teacher is good or otherwise. The teacher will be able to know of this when he meets them, particularly in their own homes.”
“Recently when I asked some teachers about their status, some stated that perhaps even the soldiers had overtaken them in status and so had the other professions, such as the technical professions. I think it is important that the results of the survey on the 140 teachers be carefully examined. If the survey can satisfy the following requirements, perhaps it can be accepted. If not, it would do well to reconduct the survey on the morale of teachers. Relevant questions which should be considered pertaining to the survey are (if they are already included, well and good): (a) How many schools were involved (from among the 140 teachers); (b) Type of school - English, Malay, Tamil, Chinese Integrated, Primary or Secondary: (c) Category of teachers, whether male or female and their age, Graduate, Non-Graduate, and the positions they hold; (d) What are the subjects taught by them; (e) How many of them (if any) have just recently been promoted; if recently promoted, it goes without saying that all the answers to the questionnaire are good; (f) How long have they been teaching; (g) The forms must be kept truly confidential. Teachers' names should not appear. Then only can we get a genuine feedback. Even if such matters had been considered pertaining to the questionnaire, I think there are still views which should be given attention to, such as the feeling of teachers at the international level. Even in early 1970 there were teachers, at the international level, who were asked about their profession. It is quite unsettling to note that there are still some teachers who, when asked, replied, "I am only a teacher" with the emphasis on "only". At times when asked to purchase goods, the prices of which are costly overseas, would reply, "How could I buy it with a teacher's pay".”
“There are teachers who are good in attracting the attention of Principals by demonstrating their good work at the right time and place, or that their work-book is always neat. But we are not in a position to know whether their methods of teaching are good or whether they are loyal and dedicated to their profession. I feel that it is very important for Principals to take note of those teachers who although do not behave as I have mentioned above but they are the true dedicated teachers. Apart from the Principals, Vice-Principals and Senior Assistants, those who are involved as Sports Secretaries, particularly the really dedicated ones, should also be given special attention by the Minister. They have very onerous duties to perform both mentally and physically. My sixth comment is on Teachers' Morale. I am surprised to find, from studies conducted amongst 140 teachers, that only 18% of the teachers have low morale, 52% average, and 30% high morale. This means that 82% of the teachers interviewed feel that their morale is good. I hope the morale of our teachers is really as good as stated. But personally, as a teacher of 26 years' standing, since the early age of 15, I would rather tend to agree with the view of a member of a forum organised in 1977. He stated that in a certain survey that was conducted earlier, when a girl was asked for the type of job she would be most interested in, the reply was "a teacher". And when asked further regarding the choice of a life-partner, the reply was also "a teacher". But, this same forum member stated that that statement no longer held true. He said that in 1977 when the girl was asked this question, she replied in the following order: doctor, lawyer, police inspector and, only fourthly, teacher.”
“With our stand of making English the common language, with exposure to TV, with 80% of our children bilingual and the Indian and Malay children who are monolingual taking English, I fear that - my view stands corrected - we may be putting a greater stigma on the Chinese students who are learning Mandarin and Oral English only. Third, it is important to note that intelligent students taking Malay or Tamil as second language should have their classes in prominent schools like the Anglo-Chinese School, Raffles Institution, etc. The future trend is that most students will take their native language as a second language. At present this is not the case with the Malay students, or with Chinese and Indian students taking Malay as a second language. I am quite sure besides the Malays, the Chinese and Indians will still offer Malay as their second language. For these second language classes the best teachers should be provided. The same with the Tamil Language. If, for instance, the Tamil community considers that immersion classes should be held at Umar Pulavar Tamil School, then the matter should be given due consideration. Fourth, the weakness of the Basic Course has been pin-pointed and they will be replaced with special guidance classes. I feel that these special classes should be given careful attention, or otherwise the same fate will befall the proposed special classes, it may end up being a mere change in name only. Fifth, this concerns Principals, Vice-Principals, Senior Assistants and, I add, Sports Secretaries. That great attention will be given to Principals, Vice-Principals, and Senior Assistants is most welcome. However, I feel that Principals should pay greater attention to their teachers.”
“First, psychologists such as Philip Vernon and Torstan Husen of Stockholm threw doubt on the reliability and validity of testing. The reliability of testing over time was poor. Children's ability had been shown to shift with opportunity. (This literature is succinctly summarised in the Plowden Report chapter 2, paragraphs 56-64. If the IQ had been made the single criterion at 9 or 10 for sorting the children into sheep or goats and if the same criterion had been used again at 19, it would have been found that a mistake had been made in 20% of the cases.' (paragraph 59.) Mr Speaker, Sir, if this figure of 20% is correct, then the Committee On Streaming should make a study of it as those who are selected to be in the 8% category may not be able to maintain their position. If those outside the top 8% feel the effects of the stigma that is labelled on them, then a bigger stigma will be placed on the top 8% students (including their parents) if they could not maintain their position owing to the reasons advanced earlier. Now, on the subject of monolingualism, I agree that only one language is to be taught to the slow learners. The Report proposes English language for Malay and Indian students, whilst for Chinese students Mandarin and Oral English. I have inquired of my activists, comprising the various communities, with particular emphasis on the Chinese. They all hold different viewpoints. Some concur with the views contained in the Report while others agree with me that Chinese pupils should also be taught the English language for several reasons. One reason could be that the present Report based its studies on a society that existed before 1979 whereas we are now looking forward 10 to 20 years ahead.”
“I am of the view that since our system has gone for hard-option or streaming, I suggest that a committee be formed to ascertain that the streaming made at the Primary 3 level is not something final. It is important for the Committee to recommend those students in Primary 4, 5 or even 6 who made the grade to be promoted to the top 8% category, the ablest. This problem of streaming was once a heated debating point in Britain where the great majority of the populace speak English - monolingual, although Welsh and Scottish are also acceptable. To illustrate how serious the problem of streaming will be, I would like to commend to the Special Committee the views and opinions of experts in this field, taken from the book. The Politics of Education, by Edward Boyle (former Conservative Minister for Education) and Anthony Crosland (former Labour Secretary of State for Education and Science) in conversation with Maurice Kogan (Professor of Government and Social Administration at Brunel University): '(a) Herbert Morrison or Ernest Bevin - who both left school at the age of 12 - could be the second and third Ministers of the Nation, how could some measurement experts claim to identify the nation's talent by setting a test for 11-year olds? (b) Increasingly, popular intuition followed the advice of three expert witnesses to the Plowden Committee (I am quite sure the Ministry officials are conversant about the Plowden Committee) that it is unsafe to predict a man's future before the age of 40. The three experts happen to be Philip Vernon, W.D. Wall and Gilbert Peaker - oral unpublished evidence. (c) The attacks on the weak or opportunity concept of equality came from many quarters.”
“The 70's would give higher figures. This means that the future of a country depends on its education policy. In his letter to the Prime Minister, Dr Goh has appropriately stated, "The approach we take is that of the generalist, and not of the specialist" as, on the whole, (there may be exceptional people) we are educational politicians and administrators and not professional educationists. It is here I feel that professionals are badly needed for the wheels of administration to function smoothly in the implementation of our education policy. Mr Speaker, Sir, I have only 12 points which I wish to touch upon. The first one concerns streaming. This can be considered as a necessary evil. It seems that we have no other option. I am very pleased to see the following statement in the report: 'We recommend that the top 8% of the Primary 1 cohort [equivalent to about 10% of the PSLE passes] (giving some allowance for late developers) be channelled to a special bilingual stream.' I would like to express my appreciation particularly in respect to, "Giving some allowance for late developers". At least it is a form of relaxation and opportunity extended to the late developers. At a previous debate, I stated in this House that with streaming the Ministry has decided that the zenith of mental development of the human mind begins at the age of 11 or 12 years. Since then, I presume the Ministry must have made its in-depth findings on the basis of studies of experts in this field. My question was not answered at the time, but with the flexibility suggested by the Report it seems that the Ministry has reviewed the matter and found that flexibility is necessary.”
“If the truth is manipulated, then the good name of the writer, newspaper or journalist will be affected. Even if a journalist is endowed with a thousand eyes or a thousand ears, but without a sense of responsibility, those eyes and ears have no significance at all. In this connection, politicians and journalists, be they foreign or local, should study carefully a line from the poem written by the Western poet, Dylan Thomas, who said that, "Hands have no tears to flow." We just cannot afford to do that. An important fact we should know is that today's debate, apart from the usual criticisms, is evidence of the success of our education policy over the last 20 years, in spite of difficulties here and there. Another thing we should remember is that although the school is an agency for the individual to socialise, it constitutes a dominant feature of our modern society. So important is the role of education today and so far-reaching is its function that most countries of the world regard their educational policy as a matter of national importance. Data of the 60's give a picture of the intense activity in the educational field. For example; One-seventh of the population of the whole world who should attend schools are attending schools: One-eighth of the population in Asia are attending schools; One-tenth of the population in Africa are attending schools; One-fourth of the population in America are attending schools, three-quarters of whom are between the ages of 15 and 24 years; One-fifth of the population in Belgium, Soviet Union, France and Germany are attending schools, two-thirds of whom are between the ages of 5 and 25 years; One-fifth of the population in Japan are attending schools, three-fifths are between he ages of 5 and 25 years.”