Lau Teik Soon
Singapore
“So, in fact, you can have a situation where a new solicitor who has three years' practice can have one person who has not got three years' practice to be a partner, both of whom have of course not gone through the legal practice management course. I do not know whether or not that is desirable.”
“Sir, first, I would like to thank the Minister for his positive reply. May I ask the Minister that, in view of the unique structure of the food centre, his Ministry officials consult the Management Committee of the food centre with regard to the actual requirements concerning the roof?”
“Sir, in the event the Ministry concerned is not going to pull down the homes after full compensation has been paid and therefore the homes are left vacant, will the Ministry then consider allowing them to stay on at nominal rates? Because the homes are just being left vacant. Assoc. Prof.”
“And more than that, under the revised scheme in June 1996, owners of acquired shophouses who are doing business in the shophouse will also be entitled to ex-gratia payment. So I hope the Member will appreciate this.”
“Will the Minister review the situation in view of the fact that we are here discussing moneys which are rightfully that of the home owners and it is with a statutory board, not a commercial bank, and also that the home owners will return the money to the CPF after they have received the total compensation?”
“Sir, I agree with the Minister that if it is a charge by a commercial bank, the home owners will have no choice. But in view of the fact that this charge is by the CPF Board, which is a statutory board, and it is a matter of time that they will eventually return the moneys to the CPF Board, will the Minister reconsider his decision?”
The complete record
Every one of 491 lines we hold for Lau Teik Soon, in date order, each linked to its source. Free to read, in full, without an account. Page 4 of 10.
“Sir, can I ask the Acting Minister, in view of the reduced amount available to the Ministry of Defence this year, can he assure us that our defence capability has not diminished in any way? BG Lee Hsien Loong: Mr Speaker, Sir, our defence capability has to be built up over many years, and each year that we are able to afford to, we add to our strength and our preparedness. Having $172 million less, inevitably means that preparations which we would like to do now have to be postponed. However, within those constraints, the Member for Serangoon Gardens can rest assured that Mindef is doing everything possible, and our defence as of today is not seriously compromised.”
“I would like to hear the Minister's version. I am checking them now. The Member for Anson, if he will be patient, will hear the truth from the Minister. If this story is true, then I think certain serious questions arise. If there had been past incidents of such a nature, why is it that the Marine Police did not take adequate measures to prevent such a recurrence? I understand that the stretch of water between Pulau Tekong and Kusu Island is covered by only about eight Marine Police patrol boats. I do not know how far this is true. And that stretch of water covers about a quarter of our coastline. So the question I would like to raise now is, has the Marine Police sufficient manpower and equipment to safeguard the coastline?”
“Sir, I said that from what he spoke, it would seem that he represents the Chinese Communist Party. If he withdraws what he has said, then of course I will withdraw what I have said. Can I continue, Sir? I would like to refer the Minister to the incident concerning the People's Association's East Coast Parkway Campsite which occurred on 9th January this year. According to the various reports in the newspapers, especially the Straits Times, it would seem that a band of pirates, supposedly pirates, landed on our shore, attacked the campsite and escaped with a loot of about $6,000. According to that report, the PA campsite was defended by a 64-year old guard who was armed only with a whistle. Sir, I would like to hear the Minister's version of this incident. According to various reports, this is not the first time that a raid has occurred on a site along the East Coast. Apparently, as far back as 1983, there were two such incidents which occurred at the East Coast Recreation Centre. And even before that, there were attempts at the Changi Sailing Club. These are stories which are reported in the papers. We are not quite sure whether they are true or not. That is why I would like to hear the Minister's version.”
“Well, coming to the amendment, Mr Speaker, Sir, I would like to refer to an incident ---”
“Well, the implication of what he has said seems to me that he knows more about the policy of the Chinese Communist Party than most experts do.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, did we not hear him say that the Chinese Communist Party does not have any more ties with any communist movement in Southeast Asia? Up to now the Chinese Communist Party has not eschewed any such connection of ties with any communist party in Southeast Asia. Now if the Member for Potong Pasir says that the Chinese Government, ie, the Chinese Communist Party, has no longer any such ties with the communist movement in Southeast Asia, then obviously he knows more than we do.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I was astonished to hear just now from the Member for Potong Pasir that he represents the Chinese Communist Party. He should realize that even up to now ---”
“I would like to know whether the scheme has been drawn up and when will this scheme be implemented.”
“I would like to suggest that the Ministry liaise with the Ministry of National Development to allow such active RC organizations to expand their premises by one more unit and at the same time allow them to pay the token rental of $5 a month. I think this will be a great help to the senior citizens because gradually there will be more and more senior citizens among our population. At the moment they have no place to go. They can only go to the void decks of Housing Board flats to meet their contemporaries there. They do not have any other recreation or activities. If the premises could be expanded and if more fitness equipment and other facilities could be installed for them, I believe this will go a long way towards keeping them fit and happy and well taken care of. Apart from the RCs, the community centres also organize senior citizens clubs. In certain constituencies the CCC also have their own senior citizens clubs. Is there any close liaison between these different grassroots organizations with the Ministry of Community Development in the running of senior citizens clubs? Or has it given any guidelines to them? I would like the Minister to enlighten us on this matter. Lastly, we know that since the inception of the RC institution, it has played a very important role and contributed much in community development. I remember last year the First Deputy Prime Minister announced that the Government would issue certain awards or medals this year to those RC members who have served for more than five years and who have rendered meritorious service. I think this is a very excellent scheme because it will give encouragement to our RC members to be involved in community work. But what are the details in this scheme which have so far not been announced?”
“I believe there are still some old schools buildings left vacant. I wonder whether the Ministry would consider allowing such organizations to be sited in these unused school buildings so they may have a place to carry out their activities. Thirdly, I think the work of the proposed cultural complex should be speeded up. When it is completed, the authority should consider allowing the various arts and cultural organizations to be accommodated there. Let me now touch on the activities of the Residents' Committees. I agree to the statement by the Member for Changkat that the activities carried out by the RCs are many and vibrant, resulting in a shortage of places for these RCs to carry out their activities. RCs were set up in 1978. There are now about 280 such organizations. They have been very active and have widened their scope of activities. In addition to their own activities, they have also set up Junior RCs, Senior Citizens Clubs, Women's Committees, and tuition classes, arts classes and small scale libraries at the RC premises. Therefore, they find their premises inadequate to cope with these activities. Their premises are of standard size, about 70 sq metres, which is equivalent to a 3-room flat. Their token rental is $5 a month. In my constituency there is one RC which is also very active. It has carried out various activities. There are the Junior RC and the Senior Citizens Club and more than 200 senior citizens in the Club. The Junior RC has quite a number of members. Therefore, they find the premises is too crammed. They would like to purchase certain fitness equipment for the senior citizens but there is the problem of storage.”
“I remember last year the Cultural Division of the Ministry announced a 5-year plan under which the Division was to spend about $11 million on assistance to arts activities. However, details have not been published in the press. The Cultural Division has also planned to set up a cultural complex or cultural centre after the completion of the Kallang Theatre Complex. This is encouraging news to the art circle. However, in February 1986 we read a report in the press that a fine arts organization had to give up its office because of its inability to pay rental to HDB. According to the report, this organization was set up in 1935 and was therefore the oldest arts organization in Singapore. It was the only arts organization that had its premises. So with the vacation of the premises by this arts organization, all arts organizations today have no premises of their own. Therefore I would like to know whether the Ministry has any plan to assist such art and cultural bodies. All our efforts to promote art and cultural activities would be hindered if these organizations do not even have their own premises. In this connection I would like to put forward three suggestions. Firstly, the Ministry may discuss with the HDB to allow arts organizations a certain concession in rental. I believe the HDB is also interested in the promotion of arts and culture and would be very willing to contribute towards such activities. Therefore, I think there should not be any great difficulty. Secondly, according to the press report, some performing arts organizations have moved into premises of clan organizations or old unoccupied school buildings. This is because certain schools have been relocated in housing estates and therefore the school buildings are left vacant.”
“In my view, there should be a two-way flow of feedback. The public provides feedback to the Unit and the Unit in turn provides the Government's responses to the public. Is this being done? Sir, to assist the officials of the Unit to be more effective, I would like to suggest that it be provided with a team of researchers whose responsibility will be to go directly to the public and invite views from them on various matters. The team of researchers should go out regularly to public places to interview first hand the people in the street. In this way, the Unit can be updated on the mood of the people concerning various issues. Sir, I am aware that the Minister for Finance is anxious to cut down expenditure. But the Unit is a new service and therefore should be allowed to develop both in terms of manpower and equipment. I would suggest therefore that the Ministry provides more staff and equipment to the Feedback Unit. I know that the Member for Ayer Rajah is the Chairman of the Feedback Unit. I assure Members that I have not consulted him on this matter. I notice from the Estimates, Sir, that there has only been an increase of $26,000 from FY 85 to FY 86. There is no increase in staff at all to the Feedback Services Unit, yet we expect so much from the Feedback Unit. On this matter, Sir, I am sure the Minister for Finance will be generous, especially when it is recognized that the Feedback Unit is playing a unique role in attempting to establish a closer rapport between Government and the people. Mr Goh Choon Kang (Braddell Heights)( In Mandarin): Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, first, I would like to know whether the Ministry of Community Development has any long term concrete plans for the promotion of fine arts and other forms of arts, especially traditional arts.”
“May I ask the Minister which are the cultural organizations benefiting from these assistance? My concern is that this money may be going to a narrow group of cultural organizations. I would like to see that this assistance be given to as many Chinese, Malay, Indian and other cultural organizations. Thirdly, Sir, the Ministry is maintaining and operating two theatres, namely, Victoria Theatre and Kallang Theatre, and also the Singapore Conference Hall and the Drama Centre. I would like to ask the Acting Minister how the operation of these theatres contribute to the promotion of a national cultural identity, assuming there is such a thing. Sir, I would now like to turn to the Feedback Services under the Ministry. First, let me say that the establishment of the Government Feedback Unit is a very positive development which allows the public to give their views, make suggestions and voice their support or criticism in connection with various policies and administration of the Government. I would like the Minister's view on the effectiveness of the Feedback Unit since its inception. I am particularly interested in how feedback from the public is gathered. It would be useful to know whether the public can provide feedback on various matters of government through the following means: writing of letters, personal interviews with officials and telephoning in their comments and suggestions. If these means as well as other means are available, I would suggest that the Ministry publicize this as well as its role as to how the public can provide feedback. Sir, I would also like to know how the unit responds to members of the public who have provided the feedback. Are members of the public informed of the outcome of their suggestions and comments?”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I have two amendments. First, I would like to touch on the cultural programme of the Ministry. We are a multi-cultural, multi-religious and multi-lingual society. We have the rich heritage of the best of Asian civilizations, the Islamic, Hindu, Buddhist, Confucianist as well as the best of the Christian and Western civilizations. From all these, we have such a wonderful variety of customs and traditions, languages and religions, all of which go towards the evolution of a modern society. As I understand it, our cultural policy has been to allow for the free development of the various cultures and towards that objective, the Ministry has assisted various cultural organizations. At the moment, the diversity of cultures is being promoted by the various cultural organizations. There has been no attempt by the Ministry to forge one national cultural identity. Of course, this is not possible. It is not possible to pressure cook a national culture out of a multi-ethnic population. We should not, in my view, forge one national cultural identity. If we do, this is the road to disaster. Sir, on this matter, I would like to seek the Acting Minister's clarification on three issues. Firstly, according to the Ministry, its cultural programme seeks to promote the creation and development of a national cultural identity. I would like the Acting Minister to explain what this means. What is meant by "a national cultural identity"? We have many cultures. But can we have a national cultural identity? Secondly, I notice that the Ministry is assisting various cultural organizations. In fact, the contribution to these cultural organizations has increased from $191,000 in FY 85 to $300,000 in FY 86.”
“The Division has been helpful in providing information to the mass media. But in my view, this is insufficient. The Ministry should try to provide explanations as well of Government policies to the mass media. I know that some Ministries hold their own press conferences to give the reporters and others the opportunity to raise questions. But the Information Division should coordinate this activity with the participation of the officials of the relevant Ministries. Today, Sir, Singaporeans are more interested in and educated about Government policies. They watch the TV programme "Today in Parliament" and they want to know more about the working of Government and the administrative service. We should not disappoint them. For example, at this time of economic recession, the Government has appealed to the people to make sacrifices. But the people need to understand why they need to make these sacrifices. If they understand, they will support the Government measures more readily. My question is: has the Information Division done their job in explaining this policy and other policies to the people?”
“In general, a person with such an opposition mentality seeks to refute whatever the Government does. This is very negative. He seeks to tear down the administration without offering a better alternative in its place, and this does no credit to the society as a whole. Sir, the Information Division of the Ministry, if I am not mistaken, is the main agent of the Government, responsible for providing and explaining the policies of the Government to the people. My question is: have they done their job effectively? If what I say about greater dissatisfaction with Government policies is correct, what have they done to tackle this problem? Mr Speaker, Sir, the Information Division publishes many pamphlets and magazines in the English language. They are the Year Book, the Singapore Bulletin and the Mirror. But I ask: how many people read these types of materials? Have they been effective in explaining Government policies to the people? In my view, I do not think that such publications reach the people and that they understand the issues being explained. Last year, Sir, I proposed that the Information Division consider publishing a simple weekly magazine, say, of about eight pages. Such a magazine will include articles explaining Government policies in clear and simple language. Such a magazine may include extracts of articles from other publications. This magazine can be distributed to every household through various means, including the newspaper vendors. For example, the Asia Magazine is distributed on Sundays, and so, such a magazine can use such a facility. The Information Division should get the mass media people to assist in providing better information and explanation of Government policies to the people.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I am talking about a robot and if the Member for Anson feels that it fits him, so be it!”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I would like to touch on the Information programme of the Minis- try. Over the past few months, the Government has introduced a number of policies. Some of these policies have been well accepted and some have not. There are good reasons why the Government has to implement certain policies. But the people need to know as clearly and as fully as possible the reasons behind the policies. It is vital that the Government takes all out effort to explain clearly to the people what a policy is all about, why such a policy is being implemented, how it is to be implemented and when it is to be implemented. The trouble taken by the Government to explain policies to the people clearly means that the Government is taking the people into their confidence. This will establish good rapport between the Government and the people. And if policies are well explained, the people will accept them and support the Government. If a certain policy is not explained well, there may be confusion and misunderstanding. Nowadays, Sir, we hear of more criticisms and unhappiness over Government policies than before. It is quite common to hear critical comments of the Government in the coffee shops, market places, food centres and other places where people gather. Sir, criticisms and comments of Government policies are acceptable. But what should be avoided is an opposition mentality. A person who has an opposition mentality is one who is like a robot. He is told by his master to oppose whatever the Government proposes. He is told by his master to raise doubts about Government's credibility.”
“Sir, I thank the Minister for his replies to the various questions which I have raised. Can I seek clarification on some other matters? I notice that at recent ASEAN meetings, there have been observers from other countries close to ASEAN. May I ask him what is the prospect of an expanded membership of the regional organization? The Minister mentioned about the support which has been given to the Government of Democratic Kampuchea. Clearly the government requires both economic and military assistance so that they can enhance the prospect of victory in their struggle against the Vietnamese aggressors. May I ask the Minister what efforts have been made to obtain more support, both economic and military, for the Democratic Kampuchean Government to increase their prospect for victory? Finally, Sir, I think we are all relieved at the outcome of the crisis in the Philippines and often we have been asked how can Singapore help that country to recover from the problems which they are experiencing, particularly in the economic field.”
“While we sympathize with them in their difficult moments, especially in view of economic and political uncertainties, I hope that such politicians in these foreign countries will have some understanding and rationality in their views concerning our country.”
“First, we have adopted a political system which is derived from the British model of parliamentary democracy. A main feature of the system is the supremacy of the Constitution and the law. Thus, for example, in Singapore, we have the right of appeal right up to the Privy Council. In the country of the politician concerned, this avenue of justice has been abolished. Secondly, in our Parliament, we have our Opposition Members who happen to be absent just at this moment. Sir, I wonder at the patience of our Speaker. I wonder at Mr Speaker's forbearance and tolerance of the Opposition Members. Here, the Opposition Members, in my view, have nothing to lose; they have little if anything to sacrifice for the good of the country. Thus, they go all out to oppose the Government. In the process, they become reckless and emotional, rude and unruly. But in the country of the politician concerned, Sir, such antics of Opposition members would not have been tolerated. Instead, they would have been unceremoniously hauled out of the Chamber by the Sergeant-at-Arms. In Singapore, Sir, we conduct ourselves in the right way, by referring any possible abuse of privilege, of parliamentary immunity, to the Committee of Privileges. Thirdly, with regard to press freedom, I agree that there is prohibition here that issues of race, religion and language should not be played up in the newspapers and other publications. That is not so in the country of that politician concerned. In fact, some of the editors of their newspapers rely on such issues as race, religion and language to boost their circulation. Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, what I have said is merely to point out certain features of our society which have been commented upon by the politician in question.”
“In this respect, I am concerned about the interest in and commitment of the younger political leaders of ASEAN. Recently, I read a report that in Indonesia the younger military leaders are not as committed to ASEAN as the present generation of military leaders. If this is so, then I think it is not a good sign for ASEAN. It is essential that the younger political leaders in the ASEAN countries get to know each other better, exchange views and appreciate the aspirations and problems of each country. I would like to ask the Minister what efforts are being made to establish contact and rapport among the younger ASEAN leaders. Finally, Sir, I would like the Minister's comment on the statement made by a politician in a country, a country which is supposed to be close to us, a statement made by that politician concerning our Government and policies. We all know that Singapore is not a perfect society. We do make mistakes. But when politicians in foreign countries make false and scurrilous remarks about our country, I think it should not be left unchallenged. Since independence, many governments have tackled the problems of nation-building. Such a problem is particularly difficult for some societies which are multi-racial, multi-cultural and multi-lingual in character. In Singapore, our multi-racial harmony has been a pillar of our political stability. These countries which have multi-ethnic populations have also the problem of distribution of wealth. How do you distribute the wealth in a just and fair manner, without discriminating in favour of one community? In Singapore, Sir, we distribute the wealth of the country on the basis of merit. Sir, the politician in question pointed to various aspects of our political system. I would like to deal briefly with these.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, it has now been more than seven years since the Vietnamese invaded and occupied Cambodia. But yet the Vietnamese occupation of the country continues. The Vietnamese are in control of the Heng Samrin administration. They have begun to colonize the land in Cambodia and they maintain their domination through military force. The United Nations members have condemned the Vietnamese aggression and occupation of Cambodia. They have continued to support and recognize the legitimate government of Democratic Kampuchea led by the President, Prince Sihanouk, and the Prime Minister, Son Sann. Singapore together with the other ASEAN members are in the forefront in the political offensive against Vietnam. And they have succeeded in obtaining the support of more than two-thirds of UN members. My question to the Minister is: will this strong support for the coalition government of Democratic Kampuchea continue? Further, I would like to ask the Minister what is the prospect of more support for the legitimate Cambodian government. Sir, various peace proposals have been made in an attempt to solve the Cambodian conflict peacefully. ASEAN has its 12-point proposal and just recently the President of Democratic Kampuchea, Prince Sihanouk, has come out with the coalition's 8-point proposal. I would like to ask the Minister what efforts are being made by ASEAN to solve the Cambodian issue? And what is the prospect of an early settlement of the conflict? Sir, ASEAN has progressed from strength to strength, especially in political and diplomatic terms. I have no doubt that it would become a viable organization, provided the cooperation and dedication of the ASEAN leaders do not weaken.”
“When I brought this matter up to the HDB, the answer I got was that it would be difficult to change the name of the street because it would mean that the residents who have moved in would have to change their IC addresses. 3.15 pm Mr Speaker, Sir, the request for a change of name has come from the residents represented by their grassroots organizations. They do not mind the inconvenience of going to the community centre to change their addresses because, in the long run, it would be more convenient for them and for their visitors. Once the Central Expressway is completed, Serangoon North can be reached via the Expressway and through Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3. I would propose that the Minister look into this matter and hopefully agree to re-name the street either Serangoon North Avenue 1 and 2 (since there are two avenues there) or it can be called Ang Mo Kio Avenue ... (whatever the number) because it is just adjacent to Ang Mo Kio housing estate.”
“Sir, I do not need his kind of advice. I hope, Sir, that in the course of the visit, HDB officials will accompany the grassroots leaders and look into the problem. When the matter was brought up to the HDB, the HDB promptly looked into the matter and the structural engineer did give the assurance that the columns, beams and slabs of the units there are structurally sound. But when these cracks are repaired and subsequently cracks reappeared, you can imagine the anxiety of the residents in this housing estate. So I hope the Minister will look into the matter. Concerning the naming of the streets, as far as Serangoon North Estate is concerned, there is a specific problem. The main road there is called Serangoon Avenue 5 and, as I said just now, the estate is located along Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3. So what is the problem? The problem is that Serangoon Avenues 1, 2, 3 and 4 are located about 2 km away from Serangoon North, and the location of those Avenues, Serangoon Avenues 1 to 4 are separated by at least four private housing estates, including Chuan Gardens, Tai Hwan Gardens and two other private housing estates, all of which are located in Braddell Heights Constituency. Residents have complained to me that it is very difficult for their visitors to locate their addresses. If they travel along Upper Serangoon Road, they get into Serangoon Avenue 2. Then they come to Serangoon Avenue 3 and then they look around and wonder where Serangoon Avenue 5 is. Is it the next street? No. Is it just located near the next block? No. Is it round the corner? No. It is 2 km away.”
“Sir, will the Member for Anson please refrain from interrupting me as I am speaking?”
“Sir, in my constituency there is a brand-new HDB estate called Serangoon North. It is located on land bounded by Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3 and Yio Chu Kang. Residents have begun moving in since about two years ago, and already there are many complaints concerning the conditions of the flats. Many of these complaints have been referred to the Area Office, and I must express my thanks to the HDB Estate Officers for promptly responding to these complaints and remedying some of these problems. There are, however, two issues which have not been dealt with in a satisfactory manner and I feel that they are sufficiently important to bring up because they do have a general application. One deals with the workmanship concerning the quality of the flats. The other concerns the naming of the streets in HDB estates. Sir, I do not need to stress at this time that the question of workmanship, the quality of the flats, is a serious matter, especially when we are talking about high- rise buildings and we are referring to the new modern HDB estates. I have received many letters from the constituents complaining about the quality of the flats in Serangoon North. One complainant stated and I quote, "All my rooms and halls are cracked." Sir, this is no exaggeration. I have seen photographs of the cracks on the floors, on the walls, on the ceilings, and I intend to visit these units this Sunday.”
“I am concerned, Sir, that the reduction in the defence expenditure will affect our capability of our defence forces to meet any potential threat and aggression. This is disturbing, particularly at a time when the region is undergoing various conflicts and political uncertainties, some of which have been mentioned by the Member for Kebun Baru. May I ask the view of the Minister of State on this matter? Mr Speaker, Sir, I am confident that all Singaporeans will support the all out effort of the Government to build a strong defence capability for our nation. They recognize that they have to commit themselves to total defence. In this connection, Sir, I would like to ask the Minister of State for his view on the various opinion surveys which have been conducted to ascertain the attitude of the people towards defence matters, for example total defence, open mobilization and defence expenditure. Is he satisfied with the responses? If not, what does he intend to do to inform the public of our defence efforts, our defence requirement, and how can the public be further informed in total defence.”
“Thank you, Mr Speaker, for allowing me to speak at this juncture. Mr Speaker, Sir, the Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Defence mentioned during the debate on the Budget Statement that an effective defence system is vital for Singapore and he was concerned about the reduction of the Defence expenditure. The Member for Chong Boon has also expressed that sentiment. I would like to join them in this concern. Mr Speaker, Sir, international politics is very volatile. At one moment, there may be peace in the region, and in the next moment, there may be warfare. In Southeast Asia we have experienced such a phenomenon, for example, the war in Vietnam ended in 1975 and there was a brief period of peace in the region. Then four years later, Vietnam invaded and occupied Cambodia and plunged the Indo-Chinese region into a state of war. At the same time, the Soviet Union has seized the opportunity to build up its naval presence in Southeast Asian waters and that may constitute a threat to the sailings. Mr Speaker, Sir, like other ASEAN states, we have to be vigilant at all times and be ready to protect ourselves from external threat and aggression. It is absolutely necessary that we have a viable Defence system, including an effective army, navy and airforce. In this connection, Sir, I notice that the provision for the Ministry of Defence for FY 86 has been reduced by $171.8 million or 7.1% from the FY 85 expenditure. The recurrent expenditure on national defence has been cut by $175.8 million, while the development expenditure has increased by only $4 million. It looks as if the various activities of the Ministry, including General Administration, Armed Forces, and national defence programme have to be curbed.”
“Here, Sir, I would like to support the suggestion of the Member for Chong Boon that any proposal to introduce consumption tax should be a measure of last resort and should be deferred as long as possible. Mr Speaker, Sir, if and when the Government decides to introduce consumption tax, I hope the Ministry will go down to the people and explain clearly to them what it is all about. This is very necessary. They should go to the people, persuade them that consumption tax even when introduced is a fair and just measure to take. If they do this, and when the measure is implemented, the pain inflicted will be less painful for them. Sir, whatever measures we take to overcome the economic recession, it must not be done at the expense of losing the support of the people, the confidence of the people in the Government. In the ultimate analysis, the policy must be for the benefit of the general good. Hence, all the measures aimed at economic recovery must be for the benefit of the people of Singapore. They should not benefit just as a particular sector or a privileged group of people. Finally, Sir, the Economic Committee Report recommended that a form of consultative committee be established to provide advice to the Government, especially on future tax measures. The Minister in his statement has not mentioned this recommendation. If he does decide to implement this recommendation and if such a Committee is set up, I hope that the members of that committee would not only come from the business and financial community but also from the representative institution of the workers, namely, the NTUC. With that, Sir, I support the motion standing in the name of the Minister. 5.20 pm”
“The reduction of the employer's CPF contribution, the suspension of the half-month incentive payment and the removal of the NWC allowances have all seriously reduced the take-home pay of wage earners. For many of them, they have to make serious adjustments so that they can meet their monthly financial commitments, like payments for house loans, car loans and so on. For many, they may even have to consider reducing their standard of living. Mr Speaker, Sir, many wage earners have accepted that these sacrifices are necessary. But they are anxious - anxious because they wonder whether more measures relating to wage restraint will be forthcoming in the months ahead. They ask: Will the normal annual increment be frozen? Will the 13th month salary be taken away? If the Government is contemplating such measures, I hope they will defer taking such action, because if they do, it will be a further financial setback for the people. It will only deepen their suffering. Sir, there is another matter which the people are worried about. This concerns the intention of the Government to introduce consumption tax. Many of my colleagues have spoken on the subject. What the people say is that, on the one hand, the Government has given relief by way of tax rebate. But, on the other hand, the Government cannot wait to take it away by introducing consumption tax. Sir, in my view, the tax rebate is the compensatory measure that to provide financial assistance to the lower income group for the loss of income arising from the reduced CPF contribution, the loss of incentive allowance and the NWC payment. I ask: why should the Government adopt this method to compensate for the loss arising from the concessions given to the business community? Are there no alternatives?”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, let me first congratulate the Minister on the decisive and vigorous manner in which the Government has taken measures to tackle the problems associated with the economic recession. He has mentioned numerous measures, including tax and fiscal concessions, all of which are mainly aimed at reducing the burden of the business community. Sir, while these concessions are to be welcomed and should go a long way to alleviate the burden of the business community, yet I have heard of a number of doubts being expressed by representatives of the business community. We have had dialogue sessions with community leaders, including some of those who are in business. Some of them say that these measures have come too late. But a more serious doubt, Mr Speaker, Sir, concerns the credibility of the Government. The question being raised is whether or not the Government, after having introduced these various measures, will continue with these measures in the years ahead, not only continue but even improve on some of these concessions. Or will the Government all or some of these measures in the next year or so when times are better? Sir, we have known of Ministers who have introduced certain policies but soon after reversed some of them. In the effort to recover from the severe recession, the Government has called on all Singaporeans to accept sacrifices, to work hard and to increase productivity. We are all aware of the favourable responses of most Singaporeans, especially the workers, to accept these sacrifices. The lower and middle income groups are seriously affected by the number of wage restraint measures.”
“Sir, may I ask the Minister to comment on the Member for Anson's questions. Are they not an inclination to score points against Singapore by playing up to critics of Singapore in neighbouring countries?”
“Sir, maybe their sterile tactics and antics are just a cover-up for their inability to come out with solutions to deal with our economic problems. On the Opposition side, Mr Speaker, Sir, they seem to think that to deal with our economic crisis a simple economic strategy should be adopted. What the Member for Potong Pasir has called "rule of thumb" economics. In essence, in my view, they are prone to plunder the reserves which we have in order to solve the economic problem. Are they not aware that our reserves as well as our manpower are our only resources? Both these must be strengthened and should not be weakened or depleted. If we accept their economic strategy, "rule of thumb" economics, whatever that may mean, then I am afraid that is the way the economy will go - the reserves will be plundered and manpower will be undermined. Sir, what is at stake at this moment of our political history? It is not just a question of our economic recovery. In my view, it is an issue which affects the fundamental political system which we have adopted. A strong economy is vital for a viable and functioning democracy. I am confident that with the achievement of the goals of the new economic policy, we can provide our people with a higher standard of living, better education, better housing and so on, and thereby strengthen our democratic institutions. 4.08 pm”
“It must be one aimed at achieving a better society for all Singaporeans. Mr Speaker, Sir, the task of achieving the goals of the new economic policy must be shared by all. It is a matter of burden-sharing, a burden which falls on the shoulders of all - Government, managers and workers, so that together in partnership we can tackle the problems. Mr Speaker, Sir, as many of my colleagues have already mentioned, when we face a national crisis it is expected that all the people support the Government towards the implementation of the new economic policy. This is certainly recognized by the Government, by the PAP Backbenchers and by the people at large. However, unfortunately, there is a minority of people who either do not comprehend the gravity of our economic situation or are blind to the reality of our economic difficulties. Unfortunately, the two Opposition Members, who have been absent for most of the debate today, belong to this small category of those who are either ignorant of our problems or who are blind to the economic reality. In their case, I suspect they do not comprehend and are not aware of our economic predicament. Sir, they are intelligent people. But unfortunately they are obsessed by what the Member for Potong Pasir has called "their adversary role", that is to say, be the enemy of the Government at all times. Even as the Government is faced with a national problem which affects all the people, the Opposition Members continue to oppose. Is this what the role of the Opposition in Parliament should be? Where is their concern for the welfare of the people? Where is the responsibility which we expect from Opposition Members during a period of national crisis?”
“The people are committed to abide by the wage restraint. Together through joint efforts, both the Government and the people are tackling the problems resulting from the economic recession. It is a contract which the young leaders must succeed. They must deliver their side of the bargain. Because if they succeed, they will strengthen their credibility, they will increase the support from the people and the people are watching closely how they proceed with the implementation of the new economic policy. But if theyfail to achieve the economic recovery, I am afraid it will undermine their political position and they will be faced with greater opposition to their leadership. Mr Speaker, Sir, based on past experiences and on the calibre of our new leaders, I am confident they will not disappoint the people. Sir, the President's speech mentioned that the focus of the new economic policy will be to tackle the problems associated with the economic recession. However, he did point out that the social and cultural goals will not be neglected. I hope that in the process of implementing the new economic policy, the social and cultural projects meant to uplift the standard of living of our people will continue. They must not be neglected. Certainly this project may have to be slowed down or postponed but attention must be paid to the social and cultural goals as well. As a general point, Mr Speaker, Sir, I hope that the achievements of the new economic policy will lead to a more general and equitable distribution of wealth, that it will not lead to a greater divide between the wealthy and the rest of the population. The goal must be to improve the standard of living of all, better wages, better education, better homes and so on.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, we are entering a new and very important phase of our history. Why do I say this? To put it briefly, at a time of our political history when the leadership is about to change, the new leaders are being faced with new economic challenges and they are meeting the challenge by forging a new social contract between the Government and the people. Will they succeed? Sir, in future, when historians look back to this period which we are witnessing, I am sure that they will point to certain significant events. These significant events include the emergence of a new and dynamic leadership. It will include the formulation of a new economic policy for the country. The new political leaders and the achievement of the new economic policy will set new foundations for the future economic growth of the country. And it is the long-term goal, I am sure, that the new economic strategy will build up the defences of our economy so that in future economic crises, resulting from both external and internal factors, we will not be as adversely affected as we are by the present economic recession. More importantly, Mr Speaker, Sir, the new economic policy will set the nation towards greater achievements, not only in the economic sector but also in the social and cultural fields. As I said, the new leaders are forging a social contract between the Government and the people. This is a new partnership, a partnership which the new political leaders cannot fail to succeed. The President's Speech, the Report of the Economic Committee and the adoption of the recommendations by the First Deputy Prime Minister, all reflect two main elements of this social contract. The Government leaders are committed to achieve economic recovery by 1988 or 1989.”
“For more than 10 years I have been living in a shabby attap house in a kampong. At that time my family was very poor. When it rained at night, the roof leaked and the whole house shook in the storm. It was awful. I spent my childhood in the kampong. It is a nostalgic place. But, Mr Speaker, if you ask me to go back and live in such a place, I still have this lingering fear in me. I do still have this kind of nightmare sometimes. [Laughter] Please do not laugh. This is a true experience. I believe the majority of the people living in HDB flats have this kind of experience. After leaving the kampong, like the Member for Paya Lebar, I spent seven years living in a shabby house in Chinatown. But I can tell you this is another place which holds a nostalgic memory in my heart because there I met my wife. But if you want me to go back to such a place where you have to live with the rats, cockroaches and mosquitoes, of course, I will not agree. And I would not suggest that we preserve such an environment. Sir, in 1975, about 10 years ago, there came a turning point in my family. After a few years of waiting for a flat, we were allotted a 3-room HDB flat. Now, any Singapore citizen who is not too choosy should be able to get a flat in Yishun or any other new town. Mr Speaker, Sir, if you had not experienced life in in a shabby attap house or in a crowded pigeon hole type of house in Chinatown, like Kreta Ayer, you will not be able to appreciate the feeling of joy and a sense of security when you move into an HDB flat.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, if I may be permitted. I have so many requests which have been rejected by HDB because HDB has rules and regulations. You have to comply with them. And I suppose the requests you put forward are either unreasonable or they are taking time answering the questions. Mr Goh Choon Kang (Braddell Heights)( In Mandarin): Mr Speaker, Sir, the Member for Anson seems to have a liking for suggesting the setting up of various commissions of inquiry to investigate into one thing or another. I was told that in China there was one joke. In a certain place there was an instance of a rabid dog biting people. The cadre members there called a meeting to look into the matter and, after one whole day, they could not come to a conclusion, and the dog was still there biting the people. The two Members of the Opposition do not understand the feelings of the people living in HDB flats. They have never stayed in an HDB flat. Of course, they have not stayed in an attap house. Nevertheless, they are making a lot of noise here. What is their intention? Their intention is to gain some political capital. Just now the Member for Potong Pasir attacked the speeches made earlier by my colleagues, the Member for Paya Lebar and the Member for Kaki Bukit, relating their personal experiences of how they struggled and gradually upgraded from living in a crowded 1-room flat to a 3-room and to a 5-room flat. The Member for Potong Pasir described this as a cheap tear-raising episode of a Chinese TV serial. I think this remark is a great insult to all those people who live in HDB flats. I feel he should make a public apology to all of them. As a citizen who is now living in a 4-room HDB flat, let me tell you my experience and feelings.”
“--- to make use of the void decks for such functions as children's party, art competition, but of course not for free. There is a charge for the use of these spaces. And last but not least, the referrals which all MPs submit to the HDB on behalf of their constituencies. They are given due attention, and I am sure the Opposition MPs cannot deny that. Mr Speaker, Sir, if the Opposition MPs feel that there is serious wrongdoing, or if there are wrongdoings of whatever nature on the part of the HDB, they should so state it specifically and let the public know. And I am sure the Minister will have to respond to those allegations if they can be substantiated by facts. Otherwise, they are again misleading the House and the public, and I would call for the rejection of the amendment put forward by the Member for Anson.”
“Yes, URA carparks too, unless of course he does not know that he has this privilege, and that he has been paying for it. But I am sure that if he appeals, he cannot get a refund. But he has the privilege. Where is the discrimination? All MPs have use of the void decks, the open space, for various functions. And I am sure that the Area Offices have approved their requests ---”
“--- which allows him to park in HDB, URA carparks just like any other ---”
“--- construction and due for completion.”
“Well, the Member for Potong Pasir said, "not yet". But he has already been allocated and his office is in the process of ---”
“And then there will be so many Commissions of Inquiries involving considerable finance, manpower, and we will not be surprised that at the end of it, the Member for Anson will come before Parliament and say, "I would like to have a Commission of Inquiry to end all Commissions of Inquiries." Mr Speaker, Sir, I am not saying that the Opposition MPs, if they have rational suggestions to make to the HDB, cannot do so. In fact, I am sure that the Minister for National Development would be only too happy to receive whatever suggestions they have and will give them due consideration and come to a decision befitting those suggestions. So the avenue is open to them to put forward whatever ideas and suggestions they have. The Member for Potong Pasir mentioned the fact that the HDB is a political weapon of the Government, implying that the HDB in some way or another has discriminated against Opposition MPs. Here again, Mr Speaker, Sir, we have an example of not a half-truth but of an Opposition MP lying to the House and to the public. Let me state what the position is with regard to the treatment of MPs by the HDB. And if the Member for Potong Pasir refutes my points, then he should stand up and say so. All MPs, irrespective of whether they are PAP MPs or Opposition MPs, are given certain privileges, for example, the allocation of an MP's office. And both Opposition MPs have their offices allocated to them by the HDB.”
“His strategy, Mr Speaker, Sir, is very simple. Make false allegations about the Government, produce half-truths, and then say, "The only way to get to the truth is to have a Commission of Inquiry." It is a very simplistic line of strategy, and I do not think intelligent people will be taken in by that line of argument. Just imagine, Mr Speaker, Sir, if we accede to this amendment to have a Commission of Inquiry into the HDB, what is there to prevent the Member for Anson to suggest, henceforth, Commissions of Inquiries into the work- ings of Government ministries, departments, statutory boards?”
“--- that the Member for Anson is not concerned about the question of home ownership for the lower income group, and yet he professes to be the champion of the lower income group. Mr Speaker, Sir, coming to the amendment put forward by the Member for Anson, I would really like to talk about this tendency on the part of the Opposition MP to suggest ever so often Commission of Inquiries into various matters before the House.”
“The Member for Anson in his introductory remark made a very revealing statement. He referred to the motion put forward by the Member for Chong Boon which refers to the question of home ownership for the lower income group, and he said, "This is not a burning question." I would like the press and the public to take note of this statement ---”
“Clearly they do not know, Mr Speaker, Sir, what they are talking about.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, there is a motion for the adjournment to be moved by the Member for Siglap called Dignity and Decorum of Members of Parliament. I am sure from the behaviour of the two Opposition MPs, he will have plenty to talk about afterwards. Mr Speaker, Sir, I would like to comment on the amendment submitted by the Member for Anson. But before doing so, I would like to comment on some of the points they have made. Both referred to the role of the British colonial government and the SIT concerning the provision of homes for the people of Singapore. Now, if they think that the British colonial government and SIT deserve praise, as we think the HDB does, then they should put a motion before the House and let us debate on that. If they did, and I hope they do, they will be the laughing stock of Singapore. Both of them mentioned about the draconian measures taken by the HDB, the aggressive policies of the HDB, and yet it is undeniable that more than two-thirds of the people of Singapore own their own homes. 76% of residents in HDB estates own their own homes, and many more thousands of Singaporeans want to own their own homes. Why the rush to home ownership if the HDB is so draconian, takes unfair measures against them, and it the prices are not quite right for them?”