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?”
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“On the other hand, when I visited a market, I discovered that there were about a dozen hawker stalls which were vacant, in fact, since I became the MP for that constituency. On the one hand, these stalls are left vacant and not fetching revenue and, on the other hand, applications for these stalls were not granted to our citizens who are unemployed. If they are not provided with some means of livelihood would this not amount to encouraging unemployed people to apply for financial aid from the Social Welfare Department, incurring loss and wastage all round? Would not the Ministry consider granting licences to these unemployed people? Although it is often said that the stalls are reserved for those street hawkers who would be resited, we discover that these hawker stalls have been left vacant for two years, without any sign of allocation. This is really contradictory. Therefore, I would like the Senior Parliamentary Secretary to enlighten us on this question. Mr Hwang Soo Jin( In Mandarin): Mr Speaker, Sir, the Senior Parliamentary Secretary just now pointed out that the matter might be due to the fact that Estate Officers of the Housing and Development Board are subjected to transfer and the newcomers might not be familiar with the arrangements made. This would appear to be a matter of passing the buck from one department to another, and each one not knowing what the other is doing. I would suggest that the Hawkers' Department should have closer contact with the Housing and Development Board so that they resolve the matter mutually. So, what the Member for Khe Bong mentioned just now appears to be just one example of a lack of liaison between the Hawkers' Department and the HDB staff.”
“In future, we will look into this matter and give it consideration. Mr Hwang Soo Jin( In Mandarin): Mr Speaker, Sir, the Senior Parliamentary Secretary has said that he and the Hawkers Department will give favourable consideration to stallholders who are moving into new estates. According to my personal experience, this is not so. For instance, when a stallholder who has moved into Ang Mo Kio estate requested that he be given a stall in the estate near where he is staying, he received a letter within a week telling him that his request was not approved. So, I would like to ask the Senior Parliamentary Secretary whether he is changing this policy today. Mr Chor Yeok Eng( In Mandarin): Mr Speaker, Sir, in fact this policy has been in force for many years and has been made known to all, but because the Estate Officers in the various Housing Board areas are subject to transfer where necessary, the newcomers may not be familiar with the arrangements that have been made. Normally when we build a new market or hawker centre, we will give first priority to licensees who are hawking in the vicinity and who are affected by clearance. After that, if there are some more vacant stalls, then stallholders who are residing nearby will be given consideration when they apply for the stalls. Mr Ho See Beng( In Mandarin): Mr Speaker, Sir, I have also one question which I would like to raise with the Senior Parliamentary Secretary. During my meet-the-people session, I often come across unemployed people asking for help in applying for hawker licences. In most cases when applications were made I was given a negative reply.”
“Sir, I am thankful to the Senior Parliamentary Secretary for his favourable reply with regard to the question of transfer of stalls for hawkers resident in Ang Mo Kio. He may wish to take note of two points in considering these cases. Firstly, there are a number of hawkers who are sited in hawker centres but who are not resident in the housing estate, in this case Ang Mo Kio. Some of them, in fact, expressed the desire to be transferred elsewhere. Secondly, although priority cannot be given in the first instance to hawkers who are moving into the housing estates because it is very difficult to anticipate the number, it may be useful to coordinate with the Housing and Development Board and reserve a percentage of the hawker stalls for such cases. When these cases come up, then these hawkers should be given the reserved places. Mr Chor Yeok Eng( In Mandarin): Mr Speaker, Sir, on the further two points by the Member for Serangoon Gardens. First, about some stallholders residing in the same zone but not in the same housing estate, I would like to say that actually we do not base our consideration on any particular housing estate he is living in. In the case of a stallholder-applicant who wants a transfer to a hawker centre or market nearer to his place of residence, we will give him priority consideration. Second, on the reservation of a certain percentage of stalls for these licensees, I have said in my earlier answer that we are unable to anticipate the number of such licensees who will be moving into an estate. In normal circumstances, if there are vacancies, we will give priority to such stallholders to enable them to reside in the vicinity of their stalls. This is one of the groups of hawkers which can be considered for allocation.”
“For the time being, we do not intend to fix the rule on this. As regards the safety of our hawker inspectors in field work, I would like to thank the hon. Member for his concern for our staff. Our current practice is that those who earn less than $750 per month are covered by the Workmen's Compensation Act for any damages or injury suffered in the execution of their duties. Arrangements are also made to ensure that when they go on field duty, they do so in groups of threes and not alone, so that they can help one another in case of need. Moreover, they are provided with cars equipped with a wireless so that when necessary they could contact the Police or the Ministry's headquarters for assistance. And when they are performing duties which involve disputes, such as issuing a summons, they will be accompanied by the Police. This is our normal arrangement.”
“We have noted his comments and will consider his suggestion to wall up the staircase so that in the course of sweeping the staircase, dust will not fall down to the stalls below. I would like to thank him for his suggestion on anti-pollution. In the future construction of markets and food centres we will take his suggestion into consideration. We will also instruct the architects to take note of this suggestion so that such defects will not recur. Further, I would like to point out that the market that was referred to by the Member for Mountbatten belongs to the Housing and Development Board. He has suggested that we should liaise with the Housing and Development Board in the matter of sanitation in future construction programmes. We will do this so that some remedial action could be evolved. Two questions were raised by the Member for Serangoon Gardens. First, he would like to know whether the Government will consider reserving some hawker stalls in newly built markets and food centres in HDB estates for licensees who will be moving in to stay in those estates so that they can operate the hawker stalls within the same estate. At the moment we are unable to consider this request for the reason that we are unable to anticipate the number of such licensees. Further, we still have more than 6,700 street hawkers waiting to be resited in indoor hawker stalls. I believe Members will recall that the main purpose of the Government to build more markets and cooked food centres is to provide a service to the residents and at the same time reducing pollution of our water resources. From past experience, requests from new resident hawkers for stalls within the estates are not that numerous. Such requests will be given priority consideration when vacant stalls are available.”
“During the course of performing their duties, they face all kinds of threats, and sometimes even suffer personal injuries. Sir, let me cite three examples. There was the incident when a hawker, who was served with a summons, became aggressive, used abusive language and threatened the inspector with a chopper. Then there was another hawker who, when warned for not complying with certain hawking regulations, took out a hook and knife and threatened to kill the inspector. These two hawkers, of course, were subsequently arrested by the police; one was placed under one year's supervision while the other was sentenced to two months' gaol. Fortunately, in both cases, the inspectors were not harmed. But in the third case, however, the inspector was not so lucky. He was viciously attacked by a fishmonger with a parang and suffered multiple wounds. Although he was compensated with $7,500, his scars are permanent and he continues to suffer severe spells of dizziness. Mr Speaker, Sir, these are just a few examples of the dangers which the Hawker Liaison Inspectors have to face. Yet the Ministry has no provision to act on the inspectors' behalf. I would like to suggest that legislation be provided immediately to require the Ministry to act on behalf of their inspectors and other employees who suffer assault in the course of their duty. 3.30 p.m. The Senior Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for the Environment (Mr Chor Yeok Eng)( In Mandarin): Mr Speaker, Sir, first I would like to answer the question raised by the Member for Mountbatten concerning the defects in the construction of the two-storey market.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, during my meet-the-people sessions I get many requests to appeal, on the constituents' behalf, to the Ministry for transfer of their hawker stalls from their former places of work to the new hawker markets in Ang Mo Kio. According to the present policy, it is extremely difficult, if not impossible, to apply for a transfer of a stall from one place to another. But I suggest that each case should be considered according to its merit. The hawkers residing in Ang Mo Kio have their stalls elsewhere and they face great difficulties in travelling to and fro. Many of them are elderly people and this aggravates their problem. Since they have been allocated flats in Ang Mo Kio, it would be reasonable to allow them to transfer their stalls to the new market centres at Ang Mo Kio. It is unreasonable to say that because they have moved to Ang Mo Kio, they have to face up to the predicament or to give up their stalls; nor is it reasonable to expect them to remain in their former homes. They too, like other people, want to improve their living conditions. I hope, therefore, that the Hon. Minister would consider allowing the hawkers re- sident in Ang Mo Kio to move from other places to the new market centres in Neighbourhood 4, Ang Mo Kio. If this concession is given, it would of course, apply to similar cases in other new housing estates as well. Another matter which I would like to bring to the Hon. Minister's attention concerns the safety of the Hawker Liaison Inspectors. According to an AUPE report, there were 21 cases of assault on the inspectors in 1975, and since then numerous other cases have been reported. The inspectors have to deal with 28,000 licensed hawkers and about 7,000 street hawkers.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, during the debate on the President's Address, I brought up the question of the need for industrial safety to be observed strictly by employers. I also mentioned that despite the strenuous efforts on the part of the Ministry to educate the workers and to provide inspectors, yet more industrial accidents have occurred. In fact, since the last debate a number of industrial accidents have occurred resulting in loss of lives. According to a recent report, 12 persons have died as a result of industrial accidents in the year so far. What I would like to seek clarification is whether the Hon. Minister has introduced new administrative measures to make effective the implementation of the various laws relating to industrial safety, such as the Factories Act. I understand that the shipyards are particularly negligent in ensuring that all necessary safety equipment are installed and operative. I recognise that the Labour Ministry has been hard put to provide inspectors who are qualified and trained to oversee the various work places, particularly the shipyards, in the implementation of safety measures. Maybe the Hon. Minister should consider providing greater incentives for the officers who are in the Factory Inspectorate. Another matter relates to employers who continue to disregard the Ministry's directives concerning industrial safety. What I would like to ask the Hon. Minister is whether he would consider punitive measures against employers with bad records, namely, those who continue to flout industrial safety laws and regulations and whose workers continue to work at the risk of their lives.”
“No, Sir. I have been advised to speak under Amendment (8) for convenience.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, when I use the term "handicap", I mean the wide disparities between the ASEAN member states. I am sure the Senior Minister of State is aware that the Indonesian per capita income for 1977 is only US$170 compared with Singapore's per capita income of $2,450. This is related to the point that the Member for Whampoa made about purchasing power. We are not, of course, looking at the EEC model. It cannot be. And the various factors that he has mentioned, such as the cultural level, and the level of industrial developments of the states, vary within the five ASEAN members. However, we are in agreement that for the long term national interest of Singapore we have to tie our destiny very closely with that of the ASEAN neighbours. With that, I beg leave to withdraw. Amendment by leave, withdrawn.”
“It is crucial that we identify ourselves very closely with our ASEAN neighbours and not with the so-called North or industrialised states. I wonder whether the Minister could clarify our policy on the question of ASEAN economic cooperation and our role in the promotion of intra-regional trade and industrial development in the ASEAN region.”
“ASEAN intra-regional trade has been declining as against ASEAN trade with the rest of the world, and the original five ASEAN joint projects have not gone off the ground, I wonder whether the problem is one of political will or is it one of economic nationalism? That is, while the political will to push forward economic cooperation exists, nevertheless, economic nationalism provides an insurmountable obstacle. In this connection, Mr Speaker, Sir, I would like to seek the Hon. Minister's clarification on a criticism directed at us, namely, that we have not done enough to promote economic cooperation. The critics cite two examples of economic nationalism on our part. Firstly, that we have given minor concessions in return for the preferential tariff arrangement. The argument is that since we do not have a high tariff barrier, reduction of tariffs will not affect Singapore as much as the other ASEAN states; hence, we benefit more from the preferential tariff arrangement. In my view, therefore, we have to think about giving some other concessions in return to make preferential tariff arrangement effective. Secondly, we are being criticised for not being prepared to promote the technological development of the other ASEAN states which are less developed than us. The critics give the example of the diesel engine project. They argue that by going ahead with our own project we are undermining the diesel engine industry of our neighbouring states and therefore their efforts at industrialising their economies. Mr Speaker, Sir, at a time when developing nations are fighting strenuously against the industrial nations for such things as better terms of trade and transfer of technology, we must be seen to be on the side of the developing countries.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, That the sum to be allocated for Head L be reduced by $10 in respect of Subhead Code LA-01 of the Main Estimates. Mr Speaker, Sir, regional conflicts like the wars in Indochina, and international economic issues like the rising tide of protectionism and increase in oil prices threaten our economic growth and prosperity, as well as our security and political stability. We face the danger of being cut off from our sources of investment, market and technology, particularly from the western industrialised world upon which our economic development so heavily depends. Our bargaining strength lies not only in our continued political stability and economic growth but, I believe, also in the collective power of ASEAN. In the face of these challenges, I believe it is imperative that the Foreign Ministry should concentrate more on the cornerstone of our foreign policy, namely, ASEAN. We should utilise our resources to strengthen ASEAN solidarity and cooperation. This is in our national interests. Particularly in the field of economic cooperation, we should provide the impetus of ASEAN cooperation in intra-regional trade and industrial development. Mr Speaker, Sir, since ASEAN's formation in 1967, ASEAN has developed into a viable organization and has manifested its solidarity at various times, especially after the fall of South Vietnam and Kampuchea, and more recently during the discussion on the new Australian International Civil Aviation policy. Moreover, ASEAN has shown solidarity in their dialogues with the industrialised nations like the United States, Japan and the EEC. But of immediate concern to us is ASEAN economic cooperation and this is disappointing, to say the least.”
“Another matter which I would like to raise and which has been touched upon by the Member for Khe Bong is the anticipated promotion exercise to be held hopefully at the end of the year. I hope that the hue and cry over the last promotion exercise will not recur. In this respect, I would only want to reiterate the question that I raised previously, namely, that the Ministry should spell out clearly the criteria for the promotion of teachers and have a more systematic promotion exercise. In this regard, I hope the Hon. Deputy Prime Minister would take into consideration the very concrete proposals that have been put forward by the Member for Khe Bong.”
“Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education will clarify what the position is, that is, to what extent the Ministry lays down the general guidelines and what is expected of the principal in terms of management and responsibility? I hope that those principals who have the tendency to blame the Ministry for every unreasonable measure or regulation that they themselves have drawn up, would be brought before the Ministry and hopefully cured of this malady. An hon. Member: The quicker the better!”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the Member for Jurong and the Member for Khe Bong have just touched on the issue of the morale of teachers, and I would like to add my comments to it. Sir, I would like to seek the Hon. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education's clarification on a matter which has caused some confusion among some teachers, namely, the authority and role of the principal in relation to the Ministry. The principal in a school is expected to implement the educational policy of the Ministry with a view to achieving the objectives of that policy. This can only be done effectively if the principal has the cooperation of the teaching staff. And this cooperation can be obtained through either coercion or persuasion. Of course, persuasion is a better way. Teachers understand that it is their responsibility to fulfil the duties assigned to them and that their cooperation is vital in the implementation of the educational policy. But at the same time they expect to be given reasonable treatment and understanding from the principal. The problem arises when the principal expects his teachers to perform unreasonable tasks. Worse still, when questioned on the need for certain regulations, the principal falls back on the easy and ever-ready answer, that is, that he is merely following the directives of the Ministry. This is unfortunate because such a statement will create an image of the Ministry as a totalitarian agency, from which all directives issue forth and to which all teachers must obey without question. This is certainly not the case, and principals should not create such an image of the Ministry. I hope the Hon.”
“Sir, in view of what the Minister has just said, would he consider two proposals to alleviate the present problem of traffic congestion along Lorong Chuan: (a) to widen the stretch of road along Lorong Chuan, which has only one lane traffic; and (b) to install a traffic light system at the junction of Lorong Chuan and Serangoon Garden Way.”
“Then there was the suggestion made that couples before being given approval for marriage have to undergo a fitness test: this must raise problems of implementation for the Acting Minister for Social Affairs if it were accepted. The most dramatic statement, Mr Speaker, Sir, was that of the Member for Moulmein who revealed that there had been a military take-over of the Education Headquarters at Kay Siang Hill, but then, Sir, we understand that recently, the officers made a hasty retreat to their operation point at Tanglin Hill.”
“The Ministers of Defence and for Home Affairs were urged to look into the possibility of recruiting more women to augment the predominantly male personnel in the military and police forces. Mr Speaker, Sir, while the mundane or bread-and-butter issues clearly dominated the debate, the Backbenchers were mindful of regional events which have great consequences for our economic growth and political stability. The question of Australian protectionism, the Vietnamese invasion of Kampuchea and the refugee problem were the main issues in foreign affairs that were discussed. Members called for retaliatory action against the protectionist policy of Canberra: clearly in their view, the present Australian government cannot be relied upon as a friend of Singapore and ASEAN. As for Vietnam, serious scepticism was expressed concerning Hanoi's honesty in its statements that it would adhere to the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of its neighbours. In this connection, Members will certainly support the Government's statement calling for the withdrawal of Vietnamese troops from Kampuchea. Members pointed to the need for greater ASEAN solidarity and cooperation to meet these challenges. Mr Speaker, Sir, from what has been stated it is clear that Singaporeans must be more aware of regional events, which affect our national survival. The debate was not all sober and businesslike; there were lighter moments for Members. For example, the House heaved a sigh of relief when the case of the missing bodies was solved by the Minister for Health, although, of course, the civil servant concerned who committed the statistical massacre may not see the humorous side of this!”
“Nevertheless, he was required to clarify a number of issues particularly on the Central Provident Fund contributions. Apparently, the decision to allow CPF fund for the purchase of SBS shares has set a precedent; if this can be done, then Members asked why is it not possible for the fund to be used for other purposes which are closer to the welfare of the contributors, for example, payment for children's tertiary education, and medical expenses for the family? Further, the Minister was urged to make greater efforts to ensure industrial safety, particularly in the shipbuilding and repair industry, and it was suggested that he should consider imposing stricter penalties on recalcitrant employers. The condition of work of the labour force was another issue raised, especially on measures to narrow the gap between blue and white collar workers. The nature of the amendments to the Workmen's Compensation Act received the attention of certain Members, who warned that these amendments must benefit the workers. Mr Speaker, Sir, other Ministers got away lightly, although not let off completely. The Acting Minister for Social Affairs was asked why it was necessary to review the Administration of Muslim Law Act, and to look into the question of the construction of more mosques for the Malay community. Members put forward certain suggestions for the consideration of the Ministers. For example, that the facilities of the National Library be made available to the students for studies; that the health education programme should be broadened; and that community leaders should be invited to participate in the police patrolling scheme in the HDB new towns.”
“And the Minister was told that if more incentives were to be given to the top bureaucrats, he should not neglect those in the lower echelon, whose contribution to administrative efficiency is no less significant. Specific issues were raised with the Minister. These have been dealt by the Senior Minister of State for Finance. There was one issue, however, to which the Senior Minister of State, I feel, has not adequately replied. This is the question of the tax on pensioners. The view of the Backbenchers is that most pensioners have meagre incomes and yet have to meet the increasing cost of living and medical expenses. It is only right that they should be allowed to enjoy the remaining years of their lives without the fear of going on the dole. The Ministry of National Development did not escape the close examination of Members. Again, the focus was on the Housing and Development Board and the issues of resettlement and building control. The one issue which the Senior Minister of State for National Development did not deal with to our satisfaction is the question of unauthorised extensions. This comes under the same Ministry. The Minister was urged to adopt flexibility in allowing certain minor extensions of dwellings to remain. These extensions occur not only in squatter areas or in kampongs but also old housing estates. These were erected many years ago as they were needed as extra living space for the family. Demolition of such extensions, because of rigid implementation of certain rules, seems meaningless unless certain vital developmental projects are under way. Mr Speaker, Sir, the Minister for Labour must be a good friend of the labour movement, as he obviously escaped the wrath of the workers' representatives in this House.”
“We are of the view that whatever changes that are being contemplated should be discussed in Parliament or in public because they affect directly the welfare and education of our children. For example, these changes include the streaming of pre-university students, the introduction of the nine elite schools and the immersion classes. The problem, Mr Speaker, Sir, may not lie with the Minister, or the Senior Minister of State for Education, who enunciates the policy, but with the implementers, viz. the Ministry officials. Members have raised doubts as to the competence of the high officials in charge, particularly the professionals in the Ministry. Thus, in their view there is need to raise the efficiency of the headquarters' professional staff. It was also expressed that what was of utmost importance to education was the morale of teachers and principals. In general, Members called for greater efficiency, consistency and rationality when policies are implemented. Mr Speaker, Sir, MPs came out strongly too against various aspects of the policy put forward by the Ministry of Finance. The dominance of the Government departments and statutory boards in the management of public affairs is a reality in Singapore, but they must not be allowed to overwhelm us. They must come under public observation and be constantly checked so that they do not abuse their powers. MPs do not grudge the high remuneration and perks which the senior officers enjoy now and of others yet to come, but as public servants, and they are no more than that, they should not be arrogant and abrasive in their attitude.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, to sum up after the past few days of debate, and especially after the sound of fury around 3 o'clock, I fear this summary will be an anti-climax. The debate on the President's Speech and the Addenda on the various Ministries has been serious and sober though, at times, there were moments of relief and humour. Members of Parliament on the Backbench gave credit to Ministers where they were due but, at the same time, they criticised certain Ministries, and did so without fear or favour. Sometimes, observers may wonder at the resilience, tenacity and courage of my senior colleagues on the Backbench who have, despite the numerous wounds suffered in earlier battles, bravely fought on. But I do not wonder about it; I know them to be men of character and commitment. The President has set out the Government policies for the coming year in the various Addenda, and I must say that the MPs on this side who have spoken, have subjected them to great scrutiny. As usual, as in previous debates, the Ministries of Education, Finance and National Development came under the barrage of criticism, question, clarification and suggestion. Mr Speaker, Sir, the Ministry of Education, as usual had its share of brick-bats. The objectives of achieving bilingualism and inculcation of traditional values are supported by all who have spoken and, of course, to achieve these, they understand that there must be changes in the education policy. But Members were puzzled at the manner and mode of implementation of these policies. The various innovations in education, their rapid implementation, and announcements closely followed by retractions, came under heavy fire from the MPs.”
“Such a phenomenon in an industrial society has been termed by a sociologist, called Henderson, as the 'entropy state', that is, and I quote: "a society at the stage where the costs of mediating conflicts, controlling crime, protecting consumers, treating victims of industrial diseases, and caring for all the addicts, dropouts, alienated, unskilled, aged, infirm or those who simply can't cope, equal or exceed the society's productive capability." (Management Review, Vol. 67, No. 9, Sept. 78, p. 43). We are not anywhere near becoming an entropy state but we must heed the warning signs. Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move. Question proposed. 3.15 p.m.”
“The recent Festival of Arts has shown that there is an abundance of talent in the various forms of artistic expression. This can be nurtured through the Cultural Foundation. But a proper cultural complex must be provided and, in this regard, I hope that the Acting Minister for Culture will not just consider but decide to go ahead with the construction of such a complex as soon as possible. Mr Speaker, Sir, I would like to conclude by mentioning a social phenomenon which will concern us more and more in the future. Urbanisation and industrialisation have brought with them dislocations in our various communities and also the various modern ills of a developing industrial society. The Acting Minister for Social Affairs mentions the social problems resulting from the changes in lifestyles, attitudes and expectations that come with rapid economic development. He mentions the helpless, the abandoned aged and destitutes, and women and children who have been iii-treated and exploited. The Minister for Health mentions the change in the pattern of diseases resulting from urbanisation and industrialisation and that the incidence of such diseases as lung cancer, coronary heart diseases and hypertension, and mental illness is steadily increasing. The Minister for Home Affairs mentions the drug problem, traffic accidents and the policing in public housing estates. It is obvious that the cost of maintaining services to handle these problems, the preventive, curative and rehabilitative and enforcement measures required, must be increasing - this is inevitable. But unless we contain these problems, a point may be reached when the cost will be so great that it may equal or nearly equal the production of wealth of this country.”
“We have good educational, medical and social services. Life expectancy averages 65 years for men and 70 for women. These and other economic and social indicators are readily available from the Department of Statistics for all to see and then to conclude that Singapore under the PAP government has given much to the people. And yet, as I mentioned earlier, the various Ministers strive to achieve more to upgrade the quality of life for Singaporeans. Singaporeans are justly proud of their economic status, their clean environment, the organized way of life, but they must not forget that they were achieved not without struggle. The threats prevalent in the mid-5O's and early 60's, coming from the communists, the communalists and from external events like confrontation and British withdrawal, are lessons that must be learnt and become part of our living memory. Singaporeans should ask: what would have happened if the communists had taken over Singapore, or if the communalists had succeeded in their efforts? What would have happened if Singaporeans had succumbed to confrontation and if we had looked for soft options in the face of British withdrawal? These are lessons that are part of our history. Our children and future generations must learn this as part of their course in citizenship. However, I note with regret that while the Ministry of Education Addendum states that one of its objectives is to inculcate national identity, it has not mentioned anything about such a course in its curriculum development. The Ministry of Culture should be commended for their efforts to promote the quality of life in the Republic. The establishment of the Cultural Foundation is a right step in inculcating a love for the best of Asian and western values in the fine arts.”
“Thus, Singapore and the other ASEAN governments must pursue the dialogue between them and these states with vigour and determination. It is not enough that these dialogues are held and pious declarations made; concrete economic and trade agreements should be the outcome of these discussions. Mr Speaker, Sir, in the ultimate analysis, it is up to Singaporeans to decide how we progress, how we protect our interests, and what kind of society we want. The President mentioned the problem of political succession and the need for quality leadership. The present leaders have gone through years of sacrifice and crisis and have built a prosperous and stable Singapore. But the young leaders have not yet faced a real crisis. How will they measure up in a real crisis? Here, I shall only quote the Prime Minister (Hansard Vol. 36, col. 448) who stated, on 23rd February 1977, "You would not know until the guns open fire." I, for one, am confident that they will not flinch from unpleasant policies, economic or political crises. Mr Speaker, Sir, leaders must have the support of the people. And the majority will support a political party that delivers the economic, social and political goods to their satisfaction. That the PAP government has done so since 1959 is beyond question. The Government achieved 10% growth per annum before the 1973 oil price hike, and an average growth rate of 6-8% in recent years. The official foreign reserves in 1977 was high; it was S$9,023 million. Our per capita indigenous GNP in 1977 was S$5,623 which is second only to that of Japan's, in Asia. Our people have jobs and only 4% or so are unemployed; public housing is provided for about 60% of our population and by next year another 10% will have such housing.”
“I, therefore, hope that the forthcoming ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting will decide on a definite stand vis-a-vis the recent developments in Indo-China, and the best way of dealing with any common threat to their peace and security. Thus, for example, we must voice strongly our concern with the refugee problem which has affected our ASEAN neighbours, viz. Malaysia and Thailand. It has been estimated that about 170,000 refugees from Indo-China have gone to Malaysia and Thailand. As a result of the changeover in the government of Phnom Penh, many more refugees may leave that country. ASEAN should press for international sanction against the states from where the refugees come. At the same time, ASEAN should persuade the liberal-minded states in the West to take in more refugees. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs Addendum states that "what serves best the interests of ASEAN and of the. world is a peaceful and prosperous Asia - Communist and non-Communist alike." A stable Asia is mutually beneficial to all the states in the region but, of course, this is a difficult goal to achieve. The reality is that in the Indo-China region, warfare has been endemic while tension is high among the countries in North-east Asia. Until we see the dawn of a new era of peace - and stability in Asia, Singapore and the other ASEAN states must strive to improve their relations with the United States, Japan, the EEC, Australia and New Zealand. The western industrial states and Japan must recognize that it is in their interests to maintain the economic development and political stability of the ASEAN states. Any change of the status quo affecting the political situation in ASEAN will be a threat to their own interests.”
“It is not just the extension of the liberation movement into Thailand that concerns us, but also the Sino-Soviet dispute which is the cause of much of the turmoil existing in Indo-China. Likewise, the Soviet-Vietnamese Treaty, the Sino-Japanese Treaty, the Sino-American decision to establish diplomatic relations and the SALT discussions are all part of the moves made by the two communist giants in their confrontation against each other. Singapore cannot ignore these events because they ultimately affect our national development. The best course for Singapore is to remain non-aligned and to stay away from great power conflicts. However, this does not mean that we become passive. We have to play an active part in concert with like-minded states, especially ASEAN, to protect our national interests and those of the other ASEAN states. Here, it may be useful to reiterate the axiom, "united we stand, divided we fall." In this regard, it is heartening to note that ASEAN has continued to show solidarity in the face of external crisis. Its cooperative efforts and cohesion have impressed extra-regional powers that ASEAN is a viable organization and that it cannot be manipulated to the advantage of foreign powers. More significantly, ASEAN has displayed the willingness to cooperate on economic matters. The ASEAN Economic Ministers have made some progress in economic cooperation, e.g. increase in the items under Preferential Tariff Arrangement and the impending implementation of certain joint industrial projects. ASEAN governments must know that economic growth is the basis for their continued progress and stability. On matters which affect the ASEAN region, Singapore and other ASEAN governments should express their views clearly.”
“Political stability is one of our main assets in our quest for economic growth. Hence, we have to be constantly aware of the internal threat to our political stability. The recent Far Eastern Economic Review, Asia Yearbook 1979, laments that in Singapore in 1978, "there were no great campaigns against 'Euro-communists' or fomenters of 'black operations' or other forces." We sympathise with the Review's unhappiness. But we know only too well the presence of such elements even though they have not been exposed. The Addendum of the Ministry of Home Affairs states that "the Malayan National Liberation Front (MNLF), an underground satellite organization of the CPM Central, is most active in Singapore." Thus, we have to be vigilant against the communists, as well as communalists and other anti-national elements. We cannot allow them to turn the clock back to the period of civil disorder and chaos of the mid-5O's and early 60's. When the President spoke 15 days ago, he mentioned the conflict between Vietnam and Kampuchea. Today, a new regime has been installed in Phnom Penh. This is a regional development which will have far reaching consequences for our political stability. It is regrettable that ever since colonial times, Southeast Asia as a whole has not known a period of peace and stability. After 1975, it was felt that perhaps after years of struggle for 'liberation', the governments in Indochina would concentrate on internal development and provide a better life for their peoples. In that kind of situation, the co-existence between the Indo-Chinese states and ASEAN would be mutually beneficial. The fear of the conflict in Indo-China spilling into Thailand, a member of ASEAN, exists, and if such an event occurs it will be a real threat to Singapore's political stability.”
“An example of protectionism is the recent move by the Australian government to introduce cheap, no stopover fares to Europe for British Airways and Qantas. In this connection, it is timely that Singapore with its ASEAN neighbours has protested against this unfair move. Singapore and ASEAN have conveyed to the Australian government their strong opposition to the new policy. But if Canberra persists in ignoring the protest of ASEAN, then the Government together with the other ASEAN governments should consider retaliation in one form or another. While we continue to invite foreign investors and with them skills, managers and other entrepreneurs, we should also expand our own corps of entrepreneurs. The Ministry of Finance Addendum states that they will encourage more Singaporeans to become industrial entrepreneurs. But I hope that the Local Entrepreneur Scheme organised by the Economic Development Board will do more for them by providing not just loans or credits but also assistance and expert guidance which will be necessary in the initial years. With regard to the taxation policy, the Ministry of Finance states that it will broaden its tax base by getting more taxpayers such as the self-employed to pay income tax. However, some caution should be exercised in the implementation of such a move. This is because the self-employed, for example, shopkeepers, taxi-drivers and the hawkers, while belonging to the same category of workers, may not necessarily earn the same income. The Ministry of Finance must ensure that a clear and fair set of criteria is formulated to assess the earned income of the self-employed workers. Mr Speaker, Sir, whether or not our national strategy will continue to succeed will depend on economic as well as political factors.”
“Yesterday we read that another shipyard worker was killed and four others injured in an explosion on board a barge in Jurong. This has come very soon after the Spyros tragedy. We know how hard the Labour Ministry has worked to ensure safety for workers, especially in the shipbuilding and repairing and the construction industry. But obviously workers and management have not learnt. Supervisory and preventive measures may, therefore, seem necessary. That is, the Ministry of Labour should provide constant check and supervision, and where necessary, impose heavy penalties on the management if they neglect their responsibilities. The Spyros tragedy must not be repeated. Mr Speaker, Sir, international trade and foreign investment so essential to our continued economic growth have been threatened by the increasing pressure of protectionism. Singapore together with its ASEAN partners must continue to be vigilant against this threat to our economic well-being. Protectionism is often a bogey used by trade unions to make further demands for their selfish benefit, and by weak governments which have adopted soft options. Both groups call for tariff and non-tariff barriers against the imports from developing countries, and even favour a cut-back on the overseas investment of their nationals. In actual fact, foreign investment benefits the foreign country more than the host country in terms of employment. For example, an American executive in Singapore has stated that "for every job we create for the locals, we promote at least two or three back home." This is because the American company operating from Singapore has been able to generate markets in Southeast Asia and elsewhere. Also the Singapore company imports all components and materials from the United States.”
“For example, we have an EDB office in New York but there are about 140 other investment and promotion agencies like the EDB representing other countries striving to attract American investment. Fortunately, our EDB officials have been successful so far. But what we have to do is to maintain the conducive climate favourable for foreign investors so that this year's target can be reached. Singapore has the reputation of being a country which welcomes foreign investment. In fact, one businessman is reported to have said that Singapore is "heaven on earth for the multi-national." This is attributed to a number of factors: the political stability, good living conditions, efficient communication, able and incorruptible administrators, industrial peace and skilled labour force. We must consolidate these factors which have given us the edge over others in the field of foreign investment. These factors include those which have made our goods and services competitive in world markets, namely, industrial peace and skilled labour force. The investors say that they have their "heaven on earth" in Singapore, but the workers too want their "heaven on earth" here. To achieve this, both management and workers must continue to cooperate so that our goods and services can compete in world markets. This means that our goods and services must be of high quality and minimum cost. Management and workers must strive to achieve these objectives. I am glad to note that the Ministry of Labour will ensure that management provides a work environment, which will be conducive for workers to give of their best. Work environment means fair wages, good working conditions and personal safety and security. It is not just NWC adjustments, merit and demerit schemes but also safety measures.”
“The Addenda of certain Ministers mention that they will provide better housing, better health facilities, better environment, improve the quality of our defence and police personnel, raise the quality of technical education and improve road safety. The Prime Minister has stated in his New Year message that this year must be a year of progress and consolidation. The Ministry of Finance Addendum states that the growth rate could be achieved only if international trade continues to grow and if our goods and services are kept competitive in world markets. As far as international trade is concerned, the President has expressed concern about the sluggish American economy, but he has also expressed hope in the performance of Japan and the EEC countries. This was also the view of Mr Charles Schultze, Chairman of President Carter's Council of Economic Advisors and Chairman of the OECD Economic Policy Committee. In November 1978, he was reported to have said that "with the exception of the U.S., domestic demand and output (of the OECD countries in 1978) had risen significantly faster than in 1977 and that stimulative actions already taken or about to be taken in Germany and Japan should help sustain growth." So we can be a little more cheerful about the prospect of international trade improving this year. Mr Speaker, Sir, it is not just international trade that will sustain our economic growth but also foreign investment. The Ministry of Finance Addendum states that Singapore needs capital investment of approximately $450 million this year and that these investments should be in industries requiring higher skills and technology. But foreign investment is a highly competitive area.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, 'That the following Address in reply to the Speech of the President be agreed to:- "We, the Parliament of the Republic of Singapore, express our thanks to the President for the Speech which he delivered on behalf of the Government at the opening of the Second Session of this Parliament.".'. Mr Speaker, Sir, may I say that it is a great honour for me to move this Motion. Sir, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the President on his re-election for another term of office. He has indeed done Singapore proud during his years in office. I have no doubt that Singapore's prestige and status will further be enhanced by his invaluable contribution. We wish him good health and happiness in the years ahead. The President in his speech indicated three major factors which would influence events in Singapore in the next year or so. These major factors are, firstly, the uncertain economic situation in the various industrial democracies; secondly, the conflict in Indochina, particularly that between Vietnam and Kampuchea; and, thirdly, the build-up of the political leadership and able administrators. The President stated that barring a recession, Singapore should be able to maintain a 6-8% growth this year@ It is imperative that we maintain the momentum of growth because growth means more jobs, higher standards of living, better social, medical and educational facilities and overall well-being and security for our citizens. We need to provide an estimated 30,000 new jobs per year for the school leavers, college and university graduates. We need to provide a better quality of life for our citizens.”
“In his reply, the Senior Minister of State mentioned that a distinctive Singaporean cultural identity can only be established through evolution by a gradual process and that this cultural identity cannot be established by a deliberate attempt to dictate what it should be. I agree with him. Nevertheless, it may be useful for the Ministry to consider a publication wherein the Ministry can define and explain in simple terms the salient aspects of our cultural heritage. This will be useful for the information and education of the children and young adults. If this suggestion is taken up, I hope that in this effort the Ministry will deal with the more relevant and serious aspects of our culture and not the frivolous presentations that are contained in the Singapore Tourist Promotion Board's publications.”
“It may interest Members to know that in a recent survey conducted by a private organisation it was shown that among those who attended the concert, 31% came from the 15 to 25 age group, 32% belong to the 25 to 35 age group, and further it was found that 23% of those who attended the concert resided in HDB or HUDC flats. What this means is that Singaporeans including the younger generation and those residing in flats, are beginning to acquire an interest in serious music. This is a trend which should be supported. The Minister should look into the situation and maybe establish a coordinating body to assist, oversee and even manage the performing arts. The Member for Jalan Kayu has suggested that a board be established with wider functions. If that is possible, so much the better. I know that the Ministry of Culture is associated with the Singapore Arts Council of which the Senior Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Labour is the President. But I understand it exists merely in name only. The establishment of such a coordinating body would provide an agency which will look into the financial support for these various activities, organisation of arts festivals, coordination of cultural performances and effective utilisation of our limited talents and resources in Singapore.”
“Sir, the Member for Boon Lay has made the point that Singapore is a cultural desert. I would like to draw the Minister's attention to just one aspect of the cultural desert in Singapore, namely, the undesirable state of affairs concerning the performing arts, both Asian and Western, in Singapore. There exists presently a laissez faire attitude on the part of the Ministry towards various Government departments, statutory boards and private organisations involved in the promotion of both Asian and Western performing arts. Take, for example, the field of music. The Ministry of Culture has allowed the proliferation of numerous organisations, all pursuing musical presentations. For example, the Ministry of Culture has the "Music for Everyone" series, the Extra-Curricular Activities Centre of the Ministry of Education has its own programmes, the National Theatre Trust, the National Library, the People's Association, the University of Singapore, the Singapore Polytechnic and also private organisations, including the Singapore Philharmonic Society, the Singapore Musical Society and the Young Musicians Society. With such numerous organisations engaged in the organising and presentation of musical events, there must result in simultaneous performances and unsatisfactory use of limited manpower and financial resources. I have cited the example prevailing in the community regarding both Asian and Western music, but I am sure that parallel situations exist in the fields of drama and dance as well. Sir, it may be opportune now for the Ministry to provide the lead in stimulating greater interest in the performing arts, both Asian and Western.”
“With regard to Immigration Officers, I have mentioned yesterday the general points with regard to their conditions of service and I would only concern myself with some specific points. Sir, in 1970 the Immigration Officers had a salary scale superior to the Prison warders and the Police constables. But today the position is reversed. In 1970 the Immigration Officer's minimum monthly salary was $165, with increments of $10 in one sector and $15 in the other, up to a maximum of $345. In the case of Prison warders, the minimum salary was $160 with an annual increment of $5 up to $215, and the Police constables a basic salary of $170 with annual increments of $10 up to a maximum of $270. Today, eight years later, the reverse has occurred. The Police constable's minimum monthly salary is now $170 with increments of $15 and $20 up to a maximum of $625. In the case of Prison warders, the minimum salary is $165 with a $15 increment up to a maximum of $345, and in the case of Immigration Officers, a minimum pay of $165 up to a maximum of $345. There is no change at all for the past eight years. The responsibilities of Immigration Officers have also increased over the years. I elaborated on them yesterday. They are now involved not only in checks at the various Immigration checkpoints but also in the search and detection of illegal immigrants. I would think that it would be fair and equitable to consider an upward revision of the salary scale of these officers.”
“On the question of the salary scale of Customs Officers, which has stagnated for nearly 20 years, I would suggest to the Minister to look into this matter seriously, particularly in view of the fact that Customs Officers today have a very responsible and arduous task. They are involved in indoor and outdoor duties relating to Customs, Entertainment Duty, Dangerous Drugs and other Acts under which they have statutory powers. Their duties also include revenue collection, preventive patrol, work ashore and afloat, investigations and searches on board ships. Often in the line of duty they are engaged in hazardous preventive raids against smugglers and illicit distillers who also operate in swampy and thick jungle areas in the offshore islands. There have been occasions when these officers have been threatened with bodily injury and in some cases they have been actually assaulted during these preventive raids. Thus, in view of their significant responsibilities, their arduous tasks and also the high turnover in the Customs service, I would suggest that the Minister should look at the salary scale of the Customs officers. As far as the turnover rate is concerned, for the years 1970-77, the figures for appointments and resignations in each of the years are as follows: Year Appointment Resignation 1970 163 66 1971 180 87 1972 94 70 1973 92 84 1974 191 84 1975 180 53 1976 67 16 1977 53 4 The other point, of course, is that it is known that the Customs and Excise Department produces between 40% and 50% of the total revenue of the State. Hence, any revision upwards for Customs Officers will not create much impact.”
“Sir, I would like to draw the Minister's attention to three specific grievances of the public sector employees who come under his charge. These grievances include, firstly the need for union officials to be represented at disciplinary inquiries; secondly, the need to revise the salary scale of Customs Officers, which has stagnated since 1959; and thirdly, the need to revise the salary scale of Immigration Officers, which has not been altered since 1970. Under the present regulations a public employee under any disciplinary inquiry can only be represented either by a public officer or a legal officer. Sir, I am not under-rating the capability of either the public officer or the legal officer but I doubt whether he would defend the public employee without reservations. The public officer has certain inhibitions as he has to defend his subordinate and appear before those superior to him. On the other hand, to employ a legal officer to represent the employee is, of course, very costly. I would suggest that ,union officials be allowed to represent their members in any disciplinary inquiry. This would be a fair and just system. The union officials often are in a better position to give character references. They are more knowledgeable in office procedures, relationship between officers, and so on. In making this suggestion that union officials should be represented in such an inquiry, I would exclude issues involving criminal cases or corruption cases. But I would include issues like insubordination or absence from work, and so on. 4.30 p.m.”
“If any one of them opts out of these, then he will be aware that he has a less likely chance of being considered. I mentioned "seniority" because in the last promotion exercise, many young teachers were given more than 16 increments or more than double their original pay. This can be resolved if merit increments are awarded to the younger teachers. This too will give them the incentive. They know that they will be considered for one or two merit increments if they fulfil these criteria. For the more senior teachers, promotion should be considered where the difference between their present pay and the promotion pay is in the region of just $100 or $200; this would be a fair and more just exercise in my view. Finally, the Senior Minister of State mentioned that the Ministry would be considering giving allowances to the Principals. I hope he would extend this system of allowance to the Senior Assistants in the schools as well. The Senior Assistants, as we all know, fulfil the responsibilities of the Principals in their absence. They have to draw up the time-tables and this often occurs during the vacation when the Principal is away. The Senior Assistant is responsible for the overall supervision of school activities and so on. I think it is also opportune at this stage if the Ministry is considering giving the allowances to the Principals to do the same thing for the Senior Assistants. 3.15 pm.”
“Sir, I was astonished to hear from the Senior Minister of State saying that apart from the exercise being one to promote teachers, it was also one to establish direct contact with teachers. Surely there are other avenues which the Senior Minister of State can think of by which teachers can express their views with regard to the education service. It may be useful for example, to consider establishing at the Ministry of Education a "Meet-the-Teachers" session, very similar to the session that Members of Parliament have. Turning to a more serious point of contention, a point which the Senior Minister of State did not answer, and that is, what are the criteria for promotion? I think here there needs to be a re-evaluation of the procedures for providing incentives to both young and senior teachers. If I may suggest, the Senior Minister of State should consider the following procedures for future exercises. In the first place, if it is made known to teachers that all of them will be considered for either merit increment or promotion, then there would be no discrimination. But the award of either merit increment or promotion should be based on the following criteria: Teaching capabilities: the way they present their lessons in class; the way they correct the exercise books, their punctuality, and so on. Secondly, their participation in extracurricular activities. Thirdly, their involvement in community service. Fourthly, their seniority. If these four criteria are made known, then every teacher will know clearly that it is desirable to be efficient in his teaching methods. It is desirable that he pays attention to the work of the pupils. It is desirable to participate in extracurricular activities. It is desirable to be involved in community service.”
“Sir, I would like to thank the Senior Minister of State for his satisfactory answer to some of the points I have raised. However, I cannot agree with him with regard to his assertion that it is incorrect to say that the morale of the teachers is low. Sir, 9,696 teachers were invited for the promotion exercise, 473 teachers were promoted. This means that there were 9,223 failures in the promotion exercise, including those who did not turn up for the interview. This constitutes more than 50% of members in the teaching profession, one in every two teachers failed to be promoted or were disappointed with the promotion exercise. I am sure that having failed in a particular exercise, there must be very widespread frustration and disappointment among the teachers concerned. In fact, some of these teachers expressed the view that it would have been better if they had not been called up at all. An hon. Member: Quite true.”
“I wonder what the Minister has to say with regard to this and the other points I have raised.”
“According to the parent, in the course of discussion, this happened. I quote, "Arguments respectfully voiced by students were slapped down and thrown out and they were literally browbeaten into silence."”
“Ill officer had nine years' service, he would still have gained $515 increase or more than 12 increments. Sir, while on the one hand, the Ministry through the PSC was prepared to promote and give such unexpected bonanzas to these young teachers, on the other hand, they denied the more senior teachers their promotion which in most cases would have involved giving them a few dollars more. To avoid such wide disparities in future, the Minister may wish to consider either the award of merit increments or promotion in future exercises. What then is the main criterion? Is it merit? Is it the staff confidential report? Or is it the performance at the interview? Sir, I have enumerated only three reasons which I feel have led to the low morale of the teachers. It should be noted that such a condition is not new for it has existed for many years. Representations have been made most strongly by the Singapore Teachers' Union of which the Member for Moulmein is the President, but they have fallen on deaf ears. The Minister must ensure that a conducive environment exists in the schools so that the education of the young by the teachers can be carried out effectively. 7.00 p.m. Finally, Sir, the Director of Education was reported to have said, and I quote, "Schoolchildren must revert to their pre-school habit of asking questions." He was unhappy that students nowadays seldom ask questions in school or participate in classroom discussions. But I would suggest that the blame for such a situation lies not only with the students but also within his own Ministry. May I refer the Minister to a complaint by a parent as published in the Straits Times of 23rd February. The parent referred to a discussion which took place between a Deputy Director and the students.”
“88% of those invited were promoted. From the complaints which I have received, it would seem that there were no clear-cut criteria for promotion. The Minister may reply that it is based on merit, but I would like to know what is his definition of merit. For example, will he consider a person with the following qualifications as worthy of promotion: Cambridge School Certificate, Higher School Certificate, Normal Trained Certificate, officer for 10 years in a uniform unit, editor of two school magazines, pass in the Second Language, Member of the Citizens' Consultative Committee, and more than 10 years' service. This teacher has the teaching experience, extra-curricular activities, community service and seniority, yet he was not promoted! An hon. Member: No godfather! Dr Lau Teik Soon: No godfather. Further, there are many senior assistants who have similar teaching experience, administrative responsibilities, extra-curricular activities, community service and more than 10 years' service who have not been promoted. With regard to the Senior Assistants, the Member for Jurong suggested that Principals should be given allowances. Should the Minister be kind enough to consider this, I hope he would extend these allowances to Senior Assistants as well. What then is the Minister's definition of merit? In the promotion exercise, 230 teachers were promoted from Education Officer Grade 3 to Senior Education Officer Grade 3 and 71 of those promoted had 5 - 9 years confirmed service. If we were to take the example of the E.O. Ill officer with five years' service, then, it would mean that on promotion the person would have gained an increase from a consolidated salary of $600 to $1,245 i.e. more than twice or more than 16 increments over his previous pay! If the E.O.”
“There is the teacher in charge of soccer, who stands in the shade with an umbrella while the boys are scrambling all over the field chasing the ball. The teacher will look extremely foolish before the boys. He would prefer to stay away, but then, he has been assigned the task by the principal. I would suggest that for the extra-curricular activities, which are necessary for the children, teachers should be asked to volunteer to be in charge of games, societies and other activities which they know something about. At the same time, it should be obvious to teachers that in the merit system participation in extra-curricular activities is desirable for them and for their promotion prospects. Secondly, teachers have been treated not like colleagues or even adults but like school children by some officials of the Ministry of Education. For some strange reasons, these officials take delight in flaunting their academic qualifications and humiliating the less qualified teachers in front of the students. It must be obvious to all Members that having a degree does not make a person a good teacher or even a cultured person. Ministry officials should treat teachers with respect and understanding. After all, the teachers form the backbone of the Ministry. Without them, it is not possible to implement the various policies of the Ministry. Thirdly, there is the injustice and frustration caused by the recent promotion exercise. The Members for Jurong and Anson have mentioned this point, but I would like to elaborate further. 9,696 officers were shortlisted for interview: they comprised those selected by the Ministry and others whom the Principal felt were deserving officers, i.e. those who deserved to be considered for promotion. Yet only 473 officers or 4.”
“Sir, it is common knowledge to Members and the public that the morale of members of the teaching profession is at a low ebb at the moment. This can be seen in the numerous complaints that have been expressed publicly and privately by teachers. It explains also the difficulty of the Ministry to recruit officers into the teaching profession. I would urge the Minister to look seriously into the causes of this undesirable state of affairs. For a start, he may ponder on the following points. Firstly, a teacher today is not just a classroom teacher but an actor playing a variety of roles - he is a teacher, sportsman, gardener, first-aid attendant, traffic warden, cleaner, fee collector, etc. The Member for Anson also mentioned servant. The principal function of the teacher is to teach in class and if the teacher is given time to concentrate on his teaching duties, the students will obtain the best benefit. However, if the teacher is asked to take on other responsibilities not of his own free choice, then his teaching will suffer and in turn the pupils will learn less from him. Teachers are expected to participate in extra-curricular activities in schools and they should volunteer to take charge of one or two events. But I know of teachers who are compelled or under subtle pressure to take on extra-curricular activities about which they have little or no knowledge. For example, you have the teacher in charge of badminton, who does not play or even know the game. The Senior Minister of State himself is an ardent badminton player. To the teacher a single or double service is the same, and he does not know whether to stop at 11 or at 15 for a set.”