Lim Kim San
Singapore
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the Public Utilities Board's investigation shows that the residents of Pulau Ubin are unwilling to pay higher prices due to higher operating costs, thereby causing the contractor to cease operations. It was explained to the hon.”
“Sir, I understand the Member's point, but I hope he realises that six months after serving notice, the pigs will still be defecating freely which will continue to contaminate our water.”
“Sir, if anyone should get sick from coming into contact with contaminated water, I hope they will accept sympathy from the Member for Jurong. But we cannot evaluate the danger to human life in terms of dollars and cents. The farmers have known for several years now that pig-rearing will have to be phased out of the catchment areas.”
“Sir, all I can say is that we are still looking into the feasibility of siting a coal-fired station on one of the islands to reduce the pollution problem. But no definite decision has yet been made. We have several offers to do a feasibility study on it, and we are looking closely into the matter. 5.45 p.m.”
“Merit Scholar- Merit Courses ships Bursaries Medicine/ Dentistry 44 41 Engineering 28 22 Architecture/ Building/ Estate Management 6 18 Accountancy/ Business Administration 9 14 Arts/Social Science/Law 32 40 Science (includes Pharmacy) 82 102 ___ ___ 201 237 === === Sir, I believe the hon.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, air pollution is being monitored daily by the Anti- Pollution Unit, and we find that the air pollution in industrial estates and the urban areas is normally higher than in the residential or rural areas.”
The complete record
Every one of 1,111 lines we hold for Lim Kim San, in date order, each linked to its source. Free to read, in full, without an account. Page 18 of 23.
“Port of Singapore Authority The Port of Singapore Authority plans to step up its expenditure programme for 1967. It proposes to spend $43.8 million next year, as compared to the estimated expenditure of only $5.0 million this year, an eightfold increase. The main scheme under port development will be the construction of four deep-water berths at the East Lagoon which began this year. On com pletion of this scheme in 1968-69 the turn-round of ships at the Authority's wharves will be speeded up. The construction of godowns and ancillary works will also be undertaken to cope with the growth in the number of vessels and the volume of goods handled at the Authority's wharves. Public Utilities Board The Public Utilities Board proposes to spend $83 million in 1967. Under Electricity, the main project is the Jurong Power Station Phase I, the first two units of which will be commissioned during the Plan period. Preliminary work on the project has already begun. Construction work will be pursued expeditiously next year. The expansion in generating capacity is justified on two grounds: firstly, the expectation of increase in power consumption by industries, and, secondly, to meet the growth in domestic consumption due to population growth and the extension of supplies to rural areas. With the expansion of generating capacity, substantial investments are necessary to extend the network of electrical transmission and distribution lines. In fact, capital investment in the distribution network will be $31.0 million next year, which constitutes two-thirds of the total budget of the Electricity Department.”
“Another flyover will be constructed at the junction of Whitley, Thomson and the New Toa Payoh Roads. The major project under drainage and flood alleviation is the Bukit Timah Alleviation Scheme. This scheme, when completed in 1969, will remove the present serious flooding in the Bukit Timah area after heavy rain storms. In 1967, $1 million will be spent on the Bukit Timah project, which is expected to cost in all $6.8 million. Sewerage is an essential social overhead in any modern city. The expansion of sewerage facilities in Singapore needs to keep pace not only with population growth but also with urban redevelopment and the development of new housing and industrial estates. In 1967, the major schemes to be launched or continued will enable an extension to be made of sewerage facilities to Kallang Basin, Jurong and the urban redevelopment precincts. Expenditure on treatment works will also be substantial in 1967 because of the need to increase their capacity in step with the expansion of sewerage facilities. Economic Development Board The Economic Development Board proposes to spend $45 million in 1967, which is nearly 20 per cent higher than the estimated expenditure of $38.0 million this year. Industrial financing will claim $25 million of the total, while infrastructure investment for the expansion of Jurong and other industrial estates will account for the balance of $20 million. Housing and Development Board In 1967, the Housing and Development Board is expected to complete 12,000 housing units and shops. The major development will be at Toa Payoh and Kampong Tiong Bahru where it is proposed to build 10,000 units. In urban redevelopment areas, about 2,000 units of flats and shops will be completed before the end of next year.”
“The Ministry of National Development has two other large projects in hand for 1967. They are the National Sports Stadium and the Erskine Hill office building. These schemes were initiated this year and work on them will continue up to 1968 or 1969 for their completion. The National Sports Stadium will cost $18.5 million and it is proposed to reimburse the cost from the proceeds of the Singapore Sweep. As the Sweep was only launched in October this year, it may not be possible to derive sufficient funds from the Sweep to meet necessary payments in 1967. For this reason, it is proposed to vote $3 million in the Estimates for the project next year and to recover it from the Sweep in subsequent years. The Public Works Department will have a development budget of $34.8 million in 1967, which is about a third higher than the department's actual expenditure of $26 million in 1966. For roads and bridges a sum of $9.0 million will be spent, for drainage and flood alleviation $3.1 million, and for sewerage works $9.3 million. Although substantial investments have gone into the opening up of new roads, the widening and improvement of existing roads into dual carriageways, and the introduction of one-way traffic systems, the problem of traffic congestion, especially in the city, still remains. This is evident from the frequent traffic jams along main roads leading into the city. The P.W.D. has recently set up a Special Traffic Unit to study this problem, and 1967 will see the beginning of changes in road development. As part of the new scheme of things, the construction of some flyovers will begin in certain main junctions, notably the one at Woodsville Circus where Serangoon, Upper Serangoon, MacPherson and the New Toa Payoh Roads meet.”
“This Ministry has the highest share of the 1967 Development Estimates and accounts for more than 50 per cent of the total Government development expenditure for 1967. The special projects undertaken by the Housing and Development Board acting as agents of the Government, namely, the East Coast and Kallang Reclamation Schemes, Urban Redevelopment and Resettlement will cost $38 million in 1967. These are continuing schemes initiated even before 1966. They have a long gestation period. The benefits and services which the schemes will bring will only be fully realised in 5 to 10 years, or even 15 years, particularly in the case of urban redevelopment. However, they are bold and imaginative schemes worth pursuing. On completion, the East Coast and Kallang Basin Reclamation schemes will make available 2,000 acres of valuable land, most of it in the city area. The land will be available for the development of industrial and housing estates, schools, highways, commercial buildings, and holiday resorts with hotels and recreational facilities for tourists. The economic benefits in terms of income and employment generated consequent on the completion of these schemes will be substantial. Visible progress of urban redevelopment is evident when travelling along Chin Swee Road and Sumbawa Road. Vast areas in Precincts S.1 and N.l, which together comprise 225 acres, have been cleared. Earth works and the construction of flats, shops and schools have already begun. While the acquisition of land and properties and the clearance and resettlement of people are a slow process, once completed, construction work can proceed rapidly. For this reason, expenditure on urban re-development in 1967 will be $15 million, which is more than twice the amount spent this year.”
“Of the balance, $10 million is to set up a Contingency Fund for development purposes and $3 million will be a loan to the Government Officers' Co-operative Housing Society. The remaining $2.6 million will be spent on the expansion of the Customs Service. The projects envisaged in 1967 will contribute to the improvement of facilities for the control and prevention of smuggling. Ministry of Culture and Social Affairs The allocation to the Ministry of Culture and Social Affairs for 1967 is $4.3 million, which is less than its expenditure of $7.6 million in 1966. This is mainly because the major portion of television and radio facilities has been provided in 1966 or earlier. Only minor expenditure will be incurred in the Broadcasting Division in 1967 for the completion of projects. For parks and recreation facilities, 10 children's playgrounds and 2 public parks will be built in 1967, while the Changi beach resort will continue to be developed at a cost of $100,000. A new branch library will be constructed at Queenstown next year to meet the demand for more library facilities. The National Library now has a total readership of 106,300, which is more than it can cope with. The Library in Queenstown will be the first of a series of branch libraries to cater for our people. A Junior Approved School will be built in 1967 to house and rehabilitate delinquent boys under the age of 16. To cope with the rapid growth of Jurong New Town, a fire station will be constructed there. Ministry of Law and National Development The total provision for the Ministry of Law and National Development will be $88.8 million next year as compared to the expenditure of $55.3 million in 1966 - a 61 per cent increase.”
“To meet the need for skilled workers and technicians for industry, Government will build two new vocational institutes - one in Jurong for the teaching of engineering trades and the other at Queenstown for manual and applied arts. The Singapore Vocational Institute at Balestier Road will also be extended to increase its intake of students. A sum of $580,000 has been provided for the expansion of vocational education in 1967. Ministry of Health The Ministry of Health will spend $4.1 million on its development projects in 1967; this is a threefold increase over the expenditure of $1.5 million in 1966. The main project is the establishment of the institute of Medical Specialities and the Radio Therapy Isotope Centre - a joint project between the University of Singapore and the Ministry of Health. Structural works on the proposed 9-storey building will begin next year. The disposal of city refuse is becoming an acute problem. The Kolam Ayer dumping ground is no longer available for refuse disposal as it is now part of the Kallang Basin Reclamation Scheme. Of the 600 tons of refuse collected in Singapore every day, over 500 tons are from the City alone. There is an urgent need to divert city refuse to the rural dumping ground at Tampines. To do this, more garbage and ancillary vehicles will be required. A provision of $800,000 is being made for the purchase of these vehicles. In the meanwhile, detailed planning is under way to construct an incinerator at Redhill for the disposal of part of the city refuse. Ministry of Finance The total allocation to the Ministry of Finance is $100.6 million. Of this sum, $85 million represents loans to the Public Utilities Board, the Economic Development Board and the Housing and Development Board.”
“The Instrument Landing System and Visual Approach Slope Indicators will be installed to assist pilots bringing aircraft in to land especially at night and during bad weather. The parking aprons and hangar facilities will be expanded to cope with the growth of international airline traffic to Singapore. A start will also be made to extend the runway by 1,000 feet to 10,000 feet. Ministry of the Interior and Defence When the Government's policy of requiring newly recruited civil servants to undergo military training is implemented as from next year, it will be necessary to increase the number of training depots and training camps. Some of the battalion camps of our regular units are in bad shape and will need to be rebuilt. Vehicles available to the regular battalions as well as to the People's Defence Force are at present grossly inadequate. It is necessary to acquire more vehicles as well as to provide for a centre for maintenance and repair of vehicles. A capital expenditure of $12 million for 1967 has therefore been provided for the expansion of the People's Defence Force and the Police. [Mr Speaker in the Chair] 4.50p.m. Ministry of Education The Ministry of Education will have a budget of $26.5 million next year. This is 68 per cent higher than the 1966 expenditure of $15.8 million. Of the total provision, $22.5 million will be for the School Building Programme. 1967 will see the completion of Government's programme of expansion of primary school building and emphasis will shift to secondary schools. Thereafter, primary schools will be built only in newly developed housing estates such as Toa Payoh.”
“7 National Development ----- Total 151.3 ===== Statutory Authorities (1) Economic Development Board 45.0 (2) Housing and Development 75.0 Board (3) Port of Singapore Authority 43.8 (4) Public Utilities Board 83.0 (5) Singapore Telephone Board 12.9 ----- Total 259.7 ===== Total Public Sector: $411.0 million Deputy Prime Minister's Office The allocation for the D.P.M's Ministry will be $12.7 million. A large claim on the provision will be for telecommunications development. It accounts for $5.7 million of the total. The major project here is the installation of the Automatic Telephone Switching Exchange which will be in operation before the end of 1967. This will not only bring in more revenue for Singapore, but will also maintain our position as the premier international telephone switching centre in this part of the world. The Telex services for both domestic and international communications continue to grow. With the completion of the SEACOM cable next year and the growth of commercial and industrial activities in Singapore, the volume of traffic on the telex services is expected to rise substantially in 1967. For this reason $600,000 has been provided in the Estimates for the purchase of more subscribers' teleprinter 12.7 machines. The other projects of the Telecommunications Department are designed to expand radio services and to develop trunks and junctions to keep pace with the ever-increasing demand for telecommunications services. The Civil Aviation Department is expected to carry out a number of projects to improve airport facilities. $6 million has been provided for 1967. For the safety of aircraft operation the runway will be re-surfaced next year.”
“Cable & Wireless Ltd, was acquired by Government in 1966 and the revenue from the telecommunications (External) Service, and this new item of revenue is expected to yield $8.9 million. Singapore's share of Currency Profits will amount to $12 million. New Basis for Road Tax Licence fees on motor vehicles have hitherto been collected on the horsepower rating of the vehicles. This is an obsolete method of taxing motor vehicles for use on roads. It is now proposed to change this to follow international practice by prescribing fees according to the cubic centimeter cylinder capacity of the vehicle. The new Road Tax will be 10 cents per cubic centimeter. The revised fee is expected to yield an increase of $5.5 million. Care, however, has been taken to minimise the incidence of the tax on the public transport sector. This is done by reducing the seating fee of $5 per passenger per month to $3.50 for licensed taxis and $4.20 for buses. Therefore, there should be no increase in bus or taxi fares. Taking these and the normal increases in other revenue items, it is anticipated that the 1967 revenue figure will amount to $590.5 million. 1967 Public Sector Development Programme The public sector development programme for 1967 will amount to $411 million. The distribution between the Government sector and the statutory authorities will be $151.3 million and $259.7 million respectively. The allocation by the various ministries and statutory authorities is as follows: 1967 Provision Government Sector $ million (1) Deputy Prime Minister's 12.7 Office (2) Ministry of Interior and 12.3 Defence (3) Ministry of Education 26.5 (4) Ministry of Health 4.1 (5) Ministry of Finance 2.3 (6) Ministry of Culture and 4.4 Social Affairs (7) Ministry of Law and 88.”
“This is mainly due to the increase in the number of roads which leads to an increase in expenditure on their maintenance and on public street lighting. The increases I have mentioned make up a total of $47.6 million. The balance of $6 million is made up of small increases of the other heads of expenditure on account of normal expansion, such as about half a million dollar increase for the Hospital Division and $400,000 for Parks and Recreation. Revenue 1967 Revenue from most of the major taxes are expected to increase next year in the normal manner, resulting in a total collection of $590.5 million. Income Tax is expected to yield $114.0 million. Excise and Entertainment Duties are expected to yield $73.6 million. The major increases under this group are from Entertainment Duty, liquors and petroleum. Excise duties from petroleum products, locally refined, will yield aim additional $34.0 million but, as against this, it is estimated that there will be a fall from revenue on duties of imported petroleum products of about $24.8 million. This reflects the effect of our industrial policy and shows that with three refineries operating in Singapore we are now depending less and less on imported petroleum products. Normal increases are expected in tobacco duties, property tax and other revenue items. Driving licence fees are being increased from $5 to $10 per annum, and this item is expected to bring in an additional $1.8 million. During the course of the year a review has been made of miscellaneous licence fees and fees for services which have remained unchanged for periods varying from 10 to 30 years, and this is expected to yield an additional $2 million.”
“The normal expansion of our Police and Defence Forces results in a rise of estimated expenditure of the Ministry of the Interior and Defence by $4.9 million. The establishment of missions abroad in keeping with our new independent status is expected to result in a rise of $1.4 million in the expenditure of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In addition, a provision of $5 million has been included under the Ministry of Finance head of expenditure for the purpose of acquiring property abroad for our foreign missions, and $1.0 million under the Contributions and Charitable Allowances head of expenditure for contributions to international organisations. For reasons which I have mentioned, the estimates for the Telecoms Department for 1967 show an increase of $6 million, This increase was covered by supplementary estimates in 1966. The estimates for the Postal Department show a rise of $2.2 million. Of this, $1.5 million is on account of a change in book-keeping procedure to conform to Financial Regulations in respect of the mail conveyance vote. Hitherto, receipts were credited to revenue only after deduction of expenditure. This has been changed to paying in gross receipts and meeting the expenditure involved from an expenditure vote. The net result is the same as both revenue and expenditure will be increased by the same amount. The balance of $0.7 million of estimated increase in the expenditure of this Department is due mainly to the separation of the Postal Department from the Malaysian Postal Department. As a result of the separation, the Postal Department will have to set up new sections to deal with certain functions previously discharged by the headquarters at Kuala Lumpur. The head of expenditure "Public Works Recurrent" shows an increase of $1.4 million.”
“Sectoral development is likely to be: economic development $191 million; social development $79 million; public administration and defence $14 million. Ordinary Estimates 1967 The financial outlook for 1967 continues to be fair. Total revenue is estimated at $590.5 million and total expenditure at $590.2 million, including a transfer of $30 million to the Development Fund. This gives a small surplus of $0.3 million. The estimated expenditure of $590.2 million for 1967 is higher than the sum of $531.6 million expected to be spent this year by $58.6 million. Fortunately, this increase is matched by a corresponding rise in estimated revenue. The estimated revenue of $590.5 million is $53.2 million higher than the revenue of $537.3 million expected to be collected for 1966. Thus, in spite of the rather steep rise in expenditure, it is possible to have a balanced budget for next year. The highest increase in estimated expenditure is, as always, in respect of the Ministry of Education. For 1967, expenditure for Education is estimated at $143.7 million, which is $14.5 million more than the sum of $129.2 million provided for this year. The main reason for the increase is because of the expenditure on secondary schools. This is required to accommodate the large number of students taken into the primary schools during the past few years and who would now move into secondary level. The next highest rise is in respect of servicing the Public Debt. This is a statutory expenditure and shows an increase of $11.2 million. With more loans being floated with the years to finance development, the rise in this expenditure is expected to continue.”
“Review of Development Expenditure in 1966 As for development expenditure for 1966, the public sector development comprises projects undertaken directly by Government ministries and departments as well as schemes which are implemented by the various statutory authorities. The tentative public sector allocation for 1966 was $430.5 million, made up of $149.6 million proposed expenditure by Government ministries and departments, and $280.9 million to be spent by the statutory authorities. Allocation for Government ministries was subsequently increased by a supplementary estimate of $27.2 million, to make a total of $176.8 million. Based on actual performance up to date this year, it is likely that public sector expenditure for the full year will reach $284 million. Compared with actual expenditure of $250.6 million in 1965, this represents an increase of 13.3 per cent. Expenditure by Government ministries will amount to $113 million as compared with $67.2 million spent in 1965, reflecting an increase of 68.2 per cent. However, nearly $20 million of 1966 expenditure arose from payments for the SEACOM project as well as purchase of the assets of Cable & Wireless Ltd. Land reclamation and urban re-development have also shown rapid progress. Expenditure by the statutory authorities is estimated to amount to $171 million, which is about 6.6 per cent less than the $183.1 million spent in 1965. The fall in expenditure here is due mainly to a reduction in the expenditure of the Economic Development Board, largely because the major portion of the costly infrastructure development has been completed. Expenditure by the other authorities was about 10 per cent higher in 1966 compared to 1965.”
“These duties related to certain categories of spa and aerated waters, non-aerated beverages, non-alcoholic beverages, and compounds of alcoholic preparations. Import and excise duties on certain types of lubricating grease have also been removed. This is in keeping with our policy not to hinder trade, where possible. Expenditure 1966 In the course of the year, supplementary estimates totalling $7.8 million were approved as follows: (1) $6.3 million for the Telecoms Department; (2) $1.45 million for the Ministry of Labour; and (3) $43,000 for the Trade Division. Supplementary estimates of $610,000 are being sought for the Head of Expenditure "Public Works Recurrent", making total supplementary estimates of $8.4 million for the year. Provision for this Head was found to be inadequate, i.e. "Public Works Recurrent". This was on account of the large number of Government buildings which had to be renovated during the year. During the period under Malaysia, practically no maintenance was carried out on the buildings which were Federal responsibilities. This resulted in a larger than normal number of buildings requiring urgent maintenance and repairs. The other Heads of Expenditure are expected to keep within the provisions voted. With the addition of supplementary estimates of $8.4 million, total estimated expenditure for the year would now be $545 million. However, in view of savings in certain departments, actual expenditure for the year is expected to be in the region of $531.6 million, which is $5 million less than the sum of $536.6 million provided in the Estimates.”
“Revenue from customs duties on liquor will probably be $0.8 million less than anticipated, due to a fall in consumption of imported malt liquors. Revenue from imported petroleum products will be $25.5 million less than estimated, but this will be more than offset by an increase in revenue from petroleum products, locally refined, amounting to $33.2 million. Revenue from sugar is expected to be $3.1 million less, because of duty exemptions to manufacturers. Income tax collections will probably exceed the estimate by $12 million, due in part to natural growth and in part to more efficient administration. Television does not seem to have adversely affected other forms of entertainment, as entertainment duty is likely to bring in $2.1 million more than estimated. Excise duty on liquors is expected to exceed the estimate by $3.8 million, due to increased consumption of locally brewed liquor. Receipts from tobacco duty are likely to yield $2.7 million more, due to greater use of dutiable raw tobacco in local cigarette manufacture. Motor Vehicle Ad Valorem Registration Fees and Road Tax are expected to exceed the estimate by $1.6 million and $0.6 million respectively. Receipts from property tax in the city area are expected to come up to the estimate, but receipts from the rural area are expected to be $2.5 million more, reflecting the trend of greater development there. Other important increases are sales of Goods and Services from current operations, which is likely to be $0.9 million more, and an increase of $1.9 million from interest on the Republic's investments. A number of lesser import duties were re-appraised during the course of the year. They were found to be of no value or unnecessary in protecting local manufacturers and have been abolished.”
“We are giving high priority to a review and examination of existing Ordinances and administrative rules for their relevance to the development effort. We must ensure that those who respond receive full co-operation and support at all levels and sectors of the Government complex. General Review of Revenue and Expenditure in 1966 I now come to a review of revenue and expenditure in 1966. It was estimated that the budget for 1966 will yield a small balance of approximately half a million dollars. The objective was a balanced budget without having to run down reserves. I am pleased to report that from performance up to now, the position is expected to be slightly better than originally estimated and it is likely that we shall close the year with a balance of about $5.7 million. Revenue receipts for the year are likely to come out at $537.3 million. A sum of $401.3 million has been collected by the end of September. The balance of $136 million is expected to be collected in the last quarter of the year. Expenditure up to the end of September came to $354.5 million, including a sum of $23.3 million paid to the International Monetary Fund and a sum of $1 million to the World Bank, being Singapore's membership subscription to these two world bodies. Expenditure for the last three months of the year is estimated at about $177.1 million inclusive of a transfer to the Development Fund of $30 million. Total expenditure for the year should then come out at $531.6 million. With a total revenue of $537.3 million and a total expenditure of $531.6 million, the surplus will amount to $5.7 million; in other words, about $5 million better than anticipated. Revenue 1966 Total revenue for 1966 is as estimated, with short-falls from some heads compensated by increases in others.”
“Part of these areas will be marked out for development by the private sector and private investors may also redevelop other city areas on their own. Such development must, however, be sufficiently comprehensive to make full use of the land and to provide for better traffic circulation, pedestrian bays, parking and other facilities. In order to stimulate private participation in redevelopment of the city, the Government has decided that with effect from next year, the rate of property tax for properties erected in areas designated for urban redevelopment will be 12 per cent as against the present rate of 36 per cent. In addition, during the period of construction, there will be a waiver of property tax on the land for an initial period of six months, plus an additional month for every storey of the building to be erected on the property. For example, a 10-storey building will receive a waiver of 16 months of property tax on the vacant property while construction is going on. Singapore has over the last six years achieved a unique position in the provision of low-cost housing and it is hoped that the Government's plans for urban renewal with private participation will achieve equal success. Development Outlook For private industry to respond fully to the new fiscal incentives, it will be necessary for the entire Government machinery to have a forward and enlightened outlook. The administration must be infused with enthusiasm for development and be intelligently flexible to facilitate it. Experience in many countries shows that unnecessary rigidity, officiousness and delays will nullify the effects of incentives and frustrate promotional efforts. What we want are results - not red tape.”
“In order to seek continuing advancement of the technological level of our industries and to speed up the process of development, the Government will give the following encouragement: Tax on royalties, licences and technical assistance fees, and approved contributions to develop and research costs payable overseas by approved enterprises may be reduced from 40 per cent to 20 per cent, provided that such concession would not result in transfer of any tax liability to the resident countries of the recipients. Further, the Government may exempt such payments in special cases if the national interest would be thereby served. Foreign recipients who derive royalties, licences and technical assistance fees from Singapore and convert such payments into equity of the manufacturing firms operating in Singapore may be exempted from tax liability. Existing Incentives In addition to these new incentives, we have already provided for powers whereby the Government may approve on application special accelerated initial depreciation up to 100 per cent in one year and a three-year write-off for plant, equipment or machinery utilised in the manufacture or processing of goods and materials. Besides, approved manufacturers are now also entitled to double deduction on expenditure spent on advertising or market development. Investors will, of course, also continue to enjoy the benefits of pioneer tax exemption. Urban Redevelopment Incentives Members of the House are no doubt aware of our programme to renew and redevelop our city and urban areas. Clearance and demolition of the 135-acre Outram and 90-acre Crawford precincts are progressing satisfactorily.”
“The concessionary period for qualifying non-pioneer firms will be not less than 15 years. Modern industries cannot afford to stand still. They must be encouraged to expand their productive capacity in order to achieve high volume and low cost of production, thus enabling them to compete successfully in the international market. For existing industries which expand, the Government will offer the following incentives: In the case of plant expansion through the increase of funds by an approved enterprise, it will be granted tax exemption, from the date on which the newly added equipment thereof starts to operate or to render services, in respect of the income increased as a result of such expansion, on a basis similar to that applicable to pioneer industries, provided that at the time of closing of accounts for the year the expansion has resulted in a 30 per cent or more increase in its productive capacity over the appropriate existing capacity applicable prior to such plant expansion. It is appreciated by the Government that the development of many modern sophisticated industries such as petro-chemicals, pharmaceuticals, electronics and specialised branches of engineering industries incur high initial investments in research and pilot plants or in specially designed tools and equipment, which become obsolete in a comparatively short period.”
“To all industries, pioneer or non-pioneer, which are prepared to play an active role in our export-orientated programme and to make a positive contribution to this new phase of our industrial development, the Government will grant, with effect from 1st January, 1967, the necessary incentives for export and investment, for expansion as well as for encouraging rapid technological advancement. This means the incentives will apply to export profits earned in 1967, and will generally be taken into account for the year of assessment 1968. Specifically, for export and investment, the Government will grant approved enterprises the following incentives: First: Tax on interest earned by non-residents from deposits held in an external account in a bank in Singapore will be reduced from 40 per cent to 10 per cent. Second: Interest paid from Singapore sources and received by persons or enterprises overseas is generally liable to tax in Singapore. Such payments made on approved loans advanced to approved enterprises in Singapore for the purchase of capital equipment from abroad will be exempted from tax. Third: Profit on export of manufactured goods for both existing and new manufacturing industries and deep-sea fisheries, but excluding processing, will be taxed at the equivalent of one-tenth of the normal company tax rates. This concessionary rate (4 per cent) applies to all limited liability companies where the profits derived from export are at least 20 per cent of their total profits, and export sales (f.o.b.) amount to not less than $100,000 per year. Qualifying firms with pioneer status will be granted this concessionary rate for a period of not less than 10 years from the date of expiry of their pioneer status.”
“The Singapore Productivity Centre, under a Governing Council with representation of all parties concerned, will come into operation in January 1967. The Centre will be entrusted with the responsibility of launching a national movement directed to further labour-management co-operation, and to improve the operational efficiency of every enterprise in the Republic. Export and Investment Incentives I come now to the third area of action. Clearly, the success of our development training programme and the national productivity drive depends ultimately on the continuing expansion of our exports and the rapid growth of our industrial sector. To achieve both objectives in the shortest possible time, we need many more entrepreneurs, much more managerial capabilities and technical knowledge, and especially much more international marketing "know-how". We have therefore to attract the types of export industries which buy raw materials and sell their products on a world-wide basis and which can make full use of the high quality of our labour force, our geographic advantages, and efficient infrastructures. International manufacturers of this type have more or less free choice in selecting their plant location. Singapore, therefore, has to compete with other countries in all parts of the world for such enterprises. This means that our fiscal incentives must be as attractive as, if not more than, those offered by other countries.”
“The specialised training programmes help to upgrade the skill of our workers in the existing industries and, what is more important, to impart new specialised skills and knowledge to school leavers to prepare them for new and more sophisticated industries. A Metal Industry Development Centre and Prototype Production and Training Centre for machinery building, electronics, precision instruments, printing and plastic will be set up. These centres will be operated in close co-operation with industry. In addition, specialised production teams, including workers, will be sent overseas for on-the-job training. Each of such schemes will be directed towards the creation of specific factories. By building up a large reservoir of technicians and skilled workers, and by gearing training to the industrial promotion programme, we can quickly enter into a more sophisticated stage of industrial development. National Productivity Drive The second area of action lies in re-doubling our efforts towards high quality and lower production costs. This is because the international market is becoming increasingly competitive. Young industries take time to mature and yet meet fierce competition from the start. With the co-operation of the National Trades Union Congress, the Singapore Manufacturers' Association and the Singapore Employers' Federation, we jointly drew up in 1965 a Charter for Industrial Progress. It is recognised by all parties that high productivity brings better wages and working conditions, lower prices for consumers at home, and a wider market abroad and, finally, adequate investment returns, continuing expansion of production capacities, and full employment. To translate this basic policy into concrete action, practical steps have been initiated.”
“The solution to this employment problem lies in a crash programme for the development of export-orientated industries. As in the case of all countries which strive for industrial development, we have initially only a limited number of industries directed entirely towards exports. The majority of our existing industries still depend to a great extent on the domestic market. This is inevitable in the early stages of our industrial development. We must now move to a new phase of the industrial programme, namely, the development of export-orientated industries. In order to achieve early full employment and to ensure long-term economic stability and growth, we need specially to encourage manufacturers with established overseas markets and which can draw their raw material supply on a world-wide basis. After independence, we began to work in this direction. I am glad to report that we have now completed the necessary administrative arrangements for such a crash programme. This programme calls for three major areas of action. Development Training Firstly, the development of human resources remains our most valuable asset. It is only in recent years that we began to gear our educational system towards providing skills needed for an industrial society. In order to achieve rapid technological advancement and to develop to the full the potential quality of our workers, it will be necessary to organise a mass programme of training within industries for specialised skills. The Economic Development Board has already started, on a limited scale, the training of technicians and skilled workers in tool and die-making, electro-plating and heat treatment.”
“Prepared new land for industry at the Jurong Industrial Estate has gone up to 2,843 acres in September this year, as compared with some 2,443 acres at the end of 1965. The country's first flatted factory at Tanglin Halt Industrial Estate was fully occupied immediately upon completion. More will be built. Prepared sites in the Kallang Park Marine Industry Zone and the Kranji Timber Industry Estate are also in great demand. NEW FISCAL INCENTIVES The performance of the economy in 1965 and the current year shows that it is moving forward. By all criteria - external trade, domestic exports, industrial production and savings - Singapore has an expanding economy. The challenge really is whether the Singapore economy can grow fast enough to solve its fundamental problem, namely, generation of employment opportunities. During the period 1961-1965, employment opportunities increased by 57,600 jobs, or an average of 11,520 jobs a year. This fell short of the 70,000 additional jobs needed. This shortfall of 12,400 jobs, added to the number of people already unemployed at the beginning of 1961, raised the number of unemployed to 56,300 at the end of 1965. This level of unemployment constitutes 10 per cent of the total economically active population. The incidence of unemployment is therefore high. Unless we can during the coming five years reduce this spectre, then all the economic gains will be lost in the turmoil of social and political unrest. Over the next five years from 1966 to 1970, Singapore would need not only to wipe off the backlog of the existing unemployed, but also provide another 95,000 jobs for our youths, who would be leaving schools and seeking entry into the labour market. [Mr Tang See Chim in the Chair] 4.10 p.m.”
“For the industrial sector as a whole, the production of all industrial firms - pioneer and non-pioneer - in the Republic has risen by nearly 20 per cent during the past 12 months. Perhaps the most encouraging aspect of the industrial development programme is that our exports of domestic products have been increasing steadily. As noted earlier, in 1965, $345.8 million worth of domestic products were exported. This is expected to reach some $450 million this year. Another significant aspect of our programme is that we have succeeded in broadening our industrial base. There is today a wide range of industrial enterprises scattered all over the Republic which are capable of expansion. This includes the expansion of oil refineries into a petro-chemical complex, the expansion of general ship-repairing and building facilities for construction of specialised vessels, construction of a fisheries harbour as part of an integrated plan for developing a deep-sea fishing and canning industry, the production of parts and components for motor vehicles, electronics and other engineering assembly industries, the development of an integrated feedmill and vegetable oil complex around the grain silo enterprise, the expansion of caustic soda and chlorine production to p.v.c. and other chemicals, the establishment of a modern paper mill for supporting various paper products industries, the expansion of garments manufacturing to integrated textile mills, and the development of integrated timber projects to make use of waste from saw-milling and plywood factories. To provide the infrastructure for expansion, continuing efforts are being directed to developing new industrial land and factory buildings.”
“The Government will shortly introduce legislation to regulate and control the operations of finance companies in order to safeguard the interests of the public who deposit funds with them. Industrial Expansion The industrial census of 1965 shows that output by manufacturing industries increased by 16.6 per cent from $927.9 million to $1,082.1 million. Employment in these industries rose by 13.8 per cent from 41,488 to 47,217. Value added in 1965 was $319.6 million compared with $282.5 million, or a rise of 13.1 per cent. Wages also rose accordingly from $111 million in 1964 to $132 million in 1965. This is an increase of 18.9 per cent. The increase in output, value added, employment and wages is due both to establishment of new industries, as well as rising production of firms already established. Output of an established group of 882 manufacturing firms increased from $918.9 million to $1,034.6 million, or 12.6 per cent in 1965 over 1964. Industrialisation remains the backbone of our economic development. During the two years in Malaysia no Pioneer Certificates were issued in Singapore, but since August last year we have issued 58 new certificates; in addition, some 25 more projects were approved in principle. Today, there are 165 pioneer industrial firms compared with 113 in 1964. 107 of these are already in production while 33 projects are in various stages of implementation. By September 1966, the total investment of these pioneer firms in fixed assets had grown to more than $300 million from $255 million at the end of 1965. The total value of output of these firms is expected to reach $450 million this year, as against $318 million in 1965. In terms of employment, the total number of workers in pioneer firms has grown from 5,000 at the end of 1964 to 12,000 today.”
“Loans and advances of banks show the level of economic activity generated. At the end of September this year, loans and advances to customers other than banks total $995 million, or an increase of $81 million over the amount lent at the end of December 1965. Control of Finance Companies Of late, the activities of certain finance companies have given rise to some concern, and I feel that a public warning would be timely. Very simply, finance companies receive deposits from the public on payment of interest and re-lend this money to finance, usually on hire-purchase, the sale of goods like motor-cars, motor-scooters, radios, refrigerators and so on. In a sense they operate like a bank, but unlike banks the activities of finance companies are not governed by law. Recently, there has been a spate of finance companies advertising for deposits from the public offering to pay rather high rates of interest. It follows that in turn these finance companies must re-lend at even higher rates of interest in order to make a profit. To do so, some of them may be tempted to take undue risks in their lending and thereby endanger the security of the deposits made by the public. There is nothing wrong if a reputable finance company accepts deposits from the public and in turn re-lends if care is taken to ensure that the purpose for which the money is re-lent is sound and there is reasonable credit-worthiness to warrant such lending. It is only when the finance companies become reckless and accept unjustifiable risks without regard to proper and adequate securities, that the monies deposited by the public are exposed to danger.”
“Investment in property is less attractive than investment in other fields. I will outline later on the steps we are taking to make investments in properties in urban and designated areas a more attractive proposition. Transportation Industrial growth and expanding trade is shown by the increasing volume of shipping and cargo handled through our port. The number and tonnage of ships entering and leaving the port of Singapore in 1965 surpassed all previous records with an impressive figure of 21,862 vessels of 90 million net registered tons. Performance this year is likely to be even higher as there has been a rapid increase in shipping movements during the first nine months of the year. Cargo passing through the port last year totalled 21.3 million tons, or an increase of 18.2 per cent over 1964. Performance this year shows that cargo handled will reach 24 million tons in 1966. Increase in cargo handled is due to Singapore's growing importance as a centre for petroleum refining. Discharge of industrial raw materials such as bulk wheat and cement clinker is also rising rapidly, testimony to Singapore's changing industrial structure. Finance The well being of an economy can also be tested by an examination of its financial bedrock, namely, deposits in the banks and advances made by them during the year. As at the end of September this year, deposits of customers other than banks totalled $1,337.2 million. This is $115.2 million more than the amount of deposits at the end of December 1965 and $172.9 million more than deposits held at the end of September last year. Increases in bank deposits this year are therefore better than increases in previous years, which averaged $82.3 million annually between 1961 and 1965.”
“Domestic exports, excluding petroleum products in 1965, increased by $48.9 million to $345.8 million. This represents an increase of 16.4 per cent over 1964. It forms 11.5 per cent of total exports compared to 10.7 per cent in 1964. A large proportion of the increase in domestic exports comes from local industries. For instance, exports of wheat flour in 1965 showed an increase of 125 per cent over 1964. Similarly, exports of steel bars and plywood recorded increases of 140 per cent and 197 per cent respectively over the previous year. Imports of goods purely for re-export is declining in importance. In 1964 re-exports of goods imported formed 37.9 per cent of total exports. In 1965 it fell to 36.2 per cent. It is natural that with industrialisation, Singapore will either process goods it imports before re-exporting them, or use them as raw materials for the manufacture of new products, which are then exported. Retained imports will therefore increase with the years. In 1965 retained imports increased by $190.5 million to $1,809 million. But what is significant is the fact that an increasing amount of imports retained is in the form of either raw materials or capital equipment required by new industries. The growing volume of external trade has resulted in higher earnings for Singapore also. In 1965 earnings from trade was estimated at $396.2 million, or $44.5 million over earnings in 1964, which stood at $351.7 million. Building and Construction The value of buildings commenced in the first six months of this year stood at $56.5 million as against $80.7 million for the same period last year. Private development fell from $42 million in 1965 to $28 million in 1966 for the same period - a fall of $14 million.”
“5 per cent to 20 per cent rate of capital accumulation, which is considered necessary for self-sustaining growth in developing countries. External Reserves Official external reserves of the Government and statutory authorities have increased by $123.3 million this year, compared with the position in 1965. Official reserves now total $1,038 million, compared with $914.7 million in September last year. It is made up as follows:- 1966 1965 Government reserves 554.31 484.7 Statutory authorities 183.69 153.6 783.00 638.3 Add estimate of 300.00 276.4 currency reserves -------- ----- Total 1,038.00 914.7 ======== ===== Our official reserves would probably be more, depending on the amount of currency redeemed in Singapore next year. External debts stand at only $61.75 million, which is a slight increase of $2.75 million over last year. Rising External Trade The buoyancy of the economy is reflected by the rising volume of external trade. In the first nine months of this year, imports were valued at $3,017.9 million, which is an increase of 6.3 per cent over the same period in 1965. Similarly, exports expanded to $2,494.6 million, an increase of 13.3 per cent over last year. Total external trade by the third quarter of this year has therefore shown an increase of 9.36 per cent. Projected over the full year, total trade may well exceed $7,200 million. Though this would be still below the peak years of 1962 and 1963, prospects for improvement are good, bearing in mind the resumption of trade with Indonesia and establishment of direct trading relations with the Soviet Union and East European countries. An examination of the composition of Singapore's growing external trade shows even more significant and encouraging trends.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, That the House approves the financial policy of the Government for the year 1967. Mr Speaker, Sir, I am privileged to present the Second Budget of the Independent Republic of Singapore today. The first full year of our independence, 1966, has been a period of intense effort and activity. Separation of Singapore from Malaysia did not mean the loss of the common market but the loss of expectation of a common market. Our manufacturers have now overcome this psychological barrier. Industrial output and employment increased substantially. We have consolidated and strengthened our financial position. The uncertainty following separation has been dispelled. Our official external reserves are up. ECONOMIC REVIEW AND TRENDS Growth of Gross Domestic Product The economy continues to move forward. Gross domestic product in 1965 increased by $206 million to $3,017 million, representing a rate of growth of 7.3 per cent over 1964. This compares very favourably with 1964 when the rate of growth was only 2 per cent. Even more gratifying is the fact that in spite of sudden political developments in the last six years, Singapore has been able to achieve a consistently high rate of growth. The average annual rate of increase in gross domestic product during the period 1960 to 1965 is 8.5 per cent. Of great importance to the economy is the rate of gross capital formation. In 1965 gross capital formation increased by $49.1 million to $463.8 million, reflecting an increase of 11.8 per cent over 1964. It, therefore, accounts for about 15 per cent of the gross domestic product. Though creditable, this performance falls short of the 17.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I rise to move, That this House, pursuant to subsection (3) of section 5 of the Registration of Imports and Exports Ordinance (Cap. 261), resolves that the Registration of Imports and Exports (Amendment) Rules, 1966, published as Notification No. S 233 in the Gazette Supplement No. 85 of 28th October, 1966, as contained in Paper S.L. 61 of 1966, be approved. Under the existing Registration of Imports and Exports Rules, 1935, the Singapore Armed Forces, including the Police Force, are requested to declare their imports and exports. It is imperative that information concerning weapons and ammunition imported by the Singapore Armed Forces should be kept secret. The amendment to Rule 14 will exempt the Singapore Armed Forces, including the Police Force, from declaring their imports and exports. Sir, I beg to move. Question put, and agreed to. Resolved, That this House, pursuant to subsection (3) of section 5 of the Registration of Imports and Exports Ordinance (Cap. 261), resolves that the Registration of Imports and Exports (Amendment) Rules, 1966, published as Notification No. S 233 in the Gazette Supplement No. 85 of 28th October, 1966, as contained in Paper S.L. 61 of 1966, be approved. ANNUAL BUDGET STATEMENT 3.48 p.m.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I have not had the pleasure of pub-crawling. So I am not able to confirm whether what the hon. Member says is true. But our policy here is to allow freedom to people to trade. If there is any danger of moral turpitude, I think we will tackle it in some other way, rather than by restriction of bar licences. INDUSTRIAL ACCIDENTS (Safeguards) 16. Mr Teong Eng Siong asked the Minister for Labour whether he is aware that in the past 9 months there were about 6,000 accidents in industries of which 10 cases were fatal, 63 cases resulted in workers being maimed for life and 627 cases resulted in workers being temporarily incapacitated; and if he will say what steps have been, or are being, taken to minimise industrial accidents in order to safeguard the lives of workers and the livelihood of their families.”
“INTESTATE SUCCESSION BILL "to make provision for the distribution of intestate estates", presented by the Minister for Law and National Development (Mr E. W. Barker); read the First time, to be read a Second time on the next available sitting, and to be printed. TRUSTEES BILL "to consolidate and amend the law relating to trustees", presented by Mr Barker; read the First time, to be read a Second time on the next available sitting, and to be printed. PUBLIC TRUSTEE (AMENDMENT) BILL "to amend the Public Trustee Ordinance (Chapter 32 of the Revised Edition)", recommendation of President signified; presented by Mr Barker; read the First time, to be read a Second time on the next available sitting, and to be printed. CURRENCY (AMENDMENT) BILL Order for Second Reading read. 6.37 p.m.”
“ENTERTAINMENTS DUTY (AMENDMENT) BILL "to amend the Entertainments Duty Ordinance (Chapter 161 of the Revised Edition)", recommendation of President signified; presented by Mr Lim Kim San; read the First time, to be read a Second time on the next available sitting, and to be printed. GOVERNMENT CONTRACTS BILL "to provide for the making of contracts on behalf of the Government and for matters connected therewith", recommendation of President signified; presented by Mr Lim Kim San; read the First time, to be read a Second time on the next available sitting, and to be printed. INCOME TAX (AMENDMENT) BILL "to amend the Income Tax Ordinance (Chapter 166 of the Revised Edition)", recommendation of President signified; presented by Mr Lim Kim San; read the First time, to be read a Second time on the next available sitting, and to be printed. RAILWAYS (AMENDMENT) BILL "to amend the Railways Ordinance (Chapter 110 of the Revised Edition)", presented by the Minister of State for the Prime Minister's Department (Tuan Haji Yaacob Bin Mohamed) (for the Deputy Prime Minister); read the First time, to be read a Second time on the next available sitting, and to be printed. NANYANG UNIVERSITY (AMENDMENT) BILL "to amend the Nanyang University Ordinance, 1959 (No. 27 of 1959)", presented by the Minister for Education (Mr Ong Pang Boon); read the First time, to be read a Second time on the next available sitting, and to be printed. WOMEN'S CHARTER (AMENDMENT) BILL "to amend the Women's Charter, 1961 (No. 18 of 1961)", presented by the Minister for Culture and Social Affairs (Inche Othman Bin Wok); read the First time, to be read a Second time on the next available sitting, and to be printed.”
“That is exactly what I said. The Member for Bras Basah contradicts himself. He said that all the money will come from the poor. If that argument is right, then most of the money will come from the rich! [Interruption] And he says, "Well, look, it is so successful, from what we hear, the sale of tickets is more than what was expected by the Turf Club," it means that there is a need for this here, that the majority of the public are not of the same opinion as he. I think it is important for me to say that no one is under compulsion to buy these tickets. Therefore, if we want to eradicate gambling, it is not by shutting our eyes to it or wearing blinkers in order not to see that the evil exists, but through education. That is my reply to the Member for Bukit Merah. It is through education in the long run that we will be able to change the nature of our population. But until then, let us tinge our idealism with a little bit of realism and see that whatever money is spent by the people in gambling does not leave this country. Question put, and agreed to. Bill accordingly read a Second time and committed to a Committee of the whole House. The House immediately resolved itself into a Committee on the Bill. -[Mr Lim Kim San]. Bill considered in Committee; reported without amendment; read a Third time and passed. INSURANCE BILL 6.30 p.m. "to provide for the regulation of insurance business in Singapore, and for other purposes relating to or connected therewith", recommendation of President signified; presented by Mr Lim Kim San; read the First time, to be read a Second time on the next available sitting, and to be printed.”
“I see that our friend is back here! The police have not only to look out for gambling but they have also other jobs to do. But can the Member for Bras Basah tell me that it is possible to eradicate gambling? If he can say that, then we will give it a try. I think it has been found that it is not possible at all to eradicate gambling. So if we allow it to go underground, more evil consequences will follow than if we allow it in the open. I cannot understand the argument of the Member for Bras Basah and also the argument of the Member for Farrer Park that the poor will get poorer and the rich will get richer because of the sale of lottery tickets. Do they mean to say that in every instance where lottery tickets are sold, it is only the rich who strike a prize? I think the Member for Bras Basah contradicts himself when he says that the chances for the poor are less for the simple reason that they cannot afford to buy more lottery tickets than the rich. If that is so, then more of the money will come from the rich than from the poor!”
“If it was my intention to introduce, allow or encourage gambling through the back-door, I would not have made any amendment to the Ordinance at all, because I would be able to get money simply by telling the Turf Club, "All right, you run it, pay the tax and give us the profits." That would be an easier way of doing it than by coming here and seeking approval for this amendment Bill. As I said, if I can be assured that if we do not allow the Turf Club to run this sweep and the population at large would not spend their money on gambling, then I would agree that we stop gambling here entirely. But human nature is such that even if we do not allow gambling, a large amount of money will be spent on gambling - and illegal gambling at that - which will encourage gangsterism, protection rackets and all sorts of crimes.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I feel very uplifted listening to the Back-benchers and realise that they still have a lot of idealism left in them. But I would like to congratulate the Member for Bukit Merah who has idealism tinged with realism. And I would like to inform my friend, the Member for Bras Basah, who happens to be missing here, that in my trip through Bulgaria recently -it is a very socialist country - I found that they run sweepstakes every week. That is a very strong socialist country, but they have learnt that idealism must he tinged with realism. And I hear from my colleague, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, that in his trip to Russia and several other Central European socialist countries, they too run their own lotteries. I agree that we should not encourage betting or gambling if Members who object to it can assure me that even without allowing betting or gambling under control in Singapore, our people would not gamble at all and that the 20,000 or 30,000 housewives would not feel sorry or would not buy tickets from across the Causeway. To reply to the Member's criticism that we are afraid to have a public debate on the pros and cons of allowing lotteries to be run in Singapore, I think my colleague has answered in some measure the reasons why the amendment Bill to the Betting and Sweepstake Duties Ordinance is introduced on a Certificate of Urgency. I resent very much the accusation of the Member for Farrer Park who feels that we are introducing gambling through the backdoor by bringing about an amendment Bill to the Betting and Sweepstake Duties Ordinance.”
“Point of order, Mr Speaker, Sir. This is not a Social Welfare Lottery Bill. Mr Speaker: I think it is purely a question of force of habit on the part of Mr Ho.”
“On a point of order, Sir. This is not a welfare lottery. This is a Singapore Sweep.”
“In view of constitutional changes, the opportunity is also taken in clause 3 (a) to delete the reference to "the Colony" in section 3 of the Ordinance and substitute it by the word "Singapore", whilst clause 3 (b) provides for the transfer of the power to grant extensions of time for the payment of duty - an act of an administrative nature - to the Commissioner of Stamps. Finally, clause 4 of the Bill makes unpaid duty a debt due to the Government of the Republic of Singapore in conformity with the other duties collected under the provisions of other revenue laws in the Republic. Sir, I beg to move. Question proposed. 5.36 p.m.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, "That the Bill be now read a Second time." Sir, the Betting and Sweepstake Duties Ordinance, as it stands now, does not provide discretionary powers to exempt any sweepstake from duty. This was appropriate when all sweepstakes were organised for the direct benefit of racing clubs or associations. But where a sweepstake is organised for the purpose of raising much needed money for approved public welfare projects of one kind or another, the old provisions are obsolete and it becomes necessary to provide discretionary powers to enable sweepstakes to be exempted from duty so that the proceeds may be applied directly to the approved objects of the Sweep. In this regard, Mr Speaker, Sir, I may say that owing to the increasing demand for funds to finance welfare and other charitable organisations in the State, the possibilities of a Public Welfare Lottery were explored as long ago as November 1965. The growing needs of voluntary welfare bodies in Singapore were stressed by the Singapore Council of Social Service in a letter to the Minister for Social Affairs dated April 6, 1966, which expressed support for any move to set up a Public Welfare Lottery. Subsequently, it was agreed that the Singapore Turf Club may run a Singapore Sweep in place of one of the Club's usual unlimited sweeps. Arrangements are under consideration to ensure that all funds will be utilised for public projects, such as a national stadium or for welfare purposes, and the exemption now provided by way of clause 2 of this Bill will enable this to be done. But powers are provided for the Minister not only to exercise discretion but also to impose such conditions as may be deemed fit to ensure that exemptions are applied in respect of the proper purposes only.”
“Yes, Sir. Copies are with the Clerk. Printed copies of the Bill distributed to hon. Members.”
“Now, Sir. I lay upon the Table a Certificate of Urgency signed by the President in respect of this Bill. Certificate of Urgency handed in.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I have the President's recommendation to introduce the Betting and Sweepstake Duties (Amendment) Bill. I beg to introduce a Bill intituled "An Act to amend the Betting and Sweepstake Duties Ordinance (Chapter 158 of the Revised Edition)." Bill read the First time. Second Reading”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move that Parliament doth agree with the Committee on the said resolutions. Question put, and agreed to. Resolutions accordingly agreed to.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to report that the Committee of Supply have come to certain resolutions. Resolutions reported - "That the sum of $36,707.05 shall be supplied to the Government under the heads of expenditure for the public services shown in the Statement of Excess for 1963 contained in Paper Cmd. 23 of 1964, as amended by Paper Cmd. 13 of 1966." "That the sum of $27,211,462 shall be supplied to the Government under the heads of expenditure for the public services shown in the First Supplementary Development Estimates of Expenditure for 1966 contained in Paper Cmd. 24 of 1966."”
“Quite agreed. The need is greater. But do we ignore entirely the other sectors and let them run derelict? Is that our idea of development? If these Members look at the Budget, they will notice that quite a large proportion of our expenditure is spent on social services and on the infrastructure of economic development - all with the purpose of uplifting the standard of living of our people. It is also our duty to see that the other sectors are not left derelict, that their standard of living, their standard of cleanliness and their standard of aesthetic beauty are not brought down to those of the poorer sectors. I think that must be kept in mind before they make up their minds about voting on this supplementary estimate.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I quite understand the anxiety of certain Members of this House. Being members of a socialist party, they are a bit worried that there has been money spent on what they consider to be the richer sector of the community. But I would like to ask them to consider whether it is in the interest of the country as a whole if we are to stop developing the other sectors and keep on concentrating on bringing the poorer sectors up and letting the other sectors just -”