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 20 of 23.
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the Explanatory Note here under "Expenditure of public money" does indicate that our initial subscription to the Fund will be U.S.$62 million, but it is our commitment rather than an outright payment. Initially, only ten per cent will be paid to the World Bank and 25 per cent to the I.M.F. I quite agree with the last speaker that if the benefit we are going to get from joining the I.M.F. and the World Bank is less than having a sum of M$186 million tied up, then we should have second thoughts. But as I have indicated in my speech, this is a world-wide Organisation whose main purpose is to furnish a sort of system whereby difficulties in balances of payments between countries could be adjusted. And also it is there to see that countries which run temporarily into currency problems could be assisted. We have taken everything into consideration. Although I agree also with the hon. Member that the I.M.F. and the World Bank have been rather conservative in their approaches to loan applications from developing countries, we have made it very clear to the World Bank that if they do not streamline their methods in approving loans for developing countries, we would have second thoughts. We have considered the problem very carefully and, at this stage of our development, I say that it would be preferable that we join this Organisation and if, later on, we find that it is not moving as fast as we want to and is not of great assistance as we hope it to be, it is not too late to withdraw. 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].”
“So far as the Fund and the Bank are concerned, these subscriptions should understandably be charged expenditure so that the Fund and the Bank would not be subject to further anxiety as regards the actual payment of the subscriptions after the legislation has been passed. However, it should be noted that these subscriptions are returnable to the Singapore Government either upon the withdrawal of Singapore from the Fund and the Bank, or upon the winding-up of these Organisations. It can be seen, therefore, that the subscriptions, while not available to the Government for appropriation so long as Singapore remains a member of the two Organisations, are really different from subscriptions which one has to pay when one joins a private club or association. The subscriptions to the Fund and the Bank are a kind of deposit of the Government. It is customary, Mr Speaker, Sir, for countries applying for membership to be given six months to accept membership of the Fund and the Bank. In the case of Singapore, this period begins on 21st February, 1966, which is the date on which the Boards of Governors of the Fund and the Bank approved the terms and conditions of Singapore's membership. Subsequently, a considerable amount of administrative details had to be considered as drafting of this Bill proceeded. As a result, this Bill could not be introduced earlier. There are a number of formalities still to be carried out, such as the payment of subscriptions, the depositing of Instruments of Acceptance, and the signing of the original Articles of Agreement of the Fund and the Bank. These formalities can only be carried out after this Bill has become law. It is for these reasons that this Bill has been introduced under a Certificate of Urgency. Sir, I beg to move. Question proposed.”
“One pre-requisite of membership of the World Bank is membership of the International Monetary Fund. It is necessary, therefore, that Singapore should also be a member of the I.M.F. Membership of the I.M.F. gives Singapore some advantages. Should we encounter temporary difficulties in our balance of payments position, we can purchase the necessary gold or other currencies from the Fund with our own currency. Otherwise we would probably have to pay a premium or institute drastic measures at home which might have undesirable long-term effects. By accepting the Articles of Agreement of the I.M.F., the Singapore Government will be indicating that it will abide by acceptable practices regarding the par value of the currency of Singapore and exchange control. This will instil in other countries further confidence in Singapore. Besides, Singapore will be able to get competent and objective assessments of its own economy and advice on economic problems from both the Fund and the Bank. Singapore's subscription to the I.M.F. is U.S. $30 million of which 25 per cent is payable in gold and the remainder in local currency. Singapore's subscription to the Bank, which is a derivative of our subscription to the Fund, is fixed at U.S. $32 million. Only 10 per cent of this is required to be paid in initially; one per cent to be paid in gold or U.S. dollars, and nine per cent to be paid in local currency. In all, Singapore has to pay U.S. $7.5 million in gold, U.S. $320,000 in gold or U.S, dollars, and U.S. $25.38 million in local currency. Except for a very small fraction, the portion to be paid in local currency can be paid in the form of non-interest bearing, non-negotiable notes. The nature of the subscriptions to the Fund and the Bank deserves a closer examination.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, "That the Bill be now read a Second time." Mr Speaker, this Bill seeks to authorise the Government to become a member of the International Monetary Fund and of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development and to enable effect to be given in Singapore to the Agreements by which the Fund and the Bank were constituted. The International Monetary Fund and the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development were founded at the United Nations Monetary and Financial Conference held at Bretton Woods in June 1944. The Fund was designed to stabilise exchange rates and promote a freer system of world trade and payments by assisting member countries over temporary difficulties in their international balances of payments. The Bank was intended primarily to make available capital which could not be obtained from private sources to finance productive investments in member countries. Singapore has never had any transaction with the International Monetary Fund but has received two loans from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development - the World Bank for short, Mr Speaker. The first loan of U.S. $15 million for the Pasir Panjang Power Station, Phase I, was received in 1963, and the second loan of U.S. $6.5 million for the Johore River Water Project was received in 1965. Singapore is now an independent and sovereign nation. We must become a member of the World Bank before the Government or statutory bodies can obtain further loans. In 1965, the Port of Singapore Authority successfully negotiated with the World Bank for a loan of U.S. $15 million. This loan is for the moment held in abeyance as the agreement for it can only be signed after Singapore has been admitted to the World Bank as a member.”
“Yes, Mr Speaker. The copies are being circulated. Typed copies of the Bill distributed to hon. Members.”
“Now, Sir, I lay upon the Table a Certificate of Urgency signed by Mr President in respect of the Bretton Woods Agreements Bill. Certificate of Urgency handed in.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I have the recommendation of Mr President to introduce the Bretton Woods Agreements Bill. Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to introduce a Bill intituled, "An Act to enable Singapore to become a member of the International Monetary Fund and of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development by acceptance of the International Agreements for the establishment and operation of the Fund and the Bank." Bill read the First time. Second Reading”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the first available sitting of Parliament after the 30th of June.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I have the President's recommendation to introduce a Bill intituled "An Act for making Supplementary Provision for the Public Service for the year 1966." Bill read the First time. Second Reading”
“At the same time, the Ministry of Law and National Development will set up a Fisheries Training Centre to train fishermen in modern methods of fishing. Sir, I beg to move. 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 Ho Cheng Choon]. Bill considered in Committee; reported without amendment; read a Third time and passed. INHERITANCE (FAMILY PROVISION) BILL Order for Second Reading read. 4.38 p.m.”
“The Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for National Development (Mr Ho Cheng Choon) (for the Minister for Law and National Development): Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, "That the Bill be now read a Second time." The purpose of this Bill is to replace the existing Fisheries Ordinance which was enacted as far back as 1909, more than half a century ago. With the passage of time, the Fisheries Ordinance has become antiquated and is no longer adequate to deal with present-day problems of fishermen or to serve the purpose of developing an up-to-date and modern fishing industry in Singapore. The Fisheries Bill will rectify many shortcomings in the Fisheries Ordinance. Whereas the Fisheries Ordinance provides mainly for the control of in-shore fisheries, the Fisheries Bill provides for the regulation and control of off-shore and deep-sea fisheries. It is the Government's aim to promote off-shore and deep-sea fisheries in Singapore. The Bill will also provide, inter alia, for the distribution of fish, the use of certain areas as fishing ports or harbours, the methods of processing fish, the manning of fishing vessels, and the conditions of employment of fishing crew. It will be seen that the Bill is comprehensive and has provisions covering all important aspects relating to the fishing industry which are necessary to put it on a modern footing. To carry out effectively the provisions of this Bill and to encourage the development of the fishing industry in Singapore, a new fishing port and a central wholesale fish market are being constructed at Jurong. Both the port and market are expected to be in operation by the end of this year.”
“The earlier approvals were valid under Singapore's Financial Procedure Ordinance, 1959, but were not covered by the Financial Procedure Ordinance, 1957, of Malaysia and the intention is to regularise the position so as to put it beyond any doubt. Section 12 (5) and section 13 (2) of the Singapore Financial Procedure Ordinance, 1959, provided for warrants issued in any financial year to lapse at the close of that year. This results in unnecessary administrative inconvenience and it is felt that there is no special reason why a warrant issued should lapse at the end of the financial year. These sections have therefore been deleted. Adequate safeguards will be made in the Financial Regulations to prevent abuses. Provision for the powers to surcharge an officer for failure or negligence in carrying out his financial responsibilities to be brought within the purview of the appropriate Service Commission when a case is referred by the Minister is also provided under sections 20 to 23, as disciplinary control of public officers is involved. Less important amendments include section 7 (4) which provides for interest from investments under the terms of any Trust to be paid to the credit of such Trust Account or as the Minister may otherwise direct. Sir, I beg to move. 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. FISHERIES BILL Order for Second Reading read. 4.33 p.m.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, "That the Bill be now read a Second time." On the formation of Malaysia, the Singapore Financial Procedure Ordinance, 1959, ceased to apply and Financial Procedure Ordinance, 1957, of Malaysia became operative in Singapore. The main purpose of the Bill is to seek to re-enact the provisions of the Financial Procedure Ordinance, 1959, of Singapore with textual changes and changes of terminology taking account of Singapore's status as an independent Sovereign Republic and to provide that the Financial Procedure Ordinance, 1957, of Malaysia shall cease to apply to Singapore. The opportunity has also been taken to include amendments considered desirable in the light of experience gained since 1959. The most important variation from the Financial Procedure Ordinance, 1959, of Singapore is a new provision in section 7 (3) (d) enabling the Government to invest moneys in the securities of, or guaranteed by, any government or international financial institutions such as the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, etc. Previously investments were limited to the Sterling bloc unless authority was obtained by resolution of the Legislative Assembly (Parliament). The flexibility to invest in a wider range of securities would enable the Government to take advantage of fields of investments where returns are higher as well as maintain reserves in hard currency. In the transitional provisions under section 26, authority is sought to validate the sums of $42,522,019 and $650,000 which were approved by resolution of the Legislative Assembly in 1959 and 1960 by deeming them to have been approved by resolution of Parliament under section 9 of this Act.”
“Yes. Bill reported without amendment; read a Third time and passed. FINANCIAL PROCEDURE BILL Order for Second Reading read. 4.26 p.m.”
“The House immediately resolved itself into a Committee on the Bill. -[Mr Lim Kim San]. Bill considered in Committee. [Mr Speaker in the Chair] 4.25 p.m.”
“Section 2 of the Economic Development Board (Amendment) Bill is designed to remedy the present situation by re-defining "industrial enterprises" to give the Board powers to participate, inter alia, in tourist ventures, aircraft repairs, the working of a mine or quarry, off-shore fisheries, transportation ventures, etc. Opportunity is also taken, Sir, to incorporate other provisions which would improve the functioning of the Board. The Deputy Chairman when he acts in the capacity of Acting Chairman is given all the powers of the Chairman. Persons holding $10,000, or one-tenth of the nominal value of the issued share capital of companies which have contracts with the Economic Development Board, are made ineligible to become Board officers. Provision is also made for the establishment of a pension or provident funds scheme. The Board is empowered to appoint committees and delegate powers to such committees. The Board is given wider powers to raise loans, overdrafts and obtain credit facilities from suppliers so that it need not depend entirely on Government for loan funds. The Board is empowered to provide and maintain bungalows and scholarships to the Board's staff, compensation for the Board's staff who are injured on official duty and other arrangements which are extended by other statutory bodies to their employees. Finally, Sir, the Board is exempted from attestation formalities which are stipulated in the Registry of Deeds and the Lands Titles Ordinances. To conclude, I would say that the Economic Development Board (Amendment) Bill has been drafted on the experience of past performance and with the view to meeting the challenge ahead. Sir, I beg to move. Question put, and agreed to. Bill accordingly read a Second time and committed to a Committee of the whole House.”
“In the Jurong Industrial Estate, a total of 964 flats were allocated by December 1965, and a primary school, a post office, two commercial banks, two private clinics, five provision shops and a community centre, were opened. Major projects which have been completed more recently, include the first deep-water berth at the Jurong wharves and the railway linking the Jurong Industrial Estate to Malaya. The Economic Development Board also established the necessary machinery to help producers overcome their production and sales difficulties. Through the Industrial Research Unit, Light Industries Services, the Product and Design Centre, the Board has developed a very cordial relationship with industrialists who now look to the Board as a trusted consultant. Sir, I have only mentioned some of the more tangible results of the efforts of the Economic Development Board, but this is sufficient to show that much has been done. More remains to be done and can be done. Experience has shown that the scope of activities of the Economic Development Board is very much restricted by the existing Economic Development Board Ordinance, No. 21 of 1961. For instance, there have been various enquiries received by the Board as to whether the Board could participate in the promotion or encouragement of tourist enterprises, such as participation in hotel building projects, and other tourist attractions. There have also been enquiries as to whether the Board would participate in transportation projects, such as the provision of shipping facilities for both cargo and passengers. These and many other activities cannot be performed by the Board under the present Ordinance. This set-back has, therefore, to be remedied by suitable amendments to the existing Ordinance.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, "That the Bill be now read a Second time." Mr Speaker, Sir, I would like to spend some time reviewing the work of the Economic Development Board since its inception to the end of 1965. Largely as a result of the Board's efforts, a total of 151 pioneer certificates have been issued to 144 firms. Of these, 95 pioneer firms have gone into production and another 19 have their factories under various stages of construction. The proposed subscribed capital of all the 144 pioneer firms adds up to $266 million, more than half of which has been paid up. At full production these pioneer firms are estimated to produce some $869 million worth of goods per year and contribute some $237 million worth to our national income. The actual output of the 95 pioneer firms in production had already reached $318 million in 1965 and these firms contributed $79 million to our national income. As at the end of 1965, the pioneer firms in production employed 10,500 workers. It is estimated that when these firms reach full production, they will employ 21,650 workers. The Economic Development Board also subscribed to the capital of industries and made loans to industries. The total amount committed to 12 firms in equity participation is $122,175,000, of which more than half has been disbursed. The Board approved loans to 37 firms amounting to $58,937,000, of which $36,673,000 has been disbursed. As at December 1965, the Board has acquired, or committed to acquire, 6,618 acres of land for industrial development. Of these 6,122 acres are in Jurong and the rest distributed in eight smaller industrial estates in various parts of Singapore.”
“Bill considered in Committee; reported without amendment; read a Third time and passed. BANKRUPTCY (AMENDMENT) BILL Order for Second Reading read. 3.49 p.m.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, "That the Bill be now read a Second time." On the formation of Malaysia, Mr Speaker, Sir, the Singapore Audit Ordinance, 1959, ceased to apply and the Audit Ordinance, 1957, of Malaysia became law in Singapore. The main purpose of this Bill is to re-enact the former Audit Ordinance, 1959, of Singapore with textual changes and changes of terminology taking account of Singapore's status as an independent Sovereign Republic and to provide that the Audit Ordinance, 1957, of Malaysia shall cease to apply to Singapore. The only amendments of some substance are contained in clauses 3, 4, 6 and 9. Clauses 3 and 4 have been amplified to state more clearly the provisions for the appointment, tenure of officers, and the powers and duties of the Director of Audit. Clause 6 makes it clear that the responsibility of the Director of Audit is to ascertain that all reasonable steps have been taken to safeguard public money, and to comply with the requirements of the law. Clause 9 provides that where statements are submitted to the Director of Audit, he need not examine and report on these forthwith, and that where the Director of Audit is satisfied that the accounts of a public or statutory authority show the true state of affairs, he need not submit a report if he gives an unqualified certificate. These clauses, together with the provisions of the Financial Procedure Act, are so designed that the finances of the State will be subjected to proper accounting and auditing procedure. Sir, I beg to move. 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].”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, In page 9, lines 36 and 37, to leave out "in his absolute discretion on application or otherwise exempt" and insert ", in his absolute discretion on application or otherwise, exempt, wholly or partially and subject to such conditions as he may think fit,". Amendment agreed to. Clause 11, as amended, ordered to stand part of the Bill. Clauses 12 to 23 inclusive ordered to stand part of the Bill. Bill reported with amendments; read a Third time and passed. AIR NAVIGATION BILL Order for Second Reading read. 3.33 p.m.”
“Yes, Mr Speaker, Sir. I did mention it earlier. Amendment agreed to. Clause 9, as amended, ordered to stand part of the Bill. 3.30 p.m. Clause 10 ordered to stand part of the Bill. Clause 11 -”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, In page 9, lines 17 and 18, to leave out ", other than locally-made films,". The Chairman: I take it that the recommendation of Mr President applies to all these clauses, Mr Minister?”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, In page 5, lines 32 and 33, to leave out "other than a locally-made film"; and In page 6, line 2, to leave out ", not being a locally-made film,". Amendments agreed to. Clause 5, as amended, ordered to stand part of the Bill. Clauses 6 to 8 inclusive ordered to stand part of the Bill. Clause 9 -”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I have the President's recommendation to move the following amendments: (1) In page 2, to leave out lines 12 to 17 inclusive; (2) In page 2, to leave out line 29 to line 7 in page 3 inclusive; (3) In page 3, to leave out lines 8 to 12 inclusive. Amendments agreed to. Clause 2, as amended, ordered to stand part of the Bill. Clauses 3 and 4 ordered to stand part of the Bill. Clause 5 -”
“For example, provision is made in sub-clause (7) of clause 4 to require claims to be made in respect of any money overpaid, short-paid or erroneously refunded, within the period of one year after such payment or refund, instead of six months as is presently the requirement, as this would be administratively more satisfactory. Clauses 15 and 22 contain minor changes of phraseology and procedure for administrative convenience. In particular, paragraph (b) of clause 22 (2) now provides specific power to make rules for the imposition of penalties in case of non-compliance with the law. Clause 23 provides for the Cinematograph Film Hire Duty Act, 1965, of Malaysia to cease to apply to Singapore as from Singapore Day. Since introducing this Bill, Mr Speaker, Sir, it has been considered unnecessary to provide specifically for the exemption of locally-made films in the Bill. Accordingly, references to locally-made films will be removed by amendments in Committee stage, of which notice has been given by me on 16th April, 1966. These amendments are set out in Notice Paper No. 25, and I shall move them in Committee in due course. Sir, I beg to move. 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. [Mr Speaker in the Chair] 3.24 p.m. Clause 1 ordered to stand part of the Bill. Clause 2 -”
“This Bill is therefore identical in substance to the Malayan Timber Export Industry Board (Incorporation) Act, 1966, passed by the Malaysian Parliament in January this year. Sir, I beg to move. 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. CINEMATOGRAPH FILM HIRE DUTY BILL 3.21 p.m. Order for Second Reading read. Mr Lim Kim San: Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, "That the Bill be now read a Second time." Sir, prior to Malaysia the Cinematograph Film Hire Duty Ordinance, 1959, regulated the business of the hiring and renting of cinematograph films and provided for the imposition of film-hire duty on the renting of films and the control of charges of admission to a cinema, theatre or other places, where such films are exhibited. In June 1965, when Singapore was still part of Malaysia, this Ordinance was repealed by the Malaysian Cinematograph Film Hire Duty Act, 1965. Now that Singapore is no longer part of Malaysia but is a sovereign nation, it is necessary to re-enact the provisions of the former Ordinance, with such changes of phraseology and terminology as are necessary to accord with the independent status of the Republic. At the same time, opportunity has been taken, wherever possible, to amend the provisions of the old law, where experience and improvements so require.”
“Apart from provisions for the setting up of the Board and rules for conduct of its meetings, the Bill provides for the regulation of export of timber by the following two types of export registration certificates:- (a) An ordinary export registration certificate to be issued to a person who has exported not less than 1,500 cubic tons of timber during the preceding year and not less than 3,600 cubic tons of timber during the three years preceding the year of application; and (b) A temporary export registration certificate to be issued to a person who has been assured of a supply of, or of producing not less than, 500 cubic tons of timber. A holder of a temporary export registration certificate will have to furnish a bank guarantee for the due performance of contract between the holder and the overseas buyer. The Board is given the discretion in clause 16 to cancel, refuse to issue or renew an export registration certificate and persons aggrieved by the decision of the Board will be allowed to appeal to a Tribunal of Appeal consisting of a Chairman and two members to be appointed jointly by the President and the Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia. Part IV of the Bill provides for a levy of cesses on the exportation of timber to meet the expenses of the Board which are estimated at $160,000 per annum. But for the first year of operation, until the Board has collected sufficient funds from cesses, expenditure will be met from an overdraft of a maximum of $50,000 to be jointly guaranteed by the Governments of Singapore and Malaysia. As I have mentioned earlier, Mr Speaker, Sir, the present Bill is an example of parallel legislation. Representatives of both Governments of Singapore and Malaysia considered and agreed on a draft Bill.”
“As Singapore and the States of Malaya sell timber to the same markets and a good part of the log supplies for our sawmills come from the States of Malaya, it is clear that close co-operation between Singapore and the States of Malaya is necessary. The Timber Export Industry Board which this Bill seeks to set up is based on similar principles adopted for the Malayan Rubber Export Registration Board set up under the Rubber Shipping and Packing Control Ordinance, and the Malayan Pineapple Industry Board set up under the Pineapple Industry Ordinance. The essential features of these Boards are: (a) they are set up under parallel legislation in Singapore and in the States of Malaya; (b) each Board has a chairman who is jointly appointed by both territories, and with representatives of both Governments and the trade associations concerned as members; and (c) they have powers to regulate the trade concerned and to impose fees or cesses to provide funds for expenses of the Board. These Boards are not only good examples of economic co-operation between the two Governments but also of common effort and understanding between the Government and the industry.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, "That the Bill be now read a Second time." This Bill seeks to set up a statutory board to control and improve the timber export industry. Sawmilling is one of the oldest industries established in Singapore and at present provides employment for some 2,500 persons engaged in a total of 78 sawmills. Apart from direct employment in the sawmills, the export of timber provides a livelihood for many other persons in the timber export trade, transport industry and at the docks. In 1964, export of timber amounted to $44.3 million and was the fifth largest single export. For 1965, exports increased to $48.7 million and advanced from the fifth to the fourth position. Despite the progress shown, the timber export industry is not without its many difficulties. One of its problems is that of part-time exporters and mala fide traders who indulge in unscrupulous practices and whose only interest is in quick profits without any regard to the prestige and long-term interests of the Singapore timber industry. There were also complaints from overseas importers arising from non-fulfilment of contracts due to time lapse, delay in shipment, disputes regarding quality of timber supplied and disruption of overseas markets caused by unrealistic quotations by part-time exporters without any regard for local costs of production. The timber industry associations and the Government authorities in both Singapore and the States of Malaya recognised these common problems and a Working Party formed to consider the matter has recommended the establishment of a Pan-Malayan Timber Export Industry Board under parallel legislation in both territories to control and promote our timber export industry.”
“Now, Sir. Mr Speaker, I lay upon the Table a Certificate of Urgency signed by Mr President in respect of the Timber Export Industry Board (Incorporation) Bill. Certificate of Urgency handed in.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I have the recommendation of Mr President to introduce the Timber Export Industry Board (Incorporation) Bill. Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to introduce a Bill intituled, "An Act to establish the Timber Export Industry Board for the purpose of regulating and improving the timber export industry and to provide for matters connected therewith." Bill read the First time. Second Reading”
“These changes will prepare the way for the necessary customs controls for a period of expanding tariffs to assist industrialisation and development. Other modifications or changes are mainly procedural and not substantive. Sir, I beg to move. 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. 3.09 p.m. MALAYSIAN INFANTRY BATTALION IN SINGAPORE (Statement by Minister of Defence)”
“Where at present the Comptroller has power to withdraw the warehouses or bottling warehouses' licences, no provision exists for suspension; such powers are now provided in clauses 23 and 29. The existing law relating to exemption from licensing of premises for the sale of liquors to British Armed Forces personnel has been extended to cover all Armed Forces in Singapore in clause 13. Under the existing law, where partial exemption of Customs duties has been given, no drawback facilities can be given. Clause 31 provides for liberalisation of drawback facilities taking into account the need to foster export and manufacturing industries. Clauses have also been included to exempt from Customs duty raw materials used by bona fide export orientated local manufacturers. For control purposes, "licensed factory warehouses", with provisions for storage, release of dutiable goods and Customs inspection are provided for under clause 22 of the Bill. Clauses 39, 40 and 42 provide for increased composition sums, penalties for tax evasion, etc. so that with more duties being imposed, adequate deterrents will exist in the law. Under existing law, toddy is a Government monopoly and provision has been made in clause 33 for the supply and use of toddy as an ingredient in the manufacture of other products and for the bottling of toddy for retail sale. Less important clauses include powers for the Comptroller to prescribe places of import and export of dutiable goods by sea from time to time; and the requirements for full statements in respect of all goods imported and those intended for transhipment instead of inconvenient extracts in respect of dutiable goods. Changes have also been made in the prescribed times within which statements have to be submitted.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, "That the Bill be now read a Second time." The object of the Bill is to make such changes of terminology to the Customs Ordinance, 1960, as are required in the light of Singapore's new constitutional position on separation from Malaysia. The opportunity has also been taken to make such amendments as are considered desirable in the light of past experience and to revert to simpler administrative procedures which existed in the Customs Ordinance in Singapore prior to Malaysia. Such amendments will provide for greater flexibility and streamline administrative procedures to improve efficiency in administering the law. References to the Crown, Federal Minister and such other titles which are no longer applicable here have been removed and suitably substituted with the appropriate titles. An example of simplification of the procedure is the reversion to the pre-Malaysia practice whereby Customs Duties could be prescribed by the Minister by Order published in the Gazette and subsequently presented to the Legislature. During Malaysia for the duties to be effective they had to be confirmed by a resolution passed by Parliament. Clause 8 of the Bill extends the exemption provisions from Customs Duties to apply to taxes, fees and other charges payable under the law. Clause 10 makes provision for the refund of erroneous payments for which no provision now exists under the law. Clause 11 extends the period during which recovery may be made of moneys and empowers the Comptroller to waive such recoveries where the amounts do not exceed $5. Clause 12 provides for the method of calculation of duty in Government warehouses and other warehouses to be similar where at present different systems apply.”
“Yes, Sir. The copies are with the Clerk. Printed copies of the Bill distributed to hon. Members.”
“Now, Sir. Mr Speaker, I lay upon the Table a Certificate of Urgency signed by Mr President in respect of the Customs (Amendment) Bill. Certificate of Urgency handed in.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I have the President's recommendation to introduce the Customs (Amendment) Bill. Mr Speaker, I beg to introduce a Bill intituled "An Act to amend the Customs Ordinance, 1960 (No. 44 of 1960)". Bill read the First time. Second Reading”
“The next available sitting after 6th of March.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I have the President's recommendation for the introduction of the Cinematograph Film Hire Duty Bill. I beg to introduce a Bill intituled "An Act to regulate the business of the hiring and renting of cinematograph films and to provide for the imposition of a film-hire duty on the renting of such films and the control of charges of admission to a cinema theatre or other place where such films are exhibited and for matters incidental thereto." Bill read the First time. Second Reading”
“The next available sitting after 6th of March.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I have the President's recommendation for the introduction of the Financial Procedure Bill. I beg to introduce a Bill intituled "An Act to provide for the control and management of the public finances of Singapore, and for financial and accounting procedure, including procedure for the collection, custody and payment of the public moneys of Singapore, and the purchase, custody and disposal of public property, other than land, of Singapore and for matters connected therewith." Bill read the First time. Second Reading”
“The first available sitting after 6th of March.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I have the President's recommendation for the introduction of the Audit Bill. I beg to introduce a Bill intituled "An Act to make provision for the audit of the accounts of Singapore and of other public authorities and bodies administering public funds and for matters connected therewith." Bill read the First time. Second Reading”
“Sir, I beg to move. 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. DESTITUTE PERSONS BILL Order for Second Reading read. 3.28 p.m.”
“Under clause 14, a new provision has been made to allow a further deduction in respect of market development expenditure overseas and for increased local advertisement expenditure. Clause 18 provides for the Minister to vary the rate of initial allowance which may be given in respect of plant and machinery by Order, thus allowing for flexibility. Clause 19 introduces a special incentive allowance in respect of plant and machinery used in various manufacturing industries whereby the cost may be written off after three years. Consequent upon the full independence of Singapore, the former combined income provisions, whereby Singapore and States of Malaya residents were assessed in their places of residence irrespective of where they derived their income, are no longer appropriate and are repealed by clause 56. Certain consequential provisions are made necessary by such repeal to prevent hardship arising. Under clause 23, residents in the States of Malaya who continue carrying on business in Singapore will receive capital allowances under the Singapore Ordinance from 1966, together with the carry-forward benefit from previous years to which they were entitled under the States of Malaya legislation. Under clause 27, provision is made for assessment on a continuing basis in Singapore from 1966 of State of Malaya taxpayers deriving income in Singapore. Provision is also made under clause 28 for the carry-forward of the benefit of the loss provision where States of Malaya taxpayers continue to derive income in Singapore and have accrued losses previously agreed in the States of Malaya under the combined income provisions. In addition to these immediate relieving measures, more detailed provisions will be provided in a Double Taxation Agreement with Malaysia.”
“Under clause 14, power is to he given to the Comptroller to take possession of documents in certain circumstances where offences have been or are likely to be committed, e.g, where false books of accounts have been kept. Under clause 8, a new provision is introduced to enlarge the scope of the charging provisions, rendering liable to tax miscellaneous forms of income in respect of which no specific provision now exists. A further amendment in clause 8 limits the exemption in respect of the net annual value of an owner-occupied house to $3,000 which would provide for additional tax liability in respect of those owning expensive residences. Under clause 12, the Comptroller is to be empowered to curtail the deduction allowable where a taxpayer makes abnormal payments of salaries or wages to close relatives, e.g, wife, husband or child, which are not bona fide. As an independent Republic, double taxation arrangements will he entered into with other countries, and in clause 5 provision is to be made for the exchange of official information with the taxation authorities of other countries with which double taxation arrangements exist to prevent tax evasion. Consequent upon the separation from Malaysia, the tin profits tax provisions are to be repealed by clause 9 and such profits will be charged income tax under the relevant Malaysian legislation. Under clause 11, the liability for tax of income derived in Sabah and Sarawak is to be restored to the extent that it is remitted to Singapore. In keeping with Government's policy to encourage industrialisation and market development, certain new provisions have been introduced.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, "That the Bill he now read a Second time." The proposed amendments to the income Tax Ordinance include a number of textual changes and changes of terminology taking account of the separation of Singapore from Malaysia and the independent and sovereign status of the Republic. In particular, the jurisdiction of the Malaysian Board of Income Tax and the Comptroller-General of Inland Revenue will no longer extend to Singapore. The amendments in clause 29 will restore certain personal reliefs for individual taxpayers to pre-Malaysia levels. For instance, earned income relief is to be increased from one-tenth of the income earned to one-fifth, subject to a maximum of $1,000; the deduction from chargeable income for life insurance premiums and provident fund contributions is to be increased from $3,000 to $4,000 or one-sixth of the assessable income; married women are to he permitted again to elect to have assessment of the income tax liability on their earned income separate from their husbands; but children's allowances will be limited to a maximum of five children. On the other hand, the higher pre-Malaysia rate of tax on individuals whose chargeable income exceeds $100,000 is to be restored by clause 59 to 55 per cent. The opportunity is also taken to plug loopholes in the existing legislation to render more effective the administration of the revenue laws generally. For instance, clause 5 will make it possible for the Comptroller of Income Tax to disclose official information to the Comptroller of Property Tax where such information may be required for the purpose of property tax collection.”
“Sir, I beg to move, "That the Bill be now read a Third time." Question put, and agreed to. Bill accordingly read a Third time and passed. COMMITTEE OF SELECTION (Appointment of Members) 2.40 p.m.”
“Sir, I beg to move, "That the Bill be now read a Second time." The Main Estimates of Revenue and Expenditure for the year 1966 have been considered and approved by the House as Cmd. Paper 25 of 1965. Under Section 85 of the Constitution of Singapore, Heads of Expenditure other than statutory expenditure to be met from the Consolidated Fund have to be included in a Bill to be known as a Supply Bill. The purpose of such a Bill is to provide for the issue from the Consolidated Fund of the sums necessary to meet the expenditure and the appropriation of those sums for the purposes specified therein. The Supply Bill before Members is to give legislative approval for the issue of funds from the Consolidated Fund to meet the sums of expenditure shown in the Estimates of Expenditure for 1966. In the Schedule to the Bill are shown the various heads of expenditure and the sums that may be incurred in respect of each head. These have been approved by the House in the Estimates of Expenditure for 1966 and appear in pages 53 and 54 of Paper Cmd. 25 of 1965. Once the Supply Bill is approved, I will be empowered to issue warrants authorising expenditure up to the amount under each Head as shown in the Bill to be paid out from the Consolidated Fund. Sir, I beg to move. Question put, and agreed to. Bill accordingly read a Second time. Third Reading”