Ng Kah Ting
Singapore
“Mr Speaker, Sir, before I ask my supplementary question, may I declare, on behalf of the Member for Kebun Baru and myself, that we are both involved in the building of Montfort Secondary School and Montfort Junior School both of which are Government-aided schools. My question now, Sir, is: when will this take effect?”
“But, Sir, at the end of this debate on the Second Reading and the Bill committed to a Select Committee, I sincerely hope that all those who have the interest of Singapore at heart should come forward and make their contributions, be they critical or ways and means on how better we can improve upon this Bill.”
“But the basic foundation, I submit, and that is, the political stability-honest, efficient and an incorruptible political leadership-is paramount to the future well-being of Singapore, and that is, if we are to continue to enjoy our good standard of living, our good government and of course as an independent, sovereign entity or nation.”
“Sir, I knew that the NCMP would come out and say that-don't mix up the ISA with PPSO because basically it is the same. I say, no. Because in 1958, PAP was not in power. It was the Lim Yew Hock government. That is the difference I am trying to make. So let us not go around in this wild political rhetoric. I understand that.”
“Sir, before I make my observations, I just want to make a couple of points in reply to the Non-Constituency MP, Dr Lee. He said that in 1958 when he was asked to stand as a PAP candidate in Kallang he was afraid of the ISA. I do not think that is quite correct because in 1958, Sir, there was no ISA.”
“We should take advantage of the present political stability to provide for the future. In conclusion, Sir, let me draw an analogy. With Singapore being the No. 1 port in the world, this analogy is not inappropriate.”
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“Mr Speaker, Sir, there is one further clarification. With your indulgence, Sir, we have to debate a little more to get the correct picture. Just now the Senior Minister of State has stated that if repairs do not amount to more than 50% of the building and if it is a straightforward application, the Building Control Division would have no objection. So the onus or the responsibility falls on either the applicant or the landowner. But my question is this. If the applicant can get approval to carry out the necessary repairs in the normal way, then all these requirements are within the Building by-laws. The problem is when the repairs have to be carried out urgently, then what has the Building Control Division got to say?”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the Senior Minister of State has gone to great length to explain that there have been some modifications to simplify the applications for repairs. Whilst the application format might have been simplified, it does not necessarily mean that delays do not occur. I mentioned this case in particular to establish the point about the delay in approving such applications. All I am saying is that the Ministry or the Division concerned should look into the question of expediting such applications, that is to say, they should expeditiously approve these applications.”
“Not everybody knows where the Ministry of National Development is. Say, from Punggol they have to come down all the way to Maxwell Road. They must know which floor the relevant department is, and there are 21 floors in that building. Which department to go to, who to see, where to inquire, and how to get the application done? The Member for Bukit Panjang has made out one case, and with four Members listed down to speak on this topic, I believe the Senior Minister of State for National Development should look into the matter of drawing up a more simplified form whereby applications for minor repairs to existing buildings can be approved much sooner. In this respect, I must inform this House that sometimes it may well be that the building inspectors have been too enthusiastic in carrying out their duties and for minor infringements against the building bye-laws or failure to comply with certain regulations, for example, an application for the construction of a lean-to shed just to hang out clothes has been turned down despite requests to reconsider the retention of such structures. The reply simply reads as follows: `This matter has been duly considered and that it does not comply with the building requirements. Thus. it is regretted that the request cannot be acceded to.' This kind of reply is very general. We must understand the plight of these people. In the rural areas, as Members have pointed out, such buildings are of a temporary nature. They hold temporary permits of $12 each. So why do we not consider this factor and allow retention of such structures as well? At the same time, the Building Control Division's officials concerned should not be over-enthusiastic but be more flexible in enforcing the building requirements.”
“Sir, the hon. Member for Bukit Panjang has succinctly criticised the Building Control Division about its strict procedure for application for repairs to buildings. In the past, on numerous occasions, Members have appealed to the Minister concerned for easier means to enable such applicants to obtain the required permit to carry out minor repairs to their existing buildings. In the debate on the Budget last year I made out a case for a more simplified form of procedure so as to speed up the processing of applications, which would enable the applicants to carry out repairs earlier. I have to mention that to-date nothing much has been done to simplify applications for repairs. Therefore, I have to reiterate my point with a recent example. On the eve of the Lunar New Year a zinc roofed hut in Florence Road in my constituency was damaged by a falling coconut tree. I got a call from one of the occupants and advised her to make the necessary report not only to the police station but also to the authorities concerned. I believe that all this was done; but up to last Sunday when I visited the family, I was told that approval for repairs has still not been given. The impression I got was that it would take about one or two weeks more. Sir, just imagine a coconut tree falling on to a building and resting on it; and fortunately the occupants escaped injury; and yet they have to live in that house in this state for more than a month now. I would expect the Department concerned to be not only sympathetic in this particular case but also to help expedite the occupant's application for repairs so that work could be carried out soonest possible. May I ask: Why must she wait for so long? We have made pleas in this House to consider this point.”
“(14) That the sum to be allocated for Head w be reduced by $10 in respect of subhead CDA 8104. The sum of $409,693,410 for Head W ordered to stand part of the Main Estimates. The sum of $61,730,000 for Head W ordered to stand part of the Development Estimates. Head X -”
“Point of clarification, Sir, Earlier I have indicated to you, Sir, that I was not going to speak on the amendment, but since the Senior Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for the Environment has made reference to the point that I was going to ask him a question with regard to the possibility of the construction of a hawker centre and not a market in my constituency. I have changed my mind and wish to speak on it now. Punggol Estate has a market with a hawker centre comprising 30 cooked food stalls. I noted that this was insufficient. So I had occasion to speak to him that I intended to raise this matter, and in his reply he preempted my intention. But since he has been kind to give me that reply which I did not ask for, I would like not only to thank him but ask him or his Ministry whether a hawker centre will be built in that area should a suitable site be found in my constituency.”
“Sir, I thank the Hon. Minister for such an elaborate answer, and I beg leave to withdraw my amendment. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. The sum of $9,918,450 for Head T ordered to stand part of the Main Estimates. The sum of $70,000,000 for Head T ordered to stand part of the Development Estimates. Head U -”
“Sir, if I heard it right, the Hon Minister mentioned just now the word "retraining". I wonder if he will be more specific with the term "retraining" services provided by the BECD.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, That the sum to be allocated for Head T be reduced by $10 in respect of subhead DCA 1101. In moving this amendment, I merely wish to raise one or two points concerning the Bases Economic Conversion Division. I remember that this Division was set up because of the British withdrawal of its bases in Singapore. It is already some eight to nine years now, and I wish to seek enlightenment from the Minister for Law and the Environment as to the scope and function of this Division. 5.58 p.m. [Mr Deputy Speaker in the Chair]”
“Sir, I thank the Minister for his kind reply, and I beg leave to withdraw my amendment. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. The sum of $28,111,410 for Head S ordered to stand part of the Main Estimates The sum of $3,137,600 for Head S ordered to stand part of the Development Estimates, Head T -”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, That the sum to be allocated for Head S be reduced by $10 in respect of subhead BEJ 8101. Sir, in moving this amendment, I refer to the Memorandum which states that: `A sum of $400,000 has also been provided for the construction of a new Home for Destitute Persons to alleviate over-crowding in the existing Homes'. In FY 76 there was already such a provision and today this House is being asked to revote this provision. Sir, I wish to seek further enlightenment from the Minister as to when this Home for Destitute Persons will be built? Of course. I must hasten to add that I have no desire to have such a Home built in my constituency. I would like to ask why nothing was done last year, and as a result this apparent revote. When will this building be completed? Where will it be located, and how many persons will it accommodate in the light of the explanation given in the Memorandum?”
“(9) That the sum to be allocated for Head S be reduced by $10 in respect of subhead BED 3011.”
“Sir, I am very grateful to the Senior Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Social Affairs for his kind reply. But would he assure this House that the public assistance allowance would not be straightaway withdrawn if the Department has assisted a recipient in getting a job?”
“My good Friend, the Member for Bukit Ho Swee says that one-third of the allowance is gone. It is slightly more than one-third. After paying for public utilities, what remains for the family is hardly sufficient. I remember well, Sir, in the Addendum to the President's Speech, the Prime Minister said that we are committed to help the most needy. Surely this is one aspect where the Ministry of Social Affairs can consider. I think there should be greater flexibility in the rules and they should encourage these recipients if they are able to work to find some form of employment so that they can earn supplementary income. If greater encouragement is shown, I do not think they want to live on the bitter bread of charity.”
“Thank you, Sir,I fully share the sentiments expressed by my colleagues, the Member for Sembawang and the Member for Delta, concerning the question of public assistance allowances. The Member for Delta is correct in saying that due to the revision of this allowance, there is an increase of $400,000. The point I wish to make may be similar to the points mentioned by the two hon. Members, but I think it is necessary to repeat them if we are to get results. I must say that the Social Welfare Department should consider the requests of Members of Parliament when they are faced with problems of this nature, that is, where a recipient of public assistance has to do some odd job to supplement his income to maintain his family. There is one case in the Housing and Development Board Estate in Punggol. A certain family was receiving about $91 a month in public assistance allowance. The woman has three children but unfortunately her husband left her. So she took on some small jobs. This was discovered by the Social Welfare Department and as a result, the public assistance was withdrawn. I believe this is a bit too harsh because the small allowance could only enable this family to live, if I can term it, from hand to mouth. Taking the allowance away from her just because she is industrious enough to do some odd jobs, like helping in the stalls in order to get a few dollars more a day to maintain the family, is a harsh act. In this respect, would not the Minister for Social Affairs consider sympathetically the plight of such recipients, especially those who have to pay rentals to the Housing Board for the flats they live in? The rental for a one-room improved flat today is about $37.50. So that family has to pay, apart from public utilities 4.30 p.m.”
“Sir, may I have your permission to speak now so that I need not move my amendment (9)* as it relates to Public Assistance? * The amendment reads as follows: (9) That the sum to be allocated for Head S be reduced by $10 in respect of subhead BED 3011.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, with your permission if I may pick the point raised by the Member for Anson with regard to the shortage and recruitment of doctors in the hospitals. I would just like to make `the suggestion to the Hon. Minister for Health that in future medical students graduating from the School of Medicine should compulsorily be made to serve in the hospitals, say, for a period of five years.”
“Sir, could the Senior Minister of State for Education enlighten this House as to when such a scheme could be implemented since the feasibility studies are being carried out by his Ministry now?”
“My good Friend, the Member for Khe Bong, says it is long overdue. I think it is better late than never. Therefore, it is not a question of the haves benefitting and the have-nots losing out. Nobody loses out in this. It is a matter which enables owner-occupiers' families to continue to live in their own homes. Most of them save hard to buy their houses, say, 10, 15 or 20 years ago when the prices then were about 10 times lower than they are today. Just to illustrate, a terrace house then might cost anything between $10,000 to $15,000 depending on the locality. Today it costs about $100,000 or more. I am sure hon. Members in this House would not wish to see a family, because they have to pay estate duty as such, sell away their owner-occupied house which the owner himself or herself left behind for them. In fact, several Members have pleaded with our Hon. Finance Minister in the past to consider not to impose the estate duty on the owner-occupied house of the family concerned. In any case, this concession is well received. But I certainly hope that this will not bring about an escalation in property assessment, because this concession then becomes meaningless. In this respect, I share the view of the Member for Whampoa, who unfortunately is not around, on this. Sir, the Motion of the Hon. Finance Minister has my support. 6.52 p.m.”
“Before I conclude, Sir, I would like to refer to the tax concessions which encourage home ownership. The increase from $50,000 to $100,000 exemption limit is most welcome. Also the raising of the remission limit from $230,000 to $280,000 in respect of properties means a reduction of tax under the existing estate duty liability. Hon. Members especially of the Third Parliament are certainly grateful to our Hon. Minister for Finance for granting such a concession as this matter has at last been well considered, For the benefit of some of the new Members of Parliament, including my good Friend, the Member for Changi, this matter was raised on many occasions in this House because many of us felt that it would be too harsh to see families losing their houses because of the burden of having to pay heavy estate duties. Properties have gone up in value over the last few years. Therefore, the concession on estate duties was only given a couple of years ago, up to $50,000. Today it is now raised to $100,000.”
“On the question of Prices in page 42 under "Local farm products", it states: `Between February and September 1976, prices of pigs fell by 18% owing to excess supply, despite attempts to export more live pigs'. May I say that the prices of pigs fell by more than 18%. May I ask who made attempts to export more live pigs and to which countries? How far have those departments concerned assisted in stabilizing the price of pigs? Prices of local farm products will decline if the Finance Ministry continues to allow import of frozen and canned farm products from other countries. Therefore, it is difficult to understand the rationale behind all this. The statement that "fish prices were unusually higher at the beginning and end of the year on account of a poorer catch and during the north-east monsoon period" is understandable. What is important is the need to develop and encourage the fishing industry. Although the Changi Fisheries Training School has been closed down, it does not mean that all is lost in the fishing industry. The Jurong Fish Market caters for foreign as well as local fishing vessels. The Kangkar Fish Market in my constituency has more than a hundred otter trawlers and serves the inshore fishermen as well. No doubt they help towards the growth rate It may be negligible in terms of percentage to the growth rate but still a little goes a long way. May I suggest to the hon. Finance Minister to look into the matter of concluding bi-lateral and multi-lateral fishing arrangements with the ASEAN countries to enable fishing in the region's waters. I believe there is an abundance of fish in the seas of this region and if such arrangements are concluded, this will be another benefit to ASEAN.”
“I therefore leave my remarks on this matter to the Hon. Minister and his top officials in the Ministry to reflect on. Surely, I do not expect hon. Members to say "those responsible must be very accurate in their projections" but I must say that the differences should not be too great either. Sir, of course, I have studied the Report of the Auditor-General for the financial year 1975-76, Paper Cmd. 2 of 1977, concerning this point. For example, on page 11 of the Report, Revenue Less Than Estimated (paragraph 48) I quote: `Information received showed that the respective department concerned was not in a position either to anticipate the recurrence of actual revenue less than estimated or to adjust for more accurate budgeting for the financial year under review' Therefore, Sir, the Auditor-General's remarks on this should not only be noted but also be looked into. Sir, I would now like to touch on two aspects concerning Industrial Training and Prices covered in the Economic Survey of Singapore 1976. Under the heading "Manpower and Wages", on page 37, I appreciate that "Industrial Training was conducted mainly in institutions and on-the-job." I have had on previous occasions in the past suggested a scheme "earn-whilst-you-learn". I believe that learning on-the-job and in the institutions concerned is one good thing; but I submit that "earn-whilst-you-learn" would certainly upgrade the skills of our workers and will also encourage the younger students. Therefore, such a scheme should be implemented as soon as possible if we are to encourage both the young and skilled workers to sharpen their tools of trade and thereby better, themselves.”
“They are my good Friend, the Member for Khe Bong (formerly of Bras Basah), the Member for Alexandra and others, and I hope their appeal this time will not fall on deaf ears. However, Sir, the hon. Minister in reply to my plea for such income tax reliefs stated the need to have a broader base; but I do hope that he will enlighten this House as to what other measures he proposes to take against the untaxed to further broaden this base. In my remarks on this. I am not referring only to the specialised unit in his Ministry alone. I leave this matter open. On the other hand, Sir, whilst I compliment the Hon. Minister and his Ministry officials for the extra caution in ensuring actual expenditure incurred as a result of savings, (I think hon. Members can refer to the Financial Statement for the year 1/4/75 to 31/3/76, Paper Cmd. 1 of 1977, pages 130-317, to infer this) I would like to draw the Hon. Minister's attention to both the shortfalls and underestimated yields in revenue. On estimated and actual revenue side (in page 127, Code 311-002, on "Interest on Investments") the estimated revenue was $110 million whereas the actual revenue came to $74.91 million, resulting in a shortfall of $35.08 million. I must hasten to add, Sir, that this is, in fact, reclassified under Dividend - Other Investments, Code 312-009. Sir, the following item Code 312-001 on "Dividend-Temasek Holdings" the estimated yield was supposed to be $6 million and the actual yield was "NIL" simply because no dividend was declared. Before hon. Members rush to a conclusion on these remarks, may I point out that there are many examples of. these so-called "more than estimated". These vivid examples can be found in the same statement I referred to just now.”
“Permanent exhibition centres are of help, but I believe there is nothing better than the personal touch. The example of the Japanese aggressiveness in this respect should enable us to understand why the Japanese economic recovery has been so successful and rapid since post war. Our growth rate over the last few years has been high also. We have had growing prosperity over the last 17 1/2 years under PAP rule. But I believe we can do better if we redouble our efforts in view of the uncertainties ahead which I think nobody can accurately predict. With that, I turn to ASEAN economic cooperation. I would like to urge the Hon. Minister to consider laying greater emphasis on bi-lateral and multi-lateral trading arrangements with ASEAN countries. A good start has already begun with the Philippines and Thailand "with the across-the-board reduction of 10% of existing tariffs on all products". These bi-lateral agreements mean that Preferential Trading Arrangements would eventually, I think, bring about greater benefits to ASEAN. The other ASEAN countries are rich in natural resources whereas Singapore has the necessary infrastructure and other related services. Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, the Hon. Minister mentioned a balance of $611 million from the expected revenue yield of $3,362 million of which no less than 41% of such revenue comes from income tax. The income receipts will be $1,380 million, i.e, up 15% over FY 76, In fact, wage earners and others have helped much in this contribution. But there are others who seem to be untaxed. Several hon. Members have again raised the question of further tax incentives.”
“Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I rise to join my colleagues on the Backbench in support of the Motion moved by the Hon. Minister for Finance. Several hon. Members have no doubt contributed much to the debate. I have several things to say about the financial policy of FY 77, Let me first refer to the statement of the Minister that: `We have laid a sound foundation for sustained growth (6 - 8%) through the five basic elements of our long term development strategy', Hopefully this prediction may come true. Therefore, the EDB's efforts in attracting investment commitments of $364.2 million in 1976, comparatively speaking, is I think a bit on the low side, though I understand their difficulty. However, I hope the EDB will spare no efforts in securing and promoting investment to Singapore especially in the fields that will bring us to a higher technological level in which higher skills are required of our workers; thereby putting us on a better footing, so to speak. In this respect, I welcome the setting up of the Capital Assistance Scheme to assist in financing smaller but more technology-oriented industries. Coupled with this, I would like to see greater efforts made in export promotion. Several hon. Members have already mentioned of the need to co ordinate these efforts, and I hope the Hon. Minister will no doubt look into this. Perhaps a unit should also be set up to advise on marketing as well. Several Members have also mentioned marketing promotion for manufactured products, but they do not seem to have any follow-ups. I suggest that such a unit be set up. This unit could then map out the strategy of promoting our manufactured products and also provide amongst other things related services.”
“Sir, in the light of the Senior Minister of State's reply, can I ask him a question on the Government survey fee of $100, if I heard him right? Is it not too high a sum to levy? Could the Housing Board take up this matter with the relevant authority to reduce this fee of $100?”
“Sir, in the light of communist subversion which, as the hon. Minister has just mentioned, Singapore will continue to face, it is noted that SAF officers will be given instruction on Marxism-Leninism. Will the Hon. Minister enlighten this House - in what way will such instruction or training assist the Government in its efforts to counter this threat?”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, would the Hon. Minister for Foreign Affairs re-affirm in this House that despite the public confessions of both Mr G. Raman and Mr Leong Mun Kwai relations between Singapore and countries like Malaysia and the United Kingdom will continue to be good?”
“On a point of clarification, Sir, I did not refer to it this time.”
“If I recall correctly, the point raised was why did the PSA disapprove applications for passes or withdraw the passes issued merely on the basis of minor criminal records committed a few years ago.”
“there has been a sharp increase in the lighterage cargo from an average of 21,269 tonnes per month from January to October last year to an average of 67,483 tonnes per month from November last year to January this year. To further promote the lighterage trade and to allow for a lighterage operation at both the Eastern and Western Anchorages, the PSA is also considering providing a lighter mooring area for about 60 lighters alongside the HDB reclaimed land at Telok Aver Basin. The Member for Telok Blangah also spoke on behalf of those who were unsuccessful in their application for PSA passes for entry into the PSA. The Member for Telok Blangah may wish to take note of this. The PSA issues more than 102,000 passes to port users valid as at end of last year. In a representative survey carried out last year, out of a total number of 13,507 applications for PSA passes, 12,995 were approved outright. Upon appeal, an additional 187 were granted PSA passes. Sir, it can be seen that there is actually only a very small fraction of about 2.4% of the total applications not given passes to enter the PSA port area. The PSA has the responsibility to ensure that its premises are kept reasonably safe, and that entry is confined to those who have legitimate business with the port. The port users must generally be of acceptable character and who would not cause a nuisance to the port in one way or another The reputation of the PSA as a generally pilferage-free port with good security has to be safeguarded and, as such, the Authority cannot approve all applications without proper screening. Encik Mansor Haji Sukaimi (Kampong Kembangan): Mr Speaker, Sir, on a point of clarification.”
“This had effectively eliminated traffic congestion between 9.30 a.m. and 10.15 a.m. There was still, however, an upsurge in the volume of traffic entering the CBD between 10.15 a.m. and 10.45 a.m., but the congestion was of a reduced scale and of short duration. Observations of traffic conditions up to the end of last year indicate that there has been a gradual upward creep in the post-10.15 a.m. traffic volume in recent months. Therefore, shortening of the restricted hours now would certainly result in a further deterioration of traffic conditions and the need again for further restraint. It would be prudent, therefore, to retain the present hours of restraint, that is, from 7.30 a.m. to 10.15 a.m. The Member for Telok Blangah spoke on the lighterage trade and suggested that the breakwater at Pasir Panjang be extended to make the water there safer for lighters to operate. The PSA wants the lighterage trade to continue as it supplements the normal cargo traffic. Because of this the PSA is developing Pasir Panjang with a lighterage cargo handling and mooring area. Before completion of the breakwater, the waters at Pasir Panjang were quite choppy and not too conducive for the handling of cargo to and from lighters. Since September last year when the two arms of the breakwater costing almost $6 million were completed, lighters could safely moor and operate at Pasir Panjang. The PSA is in contact with the Singapore Lighter Owner's Association on this and other matters concerning lighterage. and they are presently satisfied with the water conditions at Pasir Panjang. In fact, since November last year. with the introduction of the reduced tariff and the completion of the breakwater at Pasir Panjang.”
“The policy of the SBS with regard to recruitment since August 1974 has been to engage women to work as bus conductors. Equal encouragement has also been given to the recruitment of women as bus drivers. As a result of this policy almost one-third of the bus conductors in the SBS now are women. The recruitment of women as bus drivers has been, unfortunately, less successful. The staffing position of bus crew in the Company as at 31st January this year is as follows. There is a total of 3,592 bus conductors and 3,737 bus drivers, Of these, 1,121 bus conductors and 34 bus drivers are women. Although the SBS has tried every means to attract women to join the Company as bus conductors, the supply is tapering off, with the result that men have to be employed again as bus conductors so as to obtain a sufficient number of conductors to pair off with the bus drivers to meet the immediate shortage. In spite of this move, the SBS is still making every effort to encourage women to be employed as bus drivers and conductors, I would now refer to the point raised by the Member for Moulmein on whether or not the objective of the Area Licensing Scheme (ALS) would still be served by terminating the hours of restriction at 9.45 a.m. instead of 10.15 a.m. Hon. Members will recall that when the ALS was introduced in June 1975 the hours of restriction were from 7.30 a.m. to 9.30 a.m. While the number of motor vehicles entering the Central Business District (CBD) was substantially reduced during those hours of restriction, traffic increased considerably after 9.30 a.m. giving rise to severe traffic congestion along the major roads on the fringe of the CBD between 9.30 a.m. and 10.00 a.m. From August 1975 the hours of restriction were extended to 10.15 a.m.”
“The SBS management is conscious of the need to provide proper facilities because they lead to an increase of moral and higher efficiency of the staff. Wherever practicable, toilets have been built and canteens provided even to the extent of building "bus canteens". that is, converting old bus bodies into canteens as a temporary measure. Improvements, unfortunately have not been as rapid as the management would want to see, for a number of reasons, among which are the unavailability of land to build these facilities, uncertainty over long-term status of the land, the temporary nature of some locations and so on. Where the long-term status of the terminal is determined and where land is available, proper terminal facilities have been developed. At the Paya Lebar International Airport, for example, a new terminal has been built and another one would soon be completed at Jurong, The SBS is now making a concerted effort to upgrade all sub-standard terminals. Since September last year. Sir, it has embarked on a terminal improvement programme. Various Government authorities, such as the Registry of Vehicles, the Public Works Department and the Housing and Development Board, are cooperating to improve and, where possible. to build proper terminals. Sir, as with all limited resources, improvements cost money and, therefore, would have to be carried Out in stages over the next three to five years. The Member for Bukit Ho Swee has suggested that more women should be employed by the SBS and trained to be bus drivers and conductors because they are not as impatient and rude as men. I agree with his observation. With the recruitment of female bus conductors, the number of complaints of rudeness from commuters has dropped and the bus conductors are now more courteous in their work.”
“Sir, I did not say that the residents are unhappy. What I said was that there should be overall planning so as to provide bus services to the residents of the new towns, because public transportation is a natural expectation of the residents. Surely, when the residents move in, bus services must naturally follow. Mr Ong Teng Cheong: Sir, the answer to the query is: there actually is. The SBS is, in fact, liaising very closely with the HDB on this matter. When a new town is opened up and people begin moving in, bus services are provided at the same time, The level of services, that is. the frequency and types of services, increases as more and more people move in. Good examples are Ang Mo Kio and Bedok New Town. Telok Blangah New Town and other new estates, including industrial estates, will have more and more services as they fill up. I have no doubt that in view of what I said earlier, quoting Confucius. the hon. Members would appreciate that it is not always possible or practicable to provide everything all at the same time. Each month, SBS adds 10 to 20 new buses to its fleet. Therefore, the fleet is increasing, but these new buses have to be allocated to the various new towns and new estates. In other words, each new town or estate will have its fair share of bus services, With regard to the request for improvement of the transport services in the rural areas, made by the Members for Bukit Panjang and for Punggol. I would like to assure them that the SBS, in its efforts to upgrade its island-wide services will not overlook the requirements of the rural areas, The Member for Paya Lebar has suggested that canteens and toilets for bus employees should be set up at bus terminals.”
“Sir, on a point of clarification if the hon. Minister of State will give way.”
“In this case. Mr Speaker, Sir, would not the Ministry of National Development look into the question of providing other social services, such as community centres, post office, and related services which cater to the needs of the residents more than just bus services only?”
“Question No 3. Sir. The Senior Minister of State for Communications (Mr Ong Teng Cheong) (for the Minister for National Development and Communications): Mr Speaker, Sir, there is no plan to set up a post office in Neighbourhood I of Bedok New Town. However, a post office will be established in the Bedok Town Centre which is adjacent to Neighbourhood I. This post office will serve the whole of Bedok New Town and will be ready in early 1978. In the meantime, there is a mobile post office providing temporary services from 9.00 am. to 12.30 p.m., Mondays to Saturdays, at the car park at Bedok Plain in Neighbourhood I.”
“Question No. 1, Sir. The Senior Minister of State for National Development (Dr Tan Eng Liang) (for the Minister for National Development and Communications): Mr Speaker, Sir, the present rental of $50 per day for the use of void decks is applicable to all residents in the housing estates and not just to those in purchased blocks. This rental is levied by the Board to cover the costs of three cleaners, a supervising mandore to clean up the space after its use, inspectors to check the condition of the space before and after its use, and the need for periodic repairs and colour washings of the areas as a result of continuous intensive use of the space. It is also to cover the electricity supply and, in the case of newer blocks. water supply from the standpipes. The rental of $50 is reasonable as compared to the rentals charged by other organisations like St. John's Ambulance. People's Association and Fraser and Neave for the use of social function halls which normally range between $100 and $160 per day, between stipulated hours for each occasion For these reasons, it is not recommended that the present rental of $50 for the use of void decks be reduced. The rate must also be applied uniformly to residents as well as non-governmental associations including the Residents' Block Committees, as any departure from this practice would give rise to complaints of unequal treatment and favouritism CONSTRUCTION OF BUS SHELTERS AT NEW UPPER CHANGI ROAD AND BEDOK WALK 2. To ask the Minister for National Development and Communications whether and when bus shelters will be constructed in front of Block 29, New Upper Changi Road and Block 11, Bedok Walk”
“Would the hon. Minister ascertain from the Singapore Sports Council as to the reasons why the plan to build a swimming pool in the areas so mentioned has been shelved?”
“Sir, the hon. Minister has missed the second part of my question.”
“Sir, would not the Minister for Finance agree with my observation that since 1973 this matter has been raised and will continue to be raised until the Finance Ministry acknowledges that here is a case in point that merits consideration. Secondly, would the Minister for Finance ascertain from the Singapore Sports Council as to the reasons why this plan to build a swimming pool to cater for the thousands of residents in the few constituencies that I have mentioned has been shelved?”
“Sir, can the hon. Minister for Culture and Science and Technology enlighten this House as to when such negotiations between the Housing and Development Board and the People's Association are expected to be completed so that work can commence as soon as possible?”
“Member for Nee Soon (I am afraid he is not here) lamented in this House last week over the plight of his constituency which constitutes about 80% of rural folks. I fully share his plea that more funds should be apportioned to meet the urgent needs of the rural constituencies. He has suggested that each rural constituency should have $100,000. I think his suggestion should be taken and be favourably considered by the Government. But as far as Punggol is concerned, let me not be too generous myself, we will go along with the norm. My question is, if the Government can spend millions of dollars to provide more recreational facilities for the public, I do not think the MPs for the rural areas are not being fair when they make requests that there should be further improvements in their rural constituencies. On this note, Sir, I give my support to the Motion so moved. 5.20 p.m.”
“Sir, I make these remarks because I have met the farmers and discussed with them their problems. I believe that as a result of my meeting, some of the Government officials might have been over-enthusiastic in the course of carrying out their duties and thus getting very poor impression, if not dislike, from the farmers. This is also true in the case of resettlement and re-housing. This point has already been made by the Member for Changi and I do not wish to elaborate on this except to say that I too have received many complaints of a similar nature. But in the case of Punggol, I have resettlement both ways. Clearance and resettlement from Punggol to Punggol and other housing estates as well as farmers relocated to Punggol. Suffice it to say that those affected are extremely bitter and dissatisfied with the manner and approach in which such policies are carried out. I am gratified to note that for the improvement of the rural areas some $20 million has been set aside for the next five years. The rural folks' needs are simple, that is, metalled kampong roads, brighter street lightings, public utilities, better drainage, bridges and jetties. These needs are basic. I am sure my good friends who represent the rural areas share my view. There is still much to be done to these areas; these folks are willing to wait and as a result have overwhelmingly demonstrated their strong support to the PAP in the last elections. For this we are all grateful. We can assure them that we shall continue to strive to do as much as possible for them even though it takes time. However, they should not be made to wait for too long. Otherwise the ground will turn from sour to bitter. I was elated when the hon.”
“Sir, more often than not, these farmers are left to set up their farms again and even have to comply with all sorts of rules and regulations of the Building Control Division and the Primary Production Department, not forgetting that the majority of the farming families are very large. Let me just give an illustration on the question of compliance with the requirements of the Planning Department or the Building Control Division. Any minor alteration to their houses, say, to have the kitchen sited outside the house requires amendment plans and which very often take time to be approved. These plans for alteration and amendment are subject to the close scrutiny of the departments I mentioned just now.. What is more peculiar and difficult to understand is the fact that the Resettlement Department wants these farmers to move in quickly to these areas and these farmers cannot put up their buildings unless they comply with all the rules and regulations laid down by the departments concerned. It is also the same with the repairs and extensions to the farm structures. Sir, it may be my duty to assist them whenever they wish; but I do not think that it is fair to these people that they should be made to see the MP just because they want to site their kitchen outside their house or make repairs to their farm structures. Already they are busy with their farming activities. May I be enlightened as to the duties of the field officers in the PPD or BCD with regard to the fact that they are supposed to assist the farmers in this respect, and in what way are they rendering assistance and advice. I would like to urge that henceforth a more humane and sympathetic approach be made when relocation of pig farmers to Jalan Kayu and Punggol is carried out in subsequent exercises.”
“Talking about transport problems, I would like to refer to the numerous so-called farmways in my constituency, They are the Lorong Buang Kok Farmways and Lorong Cheng Lim Farmways, These so-called roads have been built in Punggol because of the pig farms that have come in to the areas. I must say that these farmways are narrow, pot-holed and of laterite. The pig farmers as hon. Members will know, have been re-located from the Kranji area for environmental reasons, Good road conditions are essential to these farmers, Therefore, these farmways should have been metalled before the farmers moved in. But this is not so, and they are now asked to make requests to the Urban and Rural Services Committee for its consideration. I hope the Ministry concerned will enlighten this House as to the reasons for passing the buck to the URSC. Surely it is not too much to ask for in this respect that services like good roads and brighter street lighting be installed before the farmers move in. One cannot deny the fact that the pig farmers have cooperated and made sacrifices in the national interest to move their farms to a non-catchment area in Punggol and Jalan Kayu and to start life anew. This is not the first time that they have been moved. I have come across, in the course of my visits, some who have been moved four times. They have become bitter, Do we not treat them as pioneers in opening up new frontiers? Only minimum facilities like water and electricity supplies, inadequate drainage are provided for, whereas I was told that many facilities and services would be available to them when they move in.”
“But commonsense tells me that it is against the principles of established law, Let us assume that a lorry, travelling in front of a motor car, stops at a traffic light and then the motor car travelling behind it hits the rear of the lorry; surely to presume that the lorry driver is at fault and therefore should be penalised is too far-fetched, Is this not so? I can bring in other examples but I think have made my point clear enough. Similarly, Sir, let us assume that a motorist is driving along a road where there is an overhead bridge for pedestrians. A pedestrian instead of using the bridge suddenly dashes across the road, The motorist applies his brakes but alas, unfortunately, the pedestrian is knocked down, and subsequently dies, Is it therefore fair to suspend the driving licence of the motorist if he is charged in court for dangerous driving? I would like to believe that the legislative proposals be carefully reconsidered in the light of my observations because both drivers are being unfairly discriminated against. Would not such action be against natural justice? The Public Works Department builds roads and maintains them. Some years ago roads that were in a bad state have been repaired. But a couple of years ago, road taxes and other forms of fees (ARF) were imposed with a view to restricting the growth of the car population. According to the Ministry of Finance, this was not a revenue-raising exercise but was meant to alleviate traffic jams. I believe that millions of dollars have been collected by way of such taxes as a result, but would it not be fair to the motorists that there should be a massive campaign to further improve the conditions of the roads thereby alleviating traffic jams and reducing transport problems?”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I was speaking on the public transport system and the need to improve further the Singapore Bus Service when this debate was adjourned for a break. Sir, there should be co-ordination between the SBS and the Housing and Development Board to provide services to the various estates noting the fact that some 1 50.000 housing units will be completed by 1980. This service must be available to them. I would like to believe that the commuters should not have to wait longer than necessary to catch a bus from one point to another or to their place of work. I say this because complaints of lack of bus services in the new HDB estates have been made. The residents in these new estates rightly deserve such service. Therefore, I hope my observation on this point will not fall on deaf ears. After all, an efficient public transport system is not only a natural expectation of the residents in the HDB estates but also the public as well. Talking about public transport. I cannot but refer to the Addenda on the Ministries of Home Affairs and National Development. I fully agree with the statement of the Ministry of Home Affairs that roads must be made safer for all road users. But I cannot subscribe to the two proposals of the Ministry of Home Affairs. First, in any collision between two vehicles of different size and weight the driver of the larger vehicle will have to prove that he is not in the wrong, i.e, rebut the presumption that he was at fault. Second, in any fatal accident the driver, who is to be charged in court for dangerous driving, will immediately have his driving licence suspended until his trial is completed, I share the sentiments expressed by the hon, Member for Kallang when he made reference to these two proposals.”
“Therefore, Sir, if this approach is made, I am sure that the pupils, over the years of their education would be better equipped to continue to ensure our long-term survival. I believe the Ministry of Culture through its media of broadcasting and television can help much in this respect. Its programmes and productions must be carefully planned, selected and thought out. In short what is relevant to our national cultural evolution towards the Singapore identity should be exploited to the optimum, and not those of violence and the easy-going life-styles of the West. This certainly does us more harm than good. As pointed out by the hon. Member for Kampong Chai Chee, both Ministries should not nullify each other's actions but their actions should complement each other. The Chinese saying ( ) should not be their practice. Their actions should, therefore, be complementary in nature ( ) The next point I wish to touch on is public transportation. It is gratifying to note that there has been great improvement made in the last two years by the Singapore Bus Service. However, since the SBS will be the mainstay of Singapore's public transport system pending the introduction of the Mass Rapid Transit System, there is much still to be done to improve this system to meet the needs of the thousands of commuters from all over Singapore who must travel to their places of work, either their offices or factories.”