Phua Bah Lee
Singapore
“The Attorney-General is in the process of drafting such a law. He has thus far prepared only a very preliminary draft which needs considerable revision and improvements. SHORTAGE OF TEACHERS 2. Mr Chiam See Tong asked the Minister for Education whether there is a shortage of teachers and, if so, how serious is the problem.”
“The Defence budget, therefore, is one that should be treated with utmost sensitivity and sensibility. But I must caution that any future cut in Defence spending may be detrimental to our maintenance of a credible defence force. Mr Speaker, Sir, I will now speak on rapport.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, when applications for deferment or for part-time service are received at the Central Manpower Base, they are examined to see what grounds have been given.”
“Sir, that is not true. MULTI-STOREY FLATS (Provision of letter-boxes on ground floor) 4. Mr P. Govindaswamy asked the Minister for Communications if he will take steps to require that private letter-boxes are provided on the ground floor-for each flat in multi-storeyed private and Housing and Development Board flats.”
“Sir, at the moment there are five Housing Board estates having such letter-boxes, namely, St. Michael's Road Estate, Selegie House Estate, Bukit Ho Swee Estate, Toa Payoh Estate and Queenstown Neighbour 6. TOA PAYOH (Provision of more posting facilities) 5.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, it is impossible for me to add to that answer. COMMUNITY CENTRE IN GEYLANG SERAI 8. Inche Rahmat Bin Kenap asked the Minister for Defence whether there is any provision for the construction of one or more community centres in the Geylang Serai Constituency and when construction will commence.”
The complete record
Every one of 45 lines we hold for Phua Bah Lee, in date order, each linked to its source. Free to read, in full, without an account.
“The Attorney-General is in the process of drafting such a law. He has thus far prepared only a very preliminary draft which needs considerable revision and improvements. SHORTAGE OF TEACHERS 2. Mr Chiam See Tong asked the Minister for Education whether there is a shortage of teachers and, if so, how serious is the problem.”
“Although it is arguable theoretically that a better working environment would contribute to higher productivity, the enormous sums incurred in this so-called development could be disproportionate to the added productivity. A luxurious environment can enhance the image of a Ministry but it may not necessarily improve its efficiency or effectiveness. And if we are to accept that this is in keeping with progress and development and that new buildings and complexes housing Ministries would naturally improve their efficiency and productivity with time, the recurrent operating and maintenance costs may be unjustifiably high. I am not suggesting that our civil servants should work in a spartan environment, devoid of modern conveniences and comfort. Far from it. The issue, however, is how to strike a correct balance between what is functional and tasteful and what is lavish and extravagant. In my view, the trend today seems to be towards the latter. Also, I wish to point out that certain Ministries have been or are being relocated to outlying areas, far from where they were or from their original sites. Some of these Ministries have extensive dealings with the public. Would not such relocations, therefore, inconvenience the public? Let us be concerned with the practical and important issues of the Ministries, measures to increase efficiency and productivity and steps to serve the public more professionally. For with every dollar we incur to improve the facade of a Ministry, the taxpayer may ask: is there such a need? 4.18 pm”
“In the long run - and I emphasize this - no matter how good or successful the Government is, the future of Singapore is in the hands of the people it governs. The second generation leaders have done extremely well in governing our country. The quick turnaround of the economy resulting from effective cost-cutting and fiscal measures is an illuminating example of the kind of astute and capable leadership that they display. There is no secret ingredient or hidden formula responsible for the success of a government. The most important mission for those chosen to lead is to develop a healthy and trustworthy relationship with the people; to create a feeling within the country that both the leaders and the people share the same fate. Unless we think like one and live together as one, the continued prosperity and growth of our country cannot be ensured. Mr Speaker, Sir, the swift and decisive action of the Government turned the economy around. With the various cost-cutting and fiscal measures recommended by the Economic Committee, the recession was checked. In fact, the economy grew by 1.9%. For this, we have the Government and the people to thank for. Amongst the cost-cutting measures is the directive to all Government Ministries and statutory boards to reduce manpower by 10% by the year 1990. While we try hard to trim manpower costs, development expenditure seems to be increasing. I am wondering whether the relocation of certain whole ministries and statutory boards in new buildings or complexes could have contributed to the increase in development expenditure. The concern is whether we really need such posh buildings with expensive furnishings to carry out the various functions of our Ministries.”
“Thus with the majority support from our people, the chances of a successful implementation of public policies are assured. Examples of how the Government solicits public views can be found in the setting up of the Feedback Unit, the walkabouts by Ministers and Members of Parliament, the Town Councils and, lately, the introduction of Government Parliamentary Committees. The Government's objective is clear: to give the people a part to play in shaping public policies. The Government's intention is truthful and its efforts to reach out to the people are sincere. Regrettably, however, we continue to hear criticisms of the Government and its actions. Some people remark that Government policies have been high-handed and devoid of any feeling. Such perceptions could be due to a failure to fully understand the rationale behind the policies which are for the ultimate benefit of Singapore. We accept that there must be the disgruntled few but their contrary selfish attitudes must not be allowed to undermine the well-being of our country. Our people should realize that they and the Government share the common destiny of creating a progressive and a prospering society. If they are quick to criticize and impatient to understand, then it does not augur well for our future. It would also be pertinent for our people to know that while the Government is making every effort to get them involved in running our country, as evidenced by the approach to formulating the National Agenda, they should be realistic enough to accept that not all feedback or inputs are practical or suitable for adoption. They would then think that they have not been heard. That, I am afraid, would be most unfortunate. However, this is the risk we have to take when adopting the consultative style of government.”
“For the coming National Day Parade, it will have to be an even better one. This is natural since the people would certainly expect improvements over last year's Parade. It would be a let down if we fail to deliver better performance this year. For the $1.14 million allocated for this year's National Day Parade, an increase of $0.71 million over last year's, the amount will not be used exclusively by Mindef. It will be shared by the various organizations participating in the National Day Parade celebrations. It is for the administrative purpose of reflecting the total allocation for National Day Parade that the Ministry of Finance had decided to place the vote under the co-ordinating Ministry, in this case, Mindef. Our people should be able to look forward to a better show this year as it coincides with our 20 years of National Service. We are now going through a transitional period: the paternalistic style of government is slowly giving way to a consultative one. The former style was suitable for my generation. It was instrumental in bringing about Singapore's present prosperity and progress. But it is no longer deemed appropriate for the present generation. The government now comprising mainly of second generation leaders has, over time, evolved the new consultative style. It has adopted a consensus approach whereby feedback from the people is actively sought in formulating national policies. Perhaps, this is as it should be since the present generation are better educated, more outspoken and want to contribute their views. This new consultative approach is not a public relations exercise. It is genuine, bold and daring. Issues are floated around to seek public views. Inputs are then analyzed, adopted and incorporated before they are implemented.”
“Consequently, there will be increases in expenditure on items like maintenance, spares and fuel. Expenditure will also be incurred to improve our system thus ensuring that our people can be effectively mobilized to meet any national crisis. Their readiness is tested during our regular mobilization exercises conducted openly or silently. These tests are necessary because we do not want to leave anything to chance. I must, however, hasten to caution that though we are spending more on defence, we are not preparing for war. On the contrary, we are only trying to secure peace so that we can continue to build up our economy and social structure for the betterment of our people. In fact, Singapore is too small to be a threat to anyone in this region or anywhere else. Nevertheless, we would not like to be caught unprepared or ill-prepared when confronted with the eventuality of having to defend ourselves. As Sun Tzu once said: '... rely not on the likelihood of the enemy not coming, but on our own readiness to receive him, not on the chance of his not attacking, but rather on the fact that we have made our position unassailable'. Mr Speaker, Sir, last year, Mindef organized a very impressive National Day Parade. It was one of the best National Day Parades the people have ever seen. There was much colour and fanfare. More important, there was active participation by the spectators which contributed substantially to the enjoyment of the occasion. The Parade would not have been so successful without the concerted effort and support of the various civic organizations. Within the constraints of time, they were able to put up wonderful displays and imaginative performances. Mindef, by comparison, was but the co-ordinating body of these marvellous contributions.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I wish to thank the Finance Minister for the realistic budget he has allocated to the Ministry of Defence. This budget of $2,354 million, which is about 6% of our Gross Domestic Product, is 5% higher than last year's allocation of $2,239 million. The increase is reflected in two key components: a 4.5% increase in recurrent expenditure and a 12.5% increase in development expenditure. I wish to assure the House that Mindef will stretch every dollar to its maximum as we have always done and will continue to do so. Our focus on defence is based on the belief that our national security rests on our capability to defend ourselves. It is founded on the fact that our people, regardless of their race, creed or culture, share one common mission and one common will to make Singapore succeed. To ensure the long-term security of Singapore, Mindef must continue with its efforts to develop an operationally-ready army, navy and air force. Daily we read, listen and are aware of the happenings around us. We see that internationally, relations among countries have taken on a turbulent and different dimension. We continually hear reports of wars between nations, battles within countries, border skirmishes, hostage crisis and terrorism. These international uproars have become more complicated and long-drawn. They have become threats to world peace. Faced with such a fluid situation, it is prudent that we view our national security with deeper interest. Therefore, we should spend wisely to heighten the level of operational readiness of the SAF. This expenditure will be incurred to upgrade the technology, weapons and training of our men. We will be constructing new facilities, and putting new equipment such as vehicles and aircraft into service.”
“I have no doubts that every assistance will be given to the SCDF to find a new home.”
“What is important is that the Singapore Civil Defence Force should continue to motivate and upgrade these reservists, and to put greater meaning to their sense of mission and of commitment in discharging their sacred duties. It is only when we can continue to provide a sense of purpose for our SAF reservists, can we amply justify the transfer of such precious manpower to the Singapore Civil Defence Force. They are particularly precious because not only are they a specially trained force but that Singapore will face a manpower shortage in the years to come owing to zero population growth. So far, from the way Singapore Civil Defence Force has managed its functions and responsibilities, as evidenced by the Hotel New World disaster, and the infusion of the civilian population into the various civil defence activities at the constituency levels, it is clear that the SCDF has evolved into a very important and capable force. Also, with more than 22,000 members of the public volunteering their services in the Singapore Civil Defence Force, it is a good sign of the support the SCDF is receiving. In view of this, I have no doubt that the Singapore Civil Defence Force will find new meaningful roles for the SAF reservists to play in order for them to discharge their duties. As the Singapore Civil Defence Force continues to develop its infrastructure, training, equipment and organization, it must not forget a basic need. It needs a proper home. The present Singapore Civil Defence Force HQ at Bendeemer Road may no longer fit the image that it now has. The HQ needs to be upgraded or even redeveloped in order to keep pace with its new mission. The present structure is no longer consistent with its enhanced responsibilities and expanded functions.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, with the passing of the Civil Defence Bill, the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) takes on a new dimension. It is now better equipped to handle human and physical resources in the Civil Defence preparations of Singapore. Shortly, 34,000 SAF reservists will be transferred to the Singapore Civil Defence Force. These SAF reservists are well-trained soldiers. They are operationally ready. They are matured, experienced, physically fit and knowledgeable. They have discharged their duties reliably and diligently over the years in their military capacity. They have been trained to engage the enemy in times of crises. To them, I would like to record a word of thanks for their sacrifice and dedication. Their role in the SAF was in military defence. With their transfer to the Singapore Civil Defence Force, they perform a different role, but their mission remains the same. Their wealth of knowledge in military defence will enable them to adopt their civil defence role with great ease and facility. They will be equipped to perform their civil defence duties. They will be trained in skills related to fire-fighting, first aid, rescue operation, coping with oil spills, flood, storm and other disasters. Though the two roles are different, both are a sacred mission in the total defence of the country. Their new role is neither less laudable nor less superior. The SAF reservists deserve the full support of the nation and the people. When these 34,000 SAF reservists are transferred to the Singapore Civil Defence Force, I hope that the SCDF will make good use of their experience, maturity and dedication that the SAF had imbued in them. After all, the SAF and the Singapore Civil Defence Force are both organized and disciplined forces.”
“But it must be pointed out that policies are always debated thoroughly amongst the civil servants. During such sessions, we get all kinds of opinions and feedback. We get people who speak up forcefully, convincingly and even apprehensively. However, for the system to function, the civil servants must be team players. Once decisions are made, we would want them to carry out the policies, not undermine them. Those of us who have had a chance to travel overseas should realize how lucky we are to have such an effective and efficient civil service. We know there are some countries overwhelmed by inefficiency and corruption. I am very proud of our civil service. Naturally, there is always room for improvement for the civil service. It should move with time, adapt quickly to the changing scenario, resolve problems well, reduce red- tape and so on. This, they are doing quickly and surely. Mr Speaker, Sir, let us not be quick to criticize. Organizations err because human beings err. But how fast we can admit our mistakes and how quickly we can put them right makes the difference. It is this that makes or breaks a set-up. It is this that shows the character of an organization. Let us pick on what our civil servants have done for us and not what they have not done. Mr Speaker, Sir, I support the financial policy of the Government. 2.40 pm”
“We must see them as professionals, persons who need our support to do a better job. After all, what they do would be for the general good. While we want them to feel deeply and be willing to act compassionately, yet we do not feel the same for them. We want them to be impartial when implementing policies. At the same time, we want them to exercise flexibility. Put plainly, the civil servant's job is not a bed of roses. In helping the Government to formulate public policies, they are walking a tight rope, balancing delicately to meet the needs of our people on one hand and the national goals, on the other. This, I assure you, is no easy task. They have to consider the objectives and the need for public policies to be introduced. They must bear in mind what most people want out of life, where and under what conditions their desires can best be fulfilled. They have to suggest the right time to introduce the policies. On top of that, they have to pre-empt the mood and reaction of the people towards the policies. Once implemented, the whole machinery is put in motion to support the policies. They have to be monitored, re-evaluated and implemented again. Sometimes, just as a policy is being implemented, events have overtaken it, rendering the policy irrelevant. The tasks the civil servants undertake are complex and sometimes unenviable. Despite the complexity, we all know that our civil servants are efficient, corrupt-free, dedicated and loyal. They protect the Establishment by being impartial and prudent. We must also realize that they are equally affected by these policies. In such instances, their objectivity prevails because they are amongst the best people we have. It is acknowledged that we do not want yes-men as civil servants.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, our civil servants have come under some public criticisms lately. This is especially directed at the administrative officers who jointly formulate public policies with our Government Ministers. I have also heard of blame put on them. I recall reading an article in the newspaper that the "Work-to-rule attitude of civil servants, who do not raise counter-proposals, should be seriously tackled and eliminated." While I share, to some extent, the sentiment expressed by the writer, I do feel that our civil servants are sometimes being put down too harshly. It is appropriate and necessary to remind our civil servants to be constructive, to monitor the effects of public policies with a view to improving them, or to recommend their deletion if such policies no longer serve the purpose. This was most skilfully put across by the Education Minister in December last year at a function of the Alpha Society. But when opportunists jumped on the bandwagon and openly chastised the civil servants, I feel compelled to say a few words. The word "servant", though not demeaning, usually conjures a servant-master relationship. In most cases, it means, "you, the servant, are there to serve me; to do my every bidding, and to be there when I need you." During the colonial days, that mentality prevailed. Though much have changed, the term "civil servant" somehow remained. Because of the stigma associated with this word, it is always easy to scold a "servant" when things do not go the way we want them, rightly or wrongly. In this instance, the "master" is the public and the "servant" is none other than our civil servant, who also happens to be a member of the public, as it were. The point, therefore, is that we must first change our attitude towards our public service workers.”
“Sir, you are a very law-abiding Speaker. Finally, a word for the civil servants. Our civil servants have come under some public criticism lately. This is especially directed --”
“-- for lunch and I will continue at 2.30 pm.”
“But this will take time. To hasten the process of improving the outlook, education and discipline of the Singapore workforce, the Government should perhaps consider whether there is a need to set up a special committee to delve deeper into the matter. This special committee could perhaps inquire why the people have become so choosy in taking up jobs; why some are even prepared to stay jobless rather than accept jobs that alter their basic life-style; why some are not prepared to take up jobs with less pay; why some report for work for half a day and then disappear without reason. Before this 'choosiness' becomes a way of life for the average Singaporean; before this becomes a serious social problem that may have an adverse impact on the national economy, the Government should set up a committee to look into the matter and come out with the necessary recommendations to combat it. Mr Speaker, Sir, let me now speak on the problems my Tampines residents are facing. Not long ago, I was told of a conversation between two housewives. One housewife, on being allotted a flat at Tampines New Town, rejected it. When asked why, she said that travelling was inconvenient because public transport was inadequate and the family did not own a car. They then speculated that the bus company was probably waiting for more people to move into Tampines before scheduling more buses to ply the routes. They also said that people might also not move in until the public transport has improved.”
“Sir, while we may suggest, advise and persuade the people to seriously consider all these, but do they really listen? Will they respond in the manner that would improve the overall national interest in the longer term and thereby furthering their own interest? Or do they regard short-term self-interest and personal convenience the more important factors for consideration? These would have a profound effect on the economic as well as other aspects of Singapore. In the first place, why are the people choosy? The answer could well lie in our culture and the comfortable environment in which our younger Singaporeans grew up over the last two decades. The South Koreans and the Taiwanese have different work ethics, motivations and cultures originating from historical developments of their countries. The constant threat to their survival is real and very much in their minds. This has given them a greater impetus to work hard even with less pay and in a less comfortable working environment. Singapore is fortunate to have a hardworking and disciplined people. Our workforce is, in percentage terms, relatively lower educated than the workers in Hong Kong, Taiwan and South Korea, but our people have achieved a high standard of living, almost as high as that in some developed countries. This is something we have always been proud of. But to take pride in ourselves because of what we have achieved in the past will not get us anywhere, anymore. We need to acquire some of the better attributes and attitudes that the people in the other NICs possess. Two things could bring this about. One is a real disaster to jolt everyone out of his complacency. The other is education. No one opts for disaster, but if we are not careful, it could happen. Therefore, we are left with the second option.”
“Viewed against the backdrop of wealth and affluence in previous years, it is inevitable that some people have become cynical and critical of the Government. While the Government talks about measures to recover from the recession, these people talk about a worsening economy that might never recover. So when the Government stresses on them the importance of work values and correct attitudes at this time, the people feel that they are being lectured upon. The people must therefore be made to understand very clearly the situation at the present moment. They must be left without a doubt that the Government's measures are necessary to ride over the recession. To succeed, they must have faith in the dedication of the new younger leadership to steer the country out of the present problems. Good rapport with the people is therefore absolutely necessary, and their support will come if they are made confidently safe to speak the truth, explain their feelings and thoughts sincerely, and are given a sympathetic ear. It is important therefore for the Government leaders to meet the people more often and listen to them. Not just talk to them. Occasions should be found where casual, frank and true dialogue can take place; where the people can get to know their leaders as people who care, and not as their political masters. Then the rapport created would prove beneficial to the nation not only during this time of recession but also in the years to come. Mr Speaker, Sir, next comes work attitudes. The Government has called upon the people to be less choosy in taking up jobs, to work the third shift, to be prepared to work in far-away lands, and also to improve their educational levels.”
“The Defence budget, therefore, is one that should be treated with utmost sensitivity and sensibility. But I must caution that any future cut in Defence spending may be detrimental to our maintenance of a credible defence force. Mr Speaker, Sir, I will now speak on rapport. Over the past weeks the Government has announced several measures, some particularly radical, to pull the economy out of the present recession. These measures have been well publicised by the newspapers, the television and radio. I, therefore, do not propose to cover the same ground. However, I would like to repeat the call on the people to rally behind the Government at this critical stage of our economy. Whatever the remedial measures, unless they are strongly supported by the people, will fail. It is as simple and direct as this. "People power" in the Philippines has brought about a new democratic government.”
“They have also responded well to periodic recalls and mobilization exercises, testifying to their good attitude towards national defence. Our reservists, therefore, always stand ready to defend our nation. Modern wars can no longer be fought with men alone. Sophisticated weapons and advanced technology determine to a large extent the victory or defeat in the event of war. For the SAF to remain an ever viable force; for the SAF to continue maintaining a high standard of operational readiness, there can be no compromise on the state of its men, weapons and machines, and the level of its technology. Today's knowledge and skill is rendered obsolete tomorrow unless every effort is made to update them. Time changes things fast. Therefore, to continually upgrade the SAF and so maintain readiness at all times, an appropriate level of defence spending is necessary. The SAF has built up its might and power over the last two decades. It must continue to do so in the coming years. But with the economic squeeze, we have to make absolute adjustments to our defence capabilities. Basic is maintenance and consolidation of a force which has an adequate capacity to deal with current and foreseeable tasks. This is particularly important, bearing in mind the dangers lurking in our region - the fall of Vietnam, the invasion of Kampuchea and the incursions into the Thai border by the Vietnamese forces - they all tell a story. Unless we are serious in our cause of defence, unless we are ready for any eventuality, we could also become another nation of boat people. Mr Speaker, Sir, during this period Mindef will consolidate its resources so that when the economy recovers we will be able to proceed with the strengthening of our Defence Force.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I would like to speak on five areas, the first of which is the Defence budget. Despite the economic recession, the Finance Minister has recommended to Parliament for approval, a budget reasonably adequate for the Defence Ministry for the next fiscal year. I would like to thank the Finance Minister for this. Defence is a crucial matter. Defence spending should not be compromised with the economic conditions of the country, particularly in the Asia-Pacific Basin where interest is growing. Essentially, we have to determine the fundamental principle and objective of national defence. If we can fully appreciate the importance of the defence of our country and the implications from the lack of it, then an appropriate and adequate defence budget must be fully supported. Experience has shown that prolonged recessions in a country, coupled with weak internal security and national defence, provide a fertile breeding ground for insurgencies and strife. Therefore, during these difficult times of economic recession we should be particularly careful that we have an adequate defence budget to ensure our internal security and national defence. Our Army, Air Force and Navy have been doing a good job in ensuring the security of our nation. They have made personal sacrifices and have trained hard to defend our country when the need arises. They deserve our full appreciation and support. Our SAF reservists too deserve special mention. Despite busy work schedules, various family and personal commitments, they have responded positively to annual in-camp training and physical fitness tests. Some even spend time attending military courses to upgrade themselves so that they can undertake higher command responsibilities.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, when applications for deferment or for part-time service are received at the Central Manpower Base, they are examined to see what grounds have been given. If they conform to the grounds which I have stated earlier, such as financial hardship or disintegration of a business, the applications are referred to the Advisory Board for consideration. This Advisory Board will then review such cases, and their recommendations are submitted to the Director of Manpower. Each application is, therefore, considered on its own merits. CRASH HELMETS (Fatal accidents since Legislation) 2. Mr Teong Eng Siong asked the Minister for Communications, since the wearing of crash helmets by motor cyclists and scooterists was made compulsory, how many such persons have died in road accidents.”
“Large sums of money have been spent on essential facilities like supplying electricity direct to individual homes in the rural areas, making up of roads to kampong standard, installation of water-mains in order that clean pipe water can reach all the houses, erection of bridges, construction and repair of drains to prevent flooding, and building of jetties for the islanders. As I have said, all these projects and services have cost the Government many millions of dollars, but they have succeeded in bringing a brighter life and much convenience to the villagers. However, there are many more laterite roads to be metalled and repaired in the rural areas and numerous kampongs to be lighted up, and a large sum of money is needed to do this. The rural tracks cannot just be metalled within a short time, so the villagers will have to put up with this temporary inconvenience until more funds are available to accomplish this objective. Sir, in conclusion, I would like to say that nowadays we are prone to jump on the civil service for whatever offences they are alleged to have committed. The civil servants are always at the receiving end. In fairness and in justice to them, let us first make certain of our information before we point an accusing finger at our loyal civil service which is, as a matter of fact, one of the most efficient in this region. They have acquitted themselves very well in the past and it is my hope and belief that they will maintain their high standard of discipline and efficiency in the future. Just as there are a few black sheep in every flock, so it is not unusual to find some in the civil service. Let us weed them out, but let not the civil service as a whole be branded because of the misdeeds of a few. 3.15 p.m.”
“This is evidenced by the development of slum areas into modern housing estates and industrial sites. Those of my constituents who are affected by redevelopment are very grateful to the Government for its generous compensation and ex gratia payments under the new revised rates as announced by the Minister for National Development on 20th July, 1971. The constituents of Tampines know that there is no alternative but to extend Paya Lebar Airport. They hope that by their little contribution in clearing from their homes, Paya Lebar Airport, when fully developed, could form an important link in the chain of major airports around the world. Approximately 3,500 families are affected by the Airport extension project, expected to be completed by 1975. Some families have taken the opportunity to purchase Housing Board flats in the Kallang Basin and Toa Payoh with the compensation ex gratia payment and transport allowance received, in keeping with Government's home-ownership scheme. The Housing and Development Board, I understand, will be building about 2,000 units of flats and industrial workshops for light industries at the 7th milestone, Tampines Road. I am positive that the Housing and Development Board will complete construction of the flats well before the target date so that the displaced persons can get their alternative accommodation in time. A good government always has the welfare of its citizens at heart. Though our Government is engaged in affairs of state and in the strengthening of our industrial sinews, it has not forgotten for one moment the welfare of its citizens, in particular the rural folk. The Urban and Rural Services Committee and the Projects Committee have been set up to provide facilities, amenities and services to all the constituencies.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, our Republic, like all countries new and old, has to face problems of rapid change. Singapore has made great progress since its independence six years ago. We are happy and proud of our considerable progress in the spheres of economy, politics, social welfare, trade and industry. Without a stable government and a strong economy we will not be able to make the progress which we have now achieved. We might then be in serious trouble, faced with a growing young population, rising unemployment and social unrest. But with fast progress come the problems of rapid change, and our people have to face various inconveniences, such as being cleared from sites required for redevelopment, for example, schools, hospitals, new roads, impounding reservoirs and airport extension. People have to be uprooted from their homes and moved to new satellite towns. They have to adapt themselves quickly to the new environment and mode of living. The petty traders and part-time farmers have to change their professions and trades in order to fit into the new environment. But, nevertheless, all these changes are made for the good of the country. None of us would like to see a backward Singapore. We all want a progressive and flourishing Singapore. To achieve this, we all have to put in effort and make sacrifices. Tampines Constituency is now very much affected by the Paya Lebar Airport extension programme for the jumbo jets and the complete British pull-out at the end of 1971. The Government, though firm in its policy, has also shown humanity in enforcing it. The affected families of my Tampines constituents fully realise the importance of development in a country seeking to progress.”
“Sir, I have been asked by my Minister to answer. Toa Payoh has been provided with three posting boxes located as follows: (i) Junction of Lorong IA and Lorong 2: (ii) Junction of Lorong 3 and Lorong 4; (iii) Lorong 6 (near its junction with Toa Payoh East). These posting boxes are so located that the nearest posting facilities can be reached within a half-mile distance. Pending the establishment of a proper post office in the estate by January or February 1971 (that is, in about a month's time), additional posting facilities are also being presently provided by a mobile post office which calls at the car park opposite the junction of Lorong 4 and Toa Payoh Central daily, except Sundays and public holidays. The provision of more posting facilities is all the time being considered, and additional posting boxes will progressively be installed at suitable locations in the estate to meet the needs of the residents. PRIMARY SCHOOL PUPILS (Request to leave school or transfer out) 6. Mr Tay Boon Too asked the Minister for Education if he is aware that, in order to avoid poor school results in the Primary School Leaving Examination, some principals have asked pupils whose performances have been poor to leave school voluntarily or to seek transfer to another school; and what steps he has taken or proposes to take in the matter.”
“Sir, at the moment there are five Housing Board estates having such letter-boxes, namely, St. Michael's Road Estate, Selegie House Estate, Bukit Ho Swee Estate, Toa Payoh Estate and Queenstown Neighbour 6. TOA PAYOH (Provision of more posting facilities) 5. Mr Cheong Yuen Chee asked the Minister for Communications if he will consider putting up more post-boxes in Toa Payoh pending the construction of a post office there.”
“Sir, that is not true. MULTI-STOREY FLATS (Provision of letter-boxes on ground floor) 4. Mr P. Govindaswamy asked the Minister for Communications if he will take steps to require that private letter-boxes are provided on the ground floor-for each flat in multi-storeyed private and Housing and Development Board flats. Mr Phua Bah Lee (for the Minister for Communications): Sir, I have been asked by my Minister to answer. Legislation is being prepared to provide for the compulsory installation of letter-boxes in all high-rise residential and office buildings, including Government buildings. The scheme will be implemented in stages under which developers or owners of buildings already completed or under construction will be given reasonable time to comply with the provisions of the new law.”
“It is not true, Sir. From the General Post Office, there are three deliveries a day. From sub post offices, there are normally two deliveries, a day.”
“At the moment there are 17 vacancies for postmen.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I have been asked by my Minister to answer. It is the aim of the Ministry to make it possible for owners of motor vehicles to pay their road taxes at post-offices in the same manner as they now renew their driving licences. As things are at present, many details have to be manually checked with the records, only available at the Registry of Vehicles, Middle Road, so that payment of road taxes has to be directed to this office. Only after the Data Processing Unit of the Ministry of Finance have successfully completed the establishment of a proper record system for the R.O.V, through data processing, which is expected to be completed by next year (see para 12.4 of the White Paper on Reorganisation of the Motor Transport Service of Singapore - Command Paper No. 21 of 1970), can a decentralised system of payment of road taxes through post-offices be introduced. MATHEMATICS AND SCIENCE (English as instruction medium in non-English schools in 1971) 5. Mr Tay Boon Too asked the Minister for Education, as it is his Ministry's policy to implement the use of English as the medium of instruction in mathematics and science in 1971, (a) whether teachers who are undergoing the Special English Course for Mathematics and Science Teachers of Non-English Schools will be in a position to teach those subjects in English; and (b) what measures will be taken to improve the situation if those teachers are found to be incapable of using English as the medium of instruction.”
“(4) A better, more direct and time-saving public transport service for the broad masses of our people will emerge. 6.42 p.m.”
“This will make car owners pay attention to the maintenance of their vehicles. Finally, all laws and stipulations should be effectively carried out by executive organisations. Without them, there will be no achievement. The efficiency of the Registry of Vehicles is not up to the required standard. The R.O.V, is weak and ineffective. Many tasks properly within the province of the R.O.V, have not been carried out. Some other departments are carrying out some of these tasks. Even some minor tasks are not carried out. In this way, the authority of the R.O.V, does not go beyond its threshold. In the R.O.V, there is a lot of confusion and inefficiency. This is mainly due to a shortage of staff and equipment. In order that the R.O.V. should play an effective role, we should strengthen the staffing position and also give it adequate authority and equipment. Only thus will it be possible to help in the reorganisation and development of the public transport service. Judging from the above, we can arrive at one conclusion; that is to legislate and, through the executive bodies, to implement the reorganisation of the public transport service. The results of this will, of course, be: (1) Better organisation and more regular working conditions for those people engaged in the public transport service. This will provide more jobs for our citizens. (2) After the reorganisation, more vehicles will be needed for the transport service, thus providing more investment opportunities in the public transport service which, in turn, will generate a new source of strength for our economic development. (3) Improvement in our environmental hygiene and the safeguard of our health will be an undeniable fact.”
“As regards anti-air pollution, this is a problem that we will have to face seriously in view of the introduction of the anti-air pollution campaign. All engines emit some kind of waste gases which will directly affect the health of human beings. This matter does not have any political implications. Whoever you are, your health will not be less affected by the air pollution, In our country, air pollution is caused less by the existing new factories than by the exhaust of motor vehicles. In busy commercial districts and densely populated areas, the problem is more serious because the smoke emitted by motor vehicles has even impeded the growth of trees and plants. We can therefore gauge the degree of its seriousness. In the final analysis, the cause of this situation is mainly due to diesel cars. Not all cars emit black smoke. Of the diesel cars, the worst offenders are public transport vehicles and overage vehicles. In the case of the former, for example, buses and lorries, the cause is excessive loading. In the case of the latter, it is their unlimited period of use. The latter include pirate and SCH taxis, taxis, and some other vehicles. The emission of black smoke is obviously due to lack of proper maintenance. This should be attended to. To control this situation, we have stipulated that public transport vehicles should be inspected regularly and should keep up to the required standards. We will also raise the tax on private diesel cars, which include SCH cars. On the one hand, this is to discourage the purchase of diesel cars as private cars. On the other hand, this is to curb the development of pirate taxis as well as keep the number of diesel vehicles to a minimum. The fines on vehicles emitting smoke will also be increased.”
“Therefore, the Government has no alternative but to take strict measures to replace them with school buses. Pirate taxis pose a serious problem in our public transport service. The operators are infringing the law by accepting fares along the road. Even their car discs are secured through illegal means. At the same time, they are using overage cars in poor condition to serve the passengers. What they want is only to get fares from the passengers. They do not care for their safety. It has been shown that the passengers of pirate taxis who lost their lives as a result of accidents did not get any compensation. This is very pitiful. The Government allows free competition in commerce, but pirate taxi operators and school taxi operators are engaged in unequal competition. The Government has a duty to protect the interest of taxpayers just as it has the duty to take measures to protect the interest of legitimate businessmen from smugglers. The Government has tried its best to eradicate pirate taxis, but the anomalies and ills existing in the public transport service plus the fact that people want a quicker and more convenient service have created favourable conditions for the existence of the pirate taxis. Their operators make use of this need as a pretext for their legality. if we legalise pirate taxis, the existence and the service rendered by buses and ordinary taxis will become meaningless. Also, public transport and order on the road will become unmanageable and chaotic. The eradication of pirate taxis not only ensures the safety of passengers, but also safeguards the rights of people who are legally operating buses and taxis.”
“I welcome very much the judicious decision and the co-operation of the Chinese bus companies to help the Government carry out this reorganisation plan. Next come taxis which occupy the second position in our public transport service. According to a conservative assessment, the total intake for taxis every year is not less than that for buses. From this we can see that the profit for taxis is quite high. At present, the number of taxi licences is limited to 3,800. This limitation has become fatal to the taxi industry, because it has not only caused speculators to hoard taxi licences by various means in order to fetch better prices on selling them, but also, at the same time, it has indirectly fostered the development of pirate taxis. Therefore, in order to remove the anomalies that at present exist with the taxis, we should assess the services rendered by them and adjust their number. Next, we come to the school taxis and pirate taxis. First, the school taxis. They are pirate taxis in a different form. The main reason for their existence is the poor bus service, and the fact that school buses are not widely used. In order to ensure the safety of school children, the Government decided to legalise such "pirate" taxis in the past. In this way school taxis have come into being. They are marked differently with SCH plates and have to pay S24 a year in addition to the fee paid by private cars. However, they make use of this legal cover illegally to accept fares along the road, Their practice is to take other passengers in addition to school children. This is against the original intention of the Government when it legalised this kind of taxis. The SCH taxi drivers themselves have also infringed the principles and the conditions under which they were registered.”
“In addition, there is an inadequate number of vehicles whose service is irregular and not punctual, causing long queues of waiting passengers. We can read many complaints from the public in the newspapers about this. This, therefore, has indirectly helped the development of pirate taxis. Bus companies and taxi operators have complained about pirate taxis robbing their business. But they themselves will not take positive steps to improve their own services. The cause of this situation lies in the fact that the 11 bus companies lack a unified organisation and management and they do not show the common sense of responsibility. They manage their own affairs separately and their business is based on their personal interest. As for the safety, time and convenience of passengers, it is not their business. Thus, on the one hand, they are making use of overage vehicles to extract the maximum possible profit, and, on the other hand, they are causing unnecessary waste by duplicating their services along some service routes. In view of this situation, the Government proposes to reorganise the 11 bus companies. This has become an important subject in the White Paper. The Government proposes to amalgamate the 10 Chinese bus companies into three district or regional companies. It also proposes that the Singapore Traction Company should also reorganise and readjust itself and be turned into the fourth district company so that, through division of work and co-operation, the various bus routes throughout our country will form a complete link-up. Thus in the fields of management and service, it will be easier to adjust, rectify and organise. At the moment, the 10 Chinese bus companies have completed their initial stages of amalgamation. I believe this exercise will soon be completed.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, since our independence, owing to the growth of our economy and the increase in the indices of income of our nationals, the high purchasing power of the people has directly stimulated the prosperity of our transport industry. Therefore, more effective control of the increasing number of motor vehicles has become our pressing task at the moment. Certain parts of the regulations and laws are no longer adequate to meet the present transport conditions. On the other hand, in order to match urban renewal, there is the need systematically to link up the various satellite towns, industrial districts and housing estates. This entails the reorganisation and readjustment of the public transport service. I quote paragraph 1.1 of the White Paper: `Good and efficient communications form the life-blood of any modern economy. As Singapore takes justifiable pride in being the fourth busiest port of the world, we must not allow its progress to be retarded by a lagging Public Transport system.' This correctly explains the important position the public transport industry occupies in our national economy. Further, the White Paper proposes certain measures which will not only help solve the present problem of public transportation, but also, at the same time, serve as guiding principles for the future in this field. From the ratio of our population to vehicles, it can be seen that the majority of our people are making use of buses as their chief means of communication. But what kind of service is now being rendered by the present 11 bus companies to our people? There are buses from three or four bus companies running on the same service routes, whereas on other service routes the passengers have to wait for a solid half an hour before a bus comes along.”
“Inche Abdul Aziz Karim asked the Minister for Defence if he will permit an infant born outside Singapore to enter and reside permanently in the Republic if either of his parents is a Singapore citizen and is permanently residing in Singapore.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the present facilities at our Paya Lebar International Airport were planned to meet the requirements of present generation jet aircraft such as the Boeing 707, Douglas DC 8 and VC 10. To cope with the newer and larger types of aircraft such as the Boeing 747 jumbo jets and supersonic aircraft like the TU 144 or Concorde which are expected to be in commercial service in the late 1970s, a firm of aviation consultants in the United Kingdom was appointed to prepare a master plan for the development of our Airport for the next two decades, i.e., up to the period 1990. This firm of consultants, Scott, Wilson, Kirkpatrick & Partners, commenced work in March 1968 and its report was submitted to Government in May this year. The consultants' recommendations have been studied and, so far, only the first phase of development for immediate improvements to existing facilities, e.g., alterations and extensions to the present terminal building, improvement to taxiways and extension of the jet apron, to cater for traffic up till 1976, has been approved and is estimated to cost over $7 million. This does not, however, include projects which have just been completed, namely, the extension and strengthening of the runway from 9,000 feet to 11,000 feet and the commissioning of the Instrument Landing System amounting to over $5 million. As the medium- and long-term recommendations for further development of the Airport may involve capital expenditure to the order of over $600 million and advances in technology may result in certain proposals becoming obsolete, these proposals will have to be reviewed at the appropriate time by the Treasury, prior to implementation, if found necessary. CITIZENS' CHILDREN BORN OUTSIDE SINGAPORE (Permanent residence in Singapore) 7.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, it is impossible for me to add to that answer. COMMUNITY CENTRE IN GEYLANG SERAI 8. Inche Rahmat Bin Kenap asked the Minister for Defence whether there is any provision for the construction of one or more community centres in the Geylang Serai Constituency and when construction will commence.”
“Sir, I have mentioned just now that legislation is being drafted, and when it becomes law, all the driving licences will be replaced automatically upon renewal.”
“Member for Punggo1 might have created when he said that by including Government servants as contributors to the Central Provident Fund, a Government servant will then benefit three ways for his services: namely, pension, gratuity and Central Provident Fund contributions. What is commonly known as gratuity payable to a pensionable officer on his retirement is actually no more than an advance of pension, which is recovered from the retired officer by paying him a reduced pension. Therefore, it is part of pension and cannot be deemed a separate benefit.”
“No doubt it will not be well received by those who make it their purpose of life to expend the least effort and to grab as much as possible by abusing every privilege that is available. Such people are not only unfair to their employers, but also to society at large and, finally to themselves as well. Under conditions of a colonial administration where the Government tried to exploit the country and employers tried to exploit workers to the full, attempts to get their own back on their employers were excusable. Such behaviour, however, is unpardonable in an independent country striving for survival. Here every one must pull his weight. There can be no place for passengers. I also welcome the proposal to extend the range of contributors to the Central provident Fund to mobilise savings. The need for increased funds to meet the heavy cost of measures to counter the economic effects of the British withdrawal has been explained in the statement by the Minister for Finance.. Mobilising savings by increasing the number of contributors is one of the most painless ways of doing so. Though it is not the intention, the extension of contributors to include Government servants has also the effect of remedying the situation of Government servants having inadequate savings on their retirement. As an ex-civil servant, I know how modest is the sum known as gratuity which a Government servant gets on retirement. An officer who had reached the very top found, on his retirement, that his gratuity was insufficient even to buy a modest house. The Provident Fund contributions will be a very useful addition to what an officer will get under the Pension Scheme. Mr Speaker, Sir, while on this subject, I wish to correct a wrong impression which the hon.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I rise to support the motion of the Prime Minister thanking the President for his speech. The President in his speech has warned us of the serious problems that will have to be faced. All sensible people will take this warning seriously. With the British withdrawal, we will not only be losing a major source of income, but will also have to meet heavy expenditure to build up an adequate defence force within a short period. These are no small problems and it will be foolish to pretend that they are. Some of the steps to overcome these difficulties are explained in the Addendum to the President's Speech and in the Ministerial statements. These will minimise the effects of the British withdrawal, but it will be too much to hope that the normal standard of life to which we are accustomed will be unaffected. With the loss of a major source of income and the expenditure of a large portion of our resources on defence, there will be less available for consumption. We must therefore be prepared for a more Spartan life during the transitional period of the next five or ten years until our economy has stabilised under new conditions. Adapting ourselves to new conditions may not be easy. Giving up luxuries which we used to take for granted may not be pleasant, but they are small sacrifices for a better and more secure future. History has shown us that whether a nation will prosper or perish depends on its ability to change and adapt. Even great nations had floundered and gone into oblivion for clinging to old ways that no longer suited changed conditions. The Employment Bill which seeks to regulate terms of employment to meet the challenges of today is, therefore, to be welcomed.”