Tan Eng Liang
Singapore
“Sir, in the light of Government's emphasis on road safety and the strong measures indicated by the Hon. Minister, I would draw the Minister's attention to the conviction in court of a school bus driver who caused the death of two students in my constituency. He was sentenced to eight months' imprisonment.”
“Furthermore, the concessions in personal income tax rates effective from Year of Assessment 1978 have benefitted most taxpayers in the higher income group. I, therefore, do not see any justification to warrant a revision of the $4,000 limit allowable for purposes of tax deduction.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I am not in a position to debate with the hon. Member whether or not the 5% increase given in 1974 was adequate. But if he feels that the situation now warrants another increase, perhaps we can have a look at the position. Dr Augustine Tan: Mr Speaker, Sir, just as a matter of interest, what would the Hon.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to report that the Committee of Supply have come to a certain resolution. Resolution reported - "That the sum of $250,000,000 shall be supplied to the Government under the head of expenditure for the public services shown in the First Supplementary Development Estimates of Expenditure for the financial year 1st Apri…”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the Consumer Price Index at constant prices in 1972 was taken as 100. In 1973 it was 117.7. In 1974 it went up to 144. That was the period when the ex-gratia allowance was given. In 1975 it was almost the same, 147.7. In 1976 it was 144.9. In 1977 it was 149.5.”
“ADJOURNMENT Resolved, "That Parliament do now adjourn sine die." - [Mr E.W. Barker]. Adjourned accordingly sine die at Twenty-six minutes past Four o'clock p.m.”
The complete record
Every one of 441 lines we hold for Tan Eng Liang, in date order, each linked to its source. Free to read, in full, without an account. Page 5 of 9.
“If it is necessary to ensure proper control of building development in the whole island of Singapore, then I think it is necessary that applications for planning permission must be properly processed, and one of the requirements is that the owner of that property must give his consent. It is appreciated that in the case of this particular complainant, the requirements of that particular property may not coincide with the interest of the owner, depending on the case, or vice versa. This is actually an issue between the owner and the tenant, and I think the BCD is in no position to intervene. I would suggest to the hon. Member that perhaps he can offer his good services to the two parties concerned by trying to persuade the owner to agree to a modification in the application for change of use, and the Ministry will definitely consider the application according to its own merits. If, on the other hand, the hon. Member would rather prefer the Ministry to explain the situation, we would be very happy to do so. The hon. Member for Telok Blangah has voiced the need to allow motor garages to operate in areas where they are needed by the residents. I presume he means areas in residential zones. He also asked that if they have been in existence for five years and above, proper official priority of resettlement should be given. The answer is obviously no. Here again, a motor garage or workshop that serves a particular need in a particular residential zone must comply with the necessary Building requirements. And he himself has said that there is need for control. There are proper workshops in HDB estates and perhaps even at some alternative areas in JTC where such business activities can be carried out. 4.00 p.m.”
“Sir, I share the sentiments expressed by the various rural MPs. I can say here that I do not condone total inflexible attitudes on the part of the Building Control Division. In fact, I would take exception if the hon. Member's letter was used as a ground to further delay any action. I can assure the House that I would take strong action if that is so. If there are incidents of that nature or indications of unfair tactics being used by civil servants, in particular the Ministry of National Development, to frustrate the good efforts of MPs, I would appreciate if Members could send their complaints direct to me, and I assure them that I will personally and directly deal with the responsible officers. [Applause.] Let me perhaps come straight to the query by the hon. Member for Geylang Serai. He has pleaded for sympathetic consideration from the Building Control Division on the case of an unauthorised usage. First of all, he should understand that registration of a business does not mean that a permit to operate is being given. You can register a company or whatever you like, but the place of operation still requires an official permit. He insinuated that the Building Control Division is being used by one party to press the other party for action to be taken. Let me categorically state here that the Government cannot and does not encourage the unlawful use of land or premises or the unauthorised erection or occupation of buildings, whether they are on State land or on private land. It is the present policy, and my Minister has earlier explained the need for proper building controls to ensure proper usage of land in the respective zones.”
“The same answer applies to his earlier question - usage is minimal, and moreover we are actually dealing with a foreign authority in this case. The Member also suggested that there should be proper railings along all foot bridges across drains and canals. The answer is that the PWD does provide railings along all bridges across large drains and canals, and the railings are omitted only along those footway slabs that are narrow. However, the Ministry will continue to look into the need for safeguards against dangerous conditions at all drains and railings will be provided if the conditions warrant it.”
“The next question posed by the Member for Anson was whether steps could be taken to modify Keppel Road. This is again due to the accident-prone area. At the moment, no plans have, been made to reduce this situation because of the railway-level crossing at Keppel Road, but the Ministry will look into it. Another area which he has mentioned is near the bend at Kampong Bahru Road and Kampong Lama Road. There is also no proposal to widen the road because both sides of the road are heavily encumbered. However, we will try and improve the bend at this particular junction, and perhaps we will also incorporate some warning signs, if necessary. The Member questioned the usefulness of overhead bridges and quoted Clifford Pier as an example. I beg to differ from him. I think the air-conditioned overhead bridge at Clifford Pier is heavily utilised. The reason for better use of the underpass at the National Stadium is mainly due to soccer nights. Except for those nights, I think it is totally unused. He has suggested the need to build an underpass. The obvious reason is that, all things being equal, the cost of an underpass is much more expensive than an overhead bridge. Cost is an important factor in influencing the decision. The Member then brought up the question of having a bridge erected across Spottiswoode Park to Keppel Road. He also suggested that to prevent accidents along railway tracks simple pedestrian paths be constructed to run parallel with railway tracks. The answer is very straightforward. These properties belong to the Malaysian Railway Authority, and it will be difficult to expect them to agree to have these pedestrian bridges constructed across railway tracks.”
“This is being carried out. I come now to the seven other questions posed by the Member for Anson. He has questioned the need to have a traffic circus and then the need subsequently to demolish the circus because of traffic considerations. He also queried on the accident-prone situation after the conversion of the MacRitchie Circus. Perhaps I can summarise and say that traffic circuses were built in the early days when the volume of traffic was extremely low. But traffic conditions change over a period of time, as we see now and the conversion of MacRitchie Circus to ensure proper traffic flow is absolutely necessary. The latest example is the removal of the beautiful fountain at Tanglin Circus. It had to be sacrificed so that traffic flow in the two directions of Tanglin Road and Grange Road could be more effective. 3.30 p.m. The Member has questioned that by converting the MacRitchie Circus back into traffic lights, the traffic situation has not improved. I think the answer is obvious. Because of this conversion more traffic flows in the direction of Thomson Road/Braddell Way, perhaps to avoid the ALS restriction in the morning. We have done surveys which show that the traffic flow has increased at this converted traffic lights in MacRitchie area. The reason for the higher accident-prone state may be due to speeding by motorists along Lornie Road or to speeding near the junction of the traffic lights. In order to minimise this, the PWD has put up signs along approach roads to Lornie Road warning motorists to slow down. We are also looking into the possibility of reversing the traffic flow at the entrance and exit of MacRitchie Reservoir. because the entrance to MacRitchie Reservoir goes directly out to the traffic light junction. This is being examined.”
“Members that the Coordinating Committee is trying its level best to coordinate its activities and periodically we have come out with statements to explain and apologise for the inconvenience caused to the public. As to the quality of maintenance of these roads, perhaps I can merely say that this is also being properly supervised as best as we can under the conditions of digging and the need to re-dig periodically. Normally, when a road is open to the public, only the first base or what you call the asphalt base is laid. During this period when the first base or the asphalt base is laid, the road is open to the public and surface irregularities are sometimes noted and have to be rectified because it need to be settled. Laying of this asphalt base requires something like six to 12 months before it could be properly settled. During this period when the road is open to traffic we need to periodically re-lay the surface. When it is properly settled according to specifications, it is reasonable to expect that the quality of that surface would last from six to 10 years. Whether or not it lasts six to 10 years depends on the intensity of use of the road. That means it depends on whether it is used by heavy commercial vehicles or light vehicles, and it also depends on the extent and frequency of usage. To assure both hon. Members, I can say that the Public Works Department has set what is called high standards for the quality of materials to be used and the workmanship in road construction, and tests are periodically being carried out to ensure that the contractors comply with these specifications. In fact, as a deterrent, contractors who do not come up with the right specifications or show poor workmanship will be debarred from tendering future contracts.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the hon. Member for Changi said that licensed contractors submitted high quotations for small jobs and suggested that perhaps minor work projects should be awarded to smaller firms. The fact of the matter is that minor work projects are being awarded to small firms under the present contracting system. To give the Member some figures, the Roads Branch, for example, has been awarding an average of 570 contracts per year for the past three years to small firms for minor works and this is valued up to $7,500 each. In answer to the query of both the Members for Anson and Changi on the constant digging and re-digging of roads and the need to maintain proper roads, the reason for this constant digging is obviously due to the stepping up of works in the public sector in recent years. Obviously, with this increase in the public sector development there is corresponding increase in the need to lay utility services, and a considerable proportion of these utilities are on public roads. One of the rules of the Coordinating Committee responsible for coordinating all these utility services is to ensure that traffic flow is maintained and that adequate safety precautions are also taken. However, if more than one utility department proposes to lay services in any one single road, the Committee will obviously have to ensure that only one service be laid at a time. Otherwise the whole road would have to be closed to traffic. These successive laying of services is, therefore, unavoidable. It would not be possible, for example, for the PUB and the TAS to do the services together. So depending on the nature of the project, whether it is the laying of cables or water mains, they have to take turns. I can only assure both hon.”
“Under this system, a comprehensive network of internal services will bring residents from various neighbourhoods to the proposed town centre terminal where external services will originate. This will not only provide commuters a better level of service but it will also save considerable journey time and operating costs. The SBS is presently working closely with the HDB on the design of the proposed town centre terminal which is expected to be operational in about 24 months' time. KIM CHUAN VILLAGE COMMUNITY CENTRE 7. Mr Tan Cheng San asked the Minister for Culture and Science and Technology whether and when the Kim Chuan Village Community Centre will be rebuilt by the People's Association.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, Marsiling Drive is a two-way undivided road within the Woodlands New Town. Site investigations have shown that at present pedestrians are crossing mostly in front of Block 2 and Block 10. However, a traffic count at the site on 15th March, 1977 revealed that vehicular traffic volume along Marsiling Road was very low with only 236 vehicles per hour against 192 pedestrians per hour. In view of the low traffic and pedestrian volume, there is no immediate need for an overhead pedestrian bridge. The present situation, however, will be kept in constant review. WOODLANDS NEW TOWN (Extension of bus services) 6. Mr Lee Yiok Seng asked the Minister for National Development and Communications whether it is possible to extend the bus services into Woodlands New Town. such as routing the buses from New Admiralty Road into Marsiling Drive. Marsiling Road and Marsiling Lane instead of routing them direct to the bus bay at New Admiralty Road as at present. The Senior Minister of State for Communications (Mr Ong Teng Cheong) (for the Minister for National Development and Communications): Mr Speaker, Sir, Woodlands New Town is presently served by four SBS services which terminate at the bus terminal along Admiralty Road, between Marsiling Lane and Marsiling Drive. The flats which are now occupied are situated within a quarter mile or 400-metre radius from the bus terminal and are within walking distance from two pairs of bus stops from Admiralty Road. In view of the close proximity of the existing terminal and bus stops to the flats, it is unnecessary for the SBS to re-route its buses from New Admiralty Road into Marsiling Drive. Marsiling Road and Marsiling Lane for the time being. When the New Town is nearing completion, the SBS will introduce internal bus services.”
“Sir, I am aware of the vacant stalls in the HDB markets and hawker centres. However, on the recommendation of the Hawkers Co-ordinating and Licensing Committee, these stalls are reserved for the resiting of about 11,750 licensed street hawkers. Under the present set of criteria, stalls are awarded to deserving cases such as licensed hawkers and small-time traders affected by clearance, licensed street hawkers and genuine hardship cases. The criteria are under constant review and are revised whenever necessary and justifiable. PEDESTRIAN OVERHEAD BRIDGE ACROSS MARSILING DRIVE 5. Mr Lee Yiok Seng asked the Minister for National Development and Communications if it is proposed to construct an overhead bridge across Marsiling Drive in front of Block 2 and Block 10, Woodlands New Town, to provide for safe crossing of the road in view of the several accidents which have occurred there.”
“The Senior Minister of State for Communications (Mr Ong Teng Cheong) (for the Minister for National Development and Communications): Mr Speaker, Sir, the prohibition of loading and unloading of goods from vehicles parked at the side of certain roads is necessary because of a number of factors, for example, traffic conditions, physical terrain and the capacity of the road and the need to facilitate the flow of public transport vehicles. Presently the "No Stopping" restriction, which also restricts loading and unloading, is in operation along some busy roads within the Central Business District. The purpose of creating such clear ways is to avoid sterilisation of traffic lanes and obstruction of roads by goods vehicles during peak hours. This restriction is only operative from 7.30 a.m. to 9.30 a.m. and 4.30 p.m. to 7.00 p.m. from Mondays to Fridays and from 7.30 a.m. to 9.30 a.m. and 11.30 a.m. to 2.30 p.m. on Saturdays. There is no restriction on Sundays and public holidays. The Registry of Vehicles, the Traffic Police and the Public Works Department (Roads Branch) are now looking into the possibility of lifting the restriction along certain roads within the Central Business District between the hours of 7.30 a.m. and 10.15 a.m. In this review priority will continue to be given to facilitating the movement of buses. Loading and unloading will be allowed only if traffic flow is not impeded as a result.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, with regard to the overall Master Plan, it is agreed that it was done many years ago. But although we are supposed to upgrade the Master Plan every five years, I can assure the Member that it is being upgraded on a periodical basis, perhaps on an annual or bi-ennial basis. As to his suggestion of an adjustment to a particular zone, that is being done. For example, in the Agricultural zone, we have specifically introduced what is called a rural centre zone, in areas such as Jalan Kayu and Punggol. The idea of introducing a rural centre area is to ensure that certain activities, like shopping or perhaps even some form of light industries, could be undertaken. We also do allow in between the zones what we call a "mixed zone". In fact, we do allow in the Mixed zone, housing and light industries to be mixed together. We also allow specifically obnoxious industries to be located in certain areas where such activities could be carried out. In other words, I am saying that although the overall zoning policy is being followed, wherever necessary, modifications are made to the Master Plan to incorporate ideas of that nature. LOADING AND UNLOADING OF GOODS FROM VEHICLES (Relaxation of restriction) 2. Mr Ho See Beng asked the Minister for National Development and Communications, in view of the ease of traffic on the roads within the Central Business District between the hours of 7.30 a.m. and 10.15 a.m., whether he will consider allowing the loading and unloading of goods to be carried out in places where these have been prohibited, for instance, North Bridge Road and Victoria Street.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, from the Planning Department's point of view, zoning is absolutely necessary if we really want to prevent indiscriminate types of activities going on in any particular area. As I have stated in the example which the Member for Jalan Kayu has mentioned, perhaps discretion could be exercised here. I share his sentiment that if the business is not intensive the Planning Authority could have exercised some flexibility here. But from the general overall Master Planning point of view, zoning is important. If we want to control the proper development of activities, then it is absolutely clear that there should be no compromise. But I do concede that flexibility could be exercised in cases of that nature. Mr Hwang Soo Jin: Mr Speaker, Sir, I wonder whether the Senior Minister of State would consider providing certain flexibility in certain zones. For instance, in an Agricultural zone, you might provide that certain clean industries may be permitted. The zoning of areas was done quite a few years back and I do not think it has been reviewed for some time.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I think a distinction will have to be made as to whether the industry is on TOL or whether it is on a permanent basis. Where a change of use is involved, it is normally given to an existing user. But I do not know in what context the Member for Thomson is speaking. I think what he is implying is that certain types of industries are carried out in places like chicken-huts, pigsties and dwelling-houses, and whether they can continue. That is definitely not in order because, as I have mentioned, the most important factor is the zoning requirements. I have mentioned the precedent that will be created and, therefore, it would be impossible to control, say, other types of housing whose occupants would also want, for one reason or another, a change of use. Sir, the merits of each case will have to be seriously considered. If it is just a minor requirement, approval may be given. For example, previously we have discussed the situation where if a woman uses her dwelling house to make dresses and she owns two sewing machines, on that basis if she has been told that there is a change of use of the place then, of course, discretion has got to be exercised. She can argue her case out and say that it is probably not a change of use. But where a person wants a permit for a change of use to enable him to undertake certain cottage industries, I think, on grounds of planning approval, it is not in order.”
“Despite the implementation of the Points Demerit System and the various enforcement measures taken, the number of deaths caused by road accidents did not decline but remained at 288 in 1976. The number of accidents involving serious injury dropped by 8.8% from 2,674 in 1974 to 2,438 in 1975 but increased to 2,587 in 1976. To make the system more effective, the ROV and Traffic Police are presently studying the possibility of expanding the system to cover other traffic offences. The system will also be revised so that offences such as inconsiderate, careless and dangerous driving will carry more penalty points. EMPLOYMENT PASSES (Particulars as at 28.2.77) 8. Mr Ang Nam Piau asked the Minister for Home Affairs and Education (a) how many persons had applied for Employment Passes up to 28th February, 1977; (b) how many applications have been approved; and (c) how many of the applicants who were granted Passes have applied for permanent residence; how many such applications have been approved and what were the reasons for the rejections.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the vacant site between the Toa Payoh Sports Stadium and the Swimming Complex is reserved for an indoor sports hall for indoor games, like badminton, basketball, volleyball, etc. It will be modelled along the lines of the Alexandra Road Sports Hall which is under construction. The design of the Toa Payoh Sports Hall will take into account the experience gained in the construction and use of the Alexandra Road Sports Hall. POINTS DEMERIT SYSTEM (Number of driving licences suspended) 7. Mr Ang Nam Piau asked the Minister for National Development and Communications how many driving licences had been suspended under the Road Traffic (Demerit Points) Rules, 1975, as at 28th February, 1977, and if he is satisfied with the implementation of the Rules. The Senior Minister of State for Communications (Mr Ong Teng Cheong) (for the Minister for National Development and Communications): Mr Speaker, Sir, the Points Demerit System was implemented on 1st March 1975 as a means to identify and remove careless, inconsiderate, reckless and dangerous drivers from the roads. Under this system, the driving licence of a driver will be suspended for a period up to a maximum of six months whenever he accumulates 12 demerit points or more within any period of 12 consecutive months. Since the introduction of the Points Demerit System in March 1975, a total of 84 driving licences had been suspended under the Road Traffic (Demerit Points) 28th February, 1977. Of this number, 40 driving licences are still under suspension. In addition, 1,922 drivers had been issued with warning notices during this period.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the Housing and Development Board will undertake to convert the above building blocks so that more sunlight can be admitted into the common corridors of these flats. However, as this would involve extensive demolition and alterations to the flats, the conversion has been programmed for the end of 1978 or early 1979. Generally, common corridors in HDB blocks are adequately illuminated in the evenings. During the day, there is sufficient natural daylight along the common corridors even in blocks of 1-room flats. However, in some of the blocks with long corridors the lighting may appear slightly inadequate in certain parts of the corridors during rainy days. The Area Officers in charge will investigate the need for turning on lights during the day, if found necessary. DEVELOPMENT OF VACANT LAND BETWEEN TOA PAYOH SPORTS STADIUM AND SWIMMING COMPLEX 6. Mr Cheong Yuen Chee asked the Minister for National Development and Communications whether there are any plans to develop the vacant plot of land between the Toa Payoh Sports Stadium and the Swimming Complex into tennis or squash courts or other recreational facilities for the benefit of the residents of Toa Payoh New Town.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, as at 31st December 1976, a total of 110,591 units of flats have been sold under the "Home Ownership" Scheme. Of this, 7,685 units were purchased outright, while 63,148 units were purchased through the owners' CPF contributions either outright or on an instalment basis. The remaining 39,758 purchasers paid cash for down payment and balance of loan settled by monthly cash instalments. HDB FLATS IN TIONG BAHRU ROAD AND BUKIT MERAH (Lighting of corridors in the day) 5. Mr Ch'ng Jit Koon asked the Minister for National Development and Communications, in view of inadequate sunlight reaching into the common corridors of the emergency type flats in Apartment Blocks 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5, Tiong Bahru Road and Apartment Blocks 108 and 109, Jalan Bukit Merah, because of their structure, if he will ask the Housing and Development Board to consider switching on the lights during the day time or providing means for more sunlight to be admitted into those flats.”
“The specific types of industries will depend on the recommendation of the Economic Development Board and the acceptance of the various relevant Authorities, such as Anti-Pollution Unit, Public Health Department and Factory Inspectorate. The Housing and Development Board is liaising closely with the Economic Development Board on the development of these industrial sites. MAIN AND DEVELOPMENT ESTIMATES OF SINGAPORE FOR THE FINANCIAL YEAR 1ST APRIL, 1977 TO 31ST MARCH, 1978 Order read for resumed consideration in Committee of Supply [2nd Allotted Day]. [Mr Speaker in the Chair] 2.35 p.m. Head N (cont.) -”
“Sir, the vacant land referred to by the Member for Ang Mo Kio is actually in Neighbourhood II of Ang Mo Kio New Town. However, the HDB will be looking into the construction of a sports complex in Neighbourhood III. The area for this sports complex is under clearance at the moment, and because it is heavily encumbered it will take some time for this project to be completed. However, it is expected that tenders will probably be invited sometime towards the end of this year, and it is hoped that this sports complex would be ready by 1980. ANG MO KIO NEW TOWN (Industrial development) 3. Mr Yeo Toon Chia asked the Minister for National Development and Communications if he will enlighten the House on the different types of industries planned for the industrial site in Ang Mo Kio New Town and when construction is expected to be completed; and whether the Housing and Development Board will liaise with the Economic Development Board on the possibility of setting up factories in the area. Dr Tan Eng Liang (for the Minister for National Development and Communications): Sir, approximately 100 hectares of land has been set aside for industrial development in Ang Mo Kio New Town. Generally, the type of industries to be set up should not pose any pollution problem and should provide job opportunities for the residents in Ang Mo Kio New Town. To cater for the small industries, terrace factories for metal workshops, carpentry workshops and engineering workshops will be constructed in stages from this year 1977 to 1979. Some vacant sites will also be set aside for leasing to light industries.”
“Sir, there is a proposal to turn the vacant site in front of Block 214, Avenue 3, Ang Mo Kio, into an open field for outdoor games. The construction of the open field is expected to be completed by the middle of this year.”
“Since Serangoon Garden Way is only a two-lane road, it is unlikely that a pedestrian overhead bridge across this narrow road will be used by pedestrians. It is therefore not recommended to construct an overhead bridge linking the market and post office sides of Serangoon Garden Way. LIBRARY IN BEDOK NEW TOWN (NEIGHBOURHOOD I) 14. Haji Sha'ari Bin Tadin asked the Minister for Culture and Science and Technology if it is planned to set up a library in Neighbourhood I of Bedok New Town and when.”
“Sir, with the completion of further stretches of the Pan Island Expressway in the near future, traffic along Jalan ba Payoh (which forms part of the Pan Island Expressway) is expected to increase considerably. The request will then be considered. There are two bus stops along Jalan Toa Payoh near the Jalan Tenteram Hawkers Centre, one with a bus shelter and one without. The bus stops are linked by a pedestrian crossing signal across Jalan Toa Payoh. Pedestrian movements and the pedestrian signal will be reviewed when traffic along Jalan boa Payoh increases. If found necessary, the pedestrian signal will be replaced with a pedestrian overhead bridge and proper bus lay-byes and bus shelters will be provided at these two bus stops. OVERHEAD BRIDGE AT SERANGOON GARDEN WAY 13. Dr Lau Teik Soon asked the Minister for National Development and Communications if it is proposed to construct an overhead bridge linking the market and post office sides of Serangoon Garden Way which will provide safe crossing over the heavy traffic. Dr Tan Eng Liang (for the Minister for National Development and Communications): Sir, Serangoon Garden Way is a two-lane two-way road linking Serangoon Garden Estate to Yio Chu Kang Road. Pedestrian crossing movements near the market and post office are heavy during the morning. To facilitate crossing, the Public Works Department has installed a pedestrian pushbutton signal crossing near this location, which operates from 5 am. to 11 a.m. daily. At other times when pedestrian movements are not heavy, it is not necessary to operate the traffic signals as this would slow down traffic flow and cause severe traffic congestion around this area during the evening peak hours.”
“Tan asked the Minister for National Development and Communications if he will consider building a bus shelter as soon as possible along Jalan Toa Payoh just outside the Jalan Tenteram Hawkers' Centre.”
“The second part of the road from Avenue 8 to Lorong Chuan is expected to be completed by March this year The North-South Arterial Road project comprises 3.2 km of roadway and two bridge structures. This new North-South Road will run from Avenue 1, Ang Mo Kio, to cross over Braddell Road and link up with Thomson Road. As parts of the site are encumbered, construction work for the project is being carried out in stages. Phase I of the project near Avenue 1 comprising a bridge across Sungei Kallang and some approach road work is under construction. Tenders for the construction of Phase II of this road from Braddell Road to Thomson Road and for Phase Ill of the project from Braddell Road to Avenue 1 will be called for in June and September this year respectively. The entire project is expected to complete by November 1979. With the completion of this road, the traffic congestion along Upper Thomson Road will be relieved considerably as City-bound traffic from Ang Mo Kio New Town will be diverted onto this new road. WHAMPOA DRIVE (Conversion into dual carriageway) 11. Dr Augustine H. H. Tan asked the Minister for National Development and Communications whether, in view of the frequent traffic congestion along Jalan Kebun Limau and Jalan Bahagia, he will consider converting the one-way stretch of Whampoa Drive leading to Jalan Bahagia into a two-way road. Dr Tan Eng Liang (for the Minister for National Development and Communications): Sir, the Public Works Department will be converting the one-way stretch of Whampoa Drive leading to Jalan Bahagia into a two-way road. The project will be undertaken in June, 1977. BUS SHELTER ALONG JALAN TOA PAYOH (Outside Jalan Tenteram Hawkers' Centre) 12. Dr Augustine H. H.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the Public Works Department will demolish the vacant premises in the Kampong Kembangan Constituency as and when acquisition procedures have been completed. The first batch of vacant buildings affected by the extension of Sims Avenue have already been demolished on 5th January, 1977. Another batch of vacant buildings in Jalan Jaffar. Jalan Kuda, Jalan Daud and Jalan Eunos which are affected by the Pan Island Expressway Scheme will be demolished on 15th March, 1977. As acquisition procedures in connection with the two road projects are expected to be completed by early April 1977, the remaining buildings in the Kampong Kembangan Constituency will be demolished only after April 1977. Work to demolish squatter units will only be carried out after the squatters have been resettled. Resettlement clearance is expected to be completed in June/July 1977 for the extension of Sims Avenue and October/November 1977 for the Pan Island Expressway project. TRAFFIC CONGESTION ALONG UPPER THOMSON ROAD (Plans to relieve) 10. Mr Ang Nam Piau asked the Minister for National Development and Communications what is the overall plan to relieve the heavy traffic congestion along Upper Thomson Road. Dr Tan Eng Liang (for the Minister for National Development and Communications): Mr Speaker, Sir, to relieve the heavy traffic congestion along Upper Thomson Road, two new major arterial roads will be constructed to cater for traffic from the Upper Thomson Road/Ang Mo Kio New Town areas, viz, the East-West Arterial Road from Upper Thomson Road to Lorong Chuan and the North-South Arterial Link Road from Thomson Road to Avenue 6, Ang Mo Kio. Part of the East-West Arterial Road from Upper Thomson Road to Avenue 8. Ang Mo Kio, is completed and is open to traffic.”
“KAMPONG KEMBANGAN CONSTITUENCY (Demolition of vacant premises) 9. Encik Mansor Haji Sukaimi asked the Minister for National Development and Communications when the Public Works Department will demolish the premises in the Kampong Kembangan Constituency made vacant after acquisition by Government to make way for the Pan Island Expressway and the extension of Sims Avenue.”
“The Senior Minister of State for Communications (Mr Ong Teng Cheong) (for the Minister for National Development and Communications): Mr Speaker, Sir, presently, the Singapore Bus Service Ltd (SBS) operates seven normal services and one Blue Arrow service serving Serangoon Garden Estate. Despite this large number of services operating into and from the Estate. the level of service provided to the residents is unsatisfactory owing to the inefficient network of services. The existing bus service system needs to be rationalised because there is a great deal of wasteful deployment of buses as a result of route duplication. Buses operate into the Estate throughout the day thereby lengthening the time taken for each trip. A study was made by SBS in October last year with a view to improving the level of bus service to Serangoon Garden Estate. After consultations with the hon. Member for Serangoon Gardens and the members of his Citizens Consultative Committee, SBS has proposed the following improvements: (i) Some services will be abolished to reduce wasteful duplication while other services will be modified to better serve the residents. As a result of this route rationalisation, service frequency will be improved from 14 1/2 minutes to about 9 1/2 minutes during peak hours. (ii) A one-man-operated internal service will be introduced into the Estate during off-peak hours. This will provide residents in the Estate with a much better level of service. The proposed route rationalisation is being examined by the Bus Services Licensing Authority to see if the services could be further streamlined. The new scheme will probably be introduced in April as soon as it is finalised and approved by the Bus Services Licensing Authority.”
“Sir, a modern new satellite town with a population of about 180,000 people is being planned, just outside the adverse noise zone of the Changi Airport. The town will comprise a series of neighbourhoods, each with its own centre. When completed, it will be provided with a comprehensive range of amenities and facilities for the enjoyment of the residents, including an extensive green park on its periphery. The town will be provided with primary and secondary schools, a vocational institute, a junior college and a sports complex. There will also be a modern traffic-free town centre to be attractively designed for the pedestrians. Finally, a comprehensive public transport system will be designed to make all parts of the town accessible from one another. There will also be back-up facilities for the Airport, such as warehousing and storage of cargoes and sites for associated aerospace industries. These facilities will be planned close to the Airport for operational convenience. There is as yet no detailed planning since the Airport is under construction and reclamation is still going on. But detailed zoning based on the facilities planned for the area will be undertaken. Meanwhile enough land has been set aside for the Airport backup facilities and for the satellite town. Other major development projects are the construction of two expressways, one connecting the Airport to the city through the East Coast Parkway and the other linking Changi Airport to Paya Lebar Airport. SERANGOON GARDEN ESTATE (New Bus Service Scheme) 8. Dr Lau Teik Soon asked the Minister for National Development and Communications how the proposed new bus service scheme for Serangoon Garden Estate will improve the bus service and when the scheme will be introduced.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, as the Jurong Town Corporation has already built 424 executive flats in Jurong. there is no immediate need for HUDC to consider building more middle-income flats here. For the present, HUDC is giving priority consideration to middle-income housing developments not farther than seven miles from the City centre. CHANGI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (Major development projects) 7. Mr Teo Chong Tee asked the Minister for National Development and Communications what other major development projects there will be in Changi in line with the development of Changi International Airport.”
“Sir, the market referred to by the Member for Thomson is the second shopping centre built by the HDB at 10 km Upper Thomson Road near Windsor Park Road. The centre was constructed for the purpose of resettling the shop-houses along Upper Thomson Road which were affected by a road widening scheme. The Board bas no plan to build flats near this market. HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT COMPANY (Middle-income flats in Jurong) 6. Mr Ho Kah Leong asked the Minister for National Development and Communications whether arrangements will be made for the Housing and Urban Development Company to build middle - income flats in Jurong.”
“Sir, the question should be referred to the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Law. However, I will convey his suggestion. An hon. Member: Pass the buck! HOUSING AND DEVELOPMENT BOARD (Building of flats at Upper Thomson Road) 5. Mr Ang Nam Piau asked the Minister for National Development and Communications whether the Housing and Development Board has plans to build flats near the market at 10 kms Upper Thomson Road.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the fees payable to the Board are $15 for engrossed documents and $5 administrative fee. That is all the purchaser of a HDB flat has to pay to the Board itself. However, like any other house purchaser, he has also to pay the usual conveyancing fees to the various Government departments, namely:- (a) Stamp Fee for lease at 2% of sale price for the first $30,000, and an additional $16 for a lease exceeding three years. (b) Fees for registration of lease. (c) Government Survey Fee. (d) Stamp Fee for mortgage. (e) Fees for registration of mortgage. The HDB merely collects these fees on behalf of Government. Thus, for a 3-room new flat in Ang Mo Kio which costs $15,800, the purchaser will have to pay the following fees if he takes a 20-year loan, after paying the 20% down payment of $3,200:- Engrossment of documents $ 15 Administrative Fee $ 5 Stamp Fees for lease (2% of $15,800 plus $16 for a 99-year lease) $ 332 Fees for registration of lease $ 27 Government Survey fee $ 100 Stamp Fees for mortgage (Loan of $12,600) $ 66 Fees for registration of mortgage $ 22 Total $ 567 The total sum is $567, out of which the HDB only collects $20.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, former SIT flats are either redeveloped or sold under the Home Ownership Scheme, in accordance with the following guidelines:- (a) Redevelopment will be considered where the flats are 3-storey or less and the density is low. (b) Sale is considered where the flats are more than three storeys and the density is high. There are no plans to sell the SIT flats at the Delta Constituency as the buildings are below four storeys and the land they occupy is suitable for redevelopment. FEES PAYABLE ON PURCHASE OF HDB FLATS (Clarification) 4. Mr Ch'ng Jit Koon asked the Minister for National Development and Communications, in view of the confusion caused by certain political parties during the recent general elections about the engagement of lawyers for purchases of Housing and Development Board flats, if he will clarify what fees are payable to the Board by purchasers of the Board's flats.”
“Sir, to please the hon. Member, we will try our best to do that.”
“Sir, the HDB area office will be most appreciative if the Member can point out where the metal piece is. Like all playing fields and areas under the HDB's management, things of this nature have occurred and will occur. I am answering a question here regarding the removal of debris by contractors, and I say again that it is the responsibility of the contractors to remove the debris, and that a fine will be levied if he does not do it properly. But that does not suggest that incidents of that nature will never occur. I would therefore appreciate it if the hon. Member could bring it to our attention so that we can have it removed.”
“Sir, the answer is positive. If the Member can inform us of such incidents, we will definitely look into the matter. Encik Mansor Haji Sukaimi (Kampong Kembangan): Mr Speaker, Sir, if the Senior Minister of State is obliging enough, I will be very happy to bring him to the housing estate and show him a piece of metal jutting out of the ground, not at the corner of the estate but in the `middle of the area where people walk up and down, especially children. Secondly, it is not true that barbed wires are always located in areas which are not frequented by children. I was at Ang Mo Kio last night and I saw barbed wires along the pavement of the main passageways.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, in the first place, children are not supposed to walk around at night in open spaces where contractors are working. Let me perhaps tell the Member that if it is a well-planned and well-executed playground meant strictly for children to play, then in that case the barbed wires can easily be removed and perhaps other substitutes like wire, string or perhaps straw if he likes, could be used to fence around fields and certain plants as we do now. But in this case we are talking of turfing of playing fields.”
“8 has been routed into Bedok Plain and Bedok Walk via Upper East Coast Road and Bedok Highway. The opportunity has also been taken to adjust the route of this service to serve residents in the Marine Parade Housing Estate better. These improvements were implemented last Friday, 25th February, 1977. SINGAPORE AIRPORT TERMINAL SERVICES (Ground handling services in Changi) 7. Mr Teo Chong Tee asked the Minister for National Development and Communications whether Singapore Airport Terminal Services will be awarded full franchise for all ground handling services when Changi International Airport becomes operational in mid-1980 or whether another handling company will be established either as a private concern or a government-owned enterprise to compete with SATS in the operation of the ground handling activities.”
“Sir, I share the sentiments of the hon. Member for Kampong Kembangan. But there is such a thing as procedures and requirements. If he owns a private property, I assume that he would not want us to move in without his permission. The Member should differentiate between the temporary repairing of pot-holed roads and clogged drains and his request for a proper metalling of the whole road. In the case of repairs to roads, like the filling up of pot-holes, the procedure is to request the URSC to carry out the repairs on an urgent basis. In fact, the Chairman of the URSC has the authority to give the necessary approval without going to the full Committee. As to the Member's suggestion on expediting the process, I have indicated during the debate on the President's speech that for major road metalling projects, the URSC will consider getting bigger allocations from the Budget Division provided such indications are given, say, a year ahead of time. As to his suggestion to go ahead and carry out the project without the landowner's permission, it is most undemocratic to do so. BEDOK NEW TOWN (Extension of City Shuttle Service No. 8) 6. Haji Sha'ari Bin Tadin asked the Minister for National Development and Communications if steps will be taken to extend Service No. 8 of the City Shuttle Service which presently terminates in front of Siglap Post Office to provide a loop service by going into Bedok Highway, Bedok Walk, New Upper Changi Road. Bedok Highway and Upper East Coast Road. The Senior Minister of State for Communications (Mr Ong Teng Cheong) (for the Minister for National Development and Communications): Sir, the City Shuttle Service No. 8 has been extended to serve Bedok New Town. Instead of turning round at Siglap Post Office, CSS No.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, metalling of kampong roads is normally carried out on the recommendations of the Citizens' Consultative Committees. Work will commence as soon as the Urban and Rural Services Committee has approved the project and the landowner's permission is obtained. In the case of Lengkong Tiga, a proposal to metal the road was received in 1975. However, the project is delayed because the landowner's permission has not been obtained. As for the other kampong roads, so far no official request has been received from the Kampong Kembangan Citizens' Consultative Committee. If the Member of Parliament will put up proposals for metalling of these roads, the Urban and Rural Services Committee will consider the request.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, Bedok Highway is a dual two-lane road with a centre divider connecting New Changi Road to Upper East Coast Road and East Coast Parkway. It is also the only link road between Bedok New Town and East Coast Parkway. At present, traffic volume along Bedok Highway is light but is expected to increase over a period. Because of this, it is necessary that traffic disruption from side roads and accesses be minimised. There have been similar requests from the junior college and factories in the vicinity to open up the centre divider along the Highway. These requests have been turned down as traffic disruption from side roads and accesses through the numerous gaps in the centre divider will defeat the purpose of the Highway. Therefore, it is not recommended to open up the divider along Bedok Highway to allow traffic from Upper East Coast Road direction to turn right into the car park between Blocks 2 and 3. KAMPONG KEMBANGAN (Metalling of Kampong Roads) 5. Encik Mansor Haji Sukaimi asked the Minister for National Development and Communications when the earth roads at Jalan Masjid, Lengkong Tiga, Pachitan Tiga, Pachitan Empat, Pachitan Lima, Pachitan Sepuloh and Jalan Wijaya will be metalled.”
“Haji Sha'ari Bin Tadin asked the Minister for National Development and Communications if the Public Works Department will look into the feasibility of constructing an opening from Bedok Highway, which has light traffic, into the car park between Blocks 2 and 3 so that traffic coming from Upper East Coast Road can make a right turn into the car park instead of having to go up to New Changi Road to do a "U" turn, an extra distance of approximately one kilometre.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the proposed Expressway project affected 272 families within the Kampong Kembangan Constituency. Of these, 182 families are eligible for priority rehousing. Six families undertook to find their own accommodation and 84 families do not qualify for rehousing because of citizenship qualifications and the cut-off date rulings. So far, 25 families were relocated to HDB flats on resettlement priority. The majority of these families were allocated flats at the Bedok New Town. Of the remaining priority families, 157 are waiting for alternative accommodation in the Geylang Serai/Bedok vicinity. The proposed extension of Sims Avenue involved the resettlement of 235 families in the Kampong Kembangan Constituency. Of these. 181 families are eligible for priority rehousing. 36 families undertook to find their own accommodation while 18 families do not qualify for rehousing either because of citizenship qualifications or because of cutoff date rulings. A total of 133 families were already relocated to HDB flats mainly at Jalan Eunos Estate on resettlement priority. Of the remaining priority cases, 48 families are waiting for alternative accommodation in the Geylang Serai/Bedok vicinity. Due to the heavy demand for public housing in the Katong/Bedok Zone, it is very unlikely that the remaining families who are eligible for priority rehousing can be given alternative accommodation in the Geylang Serai/Bedok area. They may have to be relocated to Ang Mo Kio where accommodation is adequately available OPENING UP OF CENTRE DIVIDER ALONG BEDOK HIGHWAY 4.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I have said that the provision of bus services will be included in the more detailed arrangements between the HDB and the SBS when the period of residential occupation is nearer to full completion. But I do assure Members that as far as overall planning of a particular estate is concerned; roads, post office. including a library, are standing instruction for HDB architects to incorporate them in all new estates. With regard to the Member's suggestion for the provision of community centres, there is a thinking whether community centres should be incorporated as a standard requirement in all HOB estates. I think that is left to be discussed. PRESIDENT'S SPEECH Debate on the Address (Seventh Day) Order read for Resumption of Debate on Question [14th February, 1977]. `That the following Address in reply to the Speech of the President be agreed to:- "We, the Parliament of the Republic of Singapore express our thanks to the President for the Speech which he delivered on behalf of the Government at the opening of the First Session of this Parliament".'. - [Dr Chiang Hai Ding]. Question again proposed. 2.37 p.m.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, in my reply to some of the observations made by hon. Members, in particular the arrangements between the Singapore Bus Service and the Housing and Development Board, I indicated that in the planning of new estates the HDB does consult the bus authority. But for more detailed planning, especially of providing bus services to the new estates, a lot depends on when the residents have moved into a particular area. As to exactly where the bus routes are going to be, it will depend on the actual situation of resident-occupancy when it is nearer the period of completion. I have also informed Members of this House that the HDB and the SBS have a planning committee which is looking into this. As to the general planning of HDB estates. I can assure Members here that in the overall planning of a new estate. for example, the Bedok New Town. either Neighbourhood I or II. all the necessary main infrastructure is planned well in advance, For instance, the necessary requirements for sewerage, social amenities, public utilities and major roads, are all planned ahead of time. But the more detailed requirements within the Neighbourhood, such as in Bedok New Town Neighbourhood II. will have to be done nearer the period of completion.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, bus shelters will be constructed at both these locations. Work on the shelters will commence in June 1977. POST OFFICE IN BEDOK NEW TOWN (NEIGHBOURHOOD I) 3. To ask the Minister for National Development and Communications if it is planned to set up a post office in Neighbourhood I of Bedok New Town and when it is expected to be ready”
“Mr Goh Chok Tong asked the Minister for Law and the Environment whether the site reserved for the construction of schools in front of Block 30, Marine Parade, which is fast becoming an obnoxious wasteland, could be levelled for use as a temporary football or open field if the construction of schools is not scheduled to commence within a year.”
“More buses have been added on to these services during the last few months as the number of residents in the area increases. The long-term plan is for all new towns, including Bedok New Town, to be served by a system of internal and external bus services. Within each town, a comprehensive network of internal services will bring residents from the various neighbourhoods to the town centre terminal where external services to the Central Business District, major industrial zones, and other towns will originate. Where demand is high, express services will be introduced. Such a system will make best use of the limited resources and restricted road space and reduce operating costs. The alternative of linking each part of the town directly with various destinations is an expensive way of providing good service. Service 220, which was introduced on the 1 5th March last year and is now enjoying good patronage, is the forerunner of internal services for Bedok New Town. It will be strengthened with additional buses as and when necessary. More internal services will be introduced to serve other neighbourhoods as they become occupied. The SBS is working closely with the HDB on the design of the Bedok Town Centre Terminal for the safe and convenient transfer by commuters between internal and external services. The terminal is expected to be completed in 18 months' time. Pending the introduction of the new bus system and completion of the Town Centre Terminal, the SBS will look into the possibility of extending more of its services to Neighbourhood I of the Bedok New Town as an interim measure. RESERVED SITE IN FRONT OF BLOCK 30, MARINE PARADE 5.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, works to widen the stretch of Thomson Road (between Balestier Road and Moulmein Road) are expected to commence in July 1977. No pedestrian crossing with controlled lighting will be provided. This is because there are already too many traffic signals along this stretch of Thomson Road, Instead, a pedestrian overhead bridge will be constructed in front of the Novena Church in conjunction with the road widening scheme to ease traffic flow and for the safety of the pedestrians. Cars will be allowed to turn right from Thomson Road into Balestier Road at all times after the road has been widened. An extra lane will be provided for right-turning vehicles from Thomson Road to Jalan Novena Barat. However, for traffic and safety reasons, right-turning will be prohibited from Jalan Novena Barat to Thomson Road. ADDITIONAL BUS SERVICE TO BEDOK NEW TOWN (NEIGHBOURHOOD I) 4. Haji Sha'ari Bin Tadin asked the Minister for National Development and Communications if he will consider asking the Singapore Bus Service to provide additional bus services to Bedok New Town (Neighbourhood I) as the present services are inadequate. The Senior Minister of State for Communications (Mr Ong Teng Cheong) (for the Minister for National Development and Communications): Mr Speaker, Sir, Bedok New Town is presently served throughout the day by three SBS services. They are Service 3 to Geylang and Chinatown, Service 12 to East Coast Road and beyond, and Service 220 which runs along the industrial area in Bedok Plain to the nearby Chai Chee Terminal. At Chai Chee Terminal, there are 15 other services operating to major destination areas. During peak periods, there are two additional Blue Arrow Services, i.e. Service 302 to Shenton Way and Service 307 to Orchard Road.”