Teong Eng Siong
Singapore
“Sir, on a point of order. (In Mandarin) Sir, just now the Minister said that by suggesting the granting of citizenship to these people I would be inviting competition because they would then be allowed to apply for hawker licence and HDB flats. I did not say that.”
“Only two? Mr Chua Sian Chin: Two out of 35 from the Land Divisions and 18 from the Radio Division. I think that is sufficient. If the Member is not aware, may I say that we have asked the Management Services Department of the Ministry of Finance to make a recent study into the adequacy of patrol cars on patrol at any one time.”
“Very often on pay days they crowd into the post office and pack up all the space, and the small number of staff would be kept very busy. According to my understanding, the small post office there will soon be receiving payments for PUB bills for the benefit of the people there. Of course, this will be convenient to the residents there.”
“Sir,I have also noticed that roads built under the gotong royong scheme are much better than those built by the contractors. Even after several years of use, these roads are still good.”
“Sir, in view of the Parliamentary Secretary's satisfactory explanation. I beg leave to withdraw my amendment. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. The sum of $159,839,000 for Head O ordered to stand part of the Main Estimates. The sum of $1,213,685,000 for Head O ordered to stand part of the Development Estimates. Head P -”
“Another problem concerns the many HDB flats in certain areas which have not been taken up after allotment and have been left vacant for a long time. There are many such vacant flats in my constituency, for instance. Marsiling (a part of the Woodlands New Town), and I believe the same is true of other housing estates. Why?”
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“After strict semi-military training, they will become the pillars of our rugged society and become model citizens of our multi-racial society. Over these past several years the Vigilante Corps has done well to maintain public order and has helped the Police by arresting robbers and protecting women from being bullied by hooligans. In all these activities they have shown that they are people of good quality and imbued with a sense of sacrifice. They have set an example as good citizens for all to see, and have maintained a very close and good relationship with community centres and the people of the various constituencies. Their high spirit of service has given the public a good impression. The Vigilante Corps consist of people from various races of different cultures, different streams of education, different languages and different religions. Their contribution in uniting the people of various races together has produced results. Their achievements have helped to unite the people. In my constituency, Sembawang, the Vigilante Corps unit consists of Chinese, Indians and Malays. The unit leader is an Indian. He is able to unite the team together and has helped them to put up good achievements. This might be due to the personal capacity and merits of this unit leader, but I believe another factor is that there is already being formed a sort of identity of purpose. This will be a great contribution to our task in building a multi-racial model society. This is a very significant factor. At present the training of the Vigilante Corps consists mainly of drills and instruction in general police regulations. But I think they should also be inculcated with a spirit of patriotism and loyalty to our country. This is also important.”
“Sir, I fully support the Vigilante Corps Bill. Its purpose is to enable members of the Vigilante Corps to be a more disciplined force in order to help our police maintain law and order and public security. Sir, I think we can all recall that the Vigilante Corps was set up in April 1964 when Indonesia was in confrontation against us and when there was a series of sabotage and bomb incidents in our country. And in order to protect the lives and property of our people, the Prime Minister (Mr Lee Kuan Yew then) called for the setting-up of such a Corps. We all know the historical background of this Corps. The Prime Minister's call was warmly supported by people of all walks of life. The bomb incidents and the series of sabotage acts had caused some damage to property, if they had not at least adversely affected our commercial and industrial activities. Our people then felt quite uneasy and had a sense of insecurity. Following the formation of the Vigilante Corps, such activities were on a reduced scale and the situation was later put under control. For these achievements by the Vigilante Corps, we all should give them our praise and admiration. I understand that everyone appreciates their efforts and contributions. Though Indonesian confrontation has become history, the Vigilante Corps' assistance is still necessary at the present juncture, although its present duties may be different. In the past their duty was mainly to prevent any sabotage, to catch spies and enemy agents, and to protect the lives and property of our people. Today their task and responsibility is to help the police maintain law and order and public security, and prevent anti-social activities by anti-national elements.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the Government has imposed a quota on textiles and singlets. As a result of this, there is an increase of ten cents or so in the price of singlets. Does the Government have any measures to prevent price increases?”
“I hope they will turn over a new leaf and become good and useful citizens. Sir, we know that the anti-national elements are already bankrupt in political theories. This can be shown by the statements made by the ex- detainees over T.V. Singapura. I hope these anti- national elements will learn from the experiences and the new thinking of their elder brothers. If we want to prevent effectively these illegal acts, in my opinion, other than this Bill, public cooperation and Press editorials are also very effective means in achieving this purpose. With all of them applying their pressure on the anti- national elements, they will achieve the effect desired. I fully support this Bill. Mr Govindaswamy rose -”
“Sir, I fully support this amendment Bill. In order to uphold the dignity of our courts and maintain law and order so that our country may march forward progressively and become an industrialised country and thus provide a better life for our people, we must deal with these anti-national elements severely and prevent them from committing any malicious acts. Recently these anti-national elements openly flouted the law. They carried out illegal parades and demonstrations and damaged community centres, breaking traffic lights, etc. They have openly shown their contempt of the law in court. They have entirely disregarded law and order. They have caused a lot of inconvenience to members of the public. They have also brought about disrepute and great losses to our country internationally. Ours is a newly-independent country. We are now proceeding with our nation- building. In the past two years, with the harmonious co-operation of the various races and under the judicious leadership of our Government, construction activities have been going on in many flelds, and, as a result, we have made great progress. But it is regretted that these anti- national elements are trying every means to des troy our nation and prevent our progress. They are able to do so because ours is a democratic country and our law is rather lax. It is not strict enough to deal with them. If such acts had been committed in any Communist country, the culprits would have been severely dealt with. For example, they would have been sent to a labour reform camp or sentenced to death. So today it is very timely that this Bill is introduced in this House. I feel that it will be very effective in dealing with such people. At the same time, I hope that it will also help those who have gone astray to wake up.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I fully support this amendment Bill introduced by the Minister. Sir, in order to uphold law and order --- Mr Speaker: I meant to make this remark before Mr Ng spoke. I just wanted to remind Members carefully to avoid any reference to pending cases in the course of their speeches.”
“Sir, what I mean is that if there are price tags, the purchasers will know the actual condition of the market, because now and then, whenever there is any incident, the seller -”
“I would like to ask the Minister whether he would consider instructing all rice sellers to exhibit price tags to help the buyers. Some of the shops have already done so. Dr Goh Keng Swee: I do not believe that exhibiting price tags could reduce the price of rice. But if the hon. Member believes that it will, and has confidence in its efficacy, then we can give it a try.”
“Will the Minister consider requesting all shops selling foodstuffs to exhibit price tags on their goods (especially rice) for public information?”
“But when the police patrol cars arrive, these brave revolutionaries do not carry out their struggle constitutionally but they throw stones at the police and disperse. From all this, we can see that most of the members of this so-called voluntary vanguard have been fooled into taking part in such illegal activities. But when they meet the police, they take to their heels as quickly as possible! The Barisan Sosialis have announced that they will carry on with the struggle outside Parliament by instituting what they call the "Anti Three Harms Campaign" in order to overthrow the P.A.P, and establish their own regime. But what is surprising is that their engineered demonstrations and parades have never been successful. In fact, they have roused the indignation of the masses because, firstly, they destroy community centres which render good services to the people, especially those in the rural areas; secondly, they beat up teachers, and this is a very great moral offence; thirdly, they smash up traffic lights, and this is detrimental to public interest; and, fourthly, they overturn rubbish bins, and this is a health offence. So when they say that they are committing rebellious acts against the Government, they are, in fact, carrying out ridiculous activities which are detrimental to the people. All activities which are against law and order are activities which are detrimental to the interest and well-being of the people. The Barisan Sosialis will only succeed in isolating themselves from the people. I, therefore, hope that the policy planners of the Barisan Sosialis will think twice about their present policies and check themselves in time from committing suicide by such actions. 4.19 p.m.”
“In fact, the peace, prosperity and happiness of our country has been the result of the arduous work and efforts of our Government, with the co-operation of the people. We can say that Singapore is the most peaceful and prosperous country in South-East Asia. In order to preserve the national prosperity and peace and interests of the people, we, the Government, have a responsibility to see that such anti-national elements cannot carry on with their activities, such as damaging public property, breaking of street lights, upsetting rubbish bins and various other acts. Such barbaric and uncultured acts have caused great indignation among the people. Therefore, today before this House there is this Criminal Procedure Code (Amendment) Bill under a Certificate of Urgency. I feel that all the people expect this Bill to be passed quickly in order to deal with the situation. Sir, as for the families of those who have been prosecuted for their recent offences, I feel that they would also welcome this amendment Bill because, as parents or as relatives of such people, their children may become useful and law-abiding citizens and live in the proper way with the passing of this Bill into law. [Mr Speaker in the Chair] 4.14 p.m. I support this Bill because it will enable such offenders to repent and turn over a new leaf. In fact, those people who are misled by the Barisan Sosialis into participating in various anti-national activities are young people. They have been excited and fooled by the Barisan's high tune and revolutionary slogans. They go out into the streets to carry out revolutionary actions, chanting slogans and yelling abusive language.”
“Sir, I fully support the Criminal Procedure Code (Amendment) Bill. In the present circumstances and for the sake of respecting our national dignity, public interest, political security, economic prosperity and social order, and in order to allow our two million people to live in peace, I feel it is necessary to amend the present law. We know that the purpose of the amendment Bill is not to allow those who carry out anti-national, destructive and sabotage activities to avail themselves of the bail provided in the law and come out free and be able to carry out such activities again. The Minister has said that some people on bail have continued to commit the same offence for which they are prosecuted. From this we can see that it is necessary to amend the present law relating to bail granted to a person who is accused of a certain offence. So this is a pressing problem for us. Ours is a responsible government which looks after the interests of the people. We have the trust laid upon us by the general masses and we should try our best to rule the country and serve the people well. Recently the anti-national Barisan Sosialis have carried out a series of riots and demonstrations, causing social disorder with a view to disrupting the peace and good order of our society and hindering our economic and industrial development. They hope by such acts to destroy our democratic system and create a situation in which our economy will become bankrupt and the people will be dissatisfied, so that the time may be ripe for them to engage in their so-called revolution. Sir, their actions are obviously very sinister. They hope that there would be disorder and general chaos in the Republic, and they want to put a stop to the national security, peace and prosperity which we are now enjoying.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, if I am not mistaken, the Member for Bukit Merah seems to be encouraging divorces.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, concerning the objection raised by the Member for Delta who considers that the 7-year period is too long, I think this does not really affect the issue. Although seven years is fairly long, if the couple after separation feel that it is painful to both of them to carry on separately and if they want to come back within this period, I do not think there is any disadvantage to the woman. The Member for Delta has also said that taking up divorce proceedings is not the special privilege of the man. I think that relates to both parties. As to the question whether or not a marriage is successful, it is up to both parties to see that they respect each other. The Women's Charter is mainly to promote the one-man-one-wife system. We can say that it has worked quite successfully. But the Member has also said that there are and there will be many men who will have concubines or mistresses. I think this is the responsibility less of the man than of the woman. If a woman is not vain and is willing to take up a proper job, no one will force her to become a concubine or a mistress. If she were a vain woman looking only for the luxuries of life, then it is her own fault. So I hope that women will stand on their own feet and show that they are strong of will and determination, and I also hope that the Member for Delta, as a woman social worker, will educate them to seek proper jobs and compete with men for equality. Madam Chan Choy Siong: Mr Speaker, a point of clarification.”
“But the Bill does not provide for student representation on this Council. Is it because the Ngee Ann College students had staged a boycott of classes in the past, and therefore cannot have the right to be represented on the Council? This is quite contrary to what is provided for in the Nanyang University Council where there is student representation. So I hope the Minister will be able to clarify the matter to this House. [Mr Speaker in the Chair] 4.14 p.m. Sir, although Ngee Ann College has only a short history of four years, there have been many incidents connected with it. For instance, in October last year, there was a boycott by its students. We know that this boycott was agitated by elements with ulterior motives. It did not have the support of the general mass of the people. Sir, I hope that when this Bill is passed and enforced, it will be able to help Ngee Ann College to develop properly on correct lines and to help our country to produce talent.”
“The report has gone into a detailed discussion of the role of Ngee Ann College and the courses to be provided, it has also gone into the details of higher education that we need, and it suggests that Ngee Ann College should not set up courses in those fields already provided by other higher institutions of learning. On the other hand, the report says that Ngee Ann College should specialise in technology and commerce in order to keep up with the needs of industrialisation in our country. Therefore, it suggests three points in the recruitment of new students. Firstly, specialised training should include engineering and commerce reaching a degree standard. Secondly, large-scale comprehensive training to enable the students to be prepared to meet the changes in commerce and industry. Thirdly, to recruit apprentices for newly-established industries and firms. On this it suggests that there should be prior consultation with the Economic Development Board. Sir, I am of the view that these suggestions are very practical and useful because we are developing the College and the talent produced by our higher institutions of learning should be in keeping with the needs of our society. If the higher institutions of our country do not plan well for their development but engage themselves in producing a body of graduates who are not useful in the development of our country, then a social problem will be created for our country to meet. Sir, this Bill also provides for the setting up of a Council whose members will include the Principal and Deans of Faculties, three representatives of Ngee Ann Kongsi, three members appointed by the Minister for Education, one representative of the Economic Development Board, and some others.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the Ngee Ann College Bill is now introduced into this House. According to the Minister for Education, this is done at the request of Ngee Ann College. On this, I feel that the Committee of Management of Ngee Ann Kongsi are very, very realistic in their approach. [Mr Lim Cheng Lock in the Chair] 4.09 p.m. This also shows that the authorities of Ngee Ann College are confident about their College. Thus the future of the Ngee Ann College students will be ensured. We know that the College was set up in 1963. The term is a four-year course. The first batch of students will graduate this year. Sir, it is not easy for higher institutions like Ngee Ann College to be successful. I know that the Ngee Ann College Development Committee has produced a report. According to this report on Ngee Ann College, there should be certain prerequisites if it is to develop. For instance, there should be ample financial resources and facilities and a large team of teachers with good qualifications. On the other hand, the report says that it is also necessary for the College to recruit students of an equal standard of education. At the moment, the students of Ngee Ann College have different levels or standards of education. The report also holds the view that the present situation in Ngee Ann College is causing concern because of lack of financial resources, poor facilities, and shortage of teaching staff. Therefore, the report holds the view that in order to turn the College into a university where it can confer degrees, it is necessary for it to consider its problems further. Sir, the Ngee Ann College Bill, as we all know, is based on the Thong Saw Pak Report.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I would like to ask a supplementary question, and that is whether these two M.P.s have been receiving their allowances? If not, can we put the allowances to better use, say, provide better services for the two constituencies concerned?”
“This attitude of the Government is wise, because on this important matter of amending the Constitution, the Government should weigh the matter carefully, and it is only right for it to give this right to the elected representatives of the people to consider any such amendment in this House. Regarding the office of the Ombudsman, in principle, I feel that this suggestion is very good as the Ombudsman will take part in the task of supervising our democratic system. But I am also aware that as our country has been independent for less than two years and has only a few years of experience in democratic politics, our people are still in the stage of learning the democratic system. So the setting up of an Ombudsman is an innovation, and it is better to wait for a time before setting it up. So I agree with the Prime Minister's explanation why the Government should delay adopting this recommendation until we know the results of the experiments in New Zealand and other countries. Sir, I very much appreciate this steady and mature attitude of the Minister. Generally speaking, this Constitutional Report is very progressive and highly constructive. I believe that it will play a substantial part in contributing towards the drafting of our future Constitution. It will safeguard the basic rights and interests of the minorities and will lay the foundation stone for our democratic system and help build a multi-racial and equal society and a model Republic. Sir, I support the motion. 3.44 p.m.”
“Sir, ever since my election as a representative of the Sembawang Constituency, I have always been in close touch with my constituents, and so I can very well understand the living conditions of the Malays. That is why I agree that this provision should be retained in the future Constitution. We know that compared with other races, in many aspects the Malays have much room for improving their situation. So they should get the assistance and protection as provided for in the Constitution and they should have this special position. Ever since the P.A.P. Government came to power, we have given every possible assistance to the Malays, such as the provision of free education from primary to university level and the allocation of lands to the Malays for resettlement. Sir, the Commission has also recommended three methods to entrench the provisions in the Constitution. The Minister has said that the Government wants to adopt the second method of entrenchment, namely: `That the Bill for an Act of Parliament altering certain named provisions of the Constitution shall not be passed by Parliament unless the Bill is supported at the final voting in Parliament by the votes of not less than two-thirds of all the elected Members of Parliament.' This method is only applicable to certain provisions and institutions stipulated in the Constitution relating to the P.S.C., the Judiciary, the Council of State, citizenship, etc., and only when Parliament has approved any such Bill by a two-thirds majority can such a Bill be put into effect. I feel that on such an important question as amendment of the Constitution, the Government's adoption of this method is correct.”
“I agree with what the Prime Minister has said - that the holding of sittings in private would ensure that all opinions can be frankly and openly expressed, that it will be easier to arrive at constructive conclusions on any matter, and that it will also enable any Bill to be more in keeping with the aspirations and needs of the country and the interests of the people after it has gone through the careful scrutiny of the Council members. On this point, I am aware that certain political parties have criticised the Government for wanting the Council to hold its sittings in private. They say that it is because the Government is afraid of open criticism. I feel that this kind of argument is incorrect. In fact, in a democratic country like ours and in an open society such as we have in Singapore, every policy and measure of the Government has to withstand the test of criticism and we have been engaged in a series of open argument with the Barisan Sosialis for a period of more than two years. They have accused us of being Fascists, dictatorial and undemocratic. But in the end it has been proved, as a result of this open argument, that the truth lies in the hands of the masses. Therefore, in the 1963 general elections they gave us their support and voted us into power. Thus, to say that the Government wishes to see that the Council of State hold sittings in private because it is afraid of public criticism is a wrong accusation and is very unconvincing. The Commission also recommends that the present Article 89 should be retained in the future Constitution, namely, that the Government should recognize the special position of the Malays and should take all steps to promote, safeguard and foster the various interests of the Malays. This recommendation is most appropriate.”
“For the sake of the country and the people, we must ensure that no law is abused by anybody. Any criminal punishment or any penalty imposed should be carried out in accordance with the spirit of humanitarianism. Only in this way can we clearly distinguish the differences between a democratic country and a Fascist and dictatorial one. Regarding periodical general elections, this is a unique characteristic of the democratic system. Only with this provision can we safeguard the fundamental spirit of the democratic system. On the right of the citizens to apply to the court for the enforcement of those-provisions relating to fundamental rights and liberties, this also goes to show that it is a unique manifestation of the rule of law of a democratic country where the judiciary is independent. I would now like to talk about the setting up of the Council of State which is recommended by the Commission. I feel that this is a very constructive and valuable recommendation. The Government has accepted this in principle and has announced that the Council of State will only be a consultative body and that its sittings be best held in private. There are two categories of members. One category consists of permanent members and the other, removable members. Permanent members will only include those people who have contributed to public service. Such people will include the Chief Justice, Cabinet Ministers, the Chairman of the Public Service Commission, and others. Removable members will be appointed for a term of three years and they will be-those citizens with mature minds who have rendered distinguished public service or attained eminence in their respective walks of life. Here I would like to touch upon the nature of the sittings of the Council in private.”
“Article 8 is entitled "Equality" and it reads: `(1) All persons are equal before the law and entitled to the equal protection of the law. (2) ...there shall be no discrimination against citizens on the ground only of religion, race, descent or place of birth...'. Article 9 is entitled "Prohibition of banishment, and freedom of movement.' Article 10 relates to freedom of speech, assembly and association. Article 11 is about freedom of religion. So these two articles provide the freedoms in regard to speech, assembly, association and religion. There is a provision in Article 13 for the right of property; it says that no person shall be deprived of property save in accordance with the law. So all these provisions which I have quoted are in keeping with the principle and spirit of the Charter of the United Nations on basic human rights, and the Government has also accepted the recommendations of the Commission relating to such provisions. Sir, about the provision on the acquisition of property, the Government's intention is to delete the phrase, "except upon just terms". I have a doubt about this. I am not sure whether this will raise any suspicion or anxiety on the part of members of the public. I would like the Minister to clarify this to this House. The Commission also recommends the inclusion in the Constitution of three new provisions, namely: (1) No person shall be subjected to torture. (2) It should be granted to the citizens of Singapore the right to elect a government of their own choice by secret ballot periodically. (3) All citizens should be given the right to apply to the court for the enforcement of those provisions relating to fundamental rights and liberties. These are very appropriate provisions, because we are a democratic country.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, it is encouraging to see that when the Report was published, it received warm support from people in all walks of life, including all political parties and Chambers of Commerce. They consider it to be very constructive and they also support the Government for its acceptance of the recommendations on the setting up of a Council of State, although they do not agree with the recommendation that the Council should hold its sittings in private. They also praise the recommendation that safeguards for the basic rights of the minorities should be provided in the Constitution. One question that interests us is, "Why is the Barisan Sosialis still keeping quiet on this Report?" Is it because it is ashamed of itself for not being able to represent the people any more? The Commission has recommended the adoption of certain provisions of the Malaysian Constitution which relate to basic human rights. Let me quote briefly these provisions in the Malaysian Constitution. They appear in Appendix III on page 34 of the Constitutional Report. Article 5 is entitled "Liberty of the person." It reads: `No person shall be deprived of his life or personal liberty save in accordance with law.' Article 6 is entitled "Slavery and Forced labour prohibited." It reads: `(1) No person shall be held in slavery. (2) All forms of forced labour are prohibited,...'. Article 7 is entitled "Protection against retrospective criminal laws and repeated trials." It reads: `(1) No person shall be punished for an act or omission which was not punishable by law when it was done or made,. (2) A person who has been acquitted or convicted of an offence shall not be tried again for the same offence...'.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I would like to congratulate the eleven Members of the Constitutional Commission on having done a good job. They have prepared a Report after a period of eight months during which they were engaged in private investigations and -public hearings with individuals and organisations representing the minority races. The members of the Commission included eminent lawyers of various races and, after careful scrutiny and study, they have put up this weighty and perfect Report on the safeguards of the rights and interests of the minority races. I believe that this Report not only provides constitutional safeguards for the rights and interests of the minority races, but it also lays down a permanent foundation for the development of Singapore as a model multi-racial country. The recommendations of the Commission providing for the basic rights of the minority races should be effectively safeguarded and entrenched in the Constitution so that the minorities may not be discriminated against. Thus, all the races will be able to live harmoniously together and play their part as citizens of the country. The Constitutional Commission was appointed to investigate the problem of safeguarding the interests and rights of the minority races. This action on the part of the Government goes to show that it is very judicious and far-sighted. The Government took this move on its own volition only four months after Singapore attained its independence. It shows that the Government is really concerned with the interests and rights of the minority races, that it is conscious of its duty and obligations to all the races, and that it is very keen on building a Republic in which all races are equal and can enjoy equal rights.”
“In order that the implementation of this Bill will receive its proper effect, I hope that all those organisations which are loyal to the nation - be they civic organisations, Citizens Consultative Committees or any other organisations in Singapore --- will put aside some time to assist the Government by explaining the position to the people at large. Some publicity must be given by all these civic organisations, and steps must also be taken to ensure that the Barisan Sosialis do not distort the significance and intentions of the Bill so that its success will be ensured. Mr Speaker, Sir, there are clauses in the Bill which provide punishment for contravention of certain provisions, that is to say, those who fail to register themselves for national service shall be liable to terms of imprisonment or fine or both. This punishment is deterrent in nature and I hope that the Ministry concerned will properly carry out the publicity through the Press, Radio, Rediffusion and Television, so that nobody will contravene any of the regulations out of ignorance. Mr Speaker, Sir, I support this amendment Bill.”
“In view of this prerequisite, we have to look after our own survival. We have to make friends with all nations and, therefore, we adopt a neutral foreign policy. We are unable to set aside large sums of money for the purpose of maintaining a very large armed force. As a matter of fact, this would be an unrealistic and inappropriate measure to adopt. Mr Speaker, Sir, since this National Service (Amendment) Bill was introduced at the last sitting and publicised in the Press, we have received popular support from various quarters and leaders of the people. They are all of the view that it is a very realistic and far-sighted measure to adopt. Only the Barisan Sosialis are expressing their opposition to this Bill. Mr Speaker, Sir, an organisation like the Barisan Sosialis, which is anti-national, cannot be expected to do anything useful and beneficial to the country. If we expect this to happen, then it would be something like "fishing on a tree". Therefore, the people of Singapore should not have any regard for the Barisan Sosialis. But if the Barisan Sosialis can drastically change their present outlook and show that they are loyal to our country, then, of course, we shall treat them quite differently. Mr Speaker, Sir, we believe that the broad masses of the people fully support the National Service (Amendment) Bill. They will take practical steps to respond to the call of the Government, and will accept either full-time or part-time military training.”
“Mr Speaker, I rise in full support of this Bill. The introduction of this Bill is well timed, particularly at this juncture when there are four significant points. Firstly, this is a measure by which an independent country shoulders the responsibility to see that all its people will perform their duties as citizens. Secondly, this Bill will strengthen the defence structure of our Republic. It will also ensure that all our citizens in future will be able to shoulder the responsibility of national defence and prepare themselves for this task ahead. Thirdly, this Bill will educate and train our citizens and future generations in military consciousness and preparedness and defence responsibility, so that they will develop healthy and strong bodies and have a sense of discipline. Fourthly, this is a measure to ensure that a multi-racial society will march into a new era of a closely knit society with a new and rugged generation who can defend this country. I feel that one should be filled with pride to become a member of our Armed Forces. There is nobody against this with the exception of the Barisan Sosialis. Mr Speaker, Sir, the Bill provides various forms of military training on a full-time or part-time basis. Most of the training will be done on a part-time basis. Only about 10 per cent of the persons who are liable to be called up will undergo military training on a full-time basis for two years. This is very appropriate and suitable to the realities of this country. As we are a small Republic, it is the main responsibility of the Government to look after the affairs of the citizens. We have to undertake the economic construction of our country, which has limited resources, in order to ensure that our people can live happily.”
“It is something like pulling one hair and your whole body will quiver. So I feel that the introduction of this Bill is not a measure aimed at suppressing the workers. Of course, those anti-national unions will, by all means, try to distort the intention of this Bill. This is not surprising, of course. But in the case of the democratic labour movement, in the form of the National Trades Union Congress, we must make them realise the true intention of the Government that is embodied in this Bill. They must understand that it is introduced to safeguard the interests of the nation without any prejudice to the basic rights of the trade union movement. Finally, I hope that this Bill will not be abused and that the Minister will assure this House that the Government will be very cautious in implementing its provisions. 3.47 p.m.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I fully support the amendment Bill which mainly seeks to prevent any employees from going on strike in the essential services or any employer from locking out the workers. If the workers of essential services have any disputes, they must give 14 days' notice of any industrial action to be taken. No lightning strike or lock-out will be allowed. The essential departments, such as the Water Department, the Gas Department and the Electricity Department of the P.U.B., are very important to the people. So it is necessary to have these provisions set out in the amendment Bill, as these essential services must be manned and maintained continuously because they are essential to the lively-hood of the people and the maintenance of the activities of the industrial and commercial sectors. They are important to the two million people of Singapore. So both the management and employees must not take any reckless action against the interests of the nation. I am also in support of the punishment to be meted out to those who have contravened the provisions of this amendment Bill. It is only in this way that we can ensure the enforcement of this Bill which is beneficial to the interests of the nation as a whole. I do not think there is any provision in the Bill that is against the policy of the Government, which is industrial peace with justice, and it does not cast any doubt on the sincerity of the Government as a fair and just employer and that it is a pro-labour government. If a worker wants to go on strike, he should give 14 days' notice. This does not negative his right to go on strike. One must be very clear about this. Therefore, whatever chaos that may arise out of a lightning strike will affect the whole nation.”
“Sir, just now I heard the Parliamentary Secretary say that locally-made soap costs 30 cents per cake. If that is the case, I would like to order through him. Mr Speaker: Mr Teong, question No. 8. LOCAL AND FOREIGN INDUSTRIALISTS (Reaction to export and investment incentives) 8. Mr Teong Eng Siong asked the Minister for Finance what is the reaction from local and foreign industrialists to the incentives for export and investment granted by the Government from 1st January, 1967.”
“The Parliamentary Secretary has said just now that the price of locally-manufactured soap is 30 cents a cake. This is incorrect. From what I can gather, three cakes of locally-made soap cost $l.10 cents. I hope the Ministry concerned will fix the price of soap.”
“Because of this unhealthy situation in the past, it was possible for some anti-national elements to infiltrate into some societies registered in Singapore, particularly some political societies, old boys' associations and trade unions. We could see all these facts from the statements issued by political detainees recently released. These anti-national elements, formed under the guise of registered societies, were carrying out anti-national activities against the interest of the people. The Societies Bill, which makes provision to confine membership of any society to Singapore citizens only, is a very correct move indeed. It will ensure that our societies will no longer be infiltrated by anti-national elements. Mr Speaker, there is one point, however, which I wish to bring to the attention of the Minister, and that is as follows. Those who are law-abiding and loyal residents should be allowed to become citizens of Singapore within one or two years. I believe there are some such persons holding office in our registered societies. So I would like the Minister to exercise his powers under the Bill to allow such persons to continue holding office for the time being until they become Singapore citizens by law. As long as the interests of the people of Singapore are protected, I believe that all loyal citizens will support this Bill. 3.30 p.m.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I fully support the Societies Bill. I personally feel that it has got three basic features. One is to bring us into the new situation. Secondly, it is to protect the interest of our citizens. Thirdly, it is to stop anti-national elements from infiltrating into our country. As the Minister has already said, the old Societies Ordinance is outmoded and cannot be effectively used in our new situation. When we were in Malaysia we were part of Malaysia as a State. But, according to the Constitution of Malaysia, the people of Malaysia or Sarawak were not Singapore citizens unless they were registered under the Singapore Citizenship Ordinance. But, at that time, our Government was adopting an enlightened and liberal attitude towards people who came from Malaysia or other territories within Malaysia. So we allowed these people to register themselves as a society or as a political society in Singapore. They were also allowed to hold office in such societies. But since we became independent on the 9th of August, 1965, the whole situation has changed. We have entered a new stage. Therefore, if we continue to allow the old situation to exist, then it would be unwise. Mr Speaker, freedom of assembly is one of the fundamental rights of the people. The formation of a political society is an expression of this freedom of assembly. So the societies registered under the Societies Ordinance will have all their legitimate activities recognised by the law. It is only fair that only citizens of Singapore will be allowed to hold important office in the societies. This is one of the basic rights of the people. But this was not the situation in the past. Whether you were a citizen or not, you were allowed to hold office in the societies then registered.”
“Mr Speaker. Sir, the Parliament Secretary has not answered my point relating to the assurance to be given to this House that his Ministry will speed up the various works. I am very happy about this.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, That the total sum to be allocated Head 68 be reduced by $100. Sir, the allocation of $2,715,000 shows an increase over that for last year. This vote is meant to be used various construction projects in rural areas, including the building of roads, drains, footpaths, lighting, etc. I would like to offer my congratulations to the Minister on his continued efforts and consideration for the welfare of the rural people. The progress and achievement in the rural areas have been seen by all. There is a new picture to be seen generally throughout the rural area. This should be to the credit of the Government. I have now several points to which I hope the Minister will pay attention. I hope next year there will be better progress in the rural areas and that he will pay attention to the construction work carried out there by the various Ministries to speed up the development plans.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, That the total sum to be allocated for Head 67 be reduced by $100. Mr Speaker, Sir, I would like Minister to explain to this House expenditure with regard to subheads 102, 104, 202 and 208. Madam Chan Choy Siong (Delta)(In Mandarin): Mr Speaker, Sir, regard to this vote, I do not see allocation for the building of fount I remember raising this point in House a few months ago. 7.15 p.m.”
“Sir, I beg leave to withdraw amendment. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. The increased sum of $5,981,060 for Head 63 ordered to stand part of Development Estimates. Head 64 - The following amendments stood the name of Mr S. V. Lingam - That the sum to be allocated for Head 64 be reduced by $10 in respect of item 006 of subhead 201. That the sum to be allocated for Head 64 be reduced by $10 in respect of item 007 of subhead 201. That the sum to be allocated for Head 64 be reduced by $10 in respect of item 008 of subhead 201. That the sum to be allocated for Head 64 be reduced by $10 in respect of item 001 of subhead 205.”
“Sir, what I want to raise is quite different matter. I beg to move, That the total sum to be allocated for Head 63 be reduced by $100. I would like to ask the Minister why the vote of $5,981,060 for next year is an increase over that of this year, and for what purpose? 7.00 p.m.”
“I withdraw my amendment. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. The sum of $43,500,000 for Head 62 ordered to stand part of the Development Estimates. Head 63 -”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, That the total sum to be allocated for Head 62 be reduced by $100. I will only ask five questions. Firstly, when are the plans for multi-storey car parks expected to be completed? Secondly, what are the plans for urban redevelopment for which there is a provision of $15 million? Thirdly, when will the National Sports Stadium be completed? Fourthly, will there be health facilities in the multi-storey car parks? In other words, will there be any bathrooms or toilets on each of the floors? Fifthly, will there be enough facilities for the National Sports Stadium with a capacity of 50,000 persons? 6.50 p.m.”
“I think the Member for Bukit Merah should be more concerned with his own constituency, instead of talking about Sembawang.”
“Yes, I beg leave to withdraw. But I hope the Minister will consider building playgrounds in the rural areas. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. The sum of $660,000 for Head 55 ordered to stand part of the Development Estimates. Head 56 - The following amendment stood in the name of Madam Chan Choy Siong - That the total sum to be allocated for Head 56 be reduced by $100.”
“Mr Speaker, the Minister is building more playgrounds in the urban areas, and I think that is uneconomical. 6.30 p.m.”
“It looks like a factory site because ship-repairing is going on there. And we find a lot of lorries and factories also. So this place does not look like a park at all. What I mean to ask, Mr Speaker, is that the Minister should turn this place into a real park and take steps to beautify it, because it is suitably located and is convenient to many people compared with other parks on the island. At the same time, Mr Speaker, I would also suggest that in future when parks are to be built, provision should be made for oriental colours to be added to them. In other words, the parks must be representative of the characteristics of the nation, so that whenever local people or foreigners see them, they can tell straightaway whether they are oriental or occidental. Foreigners who come to the place will see that Singapore is a different country. We see in the parks of foreign countries that they have some national characteristics to represent their nations.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, That the total sum to be allocated for Head 55 be reduced by $100.* (* The same amendment also stood in the name of Madam Chan Choy Siong.) Mr Speaker, Sir, under this head the sum asked for is $660,000 in order to build 10 children's playgrounds and to beautify the beaches, etc. This is a praiseworthy plan because children are the future masters of our nation. So they must have places to breathe fresh air and exercise their muscles, so that from young they will start to build a healthy body. I am fully in agreement with this plan and I endorse it. However, I would like to ask two points for clarification. Firstly, about the 10 children's playgrounds. Where are they to be built? Have the sites been chosen for the two parks? If no sites have been chosen, I suggest that at least one must be in the rural areas. Secondly, Mr Speaker, I would ask the Minister whether he can build one children's playground in Sembawang, because at the 15th m.s. there is a big piece of vacant land serving several kampongs. I can tell him that this place is just near the Work Brigade Camp and I would like him to look into the matter. Madam Chan Choy Siong(In Mandarin): Mr Speaker, I like to touch on matters relating to this head. Since we are asking for so much money for the development of more children's playgrounds and more parks, I do not know whether the Minister will agree with me when I say that, at the present moment, the existing parks are not ideal. They have not reached a satisfactory standard. For example, Kallang Park is a place where many people go every day to breathe fresh air and where their children can play. If we look at this place carefully, we will notice that it does not look like a park.”
“Mr Speaker, I asked this question because of certain queries received by me. That is why I wanted to find out. Anyway, I thank the Minister for his reply and I beg leave to withdraw. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. The sum of $375,000 for Head 54 ordered to stand part of the Development Estimates. Head 55 - The following amendment stood in the name of Mr S. V. Lingam - That the sum to be allocated for Head 55 be reduced by $10 in respect of subhead 102.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, That the total sum to he allocated for Head 54 be reduced by $100. The allocation for this head is $375,000 for the building of another Junior Approved School. I would like to raise three questions. First, how many Junior Approved Schools for boys are there, and how many Junior Approved Schools for girls are there? Second, what are the subjects taught in these schools? Third, what are the procedures regulating admission to the Home for the Aged in respect of vacancies and age limit?”
“In view of the Minister of State's answer, I beg leave to withdraw. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. The increased sum of $200,010 for Head 52 ordered to stand part of the Development Estimates. Head 54 -”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, That the total sum to be allocated Head 52 be reduced by $100.* (* The same amendment also stood in the name of Inche Mahmud Awang.) Under this Head, a sum of $200,010 is allotted for a Branch Library Queenstown. This is only right proper because the population there is increasing. I would like to commend the Minister on his foresight and appreciation of the needs of the people in that area. But I would add that should also look after the needs of people in other areas, because the aim of the Government is to raise standard of education of the people in general and not a section of our population. Sir, I would suggest that the provision for next year should include setting up of branch libraries in all rural areas. In this connection, I wish to raise two points. First, does department have any plan to intro more mobile libraries? In other words, before branch libraries can be set up, the department can send out more mobile libraries to the rural areas to educate the people. Second, I would like to ask when the air-conditioning unit in the National Library can be installed so that the people there can read in comfort.”