Wong Lin Ken
Singapore
“The Minister is also empowered to exempt any person or class of persons from all or any of the provisions of the Bill, whether absolutely or subject to such conditions as the Minister may see fit to impose. Section 6 of the Minor Offences Act will be repealed. Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move. Question put, and agreed to.”
“Mr Speaker. Sir, if I understood the Member for Tiong Bahru correctly, he wants to centralise the issue of birth certificates at Empress Place. With that clarification, I will proceed. Sir, the present practice is for births which occur in Government hospitals to be registered at the hospitals.”
“We do not want to discourage them. It has been suggested that we are in relatively good times, and therefore why should we not be generous. True, our economy has picked up far beyond expectations in the last two or three years.”
“First, with regard to unanswered letters, I would ask the Member to pass them over to me. With regard to long hair, I think the Member is concerned with our policy that the cutting of long hair will affect the number of tourists coming in to Singapore.”
“Part IX of the Police Force Act relating to the Guard and Escort Unit is repealed. Sir, I beg to move. Question put, and agreed to. Bill accordingly read a Second time and committed to a Committee of the whole House. The House immediately resolved itself into a Committee on the Bill. - [Prof. Wong Lin Ken].”
“I understand the point made by the Member for Tiong Bahru. I will look into the matter and see whether administratively it is feasible. As regards the point raised by the Member for Mountbatten, I agree with him that it takes a long time before a search can be completed.”
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“The Minister is also empowered to exempt any person or class of persons from all or any of the provisions of the Bill, whether absolutely or subject to such conditions as the Minister may see fit to impose. Section 6 of the Minor Offences Act will be repealed. Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move. Question put, and agreed to. Bill accordingly read a Second time and committed to a Committee of the whole House. The House immediately resolved itself into a Committee on the Bill. - [Prof. Wang Lin Ken]. Bill considered in Committee; reported without amendment; read a `Third time and passed. RECLAMATION (TUAS) 4.30 p.m.”
“It is said customs die hard, but, it is a fact, they can cause deaths and make cripples. In view of the numerous breaches of the law and, even more important, the injuries and deaths resulting from the indiscriminate firing of crackers, the Government came to the conclusion that the only practicable solution left was a total ban on the possession or firing of crackers. Public sentiments, voiced through the newspapers, also called for such action. The present Bill was, therefore, introduced into Parliament on 21st March, 1972. Mr Speaker, Sir, this Bill seeks to prohibit possession and discharge or letting-off of dangerous fireworks. As defined in this. Bill, dangerous fireworks includes fire-crackers, rocket fireworks, sand crackers, and such other fireworks which the Minister may, by notification in the Gazette, declare to be dangerous fireworks for the purpose of the Bill. The prohibition of possession of dangerous fireworks will not, however, apply to dangerous fireworks brought into Singapore in transit to other countries. Dangerous fireworks brought into Singapore for this purpose will have to be stored and dealt with as the Minister may direct. Any person who fails to comply with, or does any act contrary to the provisions of the Bill will be guilty of an offence, and may be punished with a fine not exceeding $5,000, or with imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years, or with both such fine and imprisonment. A police officer may arrest without warrant any person offending in his, view against any of the provisions of the Bill. Where dangerous fireworks are seized by a police officer, the fireworks may he disposed of as the Minister may direct. The Minister is empowered to make regulations to provide for the better carrying out of the provisions of the Bill.”
“In substance, this amendment imposes a general prohibition on the discharge of fire-crackers and fireworks. The Deputy Commissioner of Police, or his authorised representative, is empowered to lift this general prohibition, either by way of a Gazette notification, or by the issue of licences to individuals or public bodies, provided the discharge of fire-crackers or fireworks takes place in the areas, and within the time limits, stipulated by the Police. The Minor Offences (Amendment) Act, 1970, came into operation on 19th June, 1970. Since then the general prohibition had been lifted for five days during the Chinese New Year festival of 1971, and for another five days for the same festival in 1972. However, sections of the public did not co-operate or observe the conditions under which fire- crackers and fireworks might be discharged. The result was further tragedies. In 1971, nine persons were injured during the Chinese New Year festival. In 1972, during the Chinese New Year, members of the public became more bold in their disregard of the conditions under which firecrackers could be discharged. The result was more tragedies. There were 376 incidents reported about crackers being indiscriminately fired outside the stipulated paces and times. But for vigorous police action, which resulted in 37 arrests, the indiscriminate discharge of crackers would have been far more extensive. Despite police actions, the firing of crackers resulted in 26 persons being injured. In addition, two unarmed policemen were brutally attacked, and seriously injured when they tried to prevent a group of persons from letting off fire-crackers unlawfully. But for speedy surgical attention, their injuries would have been fatal.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, "That the Bill be now read a Second time." This Bill is the result of a series of mishaps which could have been prevented, and the Bill made unnecessary, if some sections of the public had been co-operative and had acted with good sense and restraint. Permit me, Sir, briefly to recount the circumstances that finally led the Government, with the support of public opinion, to introduce this Bill, which, I do not doubt, this House will fully endorse. The firing of crackers is an ancient Chinese custom, rooted in beliefs no longer credible among the better educated, but, nevertheless, remaining an enjoyable way of celebrating Chinese festive occasions, like the Chinese New Year. Other communities have also taken up the firing of crackers but not the beliefs. However, the firing of crackers has always presented the problem of fire hazards, which have increased, as the explosive ingredients are improved by modern scientific knowledge. In addition, hazards of physical injuries also have become a problem. It will be recalled that, in February 1970, during the Chinese New Year festival, there was indiscriminate letting off of fire-crackers. As a result, there were six deaths, 68 injured, and S361,000 worth of damage to property. There was public concern, and the Parliamentary Secretary for Social Affairs announced in this Parliament, on the 9th of March of the same year, that all firing of crackers would be prohibited in future, unless permits were first obtained from the Police. During festive occasions, like Chinese New Year's eve and Chap Goh Meh, the firing of crackers would be permitted for adults in certain defined areas, and within specified hours. Section 6 of the Minor Offences Act was amended to enforce this policy.”
“Part IX of the Police Force Act relating to the Guard and Escort Unit is repealed. Sir, I beg to move. Question put, and agreed to. Bill accordingly read a Second time and committed to a Committee of the whole House. The House immediately resolved itself into a Committee on the Bill. - [Prof. Wong Lin Ken]. Bill considered in Committee; reported without amendment; read a Third time and passed. ADJOURNMENT Resolved, "That Parliament do now adjourn." -[Prof. Wong Lin Ken]. Adjourned accordingly at Twenty-seven minutes past Seven o'clock p.m.”
“As it is considered desirable that the services of the Corporation should be available to Government in times of emergency, personnel of the Corporation will continue to carry arms. Clause 12 of the Bill enables the Corporation, with the approval of the Commissioner of Police, to provide its officers and employees with arms, warrant cards and powers and immunities as a Police Officer. Like Police Officers, they will not be allowed to be members of a trade union. Clause 14 empowers the Commissioner of Police, with the approval of the Minister, to mobilise for active service all or any officers or employees of the Corporation to perform either general or special Police duties. An officer or employee of the Corporation who is so mobilised is liable to perform such service as the Commissioner of Police or his authorised representative directs, and during the period of mobilisation shall have the same powers and duties and the same protection and immunities as a Police Officer. The transfer of employees from the present Guard and Escort Unit to the Corporation as well as the transfer of rights, liabilities and obligations of the Unit to the Corporation are catered for in clause 15. Those who will be transferred to the Corporation will go over on terms and conditions no less favourable than those they enjoyed immediately prior to their transfer. The Corporation is empowered under clause 16 to establish a scheme or schemes for the payment of pensions, gratuities, provident fund or other superannuation benefits to its officers and employees. Financial provisions relating to the Corporation (for example, powers to borrow and invest) are dealt with in clauses 18 to 21. Clause 23 empowers the Minister to make rules.”
“With this in view, the National Productivity Centre was requested in October 1970, to study the feasibility of expanding the Guard and Escort Unit on a commercial basis. The finding of the National Productivity Centre is that it is a viable project. Many of the payroll and cash-in-transit robberies occurred because of no security guards. On 4th September, 1971, five employees of the Singapore Woollen Knitwear (Private) Limited in Jurong, including two female payroll clerks, were robbed of a sum of about $45,000 at Quality Road while on their way back to the factory from the bank. The firm probably felt that since five persons were accompanying the payroll it was not necessary to have security guards to escort the cash-in-transit. On 1st August, 1970, the Manager of Diamond Theatre at North Bridge Road was robbed of the previous day's collection amounting, to about $10,000 by two youths armed with daggers, when he was on his way to bank in the cash. He also had no security escort. I could cite some more examples, but I think the point is made. This Bill provides for the establishment of the Commercial and Industrial Security Corporation, which will consist of not less than four and not more than nine members to be appointed by the Minister. The functions of the Corporation are:- (a) to provide guard and escort for the protection of persons and property; (b) to provide such other security services as the Corporation may determine; and (c) to co-operate as far as practical and necessary with the Singapore Police Force in the performance of its functions under this Act. The Corporation is empowered to appoint such officers and employees as it considers necessary for the purpose of carrying out its functions, including the appointment of a General Manager.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move, "That the Bill be now read a Second time." This Bill seeks to establish the Commercial and Industrial Security Corporation to take over on a commercial basis the functions of the Guard and Escort Unit constituted under the Police Force Act in providing for guards and escorts as a security service to the commercial and industrial sector. The Guard and Escort Unit was formed in 1959 from the ranks of the old Special Constabulary and at the outset consisted of the Commandant, 11 Inspectors and 800 Special Constables. The Union performs a wide range of duties including: (1) guard for important personages; (2) escorts for payroll and the delivery of cash; (3) static property and building guards; and (4) ship guards. The Unit was constituted primarily for the purpose of providing guards and escorts to Government Departments, thereby leaving the regular policemen to deal with matters pertaining to the preservation of public peace and order. In addition, the Unit also contributes towards crime prevention by offering its services to the private sector on payment. Apart from the Guard and Escort Unit providing a security service to the commercial and industrial sectors, there are also a number of other private firms in the security business. Despite competition from these firms, the Guard and Escort Unit netted about $2.1 million and $2 million in revenue for the years 1970 and 1971 respectively. This amount was earned by deploying only one-third of the manpower, as the other two-thirds were deployed for unpaid duties and administrative work. It is, therefore, evident that the services of this Unit are heavily in demand and it is envisaged that the trend would continue well into the future.”
“First, with regard to unanswered letters, I would ask the Member to pass them over to me. With regard to long hair, I think the Member is concerned with our policy that the cutting of long hair will affect the number of tourists coming in to Singapore. I do not have the actual figures, but I can say that it does not, in fact, affect the number of people coming in to Singapore. The Government will continue with the policy of discouraging people with long hair from entering Singapore. There has been sufficient publicity on this. In fact, the Ministry was quite happy at the publicity because it had the effect of putting across the message to other countries.”
“Sir, two views were expressed of the Immigration Department and its public relations. The Member for Geylang Serai indicated a certain laxity, while the Member for Changi has praised the efficiency of the staff working under very difficult conditions. I am not quite sure what the Member for Geylang Serai is specifically referring to. All officers in our Ministry, including those in the Immigration Office, have instructions to reply to grievance letters against them appearing in the press. They are also instructed to acknowledge letters written directly to them. If there is any specific instance of what the Member has alleged, I will look into the matter if he will direct the letter to me. As regards the question of overcrowding at Empress Place office, I think not only myself but all my officers, including those in the Immigration Office, have agreed that the Immigration Office at Empress Place is too congested for the purposes. Action has already been taken to look for an alternative site, and the Ministry hopes that the new site will be large enough to meet the needs of the Office as well as the public.”
“I understand the point made by the Member for Tiong Bahru. I will look into the matter and see whether administratively it is feasible. As regards the point raised by the Member for Mountbatten, I agree with him that it takes a long time before a search can be completed. This is because of the large number of people who apply for the searches. As to cost, I am afraid very little can be done because it is quite a costly thing to run the Registry and considering the time taken to produce results, I think $4 is a very reasonable rate.”
“Mr Speaker. Sir, if I understood the Member for Tiong Bahru correctly, he wants to centralise the issue of birth certificates at Empress Place. With that clarification, I will proceed. Sir, the present practice is for births which occur in Government hospitals to be registered at the hospitals. Of the total of 45,934 births in Singapore in 1970, 36,129 or about 79 per cent were born in hospitals. This system has proved to be very convenient for parents, and it also ensures completeness of registration. Births occurring in the rural areas are now registered at the 14 Maternal and Child Health Clinics, which have been gazetted as registration centres. This not only facilitates registration, but enables the Maternal and Child Health Clinic to undertake post-natal care and supervision of the mother and child. Of the total births in 1970, only 6,439, or about 14 per cent, were registered at Empress Place. It is evident from the figures just cited that it is far more convenient to allow registration at the different centres than to centralise it at Empress Place.”
“We do not want to discourage them. It has been suggested that we are in relatively good times, and therefore why should we not be generous. True, our economy has picked up far beyond expectations in the last two or three years. But I would like to remind Members of the House that this is the first time, within the memory of a living generation after the Second World War, that we have anything like the situation of full employment. We hope this situation will exist for a long time to come, in which case the whole question of citizenship can be reconsidered. Until we can be assured that the good times will last, the present policy will continue. I should hate to think that, because of what this Government does and what this House wants, in the years to come our children and their children's children would have to go around the world begging for citizenship.”
“But in Singapore, we granted citizenship to 16 persons for every square mile. I need hardly remind Members that we have only 224 square miles of land at high tide, with one or two more square miles at low tide. In contrast, Australia has more than 2.9 million square miles of land, Canada 3.9 million square miles, Malaysia 130,000 square miles, New Zealand about 104,000 square miles. I am not unmindful of the hardships imposed on the people, but I am equally aware of the fact that the responsibility of this Government is towards the people who are born in Singapore and who have no other possibilities of acquiring citizenship in other countries. I think all of us here in this Parliament are kind-hearted and gentle people. I have not come across any other country except Singapore which shows so much concern for making things easier for the people to acquire citizenship of her country. In fact, records over the past few years have shown that every government is making it more and more difficult for the people to acquire citizenship of that country. Perhaps this quality distinguishes us from other people. Despite comments that we are becoming ugly Singaporeans, I suspect that deep inside us we have very soft hearts. But there is also a limit beyond which we cannot go, without jeopardising our collective welfare. It is for this reason that although we are very sympathetic in the granting of citizenship, we are also very careful in our consideration. The Member for Anson has asked why do we not fix a time limit and tell the applicants what their chances are. The reason why we do not do so is because we hope that, as time goes on, they will be given citizenship. If they do not get it the first time, there is always a second chance, and then a third.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, firstly, I would like to thank the Member for Sembawang for quoting a statement I made when I was a Backbencher in this House. I have not forgotten that statement. Indeed, I thank him for mentioning it because I can now say publicly that what I said then was, in fact, a less than responsible criticism of the Minister of Labour, who was then in charge of the very difficult portfolio of citizenship. I was then moved more by my heart than by careful consideration of the problems of citizenship in this country. Sir, I am very much sobered by the responsibility of office and know that what I do in the Citizenship Office will affect the future generations of Singapore. I have considered the pros and cons of current policy and have come to the conclusion that the policy on citizenship built up over a period of years is in the best interest of Singapore - for your children and my children, and their children's children. However, having said this, I would say that by and large we have been very generous and liberal in our citizenship policy. I have made a calculation of our citizenship figures, and I can say that 28 per cent of our citizens are, in fact, registered citizens, a figure which is high by any standards in the world. Sir, to put the whole problem in its proper perspective, let me give a comparison. I will take the year 1968 as the basis for comparison because this is the only year for which I could collect the necessary statistical data. In Australia, in 1968, one person was granted citizenship for every 70 square miles of land. In Canada in the same year, the figure was one for every 64 square miles. In Malaysia, it was one for every three square miles. In New Zealand, it was one for every four square miles.”
“The following amendment stood in the name of Mr J. F. Conceicao - (8) That the sum to be allocated for Head 1401 be reduced by $10 in respect of subhead 1658.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, very rarely do law enforcement agencies get praises from the public. And I am quite sure that what the Members for Kampong Kembangan and Anson have stated about the efficiency of the officers of the Central Narcotics Bureau will reach the ears of the officers concerned and spur them on to better performances. As regards the sentences passed on the traffickers of ganja as administered by the law courts, my Ministry is aware of the situation. In fact, my Ministry and the Ministry of Health are at the very advanced stage of making new laws to deal with traffickers in dangerous drugs, including ganja. It is too early for me to reveal the details now, as it would not be quite proper. But I can assure the Member that the new laws will provide for enhanced punishment and, possibly, even flogging. I must say that the matter is in the discussion stage and nothing has been finalised. The Member for Anson has raised the question of effective penetration of drug syndicates. This is being done. It is not in the nature of things to reveal how we are going about it because this would jeopardise all our operations. However, I can assure the Member that we are interested in all drug syndicates, big or small. As regards long hair and hippism, 1 think the public is aware that the Singapore Government does not encourage the sporting of long hair and certainly not hippism. We are doing what we can against the problem of long hair. The Member is aware that there is no law against long hair. What we can do is to provide various kinds of sanctions against the sporting of long hair in Singapore. Tuan Haji Mohd. Ariff(In Malay): Sir, with the assurance given by the Minister, I beg leave to withdraw my amendment. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, let me first say that I share the views of the Member for Paya Lebar that law and order should be maintained and that justice should not only be done but is seen to be done. The main thrust of his debate is that some plain-clothes officers have beaten up suspects and that he himself has conducted an investigation into the matter. I appreciate the Member's good intention. However, I would like to say that if there are any complaints, there is a proper procedure to deal with them. He himself has conducted an investigation, but the results of his investigation cannot be the basis for disciplinary action. If he were to lodge a complaint, and if it is found that what he says is true, then disciplinary action will be taken against the officers concerned. Police officers are not above the law. There are specific provisions in the Penal Code which make it an offence for persons, including Police officers, to use force of any kind to extract confession or information which may lead to the detection of a crime. Any person so aggrieved by such action can lodge complaints against the officers concerned, and every complaint will be thoroughly investigated. If the investigation reveals that a particular officer is at fault, disciplinary proceedings will be taken against him. Any instance of misconduct on the part of any Police officer will not be condoned and will always be viewed very seriously. Police brutality will not be tolerated even if, after investigation, the suspect is found to have committed the offence. In fact, if a person is found to have committed an offence, the chances are that he will be charged in court. If the Member for Paya Lebar has lodged a specific complaint, I am sure the Police will certainly look into the matter.”
“If the Member is referring to the particular case of Playboy magazines, which I think he has in mind, that case has been investigated into and dealt with according to the instructions of the Attorney-General's Chambers. I believe the office concerned has already reinstated the officers.”
“As this matter has just been pointed out to me, I will certainly look into it to see that the situation is improved.”
“I think the House is fully aware of the reasons for the resignations, namely, the salary scales and the conditions of work. All this has been removed by the recommendations of the Lee Soo Ann Report, which the Government has accepted in principle. It is hoped that with the improvements in salary scales and conditions of work, there will be less resignations in future. I believe the Member for Anson is also concerned with the state of traffic in Singapore. If I heard him correctly, he described it as chaotic. Although traffic on our roads appears to be apparently chaotic, it is, in fact, not so. There are two vivid patterns in the flow of traffic - into the city in the morning peak, and out of the city in the evening peak. During these periods, the flow of traffic is congested, and I have no doubt that this congestion must have given rise to the impression that the flow of traffic is chaotic. With more vehicles on the roads during peak hours, the journeys to and from work create great demands on road space and certain delays are inevitably experienced. This is a common occurrence not only in Singapore, but in all big cities in the world. The Government is trying to overcome some of the problems of traffic congestion by making improvements to the network of roads and to traffic management and enforcement schemes. It is also relevant for me to point out that normally we do not deploy three or four traffic policemen on traffic duty in one spot, except in places where we have recently introduced the box junction system. I quite agree that we do need more traffic policemen, but I hope that as all the vacancies in the rank and file are filled, the position will be improved. The Member for Jurong raised the question of security in the Central Fish Market in Jurong.”
“I would like to add that the recruitment of foreigners is only an interim measure, and we hope that in the future we do not have to recruit people from outside Singapore to fill up the Police Force. The Member for Kampong Kembangan raised the question of public safety, particularly with regard to kite-flying. Under section 14 (e) of the Minor Offences Act (Chapter 102), it is an offence for any person to fly a kite which obstructs or interferes with the traffic in any public road or with the use of telephones wires. The flying of kites is a seasonal past-time indulged in by young and old throughout the Republic. I believe it is a common feature in the Geylang Serai area. However, to-date there has been no occasion for the Police to take action against these persons because they have not obstructed or interfered with the traffic, and there has been no complaint of telephone wires having been damaged. The danger arising from this past-time is caused by children running after kites that have been cut loose. I can assure the Member that the Police will do all it can to prevent any hazard arising out of flying of kites, and I do hope that the Member will also urge people who wish to fly kites to be more careful. Sir, there are also a few questions raised by the Member for Anson. I believe he wanted to know how many policemen have resigned, and I can give him the figures. The number of resignations of junior officers was 122 for 1969, 246 for 1970, and 235 for 1971. From the beginning of this year to the 15th March, 1972, there were only 12 resignations. For senior officers, the number of resignations was 12 for 1969, 19 for 1970, and 24 for 1971. From the beginning of this year till the 20th March, 1972, there were only nine resignations.”
“Sir, first let me say how much I appreciate the statement from the Member for Sembawang that the Police Force has improved in its courtesy to the public. I am very pleased to hear that. The Member has also raised the question that we should, in fact, make the Police Week an annual affair. The Ministry has this in mind, and will certainly give the proposal every serious consideration. I am also very pleased to note that the series of 12 Police Week shows, which began last year and will continue in the present year, have produced the desired effect of establishing a better relationship between the Police and the public. The House can rest assured that the Police Force will be instructed that good Police relationship is not just a matter of Police shows. This should be a continuing daily experience between the Police and the public. 3.00p.m. The Member for Sembawang also raised the question of the recruitment of non-citizens. I think what he has in mind is the recruitment of Malaysians into the Police Force. The reason for this is simply that under the previous salary scales, before the present revision recommended by the Lee Soo Ann Report, it was found impossible to recruit Singapore citizens into the Police Force. I do share his hope that with the improvement in salary scales and also the conditions of work, we will have more Singaporeans applying to join the Police Force in our next recruitment exercise. I believe the Member has also asked for the figures of Malaysians recruited. I am unable to give him the exact figure, but if he wishes he can ask an Oral Question later. If he will be satisfied with a rough figure, it is in the region of 600.”
“The reason is very simple. We do hope that there will be some other people who would like to revive dormant political parties and save them the bother of registration.”
“These parties are: (1) Partai Rakyat, Singapore State Division; (2) Angkatan Islam; (3) Workers' Party; and (4) Barisan Sosialis. It is also relevant to note that of the 15 listed parties, Parti Kesatuan Ra'ayat, i.e., the United Democratic Party, has ceased to function, while the United People's Party and the Singapore Indian Congress are apparently inactive. Under section 6 of the Societies Act, the Registrar of Societies has powers to declare societies as deemed to cease to exist should they be unable to furnish him with proof of their existence. The Registrar of Societies has not taken action against dormant political parties and those which have not complied with the Societies Act. In view of the fact that the Registrar of Societies has sufficient powers to remove dead-wood political organisations, there is no need to amend the Societies Act to provide him with such power. In any case, there are politicians outside this Parliament who do not share the same down-to-earth views about dormant political parties as the Member for Changi. They believe in flogging a dead horse to life oblivious of past records of undistinguished performance. 2.45 p.m. As for Singapore becoming a museum of political parties, I am afraid this is part of history. As to the possibility of confusing the people of Singapore because of the large number of political parties, I submit, our electorate is an intelligent electorate. Hon. Members: Hear! hear!”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, as on the 17th of March this year, there are 15 political parties registered on the Register of Societies. They are: (1) Singapore Chinese Party, formerly Malayan Chinese Association, Singapore Branch, registered on the 26th September, 1950; (2) Persatuan Melayu Singapura, formerly Persatuan Melayu Semenanjong, i.e., the Peninsula Malays Union, registered on the 2nd February, 1952; (3) Partai Rakyat, Singapore State Division, registered on the 3rd December, 1956; (4) Angkatan Islam, formerly Pan Malayan Islamic Party, Singapore, registered on the 6th August, 1958; (5) Workers' Party, registered on the 30th January, 1961; (6) People's Action Party, registered on the 18th February, 1961; (7) Pertubohan Kebangsaan Melayu, Singapura, formerly Pertubohan Kebangsaan Melayu Bersatu, Singapura, i.e., the United Malays National Organisation, Singapore, registered on 20th of February, 1961; (8) United People's Party, registered on the 14th July, 1961; (9) Barisan Sosialis, registered on the 15th August, 1961; (10) Parti Kesatuan Ra'ayat, i.e., the United Democratic Party, registered on the 18th June, 1962; (11) Singapore Indian Congress, formerly the Malaysian Indian Congress, Singapore, registered on the 7th August,. 1962; (12) Alliance Party Singapura, registered on the 17th February, 1966; (13) United National Front, registered on the 6th March, 1970; (14) National Party of Singapore, registered on the 26th February, 1971; (15) People's Front, registered on the 21st May, 1971. Of these 15 parties, the following parties have not complied with the Societies Act requiring their constitution to be amended to provide for membership to be confined to Singapore citizens.”
“ESTIMATES OF EXPENDITURE FOR FINANCIAL YEAR 1ST APRIL, 1972, TO 31ST MARCH, 1973 Order read for resumed consideration in Committee of Supply [5th Allotted Day]. [Mr Speaker in the Chair] 2.37 p.m. Head 1401 -”
“Government has accepted the recommendation that serving officers without Secondary II or equivalent qualifications should be converted to the new salary scales and stagnate at their respective points of conversion. Of the 800 men who do not have the Secondary II or specialist qualifications, 340 would be eligible for retirement in the normal course of events before 1st July, 1974. These 340 men will convert to the new salary scales and remain at their respective conversion points until they retire. The remaining 460 men will convert to the new salary scales and be retired on enhanced terms specifically provided in Section 9 (1) of the Pensions Act as recommended by the Lee Soo Ann Committee Report. Retirement under this provision gives an enhanced pension factor of One over five hundred (1/500) of an officer's annual pensionable emoluments for each complete month of pensionable service, as compared to a pension factor of one over six hundred (1/600) for an officer who retires in normal circumstances on account of age or for medical reasons. It is the intention of Government that the retirement of these 460 men will be so phased out that actual retirement will commence on 1st April, 1973, and be completed by 30th June, 1974. Those who are physically fit will be offered employment with the Guard and Escort Unit, which will by then have been reorganised into a statutory board and run on commercial lines, if they take up employment with this statutory board, they will be eligible, in addition to their pensions, for the full salary paid by the board. Efforts will also be made to assist those in Police quarters to find alternative accommodation.”
“2 million per annum. About 5,220 Junior Officers and Constables in the Regular Police Force, excluding members of the Gurkha Contingent and the Guard and Escort Unit, will be affected by the conversion. Those holding the rank of Corporal and below will be emplaced on the new salary scale for Constables. Staff Sergeants and Sergeants will be emplaced on the new scale for Sergeants. Sub-Inspectors will be absorbed as Assistant Inspectors, who will also be known as Station Inspectors. All serving officers will convert to the new salary scales as follows: (a) those with the School Certificate or equivalent qualifications will convert to the appropriate new scale in accordance with the conversion formula and progress up the scale in the normal way; (b) those with Secondary Il/Ill or equivalent qualifications will convert to the appropriate new scale in accordance with the conversion formula. They will not proceed beyond $425 in the new scale for Constable; $505 in the new scale for Sergeant and $690 in the new scale for Assistant Inspector (Station Inspector), as the case may be, until such time as they obtain the School Certificate or pass an examination to be conducted by the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Public Service Commission and accepted as an equivalent to the School Certificate, when they will be allowed to cross the bar at these points; (c) those without Secondary II but with specialist qualifications, e.g, bandsmen, helmsmen and engine drivers (about 170 of them) will convert in the same way as for category (b) above; (d) those without Secondary II or specialist qualifications (about 800 in number) will convert to the appropriate new scale in accordance with the conversion formula and be dealt with as follows.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, during the Parliamentary session in October, 1971, the Minister for Finance informed the House that the Lee Soo Ann Committee's recommendations on the structure and salary scales for the Junior Officers and Constables of the Regular Police Force had been accepted in principle by Government and would be implemented in the new fiscal year on 1st April, 1972. He stated that as soon as the principles of conversion were resolved, the new salary scales would be implemented. The House was also informed that pending implementation of the new salary scales on the 1st of April this year, Government had decided that the Junior Officers and Constables should be given with effect from the 1st of November, 1971, an interim allowance of 10 per cent of salary and of all allowances drawn, except Public Utilities Board and Housing Allowances. I am pleased to announce that Government has accepted in principle most of the other recommendations of the Lee Soo Ann Committee Report. Officials of my Ministry and the Finance Ministry have been working closely together and a formula of conversion has now been worked out and approved by Government. The new total emoluments will be computed on the following basis: Salary as at 1-4-72 + Allowances to be abolished + Interim allowance of 10 per cent (made up of 10 per cent of salary and of all allowances drawn, except P.U.B, and Housing Allowances) Convert to the nearest higher point in the new scale + Increment credits(if any) + Allowances to be retained (if any). The conversion will come into effect on 1st April, 1972, and, as from that date, payment of the 10 per cent interim allowance will cease. The conversion to the new salary scales, including the allowances to be retained, will cost the Government an additional $3.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the question of consideration for the granting of citizenship to applicants who were born in Singapore but had no documentary proof of it had already been answered by Government in Parliament on 10th July, 1968, and it is not proposed to alter the position. The Minister for Labour, who was then in charge of citizenship matters, stated that the Government could not waive its citizenship regulations for these people. If these rules were waived, then anybody could claim the right to citizenship by professing birth in Singapore without documentary proof - whether true or false. During the national registration exercise, it was revealed that there were many people who claimed birth in Singapore, but on investigations were found not to be born here. However, the Government is prepared to consider sympathetically citizenship applications from a person who is the remaining non-citizen in the family, provided that he would not become a burden to the State. BILL INTRODUCED 2.40 p.m. FACTORIES BILL "to repeal and to re-enact with amendments the law relating to the health, safety and welfare of persons employed in factories and other work places", presented by the Minister of State for Labour (Mr Sia Kah Hui); read the First time, to be read a Second time on the next available sitting of Parliament, and to be printed. REARRANGEMENT OF ORDER OF BUSINESS Resolved, "That item 3 on the Order Paper for today be taken before item 1." -[Mr Yong Nyuk Lin]. TELECOMMUNICATION AUTHORITY OF SINGAPORE BILL Order for Second Reading read. 2.42 p.m.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, Malaysian women married to Singapore citizens before the 1st of July, 1967, when immigration controls were introduced at the Singapore end of the Causeway and who have been staying here since then, are allowed to remain in the Republic permanently. However, if they have left Singapore temporarily without obtaining re-entry permits, either before or within one month of their departure, they would have lost their permanent residence status. In such cases, they are required to apply for permanent residence or entry permits, and each case will be considered on its own merits. If an application is rejected, consideration is always given for the grant of a Social Visit Pass which can be extended, on application, from time to time. It is therefore not true that women in this category are required to renew their passes fortnightly at the Immigration Woodlands Checkpoint. Women who do so are probably those who have not applied for an Entry Permit or a Social Visit Pass.”
“The amendment will remedy the present defect in the Act which does not empower a police officer to search a person who is reasonably suspected of being in possession of instruments or appliances for gaming, without a warrant, although there may be very good grounds for believing that the delay in obtaining a warrant may result in the escape of the offender, or the disposal of the instruments or appliances in question. This amendment, therefore, will greatly strengthen the hand of the police, particularly in their efforts to curb illegal lotteries. The present legal requirement to obtain a search warrant to make a physical search of anyone reasonably suspected of committing an offence under the Act is not practical. This frustrates immediate police action and enables the offender to escape the law in good time before a warrant could be obtained. Finally, let me proceed to the repeal and re-enactment of section 23. This re-enactment seeks to transfer the power from the President to the Minister to exempt organisations referred to in the amendment from the provisions of the Act. This is purely for administrative convenience. Sir, I beg to move. Question put, and agreed to. Bill accordingly read a Second time and committed to a Committee of the whole House. The House immediately resolved itself into a Committee on the Bill. - [Prof. Wong Lin Ken]. Bill considered in Committee; reported without amendment; read a Third time and passed. CLEAN AIR BILL Order for Second Reading read. 7.10 p.m.”
“With the amendment of subsection (2) of section 10 of the principal Act by deleting the words "not below the rank of Sergeant" appearing therein, provision is sought to allow competent police officers irrespective of rank to give evidence on documents pertaining to any public lottery that are produced before the courts. At present, the law stipulates that the evidence given by a police officer of and above the rank of Sergeant competent to be a "gaming expert" is accepted. This has resulted in the inability of the Gambling Suppression Branch to provide sufficient "experts" to meet the needs of the whole Force. The Branch is only staffed with an O.C., one inspector, one detective staff sergeant, one detective sergeant, three detective corporals and 14 detectives. The expert is not only required to give "expert evidence" in court but is also required to examine all documents seized by the Gambling Suppression Branch and the Divisional Police. At present, there are police officers in the Gambling Branch who would make competent "gaming experts" if not for their being below the rank of Sergeant. The amendment would greatly alleviate the existing difficulties in obtaining the services of competent and experienced police officers in giving evidence on documents produced before the courts. Now, with reference to the new section 13A, the powers sought by this amendment to the Common Gaming Houses Act (Chapter 96 of the 1970 Edition) are similar to those accorded to the police under section 13 of the Betting Act (Chapter 95 of the 1970 Edition).”
“For the same period, the fines imposed on people caught in running "Chap-Ji-Kee Lottery" ranged from $291 to $686. These fines were very low indeed. The fines imposed, as may be gathered from the statistics I have cited, were negligible. More often than not, they were paid by the promoters. Taking the 1970 convictions in respect of the "Characters Lottery", if a minimum fine of $2,000 had been imposed, the fines would have totalled nearly half a million dollars as against the figure of about $147,000. This would have adversely affected the profitability of running these lotteries. At present the law does not provide for a minimum fine, and the discretion to impose such a "minimum fine" is left to the discretion of the Magistrate who, more often than not, is left in a quandary. The fines are normally based on the value of documents seized. This is an unsatisfactory method as, in some instances, big-time operators have got away lightly as the value of documents seized has been negligible. Although the police have managed to exercise a certain amount of control over these types of offences, the amendment would be an added weapon to them in their fight against this social problem which affects every level of our society, particularly the lower income groups who fritter away their earnings to bet on these illegal lotteries. The amendment of this particular section will also bring it in line with the punishment provided for book-makers under section 5 (3) (a) of the Betting Act (Chapter 95 of the 1970 Edition) which provides a minimum fine of $2,000 and a maximum of $20,000. Let me now move on to the amendment of section 10.”
“Experience has shown that the fines imposed on offenders have varied substantially from court to court, and in some instances they have been so low as to be unrealistic. These variations in fines have not in any way contributed towards eradication and suppression of these lotteries. At present the maximum fine of $6,000 is "chicken feed" to the big-time promoters and hardly serves as a deterrent. It is a well-known fact that invariably promoters pay the fines imposed on the runners and collectors, and it is very rare that anyone is imprisoned for non-payment of a fine. With the raising of the minimum fine to $2,000 and the maximum fine to $20,000, the promoters will find it difficult to sustain payment of fines, as the running of these lotteries would become less lucrative. Let me cite some statistics to drive home this point. First, the statistics on raids on "Characters Lottery". During the years 1966 to 1970 the police conducted 3,077 raids. A total of 1,399 persons were arrested, of whom 1,165 persons were convicted. The total fines for all these five years amounted to $479,315. In the last year alone there were 659 raids, 303 arrests, 214 convictions, with a total fine of $146,595. Let me cite the statistics on the raids on "Chap-Ji-Kee Lottery". During the same period, that is to say, from 1966 to 1970, there were 2,116 raids. A total of 1,007 persons were arrested, of whom only 831 were convicted. The total fine amounted to only $391,277. The fines imposed were very low indeed. Let me cite the fines imposed on persons who were convicted of running "Characters Lottery". During the years 1966 to 1970, the fines per person ranged from only $295 to $685.”
“Mr Govindasamy, Sir, I beg to move, "That the Bill be now read a Second time." This Bill seeks to amend the Common Gaming Houses Act (Chapter 96 of the 1970 Revised Edition) in the following ways: (a) To increase the penalty provided for the offence of assisting in carrying on a public lottery and all other offences relating to public lotteries; (b) To make provision to allow competent police officers irrespective of rank to give evidence on documents pertaining to any public lottery produced before the court; (c) To insert a new clause under section 13A to provide for the arrest and search of persons without a warrant when there is reasonable ground for believing that they have on their persons appliances for gaming; and (d) To repeal and re-enact section 23 giving powers to exempt organisations from the provisions of this Act, to the Minister. Such powers are now vested with the President. Mr Govindasamy, Sir, to begin with the amendment to section 4. As the law stands at present, a person found guilty of assisting in carrying on a public lottery and all other related offences shall be liable to a fine not exceeding $6,000 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding three years, or to both such fine and imprisonment. It is felt that this punishment is grossly inadequate to assist the police in their efforts t) suppress the operation of illegal lotteries in Singapore, the commonest forms of which are the so-called "10,000 Characters Lottery" and the "Chap-Ji-Kee Lottery". These lotteries are persistent in Singapore and the police have found it extremely difficult to eradicate them. Running public lotteries is very profitable. They are so profitable that their promoters are not deterred by fines imposed presently.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the drug menace in the Republic `has not reached the danger levels of America, for instance. However, the Government takes a very serious view of the drug problem. It can easily get out of control, if left unchecked. There `will be more constant, persistent and thorough action to prevent, detect and suppress the traffic of drugs into the country and its use by young and old. Such activities will be co-ordinated in the Central Narcotics Bureau which is being established in the Ministry of Home Affairs. Apart from the activities of the Bureau, there are plans to provide (a) surveillance and counselling in educational institutions, (b) expansion of the facilities for treatment and rehabilitation of drug addicts, and (c) formation of an association of responsible persons, doctors, psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, parents, etc., to complement the efforts of the Government in tackling this drug problem. People interested in actively helping the Central Narcotics Bureau will be invited to the inaugural meeting of the association. Legislation will be introduced shortly to provide for enhanced penalties for those found guilty of drug peddling. ACCIDENTS AT JURONG ROAD/JALAN BOON LAY (Particulars) 21. Mr Ho Kah Leong asked the Minister for Home Affairs how many accidents at the junction of Jurong Road and Jalan Boon Lay were reported to the Police between 1st January, 1968, and the latest convenient date; and how many of them were fatal.”
“As a result, all activities for the detection and prevention of drug abuse and the traffic of drugs into the country will be co-ordinated in the Central Narcotics Bureau. The Central Narcotics Bureau also plans to build a capacity to educate the public in the dangers of drug abuse. But the efforts of the Central Narcotics Bureau aside, I would appeal to all parents to exercise their responsibility to see to it that their children do not fall into bad company, or slavishly ape the fads and fetishes associated with hippies and those who are trapped in the so-called drug counter culture. DRUG MENACE (Counter measures and enhanced penalties for drug peddlers) 20. Mr Ng Kah Ting asked the Minister for Home Affairs (a) whether the drug menace in the Republic has reached danger level, and what steps he is taking to counter it; and (b) if he will introduce amending legislation for the imposition of stiffer sentences and heavier fines on persons found guilty `of drug peddling.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the Police and Customs have stepped up' operations, through frequent raids, on' known haunts where persons normally congregate for ganja smoking sessions. Checks and searches have been conducted on roadside stalls suspected of engaging in the sale of ganja. The two departments have also intensified raids and checks on drug stores, Chinese medicine shops and roadside stalls reported to be frequented by MX pill consumers. The main sources of supply of ganja, are locations in the countries in the' region and are brought to Singapore mainly by sea. In the case of MX pills, however, they are usually brought into Singapore from across the causeway through the Woodlands Checkpoint. Both the Police and Customs have been' carrying out investigations into the' movements and activities of local syndicates involved in the trafficking of ganja and MX pills. They also search, coastal vessels suspected of carrying these drugs. Additionally, preventive sea patrols are maintained round the clock to detect smuggling of these drugs into the Republic. A total of 1,315 raids were mounted in 1970 and resulted in the recovery of 840 pounds of ganja, 14 MX pills and 625 arrests (613 for ganja and 12 for MX pills). From 1st January to 15th October this year, 1,007 raids have been carried out, resulting in the seizure of 450 pounds of ganja, 2,280 MX pills and 420 arrests (397 for ganja and 23 for MX pills). The Ministry of Home Affairs will soon establish a Central Narcotics Bureau to absorb the present Narcotics Branch of the Criminal Investigations Department, and the Central Narcotics Intelligence Bureau of the Customs Department pertaining to dangerous drugs.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I can certainly assure the Member that "F" Division has a high degree of priority, but in relation to the competing needs of the other police stations, I cannot give an affirmative answer. At the moment, we are trying to work out a rational formula for the sizes of the police divisions. How many police divisions are we going to need in future? Until that question is clearly settled, I cannot give a definite answer. If I were rash enough to promise the Member for Punggol, I would not be honest with him or with myself, because this is a very complex question.”
“Sir, I think the Members for Telok Blangah and Sembawang have raised questions why sometimes the passes are for one month's and sometimes six months' stay in Singapore. I will look into this matter and rationalise the whole position.”
“I would ask the Member to let me have all the necessary details and I will consider the matter.”
“Sir, such people are permitted to stay if they get the necessary social visit passes. It is not necessary for them, every two weeks, to go all the way to Woodlands to get their visas stamped. If, in fact, the person concerned can really support his wife and children, that is the reason why they are here. Getting a social visit pass is very different from getting permanent residence. He might not be able to get permanent residence, but he could still enter Singapore on a social visit pass. Permanent status leads to other questions of citizenship. Mr N. Govindasamy: Sir, if the wife also owns a business here and is paying local income tax, will the Minister consider that sufficient ground for her to be granted permanent stay in Singapore?”
“I know he has to undergo hardship, but getting entry into a country is a very difficult matter, as anyone who tries to enter another country from Singapore will know.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, that some Members of Parliament should raise this question of entry of wives and children of Singapore citizens is to be expected. In fact, I believe this is an almost annual affair. As regards the complaints of long delays, I have asked the Controller of Immigration how long it takes to process an application, and he has replied that it takes about three weeks to process the application, provided all the necessary information is given. If it is not given, the processing takes a longer period. This is the mechanics of things. The question asked by the Member for Sembawang is quite a pertinent one. This is the question of application of permanent residence. Let me, first of all, state that getting permanent residence in Singapore is neither a right nor an entitlement. There are many considerations involved. The rationale is a very simple one. We have only 224 square miles. If more people become permanent residents in Singapore, we might relieve temporary hardship for a number of cases, but we are going to compound the hardship for the next generation. This is the general criterion. When we consider cases of wives and children of Singapore citizens, we ask ourselves very basic questions. Can the persons concerned support their families? If they can, we admit them. If they cannot, we have to say, "Well, it is a very difficult case and we have difficulty in approving the application." The Member for Toa Payoh raised a very specific case. I am not fully aware of all the details, but I presume the man is not a Singapore citizen. If that is the case, the general practice is that wives and children follow the nationality of their husbands. Therefore, he goes back to Malaysia if he is a Malaysian citizen. That is how things are.”
“Sir, the provision of $8,400 in the 1971-72 estimates is for 100 teachers from the secondary schools who are potential officer material to undergo residential basic training courses at the Police Academy. The officers are provided with meals and with tea during the course at a cost of $2 per head per day. Each year there are two basic courses, the first during the March-April school holidays, and the second during the November-December school holidays. Each course is of six weeks' duration and caters for 50 officers. This year the courses are as follows: The first course commences on 22nd March for 50 officers at $2 per day for 42 days, amounting to $4,200. The second course begins in November and the amount voted for is the same, making a total of $8,400.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, the primary function of the Force Education Officer is to provide general education as well as language training for junior officers and constables. He is also responsible for the organisation and conduct of language and competitive examinations for the rank and file. The duties of the Force Education Officer include, first, the organisation of general education classes from Secondary I to Secondary IV level. Second, the organisation of language dialect classes for recruits, junior officers and trainee inspectors. Third, the organisation and conducting of examinations in languages as well as Non-Commission Officers qualifying courses. The Force Education Officer has also administrative duties. These include financial administration, payment of salaries to part-time instructors, purchase of education material, supervision of professional part-time instructors and liaison work with various educational institutions capable of providing these part-time instructors. The four categories under this particular subhead pertain to a specific grade of officer who may be appointed as Force Education Officer each with its own salary scheme. Any one of these classes of officers can serve as Force Education Officer.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, it is quite true that of late the Guard and Escort Unit has not been able to accede to a number of requests to provide escort services. Let me put the position in its proper perspective. The authorised strength of the Guard and Escort Unit is 13 officers and 1,227 men. However, its actual strength is 12 officers and 1,034 men; that is to say, it is short of one officer and 193 men. On every working day, the Guard and Escort Unit provides services to 151 banks, Government departments, statutory boards and commercial firms, in addition to providing guards for specific duties in other places. All efforts are being made to accommodate requests from business houses for escort services. In recent times the demand for the services of the Guard and Escort Unit has increased largely because of the increased public awareness of the advantages of security protection. At the moment the National Productivity Centre is being asked to make a study of the Guard and Escort Unit so as to render its services more businesslike and to meet public demand. It is hoped that some time this year we will reorganise this unit by recruiting enough personnel to provide the necessary services. As regards arming the private security firms, I would like to put the position in its proper perspective. Let me give the figures of armed robbery in Singapore. In 1969, there were 26 cases of armed robbery where firearms were used. Last year the number was 25. It has gone down by one. In respect of bank, goldsmith and pawnshop robberies, there were 11 cases in 1969. and 10 cases in 1970. In view of this situation, the Government sees no justification of arms being issued to security firms.”
“It can be envisaged that the officers attached to such a section will have the expertise and be trained for commercial crime detection. Mr Teong Eng Siong(In Mandarin): Mr Speaker, Sir, in view of the answers given to the various points I have raised, which I find quite satisfactory and acceptable, I hope that the answers that the Minister has given will be put into practice by the police officers in improving the police force, and I believe that this will give better service to the people. I beg leave to withdraw, Sir. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. 6.45 p.m. The following amendment stood in the names of Messrs. Yeo Choo Kok and Tay Boon Too -- (2) That the sum to be allocated for Head 1401 be reduced by $10 in respect of subhead 1004.”