HAILSTORM VICTIMS (GOVERNMENT AID)

Mr M. P. D. Nair asked the Minister for Labour and Welfare what action has been taken on the representations made to him in regard to increased Government aid to those people who have either lost, or suffered damage to, their homes, chicken pens, pig sties and cattlesheds as a result of the hailstorm which occurred on 9th April, 1955, at Kampong Cheng San and Kampong Jalan Hwi Yoh.

Mr Lim Yew Hock: Sir, the grant which was made to those people who lost, or suffered damage to, their homes, chicken pens, pig sties and cattlesheds as a result of the hailstorm which occurred on 9th April, 1955, at Kampong Cheng San and Kampong Jalan Hwi Yoh was not made from Government funds, but from the Silver Jubilee Fund. The families were informed that they could apply to the Public Assistance Section of the Social Welfare Department for further relief under the usual Public Assistance schemes if they required it. Only two families applied; one of these was eligible and is receiving assistance.