STANDPIPES IN RURAL AREAS (Government Policy)

Mr John Ede asked the Minister for Local Government, Lands and Housing if he will state what the policy of the Government is with regard to the provision of standpipes in rural areas.

Inche Abdul Hamid Bin Haji Jumat: Mr Speaker, Sir, the provision of standpipes in the rural areas is the responsibility of the Rural Board, but I understand the policy is to install them wherever there is a need for safe drinking water and water mains are within reasonable distance. Priority is, of course, given according to the number of people in each area.