UNIFICATION OF SINGAPORE AND FEDERATION OF MALAYA (APPOINTMENT OF ALL-PARTY COMMITTEE)

The following motion stood in the name of Mr Lee Kuan Yew -

That this Assembly is of the opinion that an All-Party Committee should be appointed by the Government to discuss the question of unification of Singapore and the Federation of Malaya with representatives of the Federation Legislative Council and to work out definite proposals for a merger of the two territories.

Mr Lee Kuan Yew: Mr Speaker, Sir, I have, since the opening of this Assembly on Wednesday, received communications from certain political quarters in the Federation requesting that this subject be deferred until the Chief Minister of the Federation returns from London.

The Attorney-General (Mr C. H. Butterfield): On a point of order, Sir. As I understand it from the Order Paper, the Governor's recommendation or consent is required before this motion may be proceeded with. There is not a word yet that that recommendation or consent has been signified. This I think must be signified by a Minister under the provisions of Standing Order 33 (2).

Mr Speaker: I think probably the Hon. the Attorney-General is a bit too previous, because I am unaware yet whether or not this motion is to be proceeded with. I think the hon. Member is coming to the point.

Mr Lee Kuan Yew: I am much obliged, Mr Speaker, Sir. We are constantly reminded of the anxiety on the part of officials not to have anything discussed where they feel that the Governor should have his veto power -

Mr Speaker: I have made my ruling, Mr Lee Kuan Yew.

Mr Lee Kuan Yew: I am much obliged, Mr Speaker, Sir.

The Chief Minister: On a matter of explanation, Sir, if I may?

Mr Speaker: Does the hon. Member give way?

Mr Lee Kuan Yew: No, I will not. His interruptions are quite unnecessary. [Interruption.]

Mr Speaker: He is not giving way, Mr Chief Minister.

Mr Lee Kuan Yew: Sir, all I wanted to tell the House was that, in view of the communications I have received, I do not propose to proceed with my motion today. I propose to reintroduce this motion on 7th March when the Assembly sits again. In the circumstances, Mr Speaker, Sir, I do not propose to move the motion which stands in my name.

Mr Speaker: The motion is not before the House.