LONDON CONFERENCE

Mr John Ede asked the Chief Minister whether he will make a full statement on what the Government delegation intends to ask for at the London Conference.

The Chief Minister: Yes, Sir, as full as I can in the present circumstances, and that will occur during the debate on the motion in my name.

Mr John Ede: Mr Speaker, Sir, does that mean that the Chief Minister will make a statement in this debate on such matters as the future of the public service, internal security and citizenship?

The Chief Minister: If it please you, Sir, not on the public service.

Mr Lee Kuan Yew: Mr Speaker, Sir, may we enquire from the Chief Minister why he cannot make a statement on the future of the public service?

The Chief Minister: May I suggest to the hon. Member, Sir, that he contain his patience till the debate and ask the questions he seeks then?

Mr Lim Choon Mong: Mr Speaker, Sir, will the Chief Minister give an indication whether the question of the protection of the minorities in this country will also be touched upon in the debate?

The Chief Minister: The hon. Member is aware that he is free to raise any aspects touching upon the motion. Certainly the question of minorities is one of them.