STATUTORY BODIES (Nomination of Members)

Mr Lee Choon Eng asked the Chief Minister whether he will make a statement on Government policy in respect of the nomination of members to fill vacancies on Trusts or Boards which are within the power of Government to fill.

The Chief Minister (Mr Lim Yew Hock): Mr Speaker, Sir, it is Government's policy to nominate persons who, by their work, profession or their record of public service, are best qualified to serve the interests of the public on the various statutory bodies.

Mr Lee Choon Eng: Mr Speaker, Sir, can the Chief Minister confirm that two members, who were nominated to the Singapore Improvement Trust recently to fill vacancies relinquished by those retired after their term of office, are members of the Labour Front?

The Chief Minister: Sir, I have said that the Government only nominate persons who, by their work, profession or record of public service, can best serve the public interests, and I leave it to the hon. Member to assess whether the record of these two nominees is in accordance with what we lay down.

Mr Lim Choon Mong: That does not answer the question, Sir. Does that mean that the Chief Minister confirms that the two members appointed are Labour Front members?

Mr Speaker: There is an imputation. I cannot allow that.