CUSTOMS EXAMINATION (Train Delays)

Mr John Ede asked the Financial Secretary whether he is aware of the long delays caused to passenger trains travelling between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur due to customs examination at Johore Bahru; and whether he will arrange with the Federation authorities for Federation customs officers to board trains at Singapore Railway Station so that the examination can be carried out en route.

Mr T. M. Hart: The hon. Member will be interested to know that the two Governments have already agreed in principle that Federal customs officers should board trains in Singapore and make customs examinations en route to Johore Bahru. A Bill which, amongst other things, will authorise this to be done is at present in draft and will be introduced as soon as possible.