LOW-COST HOUSING UNITS (Number)

Mr Seah Peng Chuan asked the Minister for Local Government, Lands and Housing-

(a) the exact number of low-cost housing units built in the Colony in 1956;

(b) how many low-cost buildings are to be constructed in Singapore during 1957.

Inche Abdul Hamid Bin Haji Jumat: Mr Speaker, Sir,

(a) 1,261 housing units and eight shops were completed during 1956, while a further 2,521 were under construction at the end of the year. These figures are lower than originally expected owing to complications of land clearance and resettlement, since Government's intention has been to make proper provision for persons affected by new building projects. However, Sir, the Land Clearance and Resettlement Department has now been established and Government has set aside $4 million to provide for proper resettlement.

(b) It is expected that 3,056 low-cost dwellings and 95 shops will be completed during 1957, while a further 4,000 will be under construction on 31st December, 1957.

Mr Lee Kuan Yew: For the general information of Members in this Assembly, could we have a definition of a low-cost house?

Inche Abdul Hamid: I shall require notice of that question, Sir.

Mr Lee Choon Eng: Sir, can the Minister tell us then what was the total number of units earmarked for 1956 compared to the number of units that have been completed and those that are now under construction?

Inche Abdul Hamid: I am afraid I cannot give an answer on the spot, Sir.