TELEPHONES FOR BULIM VILLAGE

Mr Goh Tong Liang asked the Minister for Communications and Works whether he is aware that there is a great demand by the inhabitants of Bulim Village in Chua Chu Kang for telephones; and when will telephones be installed in that area.

Mr Francis Thomas: Yes, Sir, I am aware of the need and of the demand for telephones in Bulim Village and indeed in the rural areas of Singapore generally. The hon. Member is, however, doubtless aware that the provision of telephone services is a matter for the Singapore Telephone Board. The Board has its plans for the progressive extension of these services and I am not in a position to answer for the Board as to when a service will be provided in any particular area for it to meet the demand of that area, if the hon. Member will approach the Chairman of the Board, I am sure he will be fully advised of the prospects of the service to which he refers and when it will be provided.

Mr Goh Tong Liang: Mr Speaker, Sir, do I understand that as a Minister he has no hold on the Telephone Board?

Mr Speaker: That is exactly what the Minister said - he has no ministerial responsibility.