TERRITORIAL WATERS AND BEACHES (Pollution)

Mr Soh Ghee Soon asked the Minister for Commerce and Industry whether he is aware of the pollution of the territorial waters and beaches of Singapore; whether he has ascertained the causes of such pollution; and what measures he will take to prevent such pollution.

Mr J. M. Jumabhoy: Sir, the question is in three parts. The answer to part one is yes. The answer to part two is the pollution is caused by the discharge of oily substances by vessels in waters around Singapore. And the answer to part three is the discharge of oily substances within port limits has been prohibited for many years. Action to prevent oily discharges within and outside territorial waters is now in hand.