SINGAPORE CITIZENSHIP (Reciprocation by Commonwealth Countries)

Mr R. Jumabhoy asked the Chief Secretary what steps have been taken to apply the provisions of subsection (1) of section 8 of the Singapore Citizenship Ordinance, 1957, to citizens of Commonwealth countries and, in particular, to state whether Commonwealth Governments have been informed of the provisions of section 8 of the Ordinance and whether negotiations have been opened with Commonwealth Governments in regard to reciprocal facilities.

Mr S. T. Stewart: Sir, the provisions of subsection (1) of section 8 of the Singapore Citizenship Ordinance, 1957, have not yet been applied to any Commonwealth country. The Secretary of State for the Colonies has been approached to provide such information regarding reciprocity, particularly in regard to the acquisition of citizenship and the right to vote, as will assist the Minister to consider whether or not, either now or when the British Nationality Act, 1948, is amended, to give a direction in respect of the various Commonwealth countries whose citizens reside in Singapore. So far this matter of reciprocity has been taken up officially with this Government by the Government of India. An enquiry with regard to this matter has also just been made by the Assistant Commissioner for Ceylon.