BANNING OF PIG-KEEPING BY WAR DEPARTMENT IN ULU PANDAN AND PASIR PANJANG

Mr John Ede asked the Minister for Commerce and Industry whether he is aware that the War Department is banning pig-keeping by farmers who are tenants on War Department Land in a large area of Ulu Pandan and Pasir Panjang from 31st January, 1958; and what action he proposes to take to ensure that the livelihood of these farmers is safeguarded.

Mr J. M. Jumabhoy: Yes, Sir, I am aware that this has been proposed in certain areas. Discussions have been held in my Ministry with the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Local Government, Lands and Housing and the latter has now approached the appropriate military authority with suggestions to protect the interests of both parties, namely, the Services as well as the smallholders. It is hoped that these suggestions will prove acceptable.

Mr John Ede: Mr Speaker, Sir, is the Minister aware that some 150 families with a production of something like 10,000 pigs per year are involved and that there will be considerable hardship not only to the families but also in our markets if something stringent is not done?

Mr J. M. Jumabhoy: Sir, the Ministry is doing all it can.

Mr John Ede: Will the Minister undertake as a first step to see that any action due to be taken by the War Department on or after 1st February, 1958, will be postponed?

Mr J. M. Jumabhoy: The military authorities have been approached, Sir, on these lines.

Mr John Ede: I thank the Minister for the action he intends taking now and would inform him that I shall put down a further Question at the January sitting for the Minister to report the progress.

Mr J. M. Jumabhoy: There is no question of "intends taking". Sir, action is already being taken and the hon. Member is welcome to ask further Questions.