PAYA LEBAR AIRPORT (Construction of new terminal)

Mr John Ede asked the Minister for Communications and Works whether the leading airlines using the Paya Lebar Airport require funds to be spent on a new airport terminal to be constructed to deal expeditiously with the increasing number of passengers and freight carried by air; and whether he will give an undertaking that work on the construction of the proposed new terminal will be started with the least possible delay.

Mr Francis Thomas: Sir, planning for the improvement or extension of the terminal facilities for the Singapore Airport has been in progress for the past two years. In the course of this, the Director of Civil Aviation has been in close consultation with the airline operators and is fully aware of their needs and requirements in the matter of passengers and baggage handling facilities. To the extent that the provision of such facilities will entail the expenditure of public funds, the answer to the first part of the question is yes.

In answer to the second part of the question, I can assure the hon. Member that within the financial means of Government, it has always been and still is our intention that terminal facilities will be provided with the least possible delay.

Mr John Ede: Mr Speaker, Sir, will the Minister state when the work will start on this building and how long it will take to complete it?

Mr Francis Thomas: At a later stage this morning, Sir, I will be making a statement on the development of the Airport. To avoid repetition, I suggest that the hon. Member seek clarification after that.