INCREASE OF MONTHLY ALLOWANCES FOR UNEMPLOYED

Mr William Tan asked the Minister for Labour and Welfare whether he will consider increasing the monthly allowances granted to unemployed persons with large families under the Public Assistance Scheme.

Tun Lim Yew Hock: Mr Speaker, Sir, a Committee of officials has been appointed to consider the Report of the Committee of Minimum Standards of Livelihood and the I.L.O. Report on Social Security Measures. Among the matters considered is the revision of the public assistance rates applicable to various categories of persons eligible for relief including the unemployed. An interim Report on the proposed integrated social security system is expected to be submitted shortly by the Committee of officials when the question raised will be considered by Government.

Mr William Tan: Is the Minister for Labour and Welfare aware that at the present moment the families are undergoing financial hardships?

Tun Lim Yew Hock: I have been aware of that, Sir.