SINGAPORE'S ROLE IN UNITED NATIONS INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN'S FUND PROGRAMME

Mrs Seow Peck Leng asked the Minister for Finance (i) what benefits does Singapore derive from the United Nations International Children's Fund programme: (ii) what part does Government play in carrying out the UNICEF programme in Singapore; and (iii) how does Singapore match UNICEF's contribution.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Finance (Mr Low Por Tuck) (for the Minister for Finance): Mr Speaker, Sir, I have been asked to reply to the question:

(i) The United Nations International Children's Fund programme has supplied Singapore with skimmed milk and other nourishment for distribution to children in welfare institutions, hospitals and schools. The value of milk supplied in 1960 will be about $96,000. In 1960, an order has been placed for the free supply of about $9,000 worth of medical equipment.

(ii) The distribution of milk and other nourishment supplied by U.N.I.C.E.F. is undertaken by the Director of Social Welfare in conjunction with the Ministry of Health and voluntary welfare organisations.

(iii) This Government contributes $20,000 annually to the fund.

Mrs Seow Peck Leng: Mr Speaker, Sir, can I ask a supplementary question?

Mr Speaker: The hon. Member should be a bit more rapid in rising. Yes, a supplementary question.

Mrs Seow Peck Leng: Mr Speaker, Sir, I wonder if the hon. Member can tell us whether the milk is being put to proper use?

Mr Low Por Tuck: Yes.

Mrs Seow Peck Leng: Mr Speaker, Sir, may I make myself clear? I asked that question because I happen to know that the milk supplied has such a very strong flavour that school children never like to take it. I happen to know this from my experience as a school principal. I know that the school children throw it into the drain. Much of the milk finds its way into the drain instead of benefiting the children. I wonder whether the hon. Member is aware that that is happening. I have a lot of trouble making the school children take it and I have to -

Mr Speaker: Order. If the hon. Member stops at the question whether the Parliamentary Secretary knows the habits of school children in this matter, I think perhaps she will be in order. Mr Low Por Tuck.

Mr Low Por Tuck: I am not aware of it.