"MALAYAN EXPRESS" - APPLICATIONS FOR PERMIT FOR SALE AND DISTRIBUTION IN SINGAPORE

Mr C. H. Koh asked the Minister for Home Affairs whether the first application for a permit for the sale and distribution in Singapore of the Malayan Express, published in Kuala Lumpur was refused, what were the grounds for the refusal, and whether the second application was allowed and on what grounds.

Mr Ong Pang Boon: Mr Speaker, Sir, the first application for the sale and distribution in Singapore of the Malayan Express was refused on the grounds that the applicant was the editor and publisher of the "Saturday Post" which was banned by the Federation.

That the Saturday Post had published irresponsible articles and stories - not merely critical articles - was admitted by the applicant himself in a letter to the Minister for Culture. The applicant expressed regrets over the publication of such articles and assured that, as publisher and editor of the Malayan Express, he would see to it that he would not exceed the bounds of legitimate and responsible journalism.

It was made clear to the applicant that the Government was not concerned with whether the paper was critical of or well disposed towards Government, but that it was concerned with the accuracy and responsibility with which articles and stories were presented.

On this assurance by the applicant, the second application was approved. However, I understand that the Malayan Express has ceased publication of its own accord.

This is not the first nor the last occasion when the Member for Joo Chiat has espoused lost causes.

Mr Speaker: Order. May I remind Ministers that phrases and asides of that nature are completely out of order when answering questions?