SERVICES OF POLICE OFFICERS EMPLOYED FOR PRIVATE PURPOSES

Mr Thio Chan Bee asked the Minister for Home Affairs, with reference to Government Gazette Notification No. 993 dated 12th May, 1961, prescribing the rates for the services of police officers employed for private purposes, if he will explain the circumstances under which he would allow such police officers to be so employed.

Mr Ong Pang Boon: Mr Speaker, Sir, the circumstances under which the services of police officers would be approved for employment for private purposes include

(a) circumstances of serious potential danger to persons or property which cannot otherwise reasonably be avoided for which there is sufficient justification for precautions but not sufficient to warrant depriving the public of the services of a trained guard and escort police officer without compensation to Government. For example, the guarding of a potential kidnap victim or of valuable property at a function to which large numbers of the public may have admission;

(b) circumstances in which a crime might be committed on private premises to which large numbers of the public may have admission. For example, betting, gambling or pick-pocketing at the Singapore Turf Club meetings;

(c) circumstances in which inconvenience might be caused to large numbers of the public by reason of traffic congestion at a private function or in its vicinity. For example, traffic control at large private functions or at the Singapore Turf Club;

(d) circumstances in which valuables, bullion, pay-packets, etc, are transferred in public or stored in premises.

Mr Thio Chan Bee: Mr Speaker. Sir, does the Minister realise that the morale of high-ranking police officers would be adversely affected if they are treated like mercenaries liable to obey new masters with changing situations?

Mr Ong Pang Boon: Mr Speaker, Sir, the first point is that the question does not arise. The second point is that I am not aware of the fear the Member has expressed.

Mr Speaker: In any event, it is a matter of opinion. It is out of order. Is there any other supplementary question?

Mr Thio Chan Bee: Yes.

Mr Speaker: Mr Thio.

Mr Thio Chan Bee: Could the Minister assure us that there is a sufficient supply of police officers so that Government could afford to release them for these purposes?

Mr Ong Pang Boon: Mr Speaker, Sir, I am not aware of any shortage of supply.