APPOINTMENT OF CONSTITUTIONAL EXPERTS TO ADVISE ON CONSTITUTIONAL ASPECTS OF CLOSER RELATIONSHIP WITH FEDERATION

[Mr SPEAKER in the Chair]

Mr David Marshall asked the Prime Minister whether Government will consider the appointment of Constitutional experts of international stature to advise the Government and the people of Singapore, through their representatives in the Assembly, on Constitutional aspects of the proposed closer relationship with the Federation of Malaya.

The Prime Minister (Mr Lee Kuan Yew): Mr Speaker, Sir, five eminent constitutional jurists from Britain, India, Pakistan, Australia and Canada constituted the Commission which drafted the present Constitution of the Federation of Malaya. Several other constitutional lawyers helped in the work. It is hoped that some of these lawyers, who are already familiar with the Constitution, may be able to advise the Government on how to enshrine the new provisions in the Constitution of the Federation of Malaysia.

The State Advocate-General is already in correspondence with constitutional lawyers of considerable experience and standing who will have to help in spelling out the amendments consequent upon the heads of agreement reached between the Singapore and the Federation Governments. He is also offering a contract to a parliamentary draftsman who will be able to assist him in the work of drafting. If any Member of the Assembly desires clarification on any constitutional matter consequent upon merger between Singapore and Malaya, the Government will put these questions to the State Advocate-General who can give his advice, if necessary, after taking further opinion from constitutional experts elsewhere.

Mr David Marshall (Anson): May I ask the Prime Minister what is the procedure proposed - writing directly to the Prime Minister or to the State Advocate-General for that purpose with reference to queries from Assemblymen?

The Prime Minister: Sir, I will be happy to receive any letters from any Members of the Assembly.

Mr David Marshall: I am much obliged.