CITY COUNCIL SERVICES TO PALMER ROAD AREA

Mr David Marshall asked the Prime Minister whether he will make a Statement as to the availability of City Council services to the residents of the Palmer Road area.

The Prime Minister (Mr Lee Kuan Yew): Sir, a survey of the kampong at Palmer Road was carried out some months ago. It showed that a good number of the dwellings were unauthorised sheds constructed from packing cases and other inflammable material or in a ruinous condition. The Fire Department considered it dangerous in these circumstances to allow electric lines to this kampong from the City Council mains.

With regard to water, there are three existing standpipes in the area. A fourth standpipe has been approved by the Urban and Rural Services Council but it cannot yet be installed as the private landowner is strongly resisting its erection over his land.

Sir, the aim is to offer these people decent low-cost accommodation now being built by the Housing Board. By the middle of next year, there should be enough $20 flats available to house all those now on the register; and with the housing programme maintaining its present momentum, there is every hope that there will be low-cost flats available for all by the end of next year for those who are now living in sub-standard tenements and huts.

Mr David Marshall: I am pleased to hear the information given by the Prime Min ister. Perhaps he is aware that there are approximately 3,000 people living in this particular area. Could no temporary measures be taken to supply them with electricity and particularly with water if necessary to acquire the piece of land necessary for the erection of that standpipe?

The Prime Minister: Sir, on the first point regarding the supply of electricity, the Urban and Rural Service Council have to take the advice of the Fire Department. But as for the standpipe, I can assure the Member for Anson that we are contemplating such action to erect the standpipe despite the landowner's wishes.