EXHUMATION OF MASS GRAVES OF JAPANESE MASSACRE VICTIMS

Mr Tee Kim Leng asked the Prime Minister if he will state the reasons for not yet approving the application of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce to exhume the mass graves of victims of the massacres in the last war by the Japanese army.

The Prime Minister: Sir, the applications of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce to exhume the remains of victims of massacres by the Japanese in the last war were generally approved on the 6th of June. However, as I explained to the Chairman and representatives of the Chamber who saw me yesterday, there were certain technical matters which they will have to clear before the licence can be issued.

Mr Ong Chang Sam: (In Mandarin): Mr Speaker. Sir, the Prime Minister says that because of some technical matter, the licence is now being held up for the time being. Can the Prime Minister tell this House what the technical matters are?

The Prime Minister: I have said that there were certain technical matters. I have informed the Chamber of Commerce of them. They are having a meeting and they will be communicating with my Secretary and I do not think it is of any importance to this Assembly a: this stage to delve into these technical details. lt will not help matters.

Mr Tee Kim Leng: (In Mandarin): Mr Speaker, Sir, can the Prime Minister tell this House when the licence will be granted?

The Prime Minister: Sir, from time to time, I try my best to be a prophet and in this particular case all I can say is that I see no difficulty so long as the parties concerned can reach agreement on certain technical matters which have to be agreed to.