LORONG TAI SENG-HOUSING AND DEVELOPMENT BOARD OFFICE (Procedure in letting out to P.A.P. Paya Lebar Branch)

Mr Tee Kim Leng asked the Minister for National Development what was the procedure followed in letting out a new office of the Housing and Development Board at Lorong Tai Seng to the P.A.P. Paya Lebar Branch.

Mr Tan Kia Gan: Sir, I am indeed surprised that the Member for Pasir Panjang is still not aware that the normal procedure for applying for Housing Board office and shop accommodation is through public tenders invited through the medium of the Press and by notices pasted on the premises themselves. It is the practice of the Housing and Development Board to award tenancy of the premises in question to the highest tenderer.

The vacant premises at No. 330-35 Lorong Tai Seng, together with other vacant Housing Board office and shop premises, were advertised for letting on 20th March, 1962. Prospective tenderers were invited to submit their offers to the Housing Board for these premises. There were three tenderers who offered $40/- per month, $50/- per month, and $55/- per month respectively for the premises. The highest tender of $55/- per month was from the Treasurer of the People's Action Party, and in accordance with normal practice this tenderer was awarded the tenancy of the premises in question.

3.00 p.m.