SURIN AVENUE (Supply of electricity)

Mr Chow Chiok Hock asked the Minister for National Development (a) whether he is aware that residents of Surin Avenue have made repeated requests for the supply of electricity and that they have sent a petition to the Prime Minister; (b) whether he is aware that electric wires were left there early this year but nothing further has happened (c) whether he could indicate when the work will proceed; and (d) whether the electricity could be supplied by Christmas.

Mr Ho Cheng Choon (for the Minister for National Development): Mr Speaker, Sir, (a) the scheme for the supply of electricity to Surin Avenue and Charlton Lane was approved towards the end of 1962 and work was put in hand in early March 1963.

(b) Due to objections raised by the owners of the land through a legal firm, work was suspended at the end of March 1963. Legal opinion was sought from the State Advocate-General and, acting on his advice, the owners' solicitors were advised that work was to be recommenced. The ownership of the land has now changed hands, and a notice has been served on the new owner, informing him that work will recommence.

(c) Work will recommence before the end of the year.

(d) It is hoped that houses will have electricity supplied in early 1964.