STREET LIGHTS (Private Housing Estates)

Mr Bernard Rodrigues asked the Minister for Law and National Development what is the policy of the Government in regard to the installation of street lights along roads in private housing estates which have been declared public roads.

Mr E. W. Barker: Prior to 1st March, 1961, plans for the construction of private streets by private developers were approved even though no provision was made for street lights. After 1st March, 1961, however, all plans for private streets must include provisions for street lights before they are approved.

It is the policy of the Government so far as funds are available to install street lights along roads in private housing estates which have been declared public roads. But public funds for this purpose are not inexhaustible and furthermore, these funds have to be distributed among the various constituencies. As these funds are limited, priority is given to requests for street lighting where the need is more urgent. All requests for street lighting are therefore carefully processed by the Urban and Rural Services Committee and the Projects Committee before approval is given.