SINGAPORE SWEEP

Mr Lim Cheng Lock asked the Minister for Finance (a) what is the total amount paid to the Government from the proceeds of the Singapore Sweep since its inception; (b) from this sum, what are the amounts distributed respectively to each sports, welfare or other project or body; and (c) what advantage will be gained by Singapore Pools (Private) Limited taking over the conduct of the Singapore Sweep.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Finance (Mr Tang See Chim) (for the Minister for Finance): Mr Speaker, Sir, the answer is as follows:

(a) In 15 draws, the proceeds received by Government amount to $5,896,184.

(b) A sum of $250,000 has been earmarked for the construction of a Social Service Centre at Penang Lane. No other amounts have been distributed.

(c) With the establishnient of its network of agencies and distributors, the Singapore Pools (Private) Limited can take over the Singapore Sweep and run h at a lower cost. At present, the managerial fee paid to the Singapore Turf Club ranges from $50,000 to $60,000 per Sweep, in addition, the Turf Club retains commission, on the average, of more than $17,000 per Sweep Draw, it is proposed to raise the first prize to $400,000 when the Singapore Pools (Private) Limited takes over the conduct of the Singapore Sweep.