HOUSING AND DEVELOPMENT BOARD FLATS (Purchase prices of previously rented out flats and newly completed flats)

Mr N. Govindasamy asked the Minister for Law and National Development if he will ascertain from the Housing and Development Board whether there is any difference between the purchase price of a flat that has been previously rented out and that of a similar newly completed flat.

Mr Barker: Sir, there is no difference in the selling price between a newly completed flat and an existing flat of a similar type built by the Housing Board. In the sale of existing flats, necessary repairs, redecorations and repainting are carried out before the flats are offered for sale.

Mr N. Govindasamy: Sir, an old flat is an old flat, irrespective of the repairs that are carried out to it. Can the Minister say whether there will be a change in the prices of Housing Board flats in the future?

Mr Barker: For the moment, there will be no change. An old flat is an old flat, but the prices of land and buildings have gone up in Singapore with the passing of time. Anyone in occupation of an old flat is not forced to buy it. If he thinks the price is not reasonable, he can always apply to buy a new flat.