STALLHOLDERS IN SCHOOL TUCKSHOPS (Criteria for allocating places)

Mr J. F. Conceicao asked the Minister for Education what are the criteria for the allocation of places to stallholders in school tuckshops.

The Minister of State for Education (Dr Lee Chiaw Meng) (for the Minister for Education): Mr Speaker, Sir, the basic principle is that the school children should get the best nourishment and value for the money they spend. The criteria for the allocation of places to stallholders in school tuckshops are contained in the regulations governing the management of school tuckshops. They are based roughly on the following considerations. First, they must be Singapore citizens. Second, ability to prepare well the food to be sold, give good service, observe high hygienic standards and conduct business in person. Third, the financial position. We usually give preference to those receiving social aid. Fourth, preference will be given to those residing nearest to the school.

Mr Sia Khoon Seong (Moulmein): Mr Speaker, Sir, can the Minister of State tell us how his Ministry manage to do all the things that he has mentioned? Do they have people who are connoisseurs of food to ensure that the best food is provided at the cheapest cost, or is the work undertaken by a committee consisting of people who have been selected at random?

Dr Lee Chiaw Meng: Mr Speaker, Sir, I presume the Member is referring to the preparation of food. This is usually based on the opinion of the principal and teachers and the standing committee if it is appointed.