MINISTRY OF LAW

The Law Ministry, in addition to its responsibility for constitutional and legal matters which are handled by the Attorney-General's Chambers, will continue, in consultation with the various ministries, to draft parliamentary bills and subsidiary legislation authorised by acts of Parliament, to meet the changing needs of our society. The Criminal Law (Temporary Provisions) (Amendment) Act, the Evidence (Amendment) Act and the Criminal Procedure Code (Amendment) Act which brought about significant changes in the administration of justice, were brought into operation on 1 January 1977.

The provisions of the Residential Property Act, which came into operation on 11 September 1973, are being administered smoothly. Changes in land values in the property market will continue to be monitored, and remedial measures, where necessary, will be taken.

Demand as well as competing claims by Government departments, statutory authorities and the private sector on our limited land resources will increase with the expansion of commerce, urbanisation and industrialisation. State land must be kept free from encumbrances and where necessary, tenants and squatters on State land rehoused, to make available land for development by both the public and private sectors. Phased acquisition of land required for development, reclamation and maximum positive support and improved services by the various Government departments and agencies involved in land administration, will ensure optimum land utilisation for maximum economic growth and development.

The Land Office, Registry of Titles and Deeds, Survey Department, Official Assignee and Public Trustee and Registry of Trade Marks and Patents will, in the exercise of their statutory functions, strive to provide improved services.

E.W. BARKER Minister for Law