MINOR OFFENCES ACT (Measures to deal with noise pollution)

Mr Hwang Soo Jin asked the Minister for Home Affairs whether he will review the existing laws relating to noise pollution so as to ensure that the police can deal effectively with persons who cause nuisance to their neighbours through the inconsiderate use of audio equipment.

The Minister for Home Affairs (Mr Chua Sian Chin): Mr Speaker, Sir, the Minor Offences Act (Cap. 102) contains provisions empowering the Police to deal with noise nuisance created by audio-visual or other equipment and musical instruments. However, these provisions were enacted in the days when few people had such equipment and instruments, and they have now become outdated. These provisions are also not wide enough because action against an offence of noise nuisance caused to neighbours can be taken only when it is committed between 12 midnight and 6 a.m. Besides, the maximum fine of $50 for such offences is not a deterrent any more.

The Police have submitted some proposals to the Attorney-General's Chambers to remedy these shortcomings. In addition, the Police have proposed that the scope of the provisions be expanded to enable them to deal effectively with other types of noise nuisance, such as the roar of motor-cycles caused by the deliberate revving-up of the engine. The Police are also asking for powers to prevent offenders from continuing with the nuisance by removing the instruments or equipment or by dispersing those responsible, where warnings are not heeded.

The Attorney-General's Chambers are now looking into the proposals. They have pointed out that the subject is complex because of the difficulty in determining objectively what noise level constitutes a nuisance. They are conducting a careful research into the subject by studying similar legislation obtaining in other countries, before drafting the necessary amendments.