NEW COMMUNITY CENTRES (Grant for furniture and equipment)

Mr Teo Chong Tee asked the Prime Minister whether the grant of $24,000 for new community centres to purchase furniture and equipment will be substantially increased, as the amount is inadequate in view of higher costs resulting from inflation.

The Senior Minister of State, Prime Minister's Office (Mr Lee Khoon Choy) (for the Prime Minister): Sir, the People's Association is fully aware that the grant of $24,000 for the furnishing of a new key community centre is hopelessly inadequate at current prices, More than $100,000 is required to furnish a new key community centre. The People's Association will seek from the Government a substantial increase in the furniture and equipment grant.

Mr Ng Kah Ting (Punggol): Sir, could the Senior Minister of State kindly enlighten the House as to when a positive answer can be obtained from the Ministry of Finance?

Mr Lee Khoon Choy: I can only say that I hope that it will be very soon.