PURCHASE OF E-2C PLANES (Request for Statement)

Mr J.B. Jeyaretnam asked the Minister of Defence and Second Minister for Health if he will make a statement on the purchase by Singapore of four E-2C planes from the United States of America at a cost of S$2,200 million and say why the purchase of these planes at such cost has been considered necessary and whether the purchase marks Singapore's entry into the arms race with the superpowers.

The Minister of State of Defence (Dr Yeo Ning Hong) (for the Minister of Defence and Second Minister for Health): Sir, MINDEF is currently negotiating with the US Government for the purchase of the E-2C planes.

Singapore's economic well-being depends on trade, shipping and air communications. We are an international junction. Vital shipping passes through the Straits of Malacca. We survive on the basis of free passage of ships through the Straits. The E-2C planes will enable the RSAF to monitor the movements of ships and aircraft. They will also give us more time to respond to military threats should they arise.

The E-2C system is expensive. But the figure of $2.2 billion is an exaggeration. The final cost, including spare parts and training, will be less than half that amount. It is an unavoidable expenditure as we value our citizens' lives. We compromise the security of our country at the risk of total destruction.

We have no intention of entering the arms race with anyone, let alone the superpowers. All we wish for is to be left alone in peace.

Mr Speaker: Half a minute left.

Mr Jeyaretnam: Mr Speaker, Sir, would the Minister agree that other countries are also interested in the Straits of Malacca? Are we assuming the role of policeman for this region?

Dr Yeo Ning Hong: Sir, the answer is no. We are not assuming the role of policeman for this region; but our vital interest, the interest of our nation, is at stake, hence the need for the E-2C. 3.30 p.m.

Mr Speaker: Order. End of Question Time. The Hon. Ministers concerned will send copies of their answers to the Questions (Cols. 109 - 114) which have not been reached to the hon. Members concerned and to the Clerk.

We now come to Introduction of Government Bills.