ADVANCE ISSUE OF MOTOR VEHICLE REGISTRATION BOOKS (Measures to prevent abuse)

Mr Lim Boon Heng asked the Acting Minister for Communications what were the reasons for giving out new motor vehicle registration books in advance to certain motor vehicle trading companies; whether this has led to any abuse and, if so, what measures have been taken to prevent recurrence of such abuses.

Dr Yeo Ning Hong: Mr Speaker, Sir, the new motor vehicle registration books are given to motor vehicle trading companies in advance to expedite the registration process. Numerous details, such as the engine and chassis numbers of the vehicle, need to be filled in in every registration book. Allowing the companies to fill in these details prior to presentation at the ROV makes the registration process faster, saves time for new registrants, and relieves severe congestion and overcrowding at ROV counters. This procedure has been in force for the past four years and has been well received by the trade and the public.

So far there has been only one instance of abuse. ROV is currently reviewing the present registration procedures with a view to improving security. Measures under consideration include security stamping and more stringent handling procedures. Finance companies are also advised to make physical checks of vehicles prior to release of loans.