REVIEW OF CONTROL OF RENT ACT

Dr Wang Kai Yuen asked the Minister for National Development (a) what types of dwellings and how many units of each type are still under the Control of Rent Act; and (b) whether the government will review the need for the said Act in view of the liberalisation of government rules and regulations to encourage private entrepreneurship.

Mr Teh Cheang Wan: All premises built on or before 7 September 1947, except those owned by government and statutory boards, come under the Control of Rent Act. Since 1947, many of these premises have been demolished or rebuilt through the process of development. The Ministry has not kept any record of the type and number of rent-controlled premises as there was no need to monitor such premises.

However, in consultation with the Ministry of Law and Inland Revenue Department, the Ministry is currently reviewing the need for the Control of Rent Act. Data on rent-controlled premises including the type and number is being collected. The study is expected to be completed next year.