EXTENSION OF HDB LOAN REPAYMENTS

Mr S. Vasoo asked the Minister for National Development (a) how many Housing and Development Board flat owners have requested to extend their loan repayments as at the latest available date; and (b) what follow-up actions are taken by the HDB Area Offices to refer those households with problems for assistance.

Mr Teh Cheang Wan: Mr Speaker, Sir, following the announcement in Parliament on 7th March, 1986, 778 HDB flat owners have requested to extend their loan repayment period. Of these, 552 and 161 flat owners requested to extend their loan repayment to 25 years and 20 years respectively.

The Area Offices will follow up by referring HDB households with family problems to the Ministry of Community Development, Ministry of Labour, or voluntary social organizations for appropriate assistance as follows:

(1) families in financial difficulties are referred to the Public Assistance Section, Ministry of Community Development, or voluntary social agencies;

(2) families whose breadwinners have lost employment are referred to the Employment Services Department, Ministry of Labour;

(3) families with domestic problems and requiring counselling and advice are referred to the Ministry of Community Development.

The HDB Area Offices also maintain close liaison with the departments and agencies concerned on the outcome of the cases referred to them.

Mr S. Vasoo (Bo Wen): Sir, could the Minister look into ways of allaying loan repayment problems of families without CPF savings and those who have lost their jobs?

Mr Teh Cheang Wan: Mr Speaker, Sir, any family with financial difficulties can go to the Area Office and discuss with my officers. And as usual, HDB will do its best to help.