WOMEN REPRESENTATION IN PUBLIC BODIES

Dr Kanwaljit Soin asked the Prime Minister if he will consider initiating action to ensure a minimal representation of women in all publicly funded commissions, committees and councils.

Mr Goh Chok Tong: There is no need to do so. Individuals are appointed to such commissions, committees and councils on their own merit, to represent particular interest groups, or for other reasons specific to the panel concerned. The Government should not interfere with these arrangements.

Some countries have gone far in requiring proportional representation of a wide range of "minorities" in university admissions, employment, advancement, political office, etc. They call this "affirmative action" and "equal opportunity". The results have not always been happy. Singapore should stick to the system of meritocracy which has worked well and is fair to all citizens.