PM Lee gives MPs advice ahead of Parliament

[MarrickG]

[Above: Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong with district councillors Mr Ng Kian Woon (right, in blue) and Mr V Tamilselvam (second from right). With them is Mayor of Central Singapore District Sam Tan (left).]

For the upcoming Parliament on Oct 10, People's Action Party MPs should believe in what they say and master the subject so that they know what they are talking about, said party secretary-general Lee Hsien Loong on Saturday.

The Prime Minister also advised MPs to speak up for their constituents and help to shape and form the debate so that they can "develop a consensus" to move forward together.

Mr Lee also commented on his nomination for the Speaker of Parliament, Mr Michael Palmer, who he said has the skills and temperament for the job.

The Speaker has got to have enough room and flexibility to encourage a full and vigorous discussion in the house, Mr Lee said.

"He can get along with people and make clear what is necessary without raising his voice," he noted.

On whether the recent Presidential Election was overly politicised and whether the system of direct election should be amended, Mr Lee said it was still too early to come to any conclusion.

He noted that public debate raised concerns that if the process carries on, it will be difficult to elect a minority president given the nature of election-politics. However they are following the debate very carefully.

Mr Lee also noted that the party whip can be lifted on issues of conscience but it will not be on matters of policy as members have to follow party discipline.

He was speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a community event on Saturday.

[email protected]