HC Deb 09 July 1952 vol 503 c1312
44. Mr. Awbery

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies in view of the large increase in the electoral roll of the Singapore Legislative Council and the growing interest being taken in civil affairs, if he will consider increasing the number of elected representatives on the City Council and on the Legislative Assembly.

Mr. Lyttelton

An increase in the number of elected members of Legislative Council is to be considered shortly. A similar increase in the City Council will, I understand, be considered when decisions are taken on the recommendations of Dr. Hill who recently reported on local government in Singapore.

The Singapore electoral rolls show large increases but registrations are still only about a quarter of the potential electorate.

Mr. Awbery

Would the right hon. Gentleman not agree that it would encourage the people of Singapore to take a greater interest in civil affairs if there was a periodical review of representation in the Legislature as well as an increase in the number?

Mr. Lyttelton

I think the hon. Member would be exaggerating if he thought there was very much pressure because the total electoral roll is about 68,000 out of a potential electorate of 250,000.