Committee of Supply 2023 debate, Day 1: Indranee Rajah on President's recommendation to move a Bill or amendments to a Bill in Parliament

In Parliament on Friday (Feb 24), Second Minister for Finance Indranee Rajah explained the processes for obtaining the President's recommendation to move a Bill or amendments to a Bill tabled in Parliament. She said amendments with financial implications cannot be introduced or moved in the House without the President's recommendation. This mechanism ensures that the Government of the day has the sole right and responsibility to initiate financial legislation, she said. Financial legislation cannot proceed without Government support, she added. When the President gives his or her recommendation, it is upon the advice of the Government and not at the discretion of the President. If the recommendation is provided, then it shows that the legislation or amendment has the Government's support, and this is different from the other provisions of the Constitution where the President acts upon his or her discretion, such as draws on past reserves or the appointment of certain key appointment holders.