Lee Hsien Loong on Committee of Privileges report

In Parliament on Tuesday (Feb 15), Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said Singapore's democracy and core values are at the heart of the debate over how the Workers' Party (WP) handled the lies of its former MP Raeesah Khan. He stressed that clear norms and incorruptible values are essential to protecting the dignity and standing of Parliament. "Tell the truth always and do the right thing by Singapore, even when it is hard or awkward - in fact, especially when it is hard or awkward," he said. Mr Lee said MPs must be people with integrity at their core, who speak and act in an upright manner, always putting duty before self and are loyal to Singapore. Mr Lee said Parliament must treat seriously the conduct of WP's leaders before the Committee of Privileges, or MPs would be complicit in dishonouring the House. He said the opposition cannot be held to lower standards. He also said the Leader of the Opposition does not have a "blank cheque", as the role carries certain responsibilities and sets the tone for opposition MPs. "We must all never fail to serve Singaporeans to the best of our ability, responsibly and honestly, and uphold this institution of Parliament as the foundation of a robust and healthy democracy," he said. Mr Lee called on all Members of the House to weigh the facts, vote with their conscience and "join me to do your duty to Singapore".