Louis asked the Minister for Social and Family Development whether the Government will consider increasing the amount of maternity leave for single mothers considering that they need more time to take care of their children.

Mr Tan Chuan-Jin (MSF): Currently, single unwed mothers are eligible for eight and four weeks of paid and unpaid maternity leave, respectively.

We are in the midst of reviewing the support provided to single unwed parents, as part of the Ministry’s efforts to better support children from vulnerable families. We will announce the outcome of our review soon.

Source: Hansard (Parliament of Singapore)

Louis delivered his budget cut on Providing Support for Single Parents at Committee of Supply 2016.

Louis: Madam, I join Members of this House in urging MSF to review the support for single parents. There are some benefits that single parents currently do not enjoy, such as the full 16 weeks of maternity leave. Unwed parents also do not get perks such as the Baby Bonus and parenthood tax rebates, and have to wait until they are 35 years old to buy a HDB flat under the singles scheme.

Single parents have a difficult time bringing up their child or children single-handedly as compared to families with two parents. As an inclusive society, we should be providing equal rights to single parents and ensure they do not feel alone in their journey. We should help rather than penalise them.

Will the Ministry for a start consider helping single parents by increasing the amount of maternity leave given to single mothers? Will the Ministry consider providing any other support for single parents?

Mr Tan Chuan-Jin (MSF): Let me talk about children of unwed parents. Many of you here have spoken up for unwed parents – Ms Kuik Shiao-Yin, Mr Muhamad Faisal Manap, Ms K Thanaletchimi, Ms Tin Pei Ling, Mr Dennis Tan, Mr Louis Ng and Mr Desmond Choo, all talked about extending benefits such as maternity leave and the CDA First Step to unwed parents, and parity for all Singaporean children regardless of their parents' marital status. I want to recognise especially Mr Seah Kian Peng in particular who has been urging the Ministry for a very long time to give more help to single parents, or particularly, unwed parents and their children.

Before I address Members' concerns, I think it is important to say a few things. Single parents are not, I repeat, are not, a uniform group. Divorced and widowed single parents who form the bulk of single parents are already eligible for the same parenthood benefits as married parents.

Secondly, today, Government benefits that support the growth and development of children are given to all children, regardless of the marital status of their parents. Like all other children, children of unwed parents have access to social assistance, education and healthcare subsidies. They are also eligible for infant care and childcare subsidies, Medisave grant for new-borns and the foreign domestic worker levy concession, to date.

But I do understand where Members are coming from, which is why when I first joined MSF, I wanted to review this policy because I do meet unwed mothers, particularly when they come to see me at the Meet-the-People Sessions (MPS). They are vulnerable usually, because they are younger, and lower educated. Some may have been rejected by their own families. Now, it is difficult enough to bring up children, but to do so single-handedly, without family support, is really tough. Some may have hoped to have a child within marriage, but due to circumstances, ended up as unwed parents.

I feel that we can do more to support their efforts to care for their children and reduce the disadvantages that their children may face at birth. In fact, as in the earlier example when I talked about KidSTART, I think the children of unwed mothers, especially those in the more vulnerable situation, will be those that we are reaching out to help. Hence, this is what we will do.

Unwed mothers will benefit from Government-Paid Maternity Leave. We will equalise it. We will need to amend the legislation to make this happen and this should be able to come into effect for children born from early next year.

Children of unwed parents will qualify for the Child Development Account (CDA), including the $3,000 CDA First Step. We are in the process of working on the legislation to get it in place, as well as the system enhancement; and this is likely to kick in for children born from the third quarter of this year.

These benefits are useful in the child's developmental or care-giving needs. They also support the unwed parent's efforts to provide for the child. At the same time, the extension of these benefits to unwed parents does not undermine parenthood within marriage, which is something that we do encourage and it is still the prevalent social norm. These are the reasons behind this particular decision.

On top of this, MSF and NCSS will also work with the relevant VWOs and agencies to strengthen support for families with vulnerable, low-income unwed mothers. This is to enable them to make better-informed decisions to improve their financial and family stability, and ultimately, to enhance their child's outcomes.

Source: Hansard (Parliament of Singapore)

Louis delivered his budget cut on Helping Single Unwed Parents Find a Home at Committee of Supply 2017 as follow.

Louis: A single unwed parent who is under 35 years old is currently unable to purchase a HDB flat or enjoy the housing grants under the family scheme. It is difficult enough being a single parent and we should help rather than penalise them. So, similar to what Ms Kuik Shiao-Yin has just mentioned, can the Ministry consider allowing a single unwed parent and his or her child to form a family nucleus when applying for a HDB flat? If we cannot consider helping the parent, then surely we should consider helping the child.

Mr Lawrence Wong (The Minister for National Development): Several Members − Ms Kuik Shiao-Yin, Mr Louis Ng, Ms Rahayu Mahzam and Miss Cheryl Chan − also asked about how we are helping vulnerable groups, including divorcees and single unwed parents.

We are fully committed to helping them with their housing needs and making sure no one falls through the cracks.

If they are unable to afford a flat and do not have alternative housing options, HDB will assist them with a rental flat, and we are continuing to build more rental flats to meet these needs. In the last three years, HDB has helped nearly 2,000 single parents with a public rental flat. And by single parents, we mean divorcees with children, as well as unwed mothers with children. This is about 27% of all households who were allocated a public rental flat during that time.

Every case that HDB receives is unique, and our officers will review each case very carefully. If necessary, they will work together with the local social service agencies − the SSO, the Family Service Centre social workers − to assess the family's situation, and they will exercise flexibility for those in difficulties.

Besides helping with rental, we also introduced the Fresh Start Housing Scheme last year. This was to provide additional grants for second-timer families living in rental flats, so that they can purchase their own homes. Mr Saktiandi mentioned this, and asked about the status. We have just opened up for applications in December, and I recently visited some of the families who applied for the scheme.

One of them is a single mother, who moved into her rental flat a few years ago, together with her daughter who just entered secondary school. They are getting support from various parties, including from the family. The grandmother, who helps to look after the daughter after school so that the mother can work. There is an aunt who takes her daughter to the library because she enjoys reading. There are MSF officers who check-in with them regularly to see how they are doing. So, it shows that this is not just about getting a flat, as important as that is. It is about the family having all-round support which the Government and the community can provide.

That is what we are doing with Fresh Start − in this case, the family will be applying for a new 2-room Flexi flat by the end of the year. We are very happy for them, and we wish them all the best in their Fresh Start journey.

Louis: Second, similarly, will HDB specifically consider whether a single unwed parent can form a family nucleus with his or her child? Has this been done before?

Dr Koh Poh Koon: As for whether we want to consider a single unwed parent with a child as a family nucleus, I think as I said in my reply, HDB does take a very flexible approach to assess each case on a case-by-case basis and to apply flexibility.

Source: Hansard (Parliament of Singapore)

Louis asked the Minister for National Development for each of the years in the past three years (a) how many single unwed mothers under the age of 35 have applied together with their children and without other family members to purchase or rent a flat from HDB; and (b) how many of such applications have been approved.

Mr Lawrence Wong (MND): From 2014 to 2016, about 100 single unwed parents under the age of 35 appealed to buy a flat with their children and without other family members. Over the same period, about 300 single unwed parents under the age of 35 appealed to rent a flat from HDB with their children. For both types of appeals, HDB approved about one-fifth of the cases. The remainder could continue living with their parents, could afford other housing options or were already co-owners of a flat.

Source: Hansard (Parliament of Singapore)

Louis presented his petition on More inclusive provision of public housing for single parents as follow:

Louis: Sir, I present to Parliament a Petition under Standing Order No 18. The Clerk has endorsed this Petition as being in accordance with the rules of Standing Order No 18(5).

This Petition is presented on behalf of Quek Chee Kian, Lee Man Qi, Renemarlina Bte Osman, Jesvinder Kaur, Koh Xin Hui Christabel, Lim Sing Hwee and Saleha Binte Khamis, all of whom are single parents. There are seven signatories and they represent other single parents of like opinion facing difficulties securing their basic needs, in particular, with regard to public housing.

Sir, the petitioners say that the current provisions on public housing are not inclusive. In a study conducted by AWARE, it was found that 95% of single mothers who sought public housing faced difficulties.

Firstly, unmarried parents and their children are not recognised by HDB as a family nucleus. Secondly, long debarment periods prevent divorced parents from accessing purchase and rental flats.

The petitioners urge that such problems should not be addressed solely by discretionary case-by-case exceptions, but by having rules which are more inclusive.

In addition, pursuant to Articles 2 and 27 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), Singapore has obligations under this International Convention to ensure the rights of the child without discrimination on the basis of their parents' marital status and to take appropriate measures to ensure every child's right to an adequate standard of living, in particular, with regard to housing.

In light of the increasing number of single-parent families in Singapore, the petitioners recommend that these families should be equally supported to meet this basic needs and should not be discriminated against.

Sir, on a personal note, as a parent to three young ones, I cannot imagine going through my parenthood journey alone and I can appreciate how difficult it must be for single parents. I sincerely hope we hear from the petitioners and respond positively to their call for equal support for single parents.

The petitioners pray, and I quote:

"One, amend Section 47 of the Housing and Development Act by inserting, immediately after paragraph (b) of subsection (1), the following paragraph:

(c) Paragraph (b) of subsection (1) above shall not apply to any person who has legal custody of a child and who has been given care and control of that child, notwithstanding that:-

a. any other person may also have care and control of that child; or

b. such person may have another child or children, in respect of whom he does not have care and control.

Two, amend Section 65 of the Housing and Development Act by inserting, immediately after subsection (2), the following subsection:

(3) In exercising their powers under subsection (1) above, the Minister and the Board shall not discriminate against any person with legal custody of a child on the ground of such person's marital status.

Three, refer the issue of access to public housing for single-parent families, and Singapore's conformity with its obligations under CRC as pertains to this issue, to a Select Committee for further consultation and deliberation."

Source: Hansard (Parliament of Singapore)

Louis asked the Minister for National Development (a) what are the criteria that single unwed parents under the age of 35 need to fulfill before their applications or appeals are approved to (i) purchase a flat from HDB (ii) rent a flat from HDB; (b) what are the objective criteria used to determine if such unwed parents are able to continue living with their parents; and (c) what are the criteria used to determine if such unwed parents are able to afford other housing options.

Mr Lawrence Wong (MND): Unmarried parents aged at least 21 and above can apply to buy or rent a flat from HDB with their parents. They are encouraged to live with their parents for mutual care and support to raise the child. Nonetheless, for those without family support, HDB exercises flexibility on a needs-basis to allow them to buy or rent a flat from HDB. They have to meet the eligibility criteria set for singles such as the income ceiling of $6,000 for buying a flat.

To assess their housing options, HDB will look at their housing budget based on their income and CPF savings, taking into account estimated living expenses.

Source: Hansard (Parliament of Singapore)

Louis asked the Minister for Social and Family Development for each year from 2016 to 2017, what is the respective number of children born in Singapore who (i) do not have a father named on their birth certificates and (ii) have a father named on their birth certificates but the parents are not married on or before the date of registration of birth.

Mr Desmond Lee (MSF): The number of babies born to citizen mothers who were not married to the father at the point of birth registration is 843 in 2016, and 836 in 2017. The 2017 figure is provisional at this point and subject to change. The further breakdown by whether the father's name is reflected in the birth certificate is as follows:

Source: Hansard (Parliament of Singapore)

Louis asked the Minister for National Development how does HDB determine what qualifies as over-crowding in HDB flats and whether Minimum Space Standards, or similar objective criteria, can be published to improve transparency.

Mr Lawrence Wong (MND): Mr Speaker, as HDB flats primarily serve to meet the housing needs of flat owners and their family members, there is no limit imposed on the number of family members who can live together in an HDB flat.

However, HDB imposes an occupancy cap on flats which are rented out to unrelated persons. This is to minimise the disamenities caused by overcrowding and to maintain a conducive living environment in our public housing estates.

HDB reviews the occupancy cap from time-to-time to ensure that it remains relevant. Currently, the cap is four persons for 1- and 2-room flats, six persons for 3-room flats, and nine persons for 4-room and larger flats.

From 1 May 2018, the occupancy cap for 4-room and larger flats will be reduced to six persons in line with the rule for private residential properties, and these rules are published on HDB InfoWeb. Appropriate action will be taken against the flat owners if the number of tenants exceeds the occupancy cap.  

Louis: I thank the Minister for the reply. Will the Minister consider using this maximum number of occupants allowed in a flat that is being rented out as the same criteria to be applied when the single unwed parent or a divorcee is considered whether they can live with their parents or family members as an alternative accommodation?

I am suggesting this as this would make sense if the family wanted to rent out the flat and they are not allowed to because they have met the maximum number of occupant limits and would be considered overcrowded. Then, surely the same family cannot provide accommodation to their child or siblings who are single, unwed or divorced.  

Mr Lawrence Wong: Mr Speaker, as I had mentioned earlier, the cap on flats is applied only for flats which are rented out to unrelated parties. There is presently no occupancy cap on families living together in their own HDB flats and that should be the standard we apply similarly, whether or not it is a family or it is a single unwed parent. 

Louis: I also asked in the PQ about the minimum space standard and can Minister clarify why we are not going to publish this minimum space standard? This is what is actually being done in the EU and Canada already.  

Mr Lawrence Wong: Mr Speaker, I think we should look at this in context and perspective. Different countries have different standards. Not all countries have a minimum space standard, and even those that do, use these standards as guidelines. These are not necessarily legislated in some of the countries that Mr Ng mentioned.

In Singapore's context, all of us know that space is limited and we have to optimise space to the best of our abilities. What we do for HDB flats, is we publish the size for the different flat typologies – 1-room, 2-room, 3-room, 4-room – all of different flat sizes. The floor space for each of these HDB unit types are made public and families can choose which ones they would like to apply for.  

Louis: Just one last question. We talk about over-crowded and I cannot see a reason why whether a person is related or not would determine whether the place is over-crowded. If there are nine people staying in there who are related, it would still be over-crowded – even if the nine people were unrelated. So, can the Minister clarify why there is this point about whether they are related or not, in terms of deciding whether it is over-crowded?

Mr Lawrence Wong: Mr Speaker, as I had mentioned earlier, we do not prescribe minimum standards of space for Singaporean families, who purchase their own flats. It may be a family with five children, three children, four children, what flat type you wish to choose is entirely up to you. The different flat types are made available. There are generous grants given, and then you decide what flat you choose. That is a policy that has served us well and will remain. The occupancy standard applies for rental and that standard applies really to minimise over-crowdedness and to maintain the residential character of the HDB estate as one meant primarily for families to live and stay in. That is why there is this occupancy cap and it is applied to unrelated persons. 

Source: Hansard (Parliament of Singapore)

Louis asked the Minister for Social and Family Development in each of the past five years, how many single unwed parents were at the point of the birth of their child (i) below 35 years old (ii) between 35 years old and 36 years old and (iii) 36 years old and above respectively.

Mr Desmond Lee (MSF): The age profile of citizen mothers with non-marital births, at point of birth registration, is as follows:

Source: Hansard (Parliament of Singapore)

Louis asked the Minister for Social and Family Development in each of the past five years, what is the median and average monthly income of single unwed parents (i) below 35 years old (ii) between 35 and 36 years old and (iii) 36 years old and above, respectively.

Mr Desmond Lee (MSF): The median and average monthly income for citizen mothers with non-marital births is in the table below. These figures are derived by dividing their annual income by 12. For those aged below 35 years old, it is likely that quite a number may be working in part-time jobs or only for a few months of the year, contributing to their lower monthly income.

Source: Hansard (Parliament of Singapore)

Louis delivered his budget cut on Ensuring Single-unweds Find Housing at Committee of Supply 2019.

Louis: Sir, single unwed parents under 35 years old need our help. Unlike those above 35, who qualify for public housing under the Singles Scheme, those under 35 can only qualify on a case-by-case basis. 

With a median household income of only $600 in 2017, lacking the cash component of the Baby Bonus, and often lacking family support, single unwed parents really need our help. 

I am grateful that HDB has approved several housing appeals I have made for them. But this case-by-case basis approach adds unnecessary stress to an already stressed parent.

A safe and stable home is a fundamental need for every child, and our housing policy should be child-centric. For a start, can Minister consider providing rental housing to single unwed parents under 35 years old with a monthly household income below a certain amount and who lack family support? Can we accept their applications at the HDB counters like any other HDB flat application? Let us not tell the applicant that they do not technically qualify, that it is subject to a case-by-case review, and that they should see their Member of Parliament to submit an appeal.

Source: Hansard (Parliament of Singapore)

Ms Sun Xueling: For single unwed parents in need of housing, I assure Mr Ng that no applicant will be turned away at HDB's counters. HDB will first seek to understand their circumstances to see how best to help them, because their needs differ, and often the input of social workers is also required. We want to provide help, and will do our best to accommodate their requests for housing, be it to purchase a flat or to rent one.

Louis: Second, with regard to the single-unweds, I am very thankful that you have said that HDB will accept the application for HDB flats at the HDB counters. But I do understand this is still subject to a case-by-case review. So, I am hoping that moving forward, maybe we can just specify some criteria where applications will be accepted and where they will be rejected, so that there will be some certainty to the single-unweds rather than just saying that we will exercise flexibility.

Ms Sun Xueling: On your question about single unwed parents, they can face unique family situations. When we consider their need for housing, we will look specifically into the background, whether or not they have family support and their income levels. They may face a variety of issues at home. That is why whenever we consider the situation for single unwed parents, we also seek inputs from social service workers. So, I would just like to assure the Member that we take a very holistic approach. It is very case-specific and very specific to the individual, but it is a very holistic approach. And our main aim is to be helpful and to ensure that single unwed parents with children will have a roof over their heads.

Louis: I have just one follow-up question for Senior Parliamentary Secretary Ms Sun Xueling. Could I check how long does it usually take HDB to process the application for the single unweds, say, for rental housing?

Ms Sun Xueling: That would depend on the submission of the documents that are required, as well as whether the inputs from the social worker has come in. But in general, if it is an urgent case, and the assessment can be quickly done, the rental application can be processed quite quickly. In general, the rental application time is about two to three months.

Source: Hansard (Parliament of Singapore)

Applications from Single Unwed Parents for HDB Flat under Public Rental Scheme in Past Five Years

Louis asked the Minister for National Development for each year in the past five years (a) how many single unwed parents applied for a HDB flat under the Public Rental Scheme; (b) how many of such single unwed parents were allocated a flat without submitting an appeal; and (c) how many of such single unwed parents were allocated a flat following an appeal.

Mr Lawrence Wong (MND): Since 2014, we have received 1,014 requests from single unwed parents to rent a public rental flat. The individual circumstances of each person were reviewed to understand their housing options and level of family support. 380 single unwed parents were successful in their application for a rental flat. The rest were assessed to be able to stay with family or afford alternative housing options.

The annual figures from 2014 to May 2019 are in Table 1.

We will continue to review every request holistically, with input from social workers where needed, to provide housing assistance to single unwed parents and their children.

¹ The request figures are unique within each year, but some individuals made requests in more than one year.

Source: Hansard (Parliament of Singapore)

Number of Single Unwed Parents under 35 Years Old Applying to Buy a Flat from HDB in Past Five Years

Louis asked the Minister for National Development for each year in the past five years (a) how many single unwed parents under 35 years old applied to buy a flat from HDB; (b) how many of such single unwed parents obtained a ballot number without submitting an appeal; and (c) how many of such single unwed parents obtained a ballot number following an appeal.

Mr Lawrence Wong (MND): Since 2014, we have received 121 requests from single unwed parents to apply for a 2-room Flexi flat before they turn 35 years old. The individual circumstances of each person were reviewed to understand their housing options and level of family support. 28 of them were granted flexibility to submit an application to buy a flat. The rest were assessed to be able to stay with family members. After a flat application has been submitted, HDB uses a computer ballot to determine the queue order among the flat applicants.

The annual figures from 2014 to May 2019 are in Table 1:

¹ The request figures are unique within each year, but some individuals made requests in more than one year.

We will continue to review every request holistically, with input from social workers where needed, to provide housing assistance to single unwed parents and their children.

Source: Hansard (Parliament of Singapore)

Louis asked asked the Minister for National Development whether HDB will, deciding not just on a case-by-case basis and without receiving an appeal, allow a single parent and his/her child to get a HDB rental flat when the duo cannot afford alternative housing options and will otherwise have to share a bedroom with existing family members in the family members' home or stay in the living room because they have no spare rooms available.

Ms Sun Xueling (for the Minister for National Development): Single parents aged 21 and above who wish to apply for a rental flat from HDB with their child are treated similarly with other applicants for a public rental flat. All applicants may submit their application directly at HDB’s rental counters without having to appeal first.

 HDB looks into all applications for a public rental flat to assess each individual’s housing options holistically. The applicants’ ability to afford alternative housing options, whether their family has space to accommodate them, as well as whether they face issues such as family conflict are all factors which HDB takes into consideration.

Applicants in the circumstances described by the Member will qualify for a public rental flat. 

Louis: I thank the Senior Parliamentary Secretary for the reply. Can I just clarify, when we say family members, are we just saying the parents or does it include their siblings as well, in terms of when HDB considers the application? Two, you mentioned earlier about whether they can afford alternative housing. How does HDB ascertain whether they can afford it? Is there an income threshold in terms of their household income?

Ms Sun Xueling: I will first answer the Member's second question. To assess an applicant's ability to afford alternative housing, HDB will work out their housing budget, and they will take into account their income, their age relevant to a housing loan, their savings in CPF and cash, and whether or not they previously had home ownership.

On the Member's other point about siblings, I just wanted to clarify, does he mean whether or not the siblings will house them or does he mean sharing a room with a sibling?

Louis: Do we consider whether the parents have a spare room to house the single parent or do we also consider whether their siblings have a spare room to house them as well?

Ms Sun Xueling: No, we do not expect the sibling to house them.

Louis: I thank the Senior Parliamentary Secretary for the reply but is there something that we can be more specific about? For example, for all other HDB rental flat application, you have to have a household income of $1,500 and below. Does it apply for single parents, which means if they have a household income of less than $1,500, then again they do qualify for rental flat?

Ms Sun Xueling: There is a rough guideline. For households with income above $1,500, there are actually many examples of  exemptions into public rental that have been given. So, I would not use that as a set principle. If the Member is aware of residents, including single or married parents, who want to apply for a rental flat and he thinks that we may need more information to understand the situation better, then please highlight them to us.

Source: Hansard (Parliament of Singapore)

Louis filed an adjournment motion on Providing Housing for Single Unwed Parents and their Children.

Louis: Sir, for over 20 years, the voices of the single unwed parents have been heard in this House. Members have spoken with passion about the challenges facing single unwed parents and their children. Members shared their concerns about how it is the innocent children who would suffer from their continued exclusion from society by discriminating against single unwed parents. 

We all agree that intact families are ideal, but as Members have previously raised, we live in an imperfect world. The single unwed is very often a victim of circumstance. In examining the inequality faced by a single unwed parent, Members, including myself, are not advocating for any extra assistance above and beyond what a couple receives. We merely ask that we not discriminate against a single unwed and his or her child, and that we treat them equally and with dignity.

Members have shared that a 2004 Cornell study concluded that children of single parents can do as well as children of dual parents, if the single parent is able to provide a sufficiently supportive environment. Withholding support from an unwed parent could end up disadvantaging the child. 

Eight years ago, a Member asked and I quote, "Is the Government looking at the unintended negative consequences that result from the policies affecting single unwed parents? Are we examining the policies to see if there is an effect on the health, development and social mobility of the child? 

Are we looking to see if inter-generational poverty is more likely to result? Do we care more about a set of stated principles or do we care more about the effects on our citizens? 

If the Government wants to discourage the incidence of single unwed parents, there are much better ways that do not have such negative consequences."

What about housing for single unweds? Sir, 13 years ago, another Member already raised concerns stating that this policy of not allowing single unweds to rent HDB flats on their own is an outdated policy. 

Twenty-two years ago, another Member posed this question in this House, "Does it therefore become morally justifiable to deny an unwed mother and her child public housing, say, a rental flat? Unwed mothers are not criminals. If denied public rental flat, what is their choice? The problem really is that unlike, say, London or New York, there is no large stock of affordable private housing for those who are deemed ineligible to qualify for public housing.

There is no real free market in the supply of public housing. We therefore have to really be careful when we turn people out and ask ourselves where they will live."

Twenty-two years later, I am glad that things have improved significantly. The Government has listened and responded positively. Just like married mothers, unwed mothers now have the full 16 weeks of Government-paid maternity leave and their children also qualify for a Child Development Account (CDA).

These are significant steps forward to level the playing field but this playing field remains unlevelled as, amongst several other issues, we have not resolved the issue of housing. Single unweds and their children need a roof over their heads. We should look especially at single unwed parents under 35 years old. Those 35 years old or above can qualify for public housing under the Singles Scheme so we know they have a way out there. 

I also understand that in 2017, single unwed parents age 35 years old have a median salary of $3,100 and those 36 years old and above have a median salary of $3,500.

In stark comparison, single unwed parents under 35 years old have a median salary of only $600 in 2017. Their median salary has hardly changed over the years. It was $500 in 2013, $600 in 2014, $700 in 2015 and $600 in 2016. 

We need to ask ourselves what options does a parent with a newborn and earning only $600 a month have? They clearly cannot afford alternative housing options and they are then left with one last option, which is to stay with their family members. I agree with that and we all wish that it happens. 

Last month, I filed a Parliamentary Question asking the Minister for National Development whether HDB will, deciding not just on a case-by-case basis and without receiving an appeal, allow a single parent and his/her child to get a HDB rental flat when the duo cannot afford alternative housing options and will otherwise have to share a bedroom with existing family members in the family's home or stay in the living room because there is no spare room available. The reply was yes, they qualify.

I left Parliament elated that evening. Happy that single parents with no other available options could qualify for a rental flat. The happiness was short-lived. At my Meet-the-People Session (MPS) that evening, Mary, not her real name, came to see me. She is a single unwed with a five-year old child. Both her parents have passed on and she was staying with her daughter in the living room of her sister's flat. She was able to earn only about $300 a month as she had to look after her daughter. 

She called HDB. She was told she and her daughter do not form a family nucleus and as such she did not qualify for a rental flat. They did tell her that she can apply but imagine the amount of anxiety a person desperate for a roof over their head faces when told that you are ineligible for a rental flat. I have sent HDB an appeal letter for her and I hope we will consider the appeal favourably. 

Sir, Mary is not alone. Only about a third of rental applications submitted by single unwed parents to HDB are approved.

MND had previously said that "In relation to meeting the housing needs of children with single parents, a range of Government agencies work together to ensure that no child is without adequate housing, regardless of whether his or her parents are single or married".

I am glad that HDB has provided housing to single unweds under 35 years old and their children. But this is only on a case-by-case basis. Why? We all understand the rationale of a case-by-case review. We want to be careful. But what we are doing is adding stress for people who already feel they are at the end of the road. 

 Let me share another story of a single unwed whose extreme struggles were worsened by the stress and uncertainty of our housing policy.

I met Ema, not her real name, at my MPS last year. She is a single unwed mother and when I met her, her daughter was only two months old. They were both living in a shelter when they came to me for help.

Ema is one of the most resilient person I have met. She had to be. She is a living example of how housing has been a stress for all her life. 

From the age of five to 15, she grew up in a children’s home. She was returned to her father for a short time before he disappeared from her life. She managed to stay with some relatives, but eventually had to move out because of tensions that come with staying in a home that does not belong to you.

At the age of 27, Ema had a child out of wedlock. Ema tried to apply for a rental flat and was told to see an Member of Parliament for help. She also got help from her social worker. Even her baby's doctor wrote a letter for her stating that, "As she (the baby) is currently staying in a shelter, she is frequently in contact with other residents who are unwell and hence predisposed to recurrent infection. As such, it will be greatly appreciated if the application for the HDB rental flat can be expedited." 

Ema did not shed a tear when she told me her story and I asked her why. She told me that she no longer had any tears left. She was not asking for sympathy. She was simply looking for a roof over her head and her baby's head. I appealed to HDB to allow her to rent a flat and I am glad the appeal was successful. HDB replied that, "We are pleased to inform you that we have obtained special approval for you to rent a 1-room flat with your daughter on compassionate grounds."

I am glad the appeal was successful but the whole process was extremely stressful for Ema who had a newborn, had no income, had no family members to help her, was living in a shelter, which made her baby sick frequently. And she had to seek help from three separate sources. 

Should cases like this not be a straightforward yes for a rental flat application rather than on a case-by-case basis? I think single unweds and their children will also face a strong stigma attached to them when they can only get a roof over their heads through special approvals on compassionate grounds. 

As a Member had previously raised, I too question the logic where a divorcee with a child, a widower with a child and even two orphaned siblings can be considered as eligible to apply for a flat from the HDB, but not a single unwed parent with his or her child. Why?

Sir, surely there is some set of objective standards by which we can say, "Yes, you qualify for a public rental flat." Is there really a case where an unwed parent with no income, no assets and no family support should not qualify for a public rental flat? 

And so, this is my first request: we should create and publish a set of eligibility criteria under which a specific group of single unwed parents under 35 years old can apply and get a rental flat without needing a case-by-case review or approval. 

Since 2014, 380 single unwed parents have been successful in their application for a rental flat. This means that HDB should have enough data to identify clusters of people like Mary and Ema who undeniably need rental housing. For other cases, we can still rely on a case-by-case review. But let us start by providing a sure "Yes" to those who we know definitely need our help.

My second request is about the language we use. When single unwed parents do get approvals, I hope that HDB will no longer state that the decision was a "special approval" based on "compassionate grounds". Can we like all other applications, simply state that their application has been approved?

My third request is that we specifically state on the HDB website that a "Single unwed and his or her child" can apply, not guaranteed, but can apply for a rental flat. 

My fourth request is that our frontline officers be updated and no longer tell single unweds that they are ineligible for a rental flat. Instead, they tell them like all other Singaporeans, they can apply if they meet the eligibility criteria stated on the website and HDB will access their application like all other applications. 

Let us make sure they do not feel discriminated against. 

My fifth request is that we introduce a scheme for "Single unwed under 35 years old and his or her child" to buy a 2-room flexi flat from HDB similar to other schemes like the Orphans Scheme or Joint Singles Scheme where there is a set of criteria one has to fulfill to apply for a flat. In the past four years, there were 121 requests from single unwed parents under 35 years old to apply for purchase of a 2-room flexi flat. Only 28 requests were accepted. The other applicants were assessed to be able to stay with family members. 

Sir, if we told any other Singaporean that they were not allowed to buy a HDB flat as they could stay with their family members, I am quite sure there would be a huge public uproar. Why then do we do this to single unwed parents?

Sir, I understand that MND is mindful "not to undermine the prevailing social norm of parenthood within marriage" when helping unmarried parents. But this current housing policy does not prevent children being born out of wedlock. I understand the intent of the policy but we really need to question whether it works. 

I have met a lot of single unweds and many did not plan to have a child out of wedlock. It was the heat of the moment and they got pregnant. In the heat of the moment, just before they have sex, nobody would stop and think, "Wait if we do this and get pregnant and don't get married, we won't be able to get a HDB flat. Let's not have sex." 

All of us sitting here know that this will not happen. We have a policy that will not work. The only time when an unwed parent feels the impact of the policy is when he or she has a child and is looking for a roof over their heads. 

The message that we are telling the single unweds is that they should get married. But do we want to force a couple to get married so that they can get a roof over their heads. What kind of a marriage would that be? Is this really in the best interest of the child? 

There is another way out for the single unwed, which is to get married and then file for a divorce subsequently and get sole care and control of the child. They would then qualify for HDB housing. This really does not make sense. In fact, the single unwed and his or her child who previously did not qualify for public housing, will now not only qualify for public housing but might get priority to get a flat under the ASSIST scheme.

I know the Government is also concerned that if more help is given to single unweds, we will have a sudden increase in the number of single unweds. But this has not been the case, since we provided the 16 weeks of maternity leave and the CDA to single unweds and their children, there has not been an increase in the number of single unweds. In fact, there has been a decrease. There was also no public uproar when we extended these benefits to single unweds and their children. 

Lastly, there might be concerns that people will have a baby just to get an HDB flat. Honestly, while there might be some who would do this, Members of this House will agree with me that the vast majority of people will not have a child out of wedlock just to get an HDB flat.

Our policies should cater to the majority and we should not let the majority suffer because of what we feel the minority might do to game the system. At the end of the day, we need to remember that there are children involved here. There might be arguments about what the single unwed should or should not have done and how they should face up and bear the consequences of their actions. 

But the child is innocent and the child needs a roof over his or her head and the child needs a parent who is less stressed.

Sir, I have spent the last four years speaking up for single parents, filing Parliamentary Questions (PQs), during Bill speeches, filing Budget cuts and filing a parliamentary petition. Honestly, my wife is getting a bit worried as people now come up to me on the streets to ask if I am a single parent. At a recent meeting with a social worker to discuss about help for single parents, the social worker was so sure that I was a single parent since I spoke up so much about this issue. 

Let me assure everyone that I am happily married with three beautiful kids and I do not intend to become a single parent. But I do not need to be a single parent to understand the difficulties they face, the stigma they endure and the struggles they go through each and every day. Single unweds are not asking for more benefits. They are asking that they and their child, all of whom are Singaporeans, be treated equally. 

In conclusion, I hope that:

One, we can publish the criteria under which a specific group of single unwed parents under 35 years old can get a rental flat.

Two, specifically state on the HDB website that "Single unwed and his or her child" can apply for a rental flat. 

Three, update all our frontline officers that single unweds can apply for a rental flat.

Four, no longer state in letters that single unweds obtain housing based on special approvals on compassionate grounds.

And five, have a scheme for single unweds under 35 years old and his or her child to buy a 2-room flexi flat from HDB.

Let me end with a quote as always. Being a single parent is twice the work, twice the stress and twice the tears, but also twice the hugs, twice the love and twice the pride.

I am here to stand up for single parents and salute them for all that they are doing for their children. I hope Members of this House will join me and us, and that our policies will continue to change. 

Sir, I am not the first Member to speak up about this, but I certainly hope that I will be the last Member who has to fight to level the playing field for single unwed parents. It is 2019; it is time to level this playing field.

Ms Sun Xueling (The Senior Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for National Development): Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I would like to thank the Member, Mr Louis Ng, for his efforts in representing the voices of single unwed parents. He has provided useful perspectives for us to factor in, in our continuous review of existing policies. In his speech, he has provided useful feedback on how our policies are implemented, and also shared the experiences faced by single unwed parents when applying for a flat.

I understand that there may be single unwed parents with us here today in the public gallery and I would like to unequivocally state in their presence that single unwed parents and their children are valued citizens in our society, and like all parents, they are respected for the love and care they provide for their children. They are no less a mother or a father, just because their child was born outside of marriage. 

Their children, like any other child in our society, are precious. And every parent, regardless of their marital status, ought to be treated with respect.

I acknowledge that in the past, the Government was fairly strict in limiting public housing access to married couples. However, over time, this position has evolved. For single unwed parents, we hope to facilitate their efforts to build a stable environment for their children. 

At MND, we recognise that having a roof over their heads is a key concern. We are thus committed to ensure that no child is left without adequate shelter to grow up in. I believe Mr Ng can attest to the fact that most of the cases that he has shared with HDB have been helped by HDB. He shared earlier the case about Mary. If this is the applicant and the case that I am aware of, I would like to update that her appeal for a rental flat was approved 11 days after she first contacted HDB.

I would like to first explain our approach towards public rental applications. We believe home ownership provides long-term stability and progress for all Singaporeans. This is why HDB reviews every application for public rental individually, to see whether the applicant can purchase a flat or stay with their family. This means working out each family’s housing budget and engaging them further to understand their situation, together with social workers if need be. 

Such an individualised approach is taken for all public rental applications and not just for single unwed parents. HDB receives about 7,000 public rental applications per year. But we continue to take an individualised approach towards rental applications, as each of our applicants may have unique and complex backgrounds and circumstances, which would benefit from a more in-depth look. 

Mr Ng suggested that HDB should have some clear criteria for when single unwed parents can get a public rental flat. I agree with Mr Ng that there may be some common and objective factors we can identify, for example, income. But I would like to add that income is but one indicator of the needs of the applicant. We do not rely on a few predetermined metrics to understand the applicant’s circumstances. These are guidelines, and from HDB's perspective and experience, applicants can have more differences than similarities in their circumstances. 

For instance, the applicant could have medical conditions, which could impede his or her ability to live independently at the point of their application to HDB. This may be highlighted to HDB by the applicant’s social worker. In such cases, once there is a new assessment by the social worker that the applicant is ready to live independently, HDB would proceed to allocate the applicant a rental flat. 

So, HDB does not apply a one-size-fits all policy. Where appropriate, HDB will work closely with social workers to assess the best option for the applicant at that point in time. 

Next, I will touch on home ownership flats. Mr Ng has suggested a dedicated scheme to allow single unwed parents under 35 years old to buy a 2-room flat from HDB. I appreciate Mr Ng’s intent and understand where he is coming from.

We will study Mr Ng's suggestion carefully, bearing in mind that HDB also has to meet demand for new 2-room flexi flats from other applicants such as singles above 35 years old and seniors who are looking to right-size or buy a short-lease flat. 

The number of single unwed parents who apply to HDB for rental or purchase flats every year is not large. We take a holistic approach for every application, as our concern is to safeguard the best interests of the child, especially in situations where the parent is single, young, not working or drawing a low, or perhaps irregular income. 

I want to assure Mr Ng and Members of this House that HDB will not outright turn away any single unwed parent who approaches us to seek housing assistance. In every case, HDB will engage the parent to understand more about their circumstances, including their financial and family situation. When purchasing or renting a flat of their own does seem to be the best arrangement for the parent and the child, HDB will support their application. 

Finally, Mr Ng raised a few suggestions on how we can better communicate with and engage single unwed parents on their housing applications. He emphasised that single unwed parents should not be made to feel discriminated against. I wholeheartedly agree that we should review our communications and avoid unintentionally causing additional anxiety to single unwed parents, who may already feel tremendously stressed by their circumstances. 

I have discussed this with the HDB Team, and there are a few that we will do.

First, we will conduct a comprehensive review of the various touch-points which single unwed parents may encounter in their housing journey, from the e-applications system to our HDB branches, to improve and align our communications. Second, we will review HDB's website to explicitly state that single unwed parents may approach HDB to apply to buy or rent an HDB flat, and how they can go about submitting their requests to HDB. Third, we will also look at the inclusion of a dedicated section in HDB’s website to address common housing queries from single unwed parents.

We hope that these measures will help allay the anxieties from single unwed parents. Single unwed parents and their children are our valued citizens. We are committed to do better and to engage with them better.

Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, when I came into politics, I was determined to always interact with my residents with respect and empathy. I am not sure if I have succeeded as much as I would like to have, but I feel that I have tried my hardest. I believe that similarly that HDB's frontline staff do their best, but I suspect that the customer experience may not altogether be even.

Further, policies may not always be able to cater to every single citizen’s needs, which can result in frustration on both sides. But there must always be empathy in our interactions and this works both ways. I hope that when our citizens interact with HDB staff and officers, there is also mutual respect on both sides.

I have spoken with the HDB. They are working hard to improve their frontline services for every citizen. They handle a large volume of queries and feedback, around 2 million queries over the phone, walk-ins and emails every year. They have told me that they are committed to do their work well and uphold high service standards.

HDB will continue to improve their processes in engaging single unwed parents and in helping them find the best environment for their child to grow up in. 

In conclusion, I would like to reiterate that we accept all applications from single unwed parents who approach HDB to apply to purchase or rent an HDB flat and will consider their applications holistically. We will review the various touch-points, experience and process of the housing journey for single unwed parents. 

HDB is committed to doing better. I would like to assure Mr Ng and this House again that applicants will not be rejected merely due to their status as a single unwed parents. HDB will approach each and every single unwed parent who puts in an application to better understand their circumstances. 

We seek everyone’s understanding and patience. At the heart of it, I want every single unwed parent to know that we share their desire to ensure the well-being of their children, and we will try our best to support them to this end. 

Lastly, I thank Mr Ng for his suggestions and his work, and I hope that we can continue to work together to support our single unwed parents.

Source: Hansard (Parliament of Singapore)

Louis delivered the following two budget cuts on at Committee of Supply 2020.

Providing Single Unweds with Parenthood Tax Rebate (PTR)

Louis: Sir, MND stated that "single unwed parents are valued citizens, and like all parents, are respected for the love and care they provide for their children. They are no less a mother or a father, just because their child was born outside of marriage." Why do they not then get the parenthood tax rebates like other parents? MND also stated that "every parent regardless of their marital status, ought to be treated with respect." 

Our policies can help end the discrimination. It is time to level the playing field and treat single unweds with respect. As citizens, they should qualify for the Parenthood Tax Rebates like all other parents. Next cut. 

Providing Working Mother's Child Relief (WMCR) to Single Unweds

Louis: The Working Mother's Child Relief rewards families with children who are Singapore Citizens. Why leave out single unwed families? Why only encourage married women to remain in the workforce after having children? 

It is strange that we do not want single unwed women to remain in the workforce after having their child. Why discriminate, even after MND has stated again that "every parent regardless of their marital status, ought to be treated with respect."  

Let us respect single unwed mothers who look after their children single-handedly and remain in the workforce despite all the difficulties. Will MOF consider allowing single unweds to qualify for the Working Mother's Child Relief?

Mr Lawrence Wong (The Second Minister for Finance): Lastly, let me touch on tax-related matters. Mr Louis Ng and Mr Png Eng Huat suggested extending existing tax reliefs to unwed parents and single fathers respectively. Again, let me explain the Government's considerations here.

Where there are Government benefits that support the child's growth and development, we will extend them, regardless of their parents' marital status. That is why all Singaporean children today receive over $180,000 of education subsidies by the time they turn 16, at least $6,000 in their Child Development Account (CDA) Grants and $4,000 in MediSave Grant for Newborns. In this way, we support all parents, including unwed parents, to give their children education opportunities, good healthcare and a conducive social environment, so they can realise their fullest potential in life.

For the Parenthood Tax Rebate and Working Mother's Child Relief, these were intended to support parenthood within marriage and for married mothers to continue working after childbirth. Likewise, for the Foreign Maid Levy Relief, this was specifically granted to encourage married women to continue working. So, there were specific objectives tied to these schemes. Having said that, all Members would know that,our schemes are never cast in stone. We continue to review and re-calibrate them from time to time.

Members will recall that we have reviewed and extended support to unwed parents in recent years, including the CDA benefits as well as the full 16 weeks of Government-paid maternity leave. These things will continue to progress and evolve.

I would encourage Members also to consider this. Besides looking at specific tax reliefs and comparing the benefits for one group versus another, it is important to take a step back and look at the broader picture. Ultimately, we all share common objectives. We want to give every child a good start in life, provide support for all parents and build strong families in Singapore. We have different schemes and policy tools to achieve these multiple objectives and we will continue to fine-tune and review our schemes to achieve the optimal balance.  

Louis: Thank you, Sir, just three points regarding the single unweds again. We have MND that is saying that every mother and every father is equal. It does not really matter whether the child was born out of marriage. But here we are now saying that they are not equal, that because the child was born outside of marriage, they will not qualify for the Parenthood Tax Rebate and the Working Mother's Child Relief. Why do we do that?

Second, with these two rebate and relief, there are single parents who qualify for it, who are the divorcees. So, why can we not just extend it to the single unweds? Unless of course we are saying we want that as a form of deterrent so that people do not have children out of wedlock. But again, as I raised in my Adjournment Motion, I doubt this will be a deterrence, unless, just before they have sex, they think about the Parenthood Tax Rebate and Working Mother's Child Relief, which we know, will not happen.

And that comes to my third point. I am not really fighting for a lot of money here and I do not think actually a lot of single unweds pay a lot of taxes, because we know their median income is $600 for those under 35. We are not fighting for the money here. We are fighting the stigma and the discrimination. And I know MOF will support this as this is a Unity Budget. It should be for all Singaporeans.

Mr Lawrence Wong: Mr Chairman, I think Mr Louis Ng is talking about the support for single unwed parents in the context of MND's issues on housing; and certainly, if I were to wear my MND hat, we have said that we want to provide housing even for single unwed parents in the interest of the child. So, there is no issue there.

But I think the question here is a different one. I think the question here is: do we want to provide support for parenthood in the context of marriage? Singaporeans have asked for this support. Various Members of the House have asked for such support too. And if you were to provide that support, there will invariably be a gradient between incentives and encouragement for parenthood within the context of marriage versus outside of marriage. That gradient exists today in our schemes.

But it does not mean that we are not supporting children. As I said, schemes that provide support for children, we will ensure that the children have them. It does not mean that we are not supporting parents, whether you are a single father, a single mother or whether you are a divorcee. We have support for them. But so long as we take the view that we want to provide support for parenthood in the context of marriage, that gradient will exist.

How do we manage this going forward? Do we still want a gradient? Do we not want the gradient and treat all as equal? I think that will evolve. It is a continuing journey, as I alluded to earlier. I think in this House, we have heard calls for more support for parenthood in the context of marriage too. So, obviously, there are different views and we will have to manage these different views and continue to refine and improve our schemes over time to manage this diversity of views and to address the different objectives, as I highlighted earlier.

Louis: I try one more time, Sir. I hope the Minister will agree with me that it is not a deterrence. Not providing single unweds with the Parenthood Tax Rebate and Working Mother's Child Relief is not a deterrence. And I also hope that the Minister will agree with me that it is not an incentive. It might be this worry that if we provide the single unweds with more benefits, all of a sudden, there is going to be huge population of children born out of wedlock. I do not think that will happen as well. And if we do not think that it is going to incentivise or discourage, then again, what is stopping us from levelling this playing field and ending the discrimination?

Mr Lawrence Wong: Mr Chairman, I respect Mr Ng's views. I think there are many in this House who will feel like that. I think there are many who will also ask for additional support for parenthood in the context of marriage as has been the case before. So like I said, there will be a range of perspectives on this matter. We take all this into consideration in continuing to review and update our schemes.

Source: Hansard (Parliament of Singapore)

Louis spoke up for single unwed parents in his speech for the debate on Additional Support Measures in Response to COVID-19 Pandemic.

Louis: My third point is a short and simple one. As part of our Care and Support Package, we are giving $300 in cash to every adult Singaporean who has a Singaporean child aged 20 years old and below. Many single unwed parents have written to me asking if they qualify for this. Can the Government confirm that single unwed parents qualify? I think we can all agree that these dark days are not a time for discrimination, and all parents deserve the care and support regardless of their marital status. 

Single unwed parents are in an especially tight spot. Their households are single-income. They do not have an additional pair of helping hands. Also, because the median income of single unwed mothers under 35 years old was already $600, they will lack job security and are likely to face losses in wages. They need this cash assistance. They, and many other Singaporeans, will also benefit from all the other measures I mentioned before: more financial support for those on unpaid leave and reduced working hours, increased telecommuting and a COVID-related childcare leave. 

Source: Hansard (Parliament of Singapore)

Mr Heng Swee Keat (The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance): Assoc Prof Walter Theseira, Dr Lim Wee Kiak, Ms Foo Mee Har, Mr Louis Ng and Mr Faisal Manap have requested to provide more cash in hand for different groups of Singaporeans and their families to tide through this period. In fact, we will already be providing more than what the Members have proposed. A 50-year old couple with a child aged 20 years old and below will receive up to $3,200 in cash. This is from the Solidarity Payment, Care and Support Package and PAssion card top-up in cash. Low-wage workers on Workfare will receive an additional $3,000 in cash to help them with their expenses over this period. Singaporeans who become unemployed can receive the COVID-19 Support Grant of $2,400 over three months. In the interim, those who require urgent help with basic living expenses can apply for cash assistance of $500 under the Temporary Relief Fund. MSF and HDB are also exercising greater flexibility under ComCare and for mortgage repayments respectively to provide stronger support. In addition, under the Job Support Scheme, employers will receive up to $31,000 in wage offsets over nine months, for each local worker retained. Eligible self-employed persons will receive $9,000 over the same period under SIRS.

With this set of schemes, we balance between targeting our support for those who need it more and flowing support quickly to large groups. It is not an easy balance and we will do our best to calibrate this.

Louis: The last question really is can I just confirm that the $300 that we are giving out to Singapore and parents will include the single unwed parents as well.

Mr Heng Swee Keat: I thank Mr Louis Ng for your questions. You have asked four rather technical questions. And as I said, this Budget has been prepared in a record time. So, there will be details that the different Ministries will announce later and this will be sorted out by the different Ministries.

Source: Hansard (Parliament of Singapore)

Responding to the debate on Overview of Government’s Strategy to Emerge Stronger from the COVID-19 Pandemic, Louis raised the following point.

Louis: Thank you, Sir, and I thank the Minister for the reply. I would just want to make further points for the single unwed parents. I think this Government has said that single unwed parents are no less a mother or a father just because the child is born outside of marriage. So, I really hope the Government could reconsider not providing the Baby Support Grant to the single unwed parents. We also have to bear in mind that the median salary of a single unwed parent under 35 years old is about $600 a month. So, the $3,000 is actually about five months of their salary and it could really provide a lifeline for them during this pandemic.

Ms Indranee Rajah: Mr Speaker, I had addressed the considerations that we had in mind with respect to single unwed parents.What I would reiterate – because I think the learned Member's concern is whether or not they would have adequate support. So, irrespective of whether they have the Baby Support Grant, if they are, indeed, struggling and if they are in need, please do approach the SSO. There are other schemes available and in place and we will look to see how we can support them.

Source: Hansard (Parliament of Singapore)

Louis asked the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance (a) whether the exclusion of single unwed parents from receiving the Parenthood Tax Rebates and the Working Mother’s Child Relief has had a measurable impact on reducing the rate of single unwed parenthood; and (b) if so, what are the findings on the reduction rate of single unwed parenthood.

Mr Heng Swee Keat: The Parenthood Tax Rebate and the Working Mother’s Child Relief are not aimed at bringing about a reduction in the rate of parenthood outside marriage. Hence, we have not done studies to measure the causal linkages between our tax policies and single unwed parenthood. Rather, both these tax reliefs are specifically granted to support parenthood within marriage, and to encourage married mothers to continue working after childbirth. We will continue to review our tax policies bearing in mind prevailing societal concerns and values. 

Source: Hansard (Parliament of Singapore)

Louis asked the Minister for National Development for each year in the past five years (a) how many single unwed parents have applied to purchase a HDB flat from HDB; and (b) how many of such purchase applications have been rejected.

Mr Desmond Lee (MND): We recognise that many single unwed parents are in the situation not out of choice, but out of circumstance. MND announced at the Committee of Supply debate in March 2020 that we will assist single unwed parents who approach HDB with their housing needs, and that each case will be assessed holistically. For those who are in stable employment and can afford to buy a flat, we will allow them to buy up to a 3-room flat in a non-mature estate. For those who have insufficient finances and need a place to stay, we will continue to consider them for public rental if it is in their child’s best interests, taking into account inputs from social workers if necessary. 

Between 2017 and 2019, HDB received an average of about 50 requests from single unwed parents to purchase a new flat from HDB. About 70% of these requests were rejected. Following MND’s announcement, HDB received about 200 such requests from single unwed parents in 2020. About 30% of these requests were rejected. The top reasons for rejections were not submitting the necessary documents for assessment and insufficient budget to buy a flat.

Source: Hansard (Parliament of Singapore)

Louis asked the Minister for National Development (a) whether single unwed parents can qualify for interim housing under the Parenthood Provisional Housing Scheme (PPHS) while they await the completion of their new flat; and (b) if not, why not.

Mr Desmond Lee (MND): The supply of flats under the Parenthood Provisional Housing Scheme (PPHS) is limited and depends on the availability of vacant flats, such as those in vacated blocks that are not immediately needed for redevelopment. The intent of the PPHS is to support marriage and parenthood and, in line with this, married couples are given priority under the scheme.

Single unwed parents who need interim housing while awaiting the completion of their new flat can approach HDB. HDB will assess their circumstances holistically and do its best to assist them. 

Source: Hansard (Parliament of Singapore)

Louis asked the Minister for National Development for each year in the past five years (a) how many single unwed parents have applied to rent a flat from HDB; (b) how many of such applications have been rejected; (c) what are the top reasons for the rejections; and (d) if such data is not being collected, whether the Ministry will start collecting it.

Mr Desmond Lee (MND): To best assist single unwed parents with their housing needs, HDB reviews each application to rent a public rental flat to understand the applicant’s individual circumstances, housing options and level of family support, taking into account input from social workers, if necessary.

From 2016 to 2020, HDB received 1,218 requests from single unwed parents regarding rental flats (see Table 1). Fifty-five percent of the requests were successful and the number of successful requests quadrupled from 48 in 2016 to 214 in 2020. The remaining requests included enquiries on eligibility conditions, incomplete requests and rejected requests.

The common reasons why requests for a public rental flat were rejected included applicants having the means to buy a flat, having family members who can house them, or not providing the full information required for assessment. HDB will continue to review every request from single unwed parents holistically and render housing assistance to them in the best interest of their children.

Source: Hansard (Parliament of Singapore)

Number of Single Unwed Parents Helped Via HDB's Website Dedicated to Addressing Their Common Housing Queries

Louis asked the Minister for National Development with regard to the new section in HDB's website dedicated to addressing common housing queries from single unwed parents (a) to date, how many single unwed parents has HDB helped; and (b) to date, how many of these single unwed parents have secured housing from HDB.

Mr Desmond Lee (MND): In September 2019, HDB updated the HDB InfoWEB to explain how we support the housing needs of Single Unwed Parents (SUPs). SUPs who are in stable employment and can afford to buy a flat can buy up to a 3-room flat in the non-mature estates from HDB, or a resale flat on the open market. Those who cannot afford to buy a flat will be considered for public rental flats.

From September 2019 to June 2021:

(a) HDB approved requests from about 190 SUPs to apply for a new flat under HDB’s sales exercises, of whom about two-thirds were subsequently successful in their flat applications. Of the successful applicants, half of them have booked a flat, a quarter of them did not book a flat when they were invited to do so and the remaining are waiting for their flat booking appointment; and
(b) HDB approved requests from about 55 SUPs below the age of 35 to buy a resale flat, of whom half have completed their purchase.

In the same period, HDB also approved about 380 applications from SUPs to rent a flat under the Public Rental Scheme.

HDB will continue to review every request from SUPs holistically and render housing assistance to them in the best interest of their children.

Source: Hansard (Parliament of Singapore)

Single Unwed Parents Who Apply for Interim Housing while Awaiting Completion of New Flats

Louis asked the Minister for National Development for each year in the past five years (a) how many single unwed parents applied for interim housing under the Parenthood Provisional Housing Scheme (PPHS) while awaiting completion of their new flat; (b) how many of such applications have been successful; and (c) for applicants who are rejected, whether HDB followed up with them and offered alternative housing.

Mr Desmond Lee (MND): Since 2016, two single unwed parents have submitted applications under the PPHS and both applicants were invited to select a flat. One applicant was allocated a PPHS flat, while the other applicant did not select a flat when invited to do so.

Source: Hansard (Parliament of Singapore)

Louis delivered his budget cut on Certainty in Housing for Single Unweds at Committee of Supply 2022 as follow:

Louis: I thank HDB for the change in our policies that now allow single unwed parents to rent and purchase HDB flats more easily. This has provided a lifeline for many of them. But we can do more and help reduce the stress and uncertainty for single unweds who already feel that they are at the end of the road at times. 

I understand that single unwed parents can only get their rental flat after the child is born. Assurance of having a roof over one’s head is as important as the roof. Single unweds need a clear timeline for their applications to be completed so they have the assurance and can plan for the future.

Most of us here would know the chaos of settling into a new home, let us not forget that single unweds have to do so alone, while caring for a newborn and with a median salary of only $600 a month. 

Can MND provide a timeline for single unweds to obtain housing once they apply for it and also allow housing to be allocated to them by the third trimester of their pregnancy, so that they can welcome their newborn into their home from the day the baby is born?

Assoc Prof Dr Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim (The Minister of State for National Development): Mr Louis Ng spoke about giving more assurance to single unwed parents. We understand the anxiety that families may face when their housing arrangements are uncertain. 

Generally, single unwed parents can receive the outcome of their rental flat applications within three weeks of submitting all required information, although more time may be required for complex cases. All rental flat applicants may contact HDB at any point for updates on their applications. HDB will also prioritise flat allocations for those with urgent housing needs as far as possible.

Beyond housing, those in public rental may also be grappling with other challenges – health issues, family conflict, employment troubles and more. So, public rental housing is not just a shelter; it is a home that comes with social support, to help our rental tenants bounce back stronger.

For example, under Community Link, or ComLink, HDB and many other agencies work together to support families with children living in public rental housing.

ComLink is a flagship project led by MSF and it is being scaled up nationwide to cover some 14,000 families over the next few years. 

ComLink proactively reaches out to families to understand their unique challenges and aspirations, provides close case support through befriending and action planning, and works with community partners and volunteers to offer customised programmes and services that meet families' needs.

Through ComLink, we hope to empower families to regain stability, become self-reliant and eventually achieve social mobility.

Source: Hansard (Parliament of Singapore)

Louis asked the Minister for Finance:

(a) whether the Ministry can provide an update on the findings of its review to extend the Working Mother’s Child Relief to single unwed parents; and (b) if the review has not been completed, when will it be available.

(c) whether the Ministry can provide an update on the findings of its review to extend the Parenthood Tax Rebate to single unwed parents; and (d) if the review has not been completed, when will the results of the review be available.

Ms Indranee Rajah (for the Minister for Finance): Mr Louis Ng had asked a similar question at the Committee of Supply in 2020. As MOF explained then, all Singaporean children receive substantial benefits that support their growth and development from the Government, regardless of their parents’ marital status. These include: (a) Child Development Account benefits, including the $3,000 First Step Grant and matched co-savings from Government; (b) $4,000 in MediSave Grant for Newborns; (c) MediShield Life coverage from birth; (d) over $180,000 of education subsidies by the time they turn 16 years old, including pre-school subsidies; and (e) Government healthcare subsidies.

Working mothers, regardless of their marital status, are also entitled to: (a) 16 weeks of Government-Paid Maternity Leave; (b) six days paid Child Care Leave per year for children aged below seven years, or two days for children aged seven to 12; and (c) concessionary Migrant Domestic Worker Levy.

In this way, we support all parents, including unwed working mothers, to give their children education opportunities and good healthcare, so they can realise their fullest potential in life.

The Working Mother’s Child Relief and Parenthood Tax Rebate were instituted to encourage women to continue working after their marriage and childbirth, and to support parenthood within marriage and should be seen in that context. These policies also reflect the prevailing societal norm and values in Singapore. 

The Government will continue to work with our community partners to support vulnerable single parents. Those in need of assistance can approach their nearest Social Service Office.

Louis: Thank you, Sir, and I thank the Second Minister for the reply. Could I just check if a single unwed mother gets married to the father of the child, subsequently gets a divorce, will she then qualify for the Parenthood Tax Rebate and the Working Mother's Child Relief?

Second, I am just hoping again. I have raised this quite a few times now, but I am hoping that MOF looks at this not just from a tax dollar perspective, but from the perspective of whether our policies can result in a more inclusive society. The Minister and I were at the dialogue with single unweds, where they spoke in tears about the stigma they face. So, I hope again that we can change our policies. When the Minister was a backbencher, here, in this House, 16 years ago, she spoke about the concerns, about how single unwed mothers do not feel like they are included in our society. 

I hope MOF will review this again and include single unwed mothers and father in our Parenthood Tax rebate and the Working Mother's Child Relief for the mothers.

Ms Indranee Rajah: Mr Speaker, I thank the Member for his clarification or supplementary questions and I commend him for his concern for vulnerable single mothers. I would say this: we too are committed to supporting single mothers. In terms of specific tax measures and how they operate, it is important to remember that certain tax measures were designed originally with a certain social objective. We must be careful not to just transplant or think that a measure that is for one social objective can just be transplanted or extended to meet another social objective. 

I think what I can say is this: we will do our best to ensure that single mothers are supported. I am happy to note that the situation now is, in fact, much better than it was 16 years ago when I spoke about this. And we will continue to make it better for them, without, hopefully, distorting the lines too much in terms of where our society feels comfortable in terms of societal values. 

I think the takeaway the Member should have is that we will not forget single mothers, working or otherwise. We will make sure that the child is definitely given every opportunity to be supported and we will support the mothers as well. 

The specific question that the Member had about the application of the measures, I will check that and we will respond to him. I just want to make sure that the response that is given is accurate.

Source: Hansard (Parliament of Singapore)

Louis asked the Minister for Finance whether a single unwed mother who gets married to the father of their child and subsequently gets a divorce, will be able to qualify for the Parenthood Tax Rebate and the Working Mother’s Child Relief. 

Mr Lawrence Wong (MOF): A single unwed mother who marries the biological father of their child will be able to claim Working Mother’s Child Relief (WMCR) for the child concerned, from the Year of Assessment immediately following the year of marriage. She can continue to claim WMCR, even if there is an unfortunate breakdown of the marriage in future, as long as she continues to meet the criteria for WMCR such as maintaining a child who is a Singaporean as at 31 December in the preceding year.

A single unwed mother who marries the biological father of their child can claim Parenthood Tax Rebate (PTR) after the marriage, so long as they meet the conditions for the PTR, namely that they marry before the child turns six years old and the child is a Singapore citizen at the time of marriage or within 12 months thereafter. PTR will be available from the Year of Assessment immediately following the year of marriage. If there is an unfortunate breakdown of the marriage in future, both she and her ex-husband can continue to claim any unutilised PTR amount.

Source: Hansard (Parliament of Singapore)