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After nearly six hours in Parliament discussing and seeking clarifications regarding the rental of Ridout Road state properties by Ministers K Shanmugam and Vivian Balakrishnan, Senior Minister Teo Chee Hean expressed that he was glad that the House "agreed to focus on the facts and the truths"
"I am glad today that in this House, we have agreed to focus on the facts and the truths, not just on wild allegations or rumours or perceptions, but focus on the facts and the truths."
He stressed that this was important so that the government could build a system with a strong foundation which would help to bring in good people to continue to serve in the government to take Singapore further forward.
No basis of perceived conflict of interest
In his concluding speech in Parliament on Jul. 3, 2023, Teo addressed Marsiling-Yew Tee GRC MP Alex Yam's question on the key takeaways of the whole episode.
Teo reiterated that the CPIB had investigated the matter "thoroughly", and all relevant parties, including the Ministers and their spouses, were interviewed and found no corruption or criminal wrongdoing.
He added that the Attorney-General's Chambers (AGC) and CPIB agreed that there is no offence and no further action is needed.
Teo pointed out that the only remaining issue appeared to be one of conflict of interest, where Parliament debated at length whether there was an actual or perceived conflict of interest, particularly in Shanmugam's case.
"If we have dealt adequately and completely with a potential conflict of interest, and that there's been no actual conflict of interest, then actually, a fair-minded person will come to the conclusion that, therefore, there is no basis for a perceived conflict of interest," Teo explained.
He pointed out that several useful points were raised regarding the management of State properties and the government will also be looking into improving the optimization and use of State land.
Review reaffirms belief of a clean government
Teo stressed that the review is important as it is a"reaffirmation of our collective belief in the importance of a clean government, and for those in public service, whether elected or public officers, to act with integrity".
He also stated that PM Lee "acted firmly" on this matter by directing CPIB to investigate the matter even though the initial reports he received from the Ministry of Law and SLA "did not indicate a high likelihood of wrongdoing".
Teo added that the government's commitment to integrity and honesty is "unwavering".
Teo emphasised that upholding a system of governance with a high standard of integrity is a collective and continuous effort.
SM Teo's message to the future 5G leaders
Teo said he is now 69 and has served more than 30 years in politics.
He said his "most important task in the last half a dozen years" was to help PM Lee prepare the 4G leadership and ensure a "fifth generation of leaders".
"All members of this House know that coming into politics entails many sacrifices, in privacy, continuous exposure to the glare of the public eye, especially in this age of social media, in their careers, in family time, and not always being there to watch your kids grow."
However, Teo said that it is all "worthwhile" with the "satisfaction" of serving Singapore well.
"The biggest challenge we face is to continue bringing in the best team, to do the best for Singapore and Singaporeans. And I am glad that in this house, we have agreed to focus on the facts and the truth. Not just wild allegations or rumours or perceptions, but focus on the facts and the truth. And this is important so we can build a system with a strong foundation which will help to bring in good people to continue to serve in government to take Singapore forward."
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Top photos via MCI/Youtube