Govt to defer recommendations of political salary framework review committee until impact of Middle East conflict on S'pore 'clearer': Chan Chun Sing

An independent committee previously convened by the Singapore government to review political office holders' salaries has completed its exercise.

In April 2026, the committee submitted its recommendations to the government, which has decided to defer the consideration of the committee's recommendations until the impact of the Middle East conflict on Singapore is clearer, said Coordinating Minister for Public Services Chan Chun Sing on May 6, 2026 in a written parliamentary reply.

Status of salary review

Chan, who was replying on behalf of Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, was responding to People's Action Party (PAP) Member of Parliament (MP) for Marsiling-Yew Tee GRC Alex Yam's question on the status of the review of political office holder's salaries in view of recent global events.

Noting that the government has decided to differ consideration of the committee's recommendations, Chan said: "The government recognises that the Middle East conflict is still ongoing, causing major economic uncertainties and clouding the outlook for Singapore."

Differ consideration of committee's recommendations

"Against this backdrop, the government has decided to defer consideration of the committee's recommendations, until the impact of the conflict on Singapore is clearer," said Chan.

The government will release the committee's report together with the government’s response "at the appropriate time", he added.

"Members of Parliament will have the opportunity to review the report and government response together then, for a more meaningful debate," said Chan.

Framework

This comes after Chan had previously confirmed on Jan. 12 that an independent committee to review political appointment holders' salaries had been formed to conduct a review of the political salary framework that was laid out in 2012.

He said the current salary framework was established by a review committee in 2012.

The government then agreed that the framework should be reviewed by an independent committee every five years.

In 2017, the salary structure and level was maintained following a review.

A review slated for 2023 was deferred as a result of "other pressing issues" at the time, such as geopolitical uncertainties and economic concerns.