Parliament: MPs unanimously endorse motion on Auditor-General's audit of WP-run AHPETC

SINGAPORE - Parliament unanimously adopted a motion endorsing the Auditor-General's Office (AGO) findings of lapses at the Workers' Party-run Aljunied-Hougang-Punggol East Town Council (AHPETC) on Friday.

All 85 MPs present, including the nine WP MPs, voted for the motion tabled by National Development Minister Khaw Boon Wan.

The motion called on the House to note "with concern" the report, specifically its findings in four areas. These are:

-The deficiencies in AHPETC's financial and accounting systems, record-keeping and safeguards;

-Uncertain accuracy and reliability of its accounts;

-Lack of proper disclosure and oversight by its town councillors, especially over related-party transactions and conflicts of interest; and

-Risk that AHPETC has not properly managed and spent public funds.

In addition, the motion asked Parliament to call "on all town councils to uphold high standards of accounting, reporting and corporate governance so as to safeguard residents' interests".

MPs were also asked to support stiffer laws for town councils, "in order to hold those responsible for their good management to proper account".

Join ST's WhatsApp Channel and get the latest news and must-reads.