'The last thing we should do is to wait until there is an economic downturn, households are facing financial difficulties, and the Government is facing declining revenues before we raise the GST, because then we would be unable to provide a full offset for Singaporeans.'

'The Singapore system is one that provides targeted help for the needy, while keeping the overall tax burden low so that we reward work and enterprise.'

'To be able to help the poor, we must first create wealth, grow our GDP and provide every incentive for Singaporeans to strive and work to improve their lives and that of their families.'