Live telecasts of the Budget debate were implemented for a trial period previously. However, due to low viewership, these live telecasts were discontinued.

We wish to advise Mr Thillainathan that there is currently a programme called Highlights From Parliament which televises a summary of each parliamentary sitting, including Budget debates. These are broadcast on the same day of the sitting, after the evening news. In addition, video and audio excerpts of parliamentary speeches can be viewed online at Media- Corp's CNA website at channelnewsasia.com .

Those who are interested in the detailed proceedings in Parliament can attend its sittings or log on to its website at www.parliament.gov.sg to access Hansard for verbatim speeches.

We thank Mr Thillainathan for his interest and assure him we will look for new avenues to raise public awareness of parliamentary proceedings.

Ng Sheau Jiuan (Ms)
Clerk of Parliament