Seah Kian Peng (Marine Parade GRC MP) launched a spirited defence of NTUC's foodcourt chain, stating that it benefits all Singaporeans.

He was responding to Worker's Party Hougang MP Png Eng Huat who charged yesterday that NTUC Foodfare was "a members only organisation."

Mr Png said that while NTUC Foodfare is "touted as a social cooperative," to enjoy special prices at their outlets one needs to be a union member.

But Mr Seah, who is also NTUC Fairprice chief executive, said that Mr Png was casting aspersions on the food cooperative.

He said that NTUC Foodfare was set up to benefit all Singaporeans and its mission is to keep food affordable for all.

He noted that in early 2011, when other foodcourts and coffeeshops raised prices of food and beverages, Foodfare pledged to hold prices steady for the rest of the year.

"While Foodfare strives to serve every Singaporean, not just its union members, Foodfare does strive to do more for the poor and needy," said Mr Seah.

"So I wish to put this question to Mr. Png - should not the poor and needy or those on the Public Assistance scheme be helped more? Let us not be naive. Foodfare helps nobody if it cannot first make its numbers."