Some people have suggested allocating 10 to 20 seats to the opposition in future elections, in order to ensure sufficient opposition voices in Parliament.

This is undemocratic and undermines the rights and choice of Singaporeans to vote for the candidate and party they favour.

The Singaporean electorate is also discerning enough to know what is best for itself.

I suggest that for alternative viewpoints to be heard and debated in Parliament, the party whip be lifted, so that MPs can vote on major policies based on the wishes of their constituents. When tough policy decisions have to be made, MPs will have to sell the unpopular policies and win over the hearts and minds of their constituents.

This presents the best balanced choice for Singaporeans, regardless of the size of the opposition voice in Parliament.

Yeow Hwee Ming