The cost of living in Singapore has been increasing due to a multitude of factors, including rising fuel prices and supply chain disruptions. To better support lower and middle-income groups, who experience the greatest financial pressure, our government has been actively providing support to lower and even lower-middle income groups. However, to support these financial relief efforts, the question of how to finance these measures arises. One possibility is increasing taxation on high-income earners as a means to redistribute wealth within the country and narrow the inequality gap. However, opponents hold the view that such taxation may drive the wealthy away from the country, undermining Singapore’s position as a global business hub and losing valuable investments. Some proposed alternatives include a capital gains tax and inheritance taxes. Representatives will have the opportunity to discuss whether the government should tax the income of higher-income earners more in order to support the lower and middle-income groups, or if there could be other viable ways to fund the rising expenditure.
Given the rising costs of living, should the government
tax higher-income earners more to better support
the lower and middle-income groups?
SOCIETY
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Head Chair
Should there be harsher punishments
for vaping-related offences?
Chair
Chair
The emergence of vaping has presented Singapore with a complex dilemma that intertwines public health, legal enforcement, and individual liberties. The exponential rise in its popularity amongst youths, coupled with growing concerns about its long-term health effects, has sparked a contentious debate about the efficacy of current punitive measures against vaping-related offences in Singapore. While neighbouring countries have taken similar hardline stances against this vice, many developed countries have instead looked towards vapes as the solution to eliminate traditional cigarettes. As our nation navigates this intricate terrain of regulation and social responsibility, the question arises: should there be harsher punishments for vaping-related offences in Singapore? Representatives will explore the nature of vaping and its potential ramifications on public health, existing legal frameworks, and how enforcement is conducted.
Chair
