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For the contingency supply bill to enable the government to use consolidated fund starting from 1 January 2000 according to Article 102 of the Federal Constitution, there must be a new proclamation by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong. Then, on 21 December 1999, only the contingency bill shall be presented and debated to authorise expenditure for part of the year. In this case about RM18.4 billion for operating

expenditure. As the Prime Minister has said, the Budget presented in Parliament at the end of October this year will not be changed, the total amount being RM78 billion. The dissolution of Parliament on 11 November 1999 while the debate on the budget was going on has rendered it null and void. RM18 billion contingency supply bill is about one quarter of the total amount. The Malaysian finacial year ends on 31 December 1999.

Only the contingency bill can be debated. The other business shall only be presented in ordinary parliamentary meetings which require 28 days' notice.

We propose that the Prime Minister rectifies the irregularity in convening the parliamentary meetings as an effort to uphold the rule of law.

As the Malaysian financial year ends on 31 December 1999, we would support the Government in getting the contingency bill through so that the government can continue to function. But, the Government must follow the Federal Constitution and the Parliamentary Standing Orders.

The results of the 10th General Election show that the people would like a more transparent and accountable government. It must follow the rule of law.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw