The stingy nanny
The city-state stays strict with the needy
With an official response from the government of Singapore
FOND of having the last word, Singapore's government can nevertheless be flexible. Who would have thought it would be building casinos? But one policy that shows no sign of reversing is Singapore's antipathy towards public welfare. The state's attitude can be simply put: being poor here is your own fault. Citizens are obliged to save for the future, rely on their families and not expect any handouts from the government unless they hit rock bottom. The emphasis on family extends into old age: retired parents can sue children who fail to support them. In government circles “welfare” remains a dirty word, cousin to sloth and waste. Singapore may be a nanny state, but it is by no means an indulgent nanny.
More from Asia
Exit polls point to a crushing victory for Narendra Modi
The BJP is expected to extend its reach across India
Some Taiwanese worry that their lawmakers may sell them out to China
They are protesting against the legislature awarding itself greater powers
Want to stop a third world war? Pick up the phone
America’s and China’s defence ministers will meet in Singapore. They need to talk more