Edwin Tong says attorney-general appointment is structured, refutes Sylvia Lim’s claims that process is thin

The minister said the government continues to rely on Mr Wong’s counsel on significant matters that remain in progress. This includes negotiations on maritime boundaries, tax and financial sector legal reforms and complex cross-border criminal matters. 

“These and others are substantial responsibilities that will benefit from deep expertise, sound judgment and a steady hand,” said Mr Tong.

“Mr Wong has had a proven track record. We have seen, worked with him, we have assessed and we know the quality of the work, including on sensitive matters. He remains fit, able and willing to continue.” 

He said the system of appointing the attorney-general is designed to preserve both independence and public trust.

In response to Mr Tong’s speech on Monday, Ms Lim asked whether there were any other shortlisted candidates during the recent reappointment of the attorney-general. 

In which Mr Tong said: “I’m not going to go into whether there’s a long list or a short list, but it suffices to say that we will consider this carefully, think about what the incumbent has done, whether there’s a need to change at that point in time, and if so, what are the options?

“And take all of these factors into consideration before deciding on making a recommendation to the president.”

Ms Lim also asked if Mr Wong was “individually indispensable” in managing ongoing complex projects and if anyone has been groomed to take over.

In his response, Mr Tong said: “It is not that any individual is indispensable, but at a given point in time, a multitude of factors are taken into account.” 

Besides whether the individual is available and able to continue, Mr Tong noted there are other factors, such as the ongoing projects, and the person’s stature and ability to contribute to the ongoing projects, as well as their reputation.