From 2016 to 2025, performance bonus for political office-holders ranged from 2.5 to 6 months

On Oct 6, he noted that the non-pensionable annual allowance is one month of salary, while the annual variable component is typically about one month and follows the amount received by the general civil service.

The Public Service Division announces the annual variable component twice a year.

Chan said that between 2016 and 2025, the reference monthly salary for a minister at the entry-level MR4 grade was $55,000.

The minimum and maximum salary points were set at 85% and 110% of this monthly salary, in accordance with the salary framework.

The minimum and maximum monthly salary of office-holders at other grades can similarly be derived from the 2012 White Paper on political salaries, he added.

Taken together, Chan said the various components provide a clear indication of the remuneration levels and ranges of political appointment holders.

“Going forward, the Government will consider how best to disclose more information on the remuneration of political appointment holders,” said Chan.

WP chief Pritam Singh had asked during the September debate for the actual total remuneration received by ministers at the entry-level MR4 grade, including the maximum bonus allowed under the salary framework.

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said then that he intends to look at how to provide more information on the distribution of salaries and performance bonuses among ministers, given the interest in the topic.

For the October sitting, Singh asked for data related to newly-appointed political office-holders over the years, including information on the change in their salary before and after their appointment.

Replying, Chan said the Government does not systematically collect or maintain the statistics requested.

He added that where a new office-holder is placed within the relevant salary range will take into account factors such as the individual’s experience, responsibilities and previous remuneration.

“The Government does not seek to attract individuals into politics by offering them higher salaries than they were previously earning,” Chan said.

“Where an individual is suitable for political office, our general approach is to appoint them to a role appropriate to their experience and capabilities, and emplace them at a salary point broadly comparable to, or even below, their previous remuneration.

“Quite a few have taken pay reductions upon entering political office.”