Lee Wei Ling challenges PM Lee’s version of events concerning discussion of demolishing Oxley house

Dr Lee Wei Ling has challenged Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong’s claim that the late Lee Kuan Yew was open to reconsidering demolition of 38 Oxley Road.

In his parliamentary address, PM Lee said that his father, who for many years desired to have their family home at 38 Oxley Road demolished after his passing, reconsidered his desire after public pushback in 2011. The Prime Minister claimed that Lee Kuan Yew then sought the advice some newspaper editors. He added, “All the editors replied that they would like it to be kept given its historical importance and heritage value.”

The Prime Minister also claimed that he and his wife Ho Ching made plans to renovate the house according to Lee Kuan Yew and his late wife’s wishes for certain spaces to remain private, without demolishing the home. PM Lee indicated that his father accepted these plans at the time.

Dr Lee Wei Ling disputes these claims, stating on her Facebook page that:

“Pa was never happy with Ho Ching’s so-called plans to renovate Oxley. He continued to ponder how he could hv Oxley demolished. As for what the SPH editor think. I observed the email exchange in person. It was my habit to check my email every time I woke up in the middle of the night, so I saw the emails flying fast & furious & I went to Pa’s study room. He was distress & eventually got up & walked off to bed looking disturbed. I scolded the SPH Editors via email for distressing Pa & told them to leave Pa alone. If they wanted to see Oxley, I would show them around but they were not to raise this issue w Pa again.”