Singapore

The three branches

Head of state — President

Directly elected; custodial veto over reserves and key appointments.

Executive — Prime Minister and Cabinet

Commands the parliamentary majority.

Legislative — Parliament

Unicameral, with elected, Non-Constituency and Nominated members.

Judiciary — Supreme Court and State Courts

Judges appointed by the President on the Prime Minister's advice.

Advisory — Presidential Council for Minority Rights

Scrutinises bills for measures disadvantaging any community.

How legislation is made

Three readings in a unicameral Parliament, with committee consideration between the second and third. Most bills then go to the Presidential Council for Minority Rights before presidential assent. The President's assent is normally a formality, but bills touching the reserves or specified appointments engage the custodial powers, where the Council of Presidential Advisers must be consulted. Constitutional amendments generally require a two-thirds majority.

Enforcement institutions

Singapore Police Force

Policing under the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Attorney-General's Chambers

Public Prosecutor and legal adviser to government.

Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau

Reports to the Prime Minister's Office; among the oldest such agencies.

Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore

Income tax, GST, stamp duty and property tax.

Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority

Company registration and financial reporting.

Monetary Authority of Singapore

Central bank and integrated financial regulator.