Singapore's opposition launches manifesto

A new opposition alliance contesting Singapore's general election has called for a welfare system for the unemployed, and cost-cutting measures.

Launching the Singapore Democratic Alliance's manifesto, the alliance leader, Chiam See Tong, said the government should show it cares for its people.

The alliance is hoping to channel discontent with the city-state's worsening economy into votes in the election on 3 November.

The grouping is made up of four opposition parties, who are campaigning under a common banner for the first time.

Mr Chiam accused the ruling People's Action party of spending budget surpluses to give out shares, as part of a stimulus package announced a week before the election was called.

Thousands of people have been flocking to cash in their New Singapore Shares, which are worth up to $900.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service