Lim Yew Hock

Lim Yew Hock succeeded David Marshall as Chief Minister in June 1956. He led a coalition government and adopted a more conciliatory approach toward the British, successfully negotiating internal self-government for Singapore.

Lim ordered a major crackdown on communist and leftist organizations, arresting hundreds of activists and union leaders. This action weakened the leftist movement but also drew criticism for suppressing political dissent.

Lim led a delegation to London in 1957 and secured an agreement for full internal self-government for Singapore. The British retained control over defense and foreign affairs, but Singapore gained control over domestic matters.

Lim's party, the Singapore People's Alliance, was decisively defeated by the PAP in the 1959 general election. The PAP won 43 of 51 seats, and Lim lost his own seat, ending his tenure as Chief Minister.

After leaving office, Lim served as Singapore's High Commissioner to Malaysia from 1963 to 1965. He represented Singapore's interests during the merger and separation period.