SINGAPORE — The National University of Singapore professor at the centre of the “sex-for-grades” case saw his application to have four questions of law heard dismissed by the Court of Appeal yesterday.

Charged with allegedly obtaining corrupt gratification from a former student, Ms Darinne Ko Wen Hui, between May 2010 and July 2010, law professor Tey Tsun Hang’s application came after the High Court dismissed his motions to obtain information from the prosecution and his employer on Sept 25.

His questions concerned the disclosure of documents to properly prepare his defence, and Tey’s lawyer Peter Low argued that they were of public interest.

However, Deputy Public Prosecutor Andre Jumabhoy argued that the Court of Appeal does not have jurisdiction to hear Tey’s application.

This is because Justice Quentin Loh, in dismissing Tey’s motions earlier, had made clear that his decision was not a final order — Tey, 41, has the right to raise issues of disclosure to the judge when his trial begins.

Mr Jumabhoy also argued that the questions raised by Tey should not be heard by the Court of Appeal as — among other reasons — the case was at a pre-trial stage and Justice Loh’s decision cannot be said to have affected its outcome.

Addressing Mr Low, Judge of Appeal Chao Hick Tin yesterday questioned whether it was “desirable” for every preliminary matter to go up to the highest court of the land.

The appeal judges — Justice Chao, Justice Woo Bih Li and Justice Lee Seiu Kin — unanimously dismissed Tey’s application, saying they had no doubt the prosecution would assist in the process of discovery.

Tey, 41, who was not in court yesterday, faces six charges under the Prevention of Corruption Act. His trial is expected to take place in January. Neo Chai Chin