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19481123_reps_18_200.xml
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19481123_reps_18_200.xml
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<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?>
<hansard xsi:noNamespaceSchemaLocation="../../hansard.xsd" version="2.1" xmlns:xsi="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema-instance">
<session.header>
<date>1948-11-23</date>
<parliament.no>18</parliament.no>
<session.no>2</session.no>
<period.no>1</period.no>
<chamber>REPS</chamber>
<page.no>3284</page.no>
<proof>0</proof>
</session.header>
<chamber.xscript>
<para class="block">House of Representatives. </para>
<business.start>
<day.start>1948-11-23</day.start>
<para>
<inline font-weight="bold">Mr.</inline>Deputy Speaker <inline font-weight="bold">(Mr. J. J. Clark)</inline> took the chair at 3 p.m., and read prayers. </para>
</business.start>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>ROYAL VISIT TO AUSTRALIA</title>
<page.no>3284</page.no>
<type>miscellaneous</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>Indefinite Postponement</title>
<page.no>3284</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3284</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>A48</name.id>
<electorate>Macquarie</electorate>
<party>ALP</party>
<role>Prime Minister and Treasurer</role>
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">CHIFLEY, Ben</name>
<name role="display">Mr CHIFLEY</name>
</talker>
<para>. -by <inline font-style="italic">leave</inline> - As honorable members doubtless are aware, it was my duty to make an announcement to the people of Australia this morning embodying the following information: - </para>
</talk.start>
<para>His Excellency the Governor-General has requested meto inform the people of Australia that, as the result of advice, based on a very thorough examination, which has been tendered to the King by his medical advisers, and which has been endorsed by his Prime Ministers in the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand, His Majesty has agreed to cancel all his public engagements over a period of some months. This decision involves the indefinite postponement of the visit to Australiaand New Zealand which the King and the Queen had undertaken to pay, with the Princess Margaret, during the first half of next year. </para>
<para>Their Majesties wish to express to the people of Australia the profound regret and bitter disappointment which they themselves feel at the abandonment of their tour, and which they know will be shared by all those who were preparing to welcome them. </para>
<para>The following bulletin has been issued from Buckingham Palace : - </para>
<quote>
<para>The King is suffering from an obstruction to circulation through arteries of the legs, which has only recently becomeacute; the defective blood supply to right foot causes anxiety. Complete rest has been advised and although improvement in the circulation has been initiated it must be maintained for an immediate prolonged period. Though His Majesty's general health including the condition of his heart gives no reason for concern there is no doubt that the strain of the past twelve years has appreciably affected his resistance to physical fatigue. We have come to the conclusion it would be hazardous for His Majesty to embark upon a long journey which might delay his recovery and which might well involve serious risk to a limb. With deep regret, therefore, we have advised that the King's visit to Australia and New Zealand should not be undertaken next year. (Sgd.) Maurice Cassidy; </para>
<list type="upperalpha-dotted">
<item label="J.">
<para>S. Learmonth: </para>
</item>
</list>
</quote>
<para>Honorable members on both sides of the House will not only be profoundly disappointed at the inability of Their Majesties and Her Royal Highness the Princess Margaret to visit Australia but also will have even deeper feelings of sympathy for His Majesty in his illhealth. </para>
<para>I know that Their Majesties and Her Royal Highness were looking forward to the opportunity their visit would have given them to meet many Australians and. we anticipated with the greatest pleasure the privilege of having the King and Queen and their daughter with us in this country. This prospect unhappily will not become reality, at any rate at the time arranged.We can now only hope that with an improvement of His Majesty's health it may be possible for the Royal party to resume their plans to visit Australia at some not too distant date. In the meantime, however, the thought uppermost in the minds of all honorable members and of the people of Australia will be one of hope that His Majesty's health will soon show considerable improvement and that it will be fully recovered in the near future. I know that other honorable members will desire to make reference to this unhappy advice, which is of such concern to us all, and I therefore move - </para>
<quote>
<para>That the following address be transmitted through His Excellency the Governor-General to His Majesty the King: - </para>
<para>To the King's Most Excellent Majesty: Most Gracious Sovereign: </para>
<para>We, the Members of the House of Representatives in Parliament assembled, desire to express sincere sympathy to His Majesty King George VI. and Her Majesty the Queen in His Majesty's state of health and earnestly hope that the King will be speedily restored to good health. </para>
<para>Members of this House record also their great disappointment at the indefinite postponement of the projected visit to Australia of Their Majesties the King and the Queen and Her Royal Highness the Princess Margaret. </para>
</quote>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3285</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KNX</name.id>
<electorate>Wentworth</electorate>
<party />
<role>Acting Leader of the Opposition</role>
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">HARRISON, Eric</name>
<name role="display">Mr HARRISON</name>
</talker>
<para>. - The Opposition completely associates itself with the sentiments expressed by the Prime Minister <inline font-weight="bold">(Mr. Chifley),</inline> and supports the motion he has submitted to the House. As the right honorable gentleman has said, the first consideration is that of His Majesty's health. The untiring devotion of his Majesty to his many duties has undoubtedly weighed heavily upon him. The advice tendered by the medical advisers was given, undoubtedly, after the closest possible consideration of all the relevant factors. The Opposition joins the Government in expressing deepfelt wishes for the early and complete recovery of our Sovereign. The keen disappointment that undoubtedly is felt by every Australian is tempered by the hope that after his restoration to full health and strength, His Majesty,. Her Majesty the Queen and the Princess Margaret will be able to visit this country to receive personally the good wishes and the expression of deep loyalty of their devoted Australian subjects. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3285</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>009MB</name.id>
<electorate>Indi</electorate>
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">MCEWEN, John</name>
<name role="display">Mr McEWEN</name>
</talker>
<para>.- On behalf of the Australian Country party, I join with the Prime Minister <inline font-weight="bold">(Mr. Chifley)</inline> and the Acting Leader of the Opposition <inline font-weight="bold">(Mr. Harrison)</inline> in expressing great regret that the Royal party has been obliged to postpone its visit to Australia and New Zealand. We have learnt with deep concern of the medical circumstances that have demanded this postponement. There is, I am sure, not one citizen who would not wish to have conveyed to His Majesty sympathy with him in his ill health, and to join in expressing the earnest hope that he will soon be restored to full and robust health. Much as we all are disappointed to learn of the postponement of Their Majesties' visit, we all will agree wholeheartedly that the health of neither of Their Majesties should ever be jeopardized by the fulfilment of engagements of this character. Seven million Australians have been eagerly awaiting their opportunity to greet, with loyalty and affection, Their Majesties the King and Queen and the Princess Margaret. We shall now hope that we shall have this opportunity to do so in the not too distant future. </para>
</talk.start>
<para>Question resolved in the affirmative. </para>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>HOUR OF MEETING</title>
<page.no>3285</page.no>
<type>miscellaneous</type>
</debateinfo>
<para>Motion (by <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. Chifley)</inline> agreed to - </para>
<quote>
<para>That the House, at its rising, adjourn to to-morrow, at 10.30 a.m. </para>
</quote>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>3285</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>COAL</title>
<page.no>3285</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<para>South Australian Supplies</para>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3285</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KVT</name.id>
<electorate>HINDMARSH, SOUTH AUSTRALIA</electorate>
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">THOMPSON, Albert</name>
<name role="display">Mr THOMPSON</name>
</talker>
<para>- In the Melbourne newspapers at the week-end, I saw reports that the Prime Minister had announced that greatly increased coal shipments would be sent to Melbourne. In view of the serious situation in South Australia, where the coal shortage has not been overtaken since the recent resumption of full production on the coal-fields, will the Prime Minister do his best to enable the leeway in that State to be made up? </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3285</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>A48</name.id>
<electorate />
<party>ALP</party>
<role />
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">CHIFLEY, Ben</name>
<name role="display">Mr CHIFLEY</name>
</talker>
<para>- The position of coal stocks in South Australia and Victoria is constantly under review, and Ihave already discussed the subject with the Minister for Shipping and Fuel to-day. Endeavours have been made by the Department of Shipping and Fuel to increase supplies of coal to Victoria and South Australia, and I hope that they will be successful. Unfortunately, this has necessitated the alteration of certain shipping schedules to the detriment of Queensland, where vessels are badly needed. However, we hope to make up the leeway quickly and to be in a position to meet the needs of Queensland again. Irrespective of the availability of coal, which has been flowing freely during the last week or more, it is not always possible to meet all shipping needs. The Minister for Shipping and Fuel assured me this morning that he is making every endeavour to meet the requirements of Victoria and South Australia. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>3286</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>IRON AND STEEL</title>
<page.no>3286</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3286</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KOL</name.id>
<electorate>WAKEFIELD, SOUTH AUSTRALIA</electorate>
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">MCBRIDE, Philip</name>
<name role="display">Mr McBRIDE</name>
</talker>
<para>- I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Shipping and Fuel as the result of numerous complaints that I have received from manufacturers and other users of iron and steel that, owing to lack of shipping, South Australia's small allocation of iron and steel is not being delivered to that State. Local stocks are being exhausted and great hardship is being experienced. As an example, SS <inline font-style="italic">Levenpool,</inline> which I understand is under charter to the Australian Government, was scheduled to load a cargo for South Australia but was diverted to another run. I have since heard that <inline font-style="italic">Iron Knob</inline> will take a cargo to South Australia, but this will mean weeks of delay. Will th e Minister discuss the situation with the Minister for Shipping and Fuel and endeavour to provide shipping facilities so that South Australia's very small allocation of iron and steel can be delivered promptly? </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3286</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KCF</name.id>
<electorate>CORIO, VICTORIA</electorate>
<party>ALP</party>
<role>Minister for Defence</role>
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">DEDMAN, John</name>
<name role="display">Mr DEDMAN</name>
</talker>
<para>- The honorable member referred to the small allocation of steel products to South Australia. That allocation was made by the State Premiers, and the Australian Government cannot alter it in any way. The honorable member knows also that interstate shipping is no longer under the control of the Australian Government. This Go vernment charters some vessels, but the bulk of the interstate trade is carried out by vessels owned by private companies. <inline font-style="italic">Iron Knob,</inline> for example, is owned by the Broken Hill Proprietary Company Limited. I shall discuss the question with the Minister for Shipping and Fuel, who,' I am sure, will do what he can to make shipping available. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>3286</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>SUGAR</title>
<page.no>3286</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3286</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KDA</name.id>
<electorate>WILMOT, TASMANIA</electorate>
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">DUTHIE, Gilbert</name>
<name role="display">Mr DUTHIE</name>
</talker>
<para>- Will the Minister representing the Minister for Shipping and Fuel impress upon his colleague and the Australian Shipping. Board the urgency of transporting sugar to Hobart? The Colonial Sugar Refining Company Limited has undertaken to make sugar available for Tasmania if ships can be provided to transport it. I ask my question because it is reported that <inline font-style="italic">Inchmay,</inline> which was due to take the next sugar shipment from Sydney to Hobart, is to be diverted to New Guinea with a cargo from Sydney. Why is it that the ships so desperately needed on the Tasmanian service are always chosen when vessels are required for special missions? </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3286</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KCF</name.id>
<electorate />
<party>ALP</party>
<role />
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">DEDMAN, John</name>
<name role="display">Mr DEDMAN</name>
</talker>
<para>- I shall discuss the honorable member's question with the Minister for Shipping and Fuel. The honorable member will appreciate from the preceding question that Tasmania is not the only State from which complaints are being received about the shortage of shipping. I can assure the honorable member that the Minister will do his utmost to ensure an adequate supply of sugar for the people of Tasmania. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>EXCHANGE RATE</title>
<page.no>3286</page.no>
<type>miscellaneous</type>
</debateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3286</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>JLZ</name.id>
<electorate>RICHMOND, NEW SOUTH WALES</electorate>
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">ANTHONY, Hubert</name>
<name role="display">Mr ANTHONY</name>
</talker>
<para>- I understand that buyers of Australian wool are insuring heavily with underwriters against the possibility of an appreciation of the value of the Australian £1 in relation to sterling. To dispel doubts that exist at present, will the Prime Minister state the intentions of the Government on this matter. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3286</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>A48</name.id>
<electorate />
<party>ALP</party>
<role />
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">CHIFLEY, Ben</name>
<name role="display">Mr CHIFLEY</name>
</talker>
<para>- I have already made one statement in this House on the possibility of an appreciation of the value of the Australian £1. On that occasion, I said that the Government did not intend to alter the value of the Australian £1 in relation to sterling while sterling retained its present relationship with other world currencies. I can repeat that statement now with even greater emphasis, because a certain degree of economic stability has been reached in western Europe, which, of course, has a very important effect on the economic situation in the United Kingdom. It is true that there have been certain currency moves in Europe, including a further devaluation of the French franc, and that pressure is being exerted in some quarters for the devaluation of the currencies of other European countries to assist in the rehabilitation of western Europe generally. My impression, however, is that, by some people at least, such a move is not now regarded as necessary. The Australian Government's view, as I have said, is that while sterling retains its existing relationship to other world currencies, the present relationship of the Australian £1 to sterling should remain. It would take some time to deal adequately with the point that has been made by the honorable member for Richmond. It is true, as the honorable member says, that wool buyers, and people interested in certain other exports, including dried fruits, are taking steps to protect themselves against a possible appreciation of the value of the Australian fi, which, of course, could prove most expensive to them. I have gone into the matter very thoroughly, and I have had some discussions with the Commonwealth Bank on the subject, but rather than take up the time of the House now in explaining the position as I see it, and as the bank sees it, and in indicating what has been done, I shall ask the bank to prepare a statement for the information of the honorable member for Richmond, setting out its views and those of various experts. The honorable member will then have a clear picture of the position. I repeat, however, that he may rest assured that it is not the Government's present intention to alter the exchange rate. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>3287</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>TELEPHONE SERVICES</title>
<page.no>3287</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3287</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>K0E</name.id>
<electorate>DENISON, TASMANIA</electorate>
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">GAHA, John</name>
<name role="display">Dr GAHA</name>
</talker>
<para>- The shortage of telephones in Tasmania has become acute, particularly in Hobart and its suburbs. </para>
</talk.start>
<para class="block">Continual pressure has been brought to bear upon me by various people to endeavour to secure telephones for them, but with unsatisfactory results so far. Will the Minister representing the PostmasterGeneral ascertain the position in relation to telephone installations? </para>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3287</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>BV8</name.id>
<electorate>MELBOURNE, VICTORIA</electorate>
<party>ALP</party>
<role>Minister for Immigration</role>
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">CALWELL, Arthur</name>
<name role="display">Mr CALWELL</name>
</talker>
<para>- The PostmasterGeneral's plans provide for the overtaking of the arrears of applications for telephones in Hobart and in Tasmania generally within the next, two years. I shall ask the Postmaster-General to take note of the honorable member's observations, to consider his request and to furnish him with a report as soon as possible setting out in full detail the Government's proposals in respect of the provision of improved land-line, trunk-line and general telephonic facilities in Tasmania. Concerning the general position in Australia, I should like to add that between 1934 and 1939 the governments of the day employed twelve men in New South Wales and eleven men in Victoria continuously canvassing the general public to install telephones. We do not have to do that to-day. The officers of- the department are now fully employed in trying to overtake the arrears of work in connexion with telephone installations because, thanks to the good Labour Government at present in office, Australia is prosperous to-day and many more of its people can afford telephones. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>3287</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>LAND SETTLEMENT OF EX-SERVICEMEN</title>
<page.no>3287</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3287</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KEP</name.id>
<electorate>FRANKLIN, TASMANIA</electorate>
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">FALKINDER, Charles</name>
<name role="display">Mr FALKINDER</name>
</talker>
<para>- I address a question to the Minister for Post-war Reconstruction relating to sections 118 and 120 of the Re-establishment and Employment Act 1945, which afford protection to ex-servicemen from the compulsory acquisition of their land. In a recent communication the Commonwealth Director of War Service Land Settlement has stated - </para>
</talk.start>
<quote>
<para>The Commonwealth view is that an exserviceman who acquires land after the date of hia discharge from the forces is not entitled to protection afforded by sections 118 and 120 of the Re-establishment and Employment Act 1945, and the compulsory acquisition of land owned by such persons is not restricted by section 118 of the act. </para>
</quote>
<para>Will the Minister state whether that is so? if that view correctly expresses the policy of the Government in the matter, does it mean that the Re-establishment and Employment' Act protects only the few men who were fortunate enough to own their properties before the war, and that it affords no protection for those exservicemen who purchased their properties on their discharge from the forces? As many ex-servicemen whose properties are under threat of compulsory acquisition by the Government were unable, owing to their absence with the fighting services during the war, to purchase their properties until after their discharge, will the Minister consider an amendment of the act to provide protection in such cases? </para>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3288</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KCF</name.id>
<electorate />
<party>ALP</party>
<role />
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">DEDMAN, John</name>
<name role="display">Mr DEDMAN</name>
</talker>
<para>- My attention has not previously been drawn to the matter raised by the honorable member. I 3hall have it examined and shall furnish him with a reply as soon as possible. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>3288</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>COMMUNISM</title>
<page.no>3288</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3288</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KDB</name.id>
<electorate>HERBERT, QUEENSLAND</electorate>
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">EDMONDS, William</name>
<name role="display">Mr EDMONDS</name>
</talker>
<para>- Has the Prime M inister seen the statement attributed to the Victorian Minister for Transport, <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. Kent-Hughes,</inline> that the coalition government formed bv the Liberal and Country parties in Victoria has no intention of banning the Communist .party? A,s ' the federal counterparts of those parties are pressing for the adoption of a policy to which the Victorian Tory Government is opposed, will the right honorable gentleman, before the Christmas recess, arrange for an opportunity to be provided for the Acting Leader of the Opposition, the Leader of the Australian Country party, and their followers to recast the speeches they have made from time to time in this House advocating the banning of the Communist party? </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3288</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>A48</name.id>
<electorate />
<party>ALP</party>
<role />
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">CHIFLEY, Ben</name>
<name role="display">Mr CHIFLEY</name>
</talker>
<para>- I have not seen any statement made by <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. Kent-Hughes</inline> on the matter referred to by the honorable member for Herbert. However, as the Liberal-Country party Government in Victoria has been in office for some time and has done nothing about banning the Communist party, a. course which th'e Opposition parties in this chamber have advocated so frequently, I assume that it does not propose to do anything about the matter. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>3288</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>ALADDIN LAMPS</title>
<page.no>3288</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3288</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>K2A</name.id>
<electorate>BENDIGO, VICTORIA</electorate>
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">RANKIN, George</name>
<name role="display">Mr RANKIN</name>
</talker>
<para>- A constituent of mine advises me that residents in the country' district in which he resides are not able to obtain mantles for No. 11 Aladdin lamps. As the old kerosene-wick lamp is a thing of the past, supplies of these mantles are essential to people living in areas beyond the radius of electricity supply systems. I know that a similar shortage exists in many other districts. These people have written to the company which manufactures the Aladdin lamp but have not received any satisfaction from it. This matter was brought to the attention of the Minister by the honorable member for Wimmera. Will the Minister representing the Minister for Shipping and Fuel see if he can persuade the company to produce mantles for these lamps? </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3288</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KCF</name.id>
<electorate />
<party>ALP</party>
<role />
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">DEDMAN, John</name>
<name role="display">Mr DEDMAN</name>
</talker>
<para>- I do not quite see what the Minister for Shipping and Fuel has to do with the manufacture of mantles for Aladdin lamps unless, perhaps, the use of such lamps reduces the consumption of kerosene. The honorable member knows quite well that this Government has no power over production. Indeed, at the recent referendum he advised the people to vote so that the Government should not be given any power whatever over production. Therefore it is useless for him now to blame the Government for a shortage of articles over the production of which it has no control. However, I shall 'ask my colleague to see if he can do anything to assist in the matter which the honorable member has raised. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>3288</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>COUNCIL FOR SCIENTIFIC AND INDUSTRIAL RESEARCH</title>
<page.no>3288</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3288</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>JPL</name.id>
<electorate>BOURKE, VICTORIA</electorate>
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">BLACKBURN, Doris</name>
<name role="display">Mrs BLACKBURN</name>
</talker>
<para>- Has the Prime Minister seen reports in this morning's Melbourne <inline font-style="italic">Argus</inline> and <inline font-style="italic">Age</inline> that <inline font-weight="bold">Sir Henry</inline> Tizard, the eminent British scientist now visiting Australia, said last night in an address to the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy at the Melbourne University that the United Kingdom has complete trust in the integrity of Australian scientists and that he, himself, has the highest opinion of them? Is the right honorable gentleman aware that one prominent speaker at this meeting is reported to have advised that it would be dangerous if the independence of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research were interfered with? Can the right honorable gentleman endorse the reported remarks of <inline font-weight="bold">Sir Herbert</inline> Gepp at the same meeting and assure the people of Australia, andothers, that attacks on Australian scientists do not represent the opinion of the Australian people but only the opinion of a few persons? </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3289</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>A48</name.id>
<electorate />
<party>ALP</party>
<role />
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">CHIFLEY, Ben</name>
<name role="display">Mr CHIFLEY</name>
</talker>
<para>- I have not seen the reports to which the honorable member has referred. However, I had an opportunity to talk with <inline font-weight="bold">Sir Henry</inline> Tizard, <inline font-weight="bold">Sir Ben</inline> Lockspeiser and others engaged in scientific research both when I was in the United Kingdom and during <inline font-weight="bold">Sir Henry's</inline> recent visit to Canberra. I also took the opportunity to arrange for <inline font-weight="bold">Sir Henry</inline> to address members of the Council of Defence. In all our conversations in both the United Kingdom and Australia, he made it clear that his organization - he is chairman of the Advisory Council on Scientific Policy and the Defence Research Policy committee in the United Kingdom - had the highest opinion of the work of Australian scientists, including those engaged by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, and he paid the highest possible tribute to <inline font-weight="bold">Sir David</inline> Rivett, the head of the council. I do not remember his making any special reference to the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, except with respect to the Aeronautical Research Section of the council, the work of which is related to that being carried out by the Supply Department in the United Kingdom. The Minister for Post-war Reconstruction, when introducing the relevant measure now before the Parliament, pointed out that that section of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research would be more properly placed within the Department of Supply and Development. In our conversations he did not refer to the general departmental control or other control exercised over the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, and, naturally, I did not expect him to do so. However, for the information of the honorable member, I may say that I have received letters from representative scientists and scientific bodies objecting to any proposal to place the council under the control of the Public Service Board. I do not propose to say anything further on that aspect of the matter because I may be encroaching the area of debate on a measure now before the House and, in any event, the Minister in charge of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research will deal with that matter at a later stage. Although the bill does not direct the transfer the control of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research to the Public Service Board, it authorizes the Government to make such a transfer. However, that will be done only in special circumstances, and no decision to transfer any section of the council, except that which deals with aeronautical research, has yet been made. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3289</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KFQ</name.id>
<electorate>HENTY, VICTORIA</electorate>
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">GULLETT, Henry</name>
<name role="display">Mr GULLETT</name>
</talker>
<para>- My question relates to the periodical bulletins or pamphlets published by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, particularly those which are of general interest to gardeners, farmers, fishermen, timberworkers and the like. I point out that many such pamphlets, are written in such technical language that those who could derive great benefit from them if they were written in more popular language, are not able to understand them fully. I ask the Minister in charge of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research whether it would be possible to have at least some of the more popular pamphlets published in a form in which they could be more easily understood by people who are anxious to read them. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3289</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KCF</name.id>
<electorate />
<party>ALP</party>
<role />
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">DEDMAN, John</name>
<name role="display">Mr DEDMAN</name>
</talker>
<para>- I have not previously heard any criticism of the publications to which the honorable member has referred. I understand that these pamphlets are intended to be read by technical experts. Generally speaking, they are not intended for farmers and the other types of producers that the honorable member has mentioned. </para>
</talk.start>
<interjection>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3289</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KWP</name.id>
<electorate />
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">TURNBULL, Winton</name>
<name role="display">Mr Turnbull</name>
</talker>
<para>- Why not? </para>
</talk.start>
</interjection>
<continue>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3289</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KCF</name.id>
<electorate />
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">DEDMAN, John</name>
<name role="display">Mr DEDMAN</name>
</talker>
<para>- A gentleman's agreement was made between the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research and the State Departments of Agriculture that the application of the results of research work done by the Council for </para>
</talk.start>
</continue>
<para class="block">Scientific and Industrial Research should be a matter for the State Departments of Agriculture. There is a dividing line between the work done by that council on research, and the application of the results of that research to primary production. I do not believe that the Australian Government has any constitutional power to supply the farmers and primary producers of this country direct with pamphlets on primary production problems. There is an understanding that the State Departments of Agriculture shall pass on the information on primary production made available to them by the council. That is the reason why the pamphlets mentioned are intended to be read mainly by technical experts. However, I shall draw the attention of the administrative officers of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research to the matter raised by the honorable member, and see whether the wording of the pamphlets can be simplified in any way. </para>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>3290</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>RYE</title>
<page.no>3290</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3290</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>JTY</name.id>
<electorate>BARKER, SOUTH AUSTRALIA</electorate>
<party>ALP</party>
<role>Postmaster-General</role>
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">CAMERON, Archie</name>
<name role="display">Mr ARCHIE CAMERON</name>
</talker>
<para>- Can the Minister for Commerce and Agriculture say whether any arrangements have been made to provide for the export of rye grain which is grown in South Australia, principally in the Lameroo and Pinnaroo districts, and, if not, whether he will consider making such arrangements? </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3290</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KYC</name.id>
<electorate>BALLAARAT, VICTORIA</electorate>
<party>ALP</party>
<role>Minister for Commerce and Agriculture</role>
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">POLLARD, Reginald</name>
<name role="display">Mr POLLARD</name>
</talker>
<para>- I do not know of any arrangements having been made for the export of rye grain, and, so far as I am aware, no applications for export licences for that purpose have been received. If any such applications are received, I undertake to consider them sympathetically. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>3290</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>CIVIL AVIATION</title>
<page.no>3290</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3290</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>JF7</name.id>
<electorate>FREMANTLE, WESTERN AUSTRALIA</electorate>
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">BEAZLEY, Kim</name>
<name role="display">Mr BEAZLEY</name>
</talker>
<para>- I understand that Trans-Australia Airlines has withdrawn a Skym aster aircraft from the service provided for Western Australia on Tuesday nights because the aircraft has been loaned to British Commonwealth Pacific Airlines. Does the Minister for Civil Aviation anticipate that the purchase of four new DC6 aircraft for the Pacific service will release the Skymaster aircraft and enable the Western Australian Tuesday night service to be restored ? </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3290</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KCM</name.id>
<electorate>MARIBYRNONG, VICTORIA</electorate>
<party>ALP</party>
<role>Minister for Air</role>
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">DRAKEFORD, Arthur</name>
<name role="display">Mr DRAKEFORD</name>
</talker>
<para>- The DC4 aircraft referred to by the honorable member was withdrawn from the Western Australian service not only because it was required for the Trans-Tasman service but also because of the necessity for restricting the consumption of petrol. The reduction of the service provided by Trans-Australia Airlines is in conformity with the reductions which other airlines have been required to make to conserve petrol. However, two of the DC6 aircraft referred to by the honorable member will arrive in Sydney next Wednesday, and when the remaining DC6 aircraft are taken into service it is expected that four DC4 aircraft will be available for internal as well as external services. Consideration will then be given to providing a daily service from Western Australia with DC4 aircraft, but the decision will be considered having regard to the necessity for reducing petrol consumption. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>RABBIT DESTRUCTION</title>
<page.no>3290</page.no>
<type>miscellaneous</type>
</debateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3290</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KWP</name.id>
<electorate />
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">TURNBULL, Winton</name>
<name role="display">Mr TURNBULL</name>
</talker>
<para>- The following statement appeared in the press at the week-end : - </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>WAR ON RABBIT PEST</title>
<page.no>3290</page.no>
<type>miscellaneous</type>
</debateinfo>
<para>A wild life survey group may be formed by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research to combat the rabbit pest. Rabbits have been estimated to do more than £30,000,000 damage each year, but no authoritative survey has been made. </para>
<para class="block">Because of the concern of the Australian Country party at the damage done by rabbits, will the Minister in charge of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research say whether the foregoing statement is correct, and, if so, what steps are being taken to combat the rabbit menace? </para>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3290</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KCF</name.id>
<electorate />
<party>ALP</party>
<role />
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">DEDMAN, John</name>
<name role="display">Mr DEDMAN</name>
</talker>
<para>- I think that all of us, including the members of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, are aware of the tremendous damage done by rabbits every year, and the council has devoted considerable attention to evolving some method to deal with the pest. It conducted a series of experiments in the course of which rabbits were inoculated with a certain virus, in the hope that the rabbits would spread the disease amongst themselves and thereby lead to their own eradication. Unfortunately, as the experiment developed, it was found that the rabbits did not pass on the infection from one to another, and, consequently, it cannot be claimed that the experiment has been successful. The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research is continuing its investigations into the matter, but I am afraid that the hope of finding a method of biological or bacteriological control of the rabbit pest is rather <inline font-style="italic">ti</inline> forlorn one at the present time. However, the honorable member may rest assured that the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research is doing its utmost to discover a means by which the rabbit pest will be controlled more efficiently in future. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>3291</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>BROADCASTING</title>
<page.no>3291</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3291</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KDA</name.id>
<electorate />
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">DUTHIE, Gilbert</name>
<name role="display">Mr DUTHIE</name>
</talker>
<para>- Did the Minister for information hear the debate in the Heckle Hour from station 3DB Melbourne last Friday evening? In that programme, the Minister for Housing in the Liberal-Country party Government in Victoria, <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. Warner,</inline> constantly referred to "J. Chifley" without prefix, suffix, appendix or anything else? Does the Minister consider that the "J. Chifley" to whom reference was made is the Right Honorable J. B. Chifley, Prime Minister of Australia? As that debate may be re-broadcast to overseas listeners, does not the Minister consider that the refference to " J. Chifley ", if the speaker referred to the Prime Minister, reveals complete disrespect to the leader of the Australian people? Will not such references create a wrong attitude abroad towards Australian leaders, whether they be Liberal or Labour? </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3291</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>BV8</name.id>
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<party>ALP</party>
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<name role="metadata">CALWELL, Arthur</name>
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<para>- I never listen to the Heckle Hour debates. Last Saturday, I spent a pleasant evening at the Latvian National Day celebrations in Canberra among some of the new Australians who are making a greater contribution towards . the cultural development of Australia than are some of the people who talk in the Heckle Hour. Reference to the Prime Minister in a contemptuous way by any speaker is to be deplored. There is a tendency in this country on the part of many people to attempt to destroy the authority of elected representatives, and that practice is not good for democracy. The man who is the people's choice is entitled to respect while he holds office. Nothing is to be gained by continually " knocking " those who hold the delegated power of the people and who are doing their best to serve the common good. </para>
</talk.start>
<interjection>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3291</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KDA</name.id>
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<name role="metadata">DUTHIE, Gilbert</name>
<name role="display">Mr Duthie</name>
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<para>- The reference to which I referred was made by the Victorian Minister for Housing. </para>
</talk.start>
</interjection>
<continue>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3291</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>BV8</name.id>
<electorate />
<party />
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<in.gov>0</in.gov>
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<name role="metadata">CALWELL, Arthur</name>
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<para>- His example is therefore all the more regrettable, because he should certainly know better than to speak of the Prime Minister in a contemptuous way. I presume that no attempt will be made to re-broadcast that debate over the national stations or through Radio Australia. I am sure that the good sense of the people in charge of both those broadcasting services will prevent the outrage from being repeated in a broadcast to overseas listeners. </para>
</talk.start>
</continue>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>3291</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>VICTORIAN ESSENTIAL SERVICES</title>
<page.no>3291</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3291</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KIX</name.id>
<electorate>DEAKIN, VICTORIA</electorate>
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<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">HUTCHINSON, William</name>
<name role="display">Mr HUTCHINSON</name>
</talker>
<para>- In the event of industrial disturbances arising in Victoria which will disrupt the trade of that State with the trade of other States, and disrupt Australian trade generally with other nations, will the Government take action under the Crimes Act against those persons responsible for the dislocation? </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3291</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>A48</name.id>
<electorate />
<party>ALP</party>
<role />
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">CHIFLEY, Ben</name>
<name role="display">Mr CHIFLEY</name>
</talker>
<para>- Naturally; I cannot answer a hypothetical question. If the honorable gentleman will put the question on the notice-paper I shall arrange for the Acting Attorney-General to prepare a report on it for him. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>3291</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>EDUCATION</title>
<page.no>3291</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<para>University Finances</para>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3291</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>K0E</name.id>
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<name role="metadata">GAHA, John</name>
<name role="display">Dr GAHA</name>
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<para>- I direct a question to the Prime Minister regarding the position of the Australian Government in relation to technical and university education. I preface my question by saying that it has been stated in this chamber, on many occasions since the end of the last war. that the power of a nation has some relationship to its technical and university education. According to to-day's press some Australian universities are financially embarrassed and I therefore ask the Prime Minister whether, owing to the acute position of university finances in Australia, and to the necessity for increased technical and university education, he will consider the appointment of a royal commission to investigate the shortage of university accommodation ; how such shortage can be expeditiously rectified; whether new universities are necessary and, if so, where; and whether the financing of technical and university education should continue to be a charge on the State governments or whether it should become a new federal function? </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3292</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>A48</name.id>
<electorate />
<party>ALP</party>
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<in.gov>1</in.gov>
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<name role="metadata">CHIFLEY, Ben</name>
<name role="display">Mr CHIFLEY</name>
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<para>- University education is a matter to which the Australian Government, and particularly the Minister for Post-war Reconstruction, has given a great deal of thought. I have given, some personal study to the financial position of universities. The Government has made provision to subsidize the university education of the children of those in less favoured financial circumstances who have matriculated or otherwise qualified for university training. That policy has permitted the entry into universities of a great number of eminently worthy boys and girls who were denied that opportunity previously, [n addition to the increased enrolments resulting' from, that policy, responsibilities under the Commonwelath reconstruction training scheme have also been imposed on the universities. Those conditions have thrown a very great strain upon the resources both physical and financial of the universities, and in all States, with the possible exception of Queensland, this Government has given very material assistance in relation to capital expenditure to provide additional accommodation in universities for Commonwealth reconstructon training scheme trainees and in addition it has made some other direct financial contributions. Only yesterday the Cabinet decided to provide a sum of £100.000 a year for the next three years to assist in the conduct of research work at universities. Ft is quite clear that, with the very wide development of university training and the greater opportunities ' now being offered to boys and girls as a result of the Commonwealth subsidy inaugurated by the Curtin Government, .the financal difficulties of the universities will become more and more obvious as time goes on. Education is not a function of the Australian Government, nor indeed has the Government any constitutional power regarding it. The provision of money by the Australian Government for education is an instance of a government making money available but having no right to decide in exactly what manner it shall be expended. The money that the Cabinet granted yesterday for a period of three years is to be devoted to research work. The Government is most anxious to provide full university facilities for research and scientific workers, because not only Australia but the United Kingdom and other dominions associated with this country are or will be lamentably short of highly trained scientific workers. I believe that it will be necessary during the next two years for all States and the Commonwealth to review together the whole position regarding universities. Because of the constitutional position I am not quite clear through what avenue the Commonwealth could assist the States in education other than by providing direct grants of money, even though it will have no control over the expenditure of such money. In one of the States there has been some complaint about the management of a particular university, although I suppose such arguments have been going on for a long time. I can assure the honorable member that the matter that he has raised will be given the closest consideration by the Government, particularly by the Minister for Post-war Reconstruction, who .is intensely : interested in it. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>3292</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>COMMONWEALTH BANK</title>
<page.no>3292</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3292</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KGC</name.id>
<electorate>SWAN, WESTERN AUSTRALIA</electorate>
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<name role="metadata">HAMILTON, Leonard</name>
<name role="display">Mr HAMILTON</name>
</talker>
<para>- Is the Prime Minister aware that at the Canberra Summer School of Political Science in 1944, when <inline font-weight="bold">Dr. H-</inline> O. Coombs, who, at the time was a member of the Commonwealth Bank Board, as well as DirectorGeneral of Post-war Reconstruction, was charged with producing a basic exposition of socialist philosophy, he replied that while public servants were supposed to have no politics, he did not subscribe to such remoteness, and that he had definite political views? Is the right honorable gentleman further aware that <inline font-weight="bold">Dr. Coombs</inline> said also that we must hand over to public control the right to decide the direction of a considerable part of our economy? In view of these statements, can it be taken that the appointment of <inline font-weight="bold">Dr. Coombs</inline> as Governor of the Commonwealth Bank is a reward for his having definite .political views in line with those of the socialist Labour party, and in order to enable him to direct our economy along socialistic lines? </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3293</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>A48</name.id>
<electorate />
<party>ALP</party>
<role />
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">CHIFLEY, Ben</name>
<name role="display">Mr CHIFLEY</name>
</talker>
<para>- I do not suppose that any Minister, or anybody else, has worked more closely in association with <inline font-weight="bold">Dr. Coombs</inline> than. I have done. During my association with him I have never heard him express any political views at any time. I am not aware of what he said at the Canberra Summer School of Political Science. I should have thought that any intelligent member of the community would have some political views. As voting is compulsory in Australia, it is inconceivable that people, before deciding upon preference they shall express in the ballot box. would not have given some thought to the wisdom of the politics of the party of their choice. I do not believe that people vote stupidly. <inline font-weight="bold">Dr. Coombs</inline> has been appointed Governor of the Commonwealth Bank because of his magnificent record of service in this country and bis great personal ability. As the honorable member may know, <inline font-weight="bold">Dr. Coombs</inline> was originally a member of the Commonwealth Bank staff. Later, as a member of the Advisory Council of the bank, he did a magnificent job. When rationing had to be introduced quickly, he became the first Director-General of Rationing. In the circumstances then existing, that was a very difficult job to carry out. It should not be necessary for me to speak of <inline font-weight="bold">Dr. Coombs's</inline> ability, because that has been recognized by various bodies throughout the world and especially by those associated with the international trade organization at Geneva and Havana. The Government makes no apology for appointing <inline font-weight="bold">Dr. Coombs</inline> as Governor of the Common wealth Bank. He is a man who, irrespective of the government in office, will give splendid service to this country. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3293</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>L1A</name.id>
<electorate>ROBERTSON, NEW SOUTH WALES</electorate>
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<in.gov>0</in.gov>
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<name role="metadata">WILLIAMS, Thomas</name>
<name role="display">Mr WILLIAMS</name>
</talker>
<para>- I ask the Prime Minister whether it is not a fact that <inline font-weight="bold">Dr. Coombs</inline> was appointed to the staff of the Commonwealth Bank in 1939, by the anti-Labour Government that was then in office? </para>
</talk.start>
<continue>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>3293</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>A48</name.id>
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<in.gov>0</in.gov>
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<name role="metadata">CHIFLEY, Ben</name>
<name role="display">Mr CHIFLEY</name>
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