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19431013_senate_17_176.xml
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19431013_senate_17_176.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>1943-10-13</date>
<parliament.no>17</parliament.no>
<session.no>1</session.no>
<period.no>1</period.no>
<chamber>SENATE</chamber>
<page.no>382</page.no>
<proof>0</proof>
</session.header>
<chamber.xscript>
<para class="block">Senate. </para>
<business.start>
<day.start>1943-10-13</day.start>
<para>The President <inline font-weight="bold">(Senator the Hon. Gordon Brown)</inline> took the chair at 3 p.m., and read prayers. </para>
</business.start>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>COMMISSION TO ADMINISTER OATH</title>
<page.no>382</page.no>
<type>miscellaneous</type>
</debateinfo>
<para>The. PRESIDENT.- I have received from His Excellency the GovernorGeneral a commission to administer to honorable senators the oath or affirmation of allegiance. i </para>
<para>Commission laid on the table and read by the Clerk. </para>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>ADDRESS-IN-REPLY</title>
<page.no>382</page.no>
<type>miscellaneous</type>
</debateinfo>
<para>PRESENTATION TO THE GOVERNOR.GENERAL </para>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>382</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>10000</name.id>
<electorate />
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">PRESIDENT, The</name>
<name role="display">The PRESIDENT</name>
</talker>
<para>- I have ascertained that His Excellency the GovernorGeneral will be pleased to receive the Address-in-Reply to his Opening Speech at Government House, at 11 a.m. to-morrow. I invite as many honorable senators as can make it convenient to accompany me. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>ASSENT TO BILLS</title>
<page.no>382</page.no>
<type>bill</type>
</debateinfo>
<para class="block">Assent to the following bills reported : - </para>
<quote>
<para>Supply Bill (No. 2) 1943-44. </para>
<para>War Pensions -Appropriation Bill 1043. </para>
</quote>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>DEATH OF THE HONORABLE DAVID JOHN O'KEEFE</title>
<page.no>382</page.no>
<type>miscellaneous</type>
</debateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>382</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>10000</name.id>
<electorate />
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">PRESIDENT, The</name>
<name role="display">The PRESIDENT</name>
</talker>
<para>- I have received from <inline font-weight="bold">Mrs. D.</inline> J. O'Keefe a letter of thanks and appreciation for the resolution of sympathy and condolence passed by the Senate on the occasion of the death of her husband, the Honorable David John O'Keefe. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>DEATH OF ME, JOSHUA THOMAS HOSKINS WHITSITT</title>
<page.no>383</page.no>
<type>miscellaneous</type>
</debateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>383</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>10000</name.id>
<electorate />
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">PRESIDENT, The</name>
<name role="display">The PRESIDENT</name>
</talker>
<para>- I have received from <inline font-weight="bold">Mrs. J.</inline> T. H. Whitsitt a letter of thanks and appreciation for the resolution of sympathy passed by the Senate on the occasion of the death of her husband, <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. Joshua</inline> Thomas Hoskins Whitsitt. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>HIGH COMMISSIONER IN THE UNITED KINGDOM</title>
<page.no>383</page.no>
<type>miscellaneous</type>
</debateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>383</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KE4</name.id>
<electorate>Victoria</electorate>
<party>ALP</party>
<role>Minister for Trade and Customs</role>
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">KEANE, Richard</name>
<name role="display">Senator KEANE</name>
</talker>
<para>. - <inline font-style="italic">by leave -</inline> At the request of the Commonwealth 'Government, the Eight Honorable 6. M. Bruce, C.H., M.C., whose term of office as High Commissioner for Australia in Great Britain expired on <inline font-style="italic">the 6th</inline> October last, has agreed to accept a further appointment for' one year from the 7th October, 1943. Although <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. Bruce</inline> has already served the somewhat lengthy period of ten years in that office, it is the desire of the Government that, in the present, circumstances, he should continue in office, and. I take this opportunity to acknowledge the value of his past services to Australia. ' <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. Bruce</inline> will also continue to act as the Australian accredited representative on the Imperial War Cabinet, and as His Majesty's Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary for the Commonwealth of Australia to the Kingdom of the Netherlands. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>FOOD PROGRAMME</title>
<page.no>383</page.no>
<type>miscellaneous</type>
</debateinfo>
<para class="block">Release of Man-power prom the Army. </para>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>383</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KKR</name.id>
<electorate>WESTERN AUSTRALIA</electorate>
<party>ALP</party>
<role>Minister for Health and Minister for Social Services</role>
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">FRASER, James</name>
<name role="display">Senator FRASER</name>
</talker>
<para>. - <inline font-style="italic">by leave</inline> - In pursuance of a direction given by War Cabinet, the Minister for the Army <inline font-weight="bold">(Mr. Forde)</inline> states that arrangements are in hand for the release of serving Army personnel to enable men previously engaged in rural pursuits to return to their civil avocations. It has been, arranged that the DirectorGeneral of Man Power and his deputies in the various States will receive applications from employers and will investigate and decide on the eligibility of personnel for release subject to the concur rence of the Army authorities. In this connexion employers engaged in rural pursuits and food production should submit applications for release of personnel now serving whose services are essential to food production. In view of the vast reorganization that the Army in Australia has undergone in recent months, coupled with the spread of units over wide areas, it is essential that employers applying for men should submit the latest information concerning the unit in which the men are serving. It has been so arranged that where the particulars given by prospective employers are of such a nature that difficulty is experienced in tracing men, such applications shall not hold up those cases in which the information supplied enables a ready check-up to be made. Employers requiring personnel should, in their own interests, submit full particulars of the man required to the chairman of the local war agricultural committee or to the National Service Officer of their area. By submitting applications to these authorities only, considerable saving of time will be effected. </para>
</talk.start>
<para>The Army is fully aware of the necessity for these releases, but it must be borne in mind that men on the posted strength of a unit serving in operational areas outside the mainland of Australia must necessarily remain available to the fighting forces. </para>
<para>Whilst the Army will endeavour to release recommended personnel as soon as possible, it must be realized by prospective employers that conditions of transport plus operational necessity will govern the numbers released. Arrangements entered into during the last few days between the Army and the DirectorGeneral of Man Power provide that before the Army can move in any way in the matter, the Director-General of Man Power and his deputies in the various States must obtain and investigate applications before submitting recommendations to the Army. On the other hand, in view of the vast spread of units of the Australian Military Forces throughout various territories it is emphasized that, whilst in the early stages the actual implementation of releases will necessarily be slow, as time progresses releases will increase in tempo. The Army has had to impose certain restrictions relative to key personnel, but despite these restrictions, the numbers required will be released within the period determined by War Cabinet. It is well at this stage to emphasize to prospective employers that men who belong to units serving outside the mainland, and who are on the mainland for the purpose of recreation leave, and/or those attending schools or courses of instruction, will be considered as serving outside the mainland, and consequently will not be released. Another important factor is that all applications for release under this scheme will be Subject to the nominated man's concurrence in his discharge for the purpose stipulated. In other words, if he does i.ot concur, the release will be refused. </para>
</speech>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>ADVISORY WAR COUNCIL</title>
<page.no>384</page.no>
<type>miscellaneous</type>
</debateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>384</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KE4</name.id>
<electorate>VICTORIA</electorate>
<party>ALP</party>
<role>Minister for Trade and Customs</role>
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">KEANE, Richard</name>
<name role="display">Senator KEANE</name>
</talker>
<para>. - <inline font-style="italic">by leave</inline> - I inform the Senate that the Advisory War Council will continue to function. The Government will be represented on it by <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. Curtin, Mr. Forde, Dr. Evatt, Mr. Beasley</inline> and <inline font-weight="bold">Mr.- Makin.</inline></para>
</talk.start>
<para>The leaders of the Opposition parties have advised the Prime Minister ,that their representatives on the council will be <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. Menzies, Mr. Hughes, Mr. Spender, Mr. Fadden</inline> and <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. McEwen.</inline></para>
</speech>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>384</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>NEW BUSINESS AFTER 10.30 P.M</title>
<page.no>384</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<para> Motion (by <inline font-weight="bold">Senator Keane)</inline> put - </para>
<quote>
<para>That Standing Order No. OS be suspended, up to and including Friday, the 27th October next, for the purpose of enabling new business to be commenced after 10.30 p.m. </para>
</quote>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>384</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>10000</name.id>
<electorate />
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">PRESIDENT, The</name>
<name role="display">The PRESIDENT</name>
</talker>
<para>- There being an absolute majority of the whole number of senators present, and no dissentient voice, I declare the question resolved in the affirmative. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>384</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>COAL-MINING INDUSTRY</title>
<page.no>384</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>384</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KUA</name.id>
<electorate>SOUTH AUSTRALIA</electorate>
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">MCLEAY, George</name>
<name role="display">Senator McLEAY</name>
</talker>
<para>- Is it the intention of the Leader of the Senate to make a statement to the Senate in connexion with the serious position in the coal-mining industry arising from industrial disputes ? </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>384</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KE4</name.id>
<electorate />
<party>ALP</party>
<role />
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">KEANE, Richard</name>
<name role="display">Senator KEANE</name>
</talker>
<para>- I hope to be in a position to make a considered statement on this subject to-morrow. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>384</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>BLACK MARKETING</title>
<page.no>384</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>384</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>JXE</name.id>
<electorate>WESTERN AUSTRALIA</electorate>
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">NASH, Richard</name>
<name role="display">Senator NASH</name>
</talker>
<para>- In view of the many reports concerning black marketing now appearing in newspapers, is the Leader of the Senate in a position to make a statement to the Senate concerning the methods adopted, or under consideration, to suppress such practices? </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>384</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KE4</name.id>
<electorate />
<party>ALP</party>
<role />
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">KEANE, Richard</name>
<name role="display">Senator KEANE</name>
</talker>
<para>- The honorable senator was good enough to let me know that he proposed to ask a question on this subject. I have, therefore, prepared the following answer : - </para>
</talk.start>
<para>I assure honorable senators that every effort is 'being made by the Government to prevent black marketing assuming dangerous proportions. We are fully aware of the dangers inherent in such practices, which menace the nation's economy and war effort, and by creating artificial shortages of various commodities cause unnecessary hardship to many members of the community. At present, various recommendations are under consideration. These deal with methods of detecting offences and enforcement of the law as it now stands. Various other suggestions are under consideration, such as the adequacy of present penalties, powers of investigating officers and means of speeding up the procedure relating to prosecutions. As stated by the AttorneyGeneral <inline font-weight="bold">(Dr. Evatt)</inline> in the House of Representatives yesterday, one of the major problems confronting those concerned with the enforcement of the law is that of ensuring the imposition of adequate penalties on conviction. It is apparent that even magistrates sometimes fail to realize the seriousness of black marketing. The <inline font-style="italic">Commonweath Gazette,</inline> of the 1st October, listed twelve proceedings of offences against the Black Marketing Act. The list showed that six offenders were released on bond after conviction. It has been suggested that the section of the Crimes Act making this possible should be declared inapplicable to the Black Marketing Act. The worst features of black marketing are undoubtedly the creation of artificial shortages of essential goods in acute supply and the withdrawal from circulation, for the purpose of illicit trading, of large sums of money which could be better invested in war loans. Honorable senators will realize that if allowed to go unchecked this could have a disastrous effect upon the Government's plans for curbing inflationary tendencies. </para>
<para>The detection of offences often proves difficult. Unlike the person who is overcharged, or suffers some such injustice which impels him to inform the authorities, those buying on a black market are receiving goods that they could not otherwise obtain, either because they have been " frozen " by government order or are subject to a coupon scale. Provided that they can afford inflated prices, they thus receive a benefit, and have no incentive to report the existence of a black market to the authorities. Thi.3 problem is not, of course, confined to Australia. Black marketing assumed alarming proportions in Great Britain and in the United States of America before vigorous steps to check such nefarious practices were instituted. Information on the methods employed in those countries is being obtained by the Government. It is not believed that black marketing has yet assumed any great proportions in this country, but the Government realizes that, with increasing shortages of some commodities, it may become widespread, with disastrous results. Another proposal at present under consideration is for a wide-scale publicity campaign to awaken the public to the dangers of supporting black markets. Without co-operation from all sections of the community it is impossible to police the regulations. Intensification of investigation methods, with the more active assistance of State police, is also under consideration. So far as I am concerned, as the Minister in charge of rationing, I assure honorable senators that any proposal likely to assist in the eradication of black marketing will receive my earnest consideration. </para>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>385</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>AUSTRALIAN ARMY</title>
<page.no>385</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<para>Absence Without Leave</para>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>385</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>K9I</name.id>
<electorate>SOUTH AUSTRALIA</electorate>
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">UPPILL, Oliver</name>
<name role="display">Senator UPPILL</name>
</talker>
<para>- Has the Minister representing the Minister for the Army seen the statement in the Sydney <inline font-style="italic">Bulletin</inline> of the 29th September, 1943, in which the Minister for the Army is reported to have admitted at a Labour party conference that there had been as many as 10,000 Army personnel absent without leave from .the Army at one time? Is it a fact that that number of men was absent without leave at one time and, if so, what is the Government doing in the matter? </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>385</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KKR</name.id>
<electorate>WESTERN AUSTRALIA</electorate>
<party>ALP</party>
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">FRASER, James</name>
<name role="display">Senator FRASER</name>
</talker>
<para>- I have no knowledge of any such statement having been made by the Minister for the Army, but I shall ascertain the facts. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>385</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>STOCK FOOD</title>
<page.no>385</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>385</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KKR</name.id>
<electorate>WESTERN AUSTRALIA</electorate>
<party>ALP</party>
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">FRASER, James</name>
<name role="display">Senator FRASER</name>
</talker>
<para>- On the 29th September, <inline font-weight="bold">Senator Aylett</inline> asked me a question, without notice, concerning stock food for Tasmania. The Minister for Commerce and Agriculture informs me that the Australian Wheat Board has made arrangements for supplying wheat to stock feeders in Tasmania and it i3 net anticipated that there will be any difficulty with supplies. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>385</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>LEND-LEASE AGREEMENT</title>
<page.no>385</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>385</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KTX</name.id>
<electorate>SOUTH AUSTRALIA</electorate>
<party>UAP</party>
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">MCLACHLAN, James</name>
<name role="display">Senator JAMES McLACHLAN</name>
</talker>
<para>- On the last day of sitting I asked a question regarding lend-lease arrangements. Is the Leader of the Senate yet in a position to supply the information sought? </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>385</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KE4</name.id>
<electorate />
<party>ALP</party>
<role />
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">KEANE, Richard</name>
<name role="display">Senator KEANE</name>
</talker>
<para>- A statement on the subject will be presented to the Senate to-morrow. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>385</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>VOLUNTEER DEFENCE CORPS</title>
<page.no>385</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<para>Drivers of Motor Cars</para>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>385</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>K0Z</name.id>
<electorate>TASMANIA</electorate>
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">AYLETT, William</name>
<name role="display">Senator AYLETT</name>
</talker>
<para>- Can the Minister representing the Minister for the Army say whether it is a fact that members of the Volunteer Defence Corps holding rank above that of sergeant are not allowed to drive themselves in a motor car? Will he investigate this matter with a view to allowing such officers to drive themselves so that other men who now act as chauffeurs may be employed on other work? </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>385</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KKR</name.id>
<electorate>WESTERN AUSTRALIA</electorate>
<party>ALP</party>
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">FRASER, James</name>
<name role="display">Senator FRASER</name>
</talker>
<para>- I shall have the matter investigated but I point out that it is not always practicable for officers to drive themselves, as the motor car may have to return to enable it to be used by others. </para>
</talk.start>
<para>
<inline font-weight="bold">Senator JAMES</inline>McLACHLAN.When the Minister is dealing with that matter will he also give consideration to the fact that it is quite unnecessary that drivers be employed to convey officers from their homes to work in the morning, then to morning tea, mid day lunch, and afternoon tea, and to drive them to their homes in the evening? </para>
<continue>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>386</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KKR</name.id>
<electorate>WESTERN AUSTRALIA</electorate>
<party>ALP</party>
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">FRASER, James</name>
<name role="display">Senator FRASER</name>
</talker>
<para>- I shall investigate any specific case of that kind which the honorable senator submits to me. </para>
</talk.start>
</continue>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>386</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>LANDLORD AND TENANT REGULATIONS</title>
<page.no>386</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<para>Eviction of Tenants</para>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>386</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KR9</name.id>
<electorate>VICTORIA</electorate>
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">LECKIE, John</name>
<name role="display">Senator LECKIE</name>
</talker>
<para>- I ask a question of the Minister for Trade and Customs in his capacity as Minister administering the law in regard to landlords and tenants, although, <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. President,</inline> the question could just as appropriately be directed to you. I call attention to regulations which provide that before any tenant can be evicted suitable accommodation must be provided for him elsewhere, that consideration must be given to the size of his family, and also that where the tenancy has been for a long period it is necessary to give 90 days' notice of the intended eviction. Can you, <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. President,</inline> say whether the Minister has called your attention to these regulations, and do you not think that they should be carried out in the spirit as well as in the letter? </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>386</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KE4</name.id>
<electorate />
<party>ALP</party>
<role />
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">KEANE, Richard</name>
<name role="display">Senator KEANE</name>
</talker>
<para>- I have to confess that I have not consulted with you, <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. President,</inline> on the point raised by the Deputy Leader of the Opposition. The Landlord and Tenant Regulations, which are administered by my department, provide that before a person can be evicted from a home, accommodation of a similar nature must be found for him. I understand that that condition had been fulfilled in the case to which the honorable senator obviously refers. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>386</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KAY</name.id>
<electorate>VICTORIA</electorate>
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">GIBSON, William</name>
<name role="display">Senator GIBSON</name>
</talker>
<para>- I ask the Minister for Trade and Customs why the regulations discriminate against country dwellers as compared with city dwellers in respect of the renting of properties? Whilst a person may lease a property in the city without obtaining a permit, a permit must be obtained before a person can lease a property in the country. </para>
</talk.start>
<continue>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>386</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KE4</name.id>
<electorate />
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">KEANE, Richard</name>
<name role="display">Senator KEANE</name>
</talker>
<para>- I am not aware that that is the case. I shall look into the matter and advise the honorable senator later. . </para>
</talk.start>
</continue>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>386</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>MAGNESIUM INDUSTRY</title>
<page.no>386</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>386</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KAY</name.id>
<electorate />
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">GIBSON, William</name>
<name role="display">Senator GIBSON</name>
</talker>
<para>asked the Minister representing the Minister for Supply and Shipping, <inline font-style="italic">upon notice -</inline></para>
</talk.start>
<list type="decimal-dotted">
<item label="1.">
<para>What action does the Government propose to take to establish <inline font-style="italic">the magnesium</inline> industry in the Commonwealth ? </para>
</item>
<item label="2.">
<para>Is it proposed to confine activity to the production of aluminium? </para>
</item>
<item label="3.">
<para>In view of the importance of magnesium, will the Government consider the possibility of the 'manufacture of this important light metal ? </para>
</item>
<item label="4.">
<para>Is it not a fact that magnesium is to <inline font-style="italic">a</inline> great extent displacing aluminium in industry to-day? </para>
</item>
</list>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>386</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KKR</name.id>
<electorate>WESTERN AUSTRALIA</electorate>
<party>ALP</party>
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">FRASER, James</name>
<name role="display">Senator FRASER</name>
</talker>
<para>- The Minister for Supply and Shipping has supplied the following answers : - </para>
</talk.start>
<list type="decimal-dotted">
<item label="1.">
<para>This industry is already functioning. Australian requirements of magnesium are being fully supplied at present from magnesite, abundant quantities of which are available. </para>
</item>
<item label="2.">
<para>The establishment of the aluminium industry is the particular project which is engaging our immediate attention. The honorable senator may be assured that the Government will take such action, <inline font-style="italic">in</inline> relation to the establishment of any other industry, as it considers, from time to time, to be practicable and appropriate. </para>
</item>
<item label="3.">
<para>See reply toNo. 1. </para>
</item>
<item label="4.">
<para>No. Pure magnesium is seldom used in any position exposed to weather conditions likely to bring a.bout oxidation. It is mainly used in light alloys with aluminium. </para>
</item>
</list>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>386</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>PORT OF ALBANY</title>
<page.no>386</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<para>Development - Petrol Prices</para>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>386</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>K7M</name.id>
<electorate>WESTERN AUSTRALIA</electorate>
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">COLLETT, Herbert</name>
<name role="display">Senator COLLETT</name>
</talker>
<para>asked the Minister representing the Prime Minister, <inline font-style="italic">upon notice -</inline></para>
</talk.start>
<list type="decimal-dotted">
<item label="1.">
<para>Is it a fact that the geographical position of the port of Albany, Western Australia, together with its great natural facilities, constitute factors of major importance in regard to the strategical defence of Australia'? </para>
</item>
<item label="2.">
<para>Is it also a fact that, in regard to the development of the ports of Western Australia, the following amounts have been expended by the State Government since 1924: - </para>
</item>
</list>
<para class="block">
<graphic href="176332194310134_4_0.jpg" />
</para>
<list type="decimal-dotted">
<item label="3.">
<para>In order to remedy this seeming neglect of Albany, and so as toaccelerate a system of decentralization associated with post-war reconstruction and development, will the Prime Minister enter into negotiations with the Government of Western Australia? </para>
</item>
</list>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>387</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KE4</name.id>
<electorate />
<party>ALP</party>
<role />
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">KEANE, Richard</name>
<name role="display">Senator KEANE</name>
</talker>
<para>- The Prime Minister has supplied the following answers : - </para>
</talk.start>
<list type="decimal-dotted">
<item label="1.">
<para>The value of the port of Albany has not been overlooked in the study of the strategical defence of Australia. </para>
</item>
<item label="2.">
<para>The Premier of Western Australia has furnished information showing expenditure on the ports mentioned by the honorable senator as follows: - Fremantle, £1,004,551 (including wharf reconstruction, dredging, &c.) ; Geraldton, £849.070 (including wharfs and dredging); Bunbury, £320,071 (including facilities for bulk handling of wheat) ; Esperance. £76.40) (including jetty work) ; Albany, £1,260. The Premier has also supplied the following particulars and comments regarding the port of Albany, viz.: The port has been provided with jetty accommodation. Albany is a natural harbour, requires no dredging and maintenance is very low. The present facilities have proved ample to meet pre-war requirements of shipping companies. When future trade developments attract more shipping the State Government is prepared to add to existing facilities. The total expenditure on Albany harbour since its inception is £214,142. </para>
</item>
<item label="3.">
<para>The Co-ordinator-General of Works is at present obtaining proposals from State governments and instrumentalities for works which may bo suitable after the war. The State Government of Western Australia will thus have an opportunity of putting forward specific projects for consideration by the National Works Council. I shall bring the honorable senator's question under the notice of the Premier of Western Australia. </para>
</item>
</list>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>387</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>K7M</name.id>
<electorate>WESTERN AUSTRALIA</electorate>
<party>NAT; UAP from 1937</party>
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">COLLETT, Herbert</name>
<name role="display">Senator COLLETT</name>
</talker>
<para>asked the Minister representing the Minister for Supply and Shipping, <inline font-style="italic">upon notice -</inline></para>
</talk.start>
<list type="decimal-dotted">
<item label="1.">
<para>Is it a fact that fuel petrol was formerly carried by rail from Fremantle to Albany and the cost of rail transport between these two points added to the price at which the petrol was sold to users? </para>
</item>
<item label="2.">
<para>Is it also a fact that petrol is now landed at Albany and that, notwithstanding, the cost to users remains the same as before, although it is disposed of at a cheaper rate at a point over 180 miles nearer Fremantle? </para>
</item>
<item label="3.">
<para>If, as suggested, such an anomaly exists, will the Minister direct that an adjustment be at once made? </para>
</item>
</list>
<continue>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>387</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KE4</name.id>
<electorate />
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">KEANE, Richard</name>
<name role="display">Senator KEANE</name>
</talker>
<para>- The Minister for Supply and Shipping has supplied the following answers: - </para>
</talk.start>
</continue>
<list type="decimal-dotted">
<item label="1.">
<para>Yes. </para>
</item>
<item label="2.">
<para>Yes. </para>
</item>
<item label="3.">
<para>There is no anomaly. The savings in rail transport in respect of petrol previously railed from Fremantle to Albany must be offset" against other costs incurred in storing petrol landed direct at Albany. The matter has already been under the notice of the Commonwealth Prices Commissioner, who has indicated that there will be no reduction in the present differential, but that the position will be reviewed at the end of twelve months, when a statement will be available, of the additional costs or savings resulting from the direct landing of petrol at Albany. </para>
</item>
</list>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>387</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>SURPLUS WAR STORES</title>
<page.no>387</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>387</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>K7M</name.id>
<electorate />
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">COLLETT, Herbert</name>
<name role="display">Senator COLLETT</name>
</talker>
<para>asked the Minister representing the Prime Minister, <inline font-style="italic">upon n otice -</inline></para>
</talk.start>
<list type="decimal-dotted">
<item label="1.">
<para>Has the Government yet determined upon a plan for the disposal, at the termination of hostilities, of surplus war stores? </para>
</item>
<item label="2.">
<para>If so, what are the conditions under which motor trucks and other power vehicles will be made available to primary producers and local governing authorities? </para>
</item>
</list>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>387</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KE4</name.id>
<electorate />
<party>ALP</party>
<role />
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">KEANE, Richard</name>
<name role="display">Senator KEANE</name>
</talker>
<para>- The Prime Minister has supplied the following answer: - 1 and 2. The matter is at present receiving the attention of the Government. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>387</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>BASE HOSPITALS</title>
<page.no>387</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<para>Preserved Foods</para>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>387</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>K7M</name.id>
<electorate />
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">COLLETT, Herbert</name>
<name role="display">Senator COLLETT</name>
</talker>
<para>asked the Minister representing the Minister for the Army, <inline font-style="italic">upon notice -</inline></para>
</talk.start>
<list type="decimal-dotted">
<item label="1.">
<para>Is it a fact that preserved foods, notably tinned meats, arc being regularly issued at base hospitals as part of the dietary of patients? </para>
</item>
<item label="2.">
<para>If so, is not such a course of action prejudicial to the health of the patients - especially in view of the existence in metropolitan areas of plentiful supplies of fresh foods ? </para>
</item>
</list>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>387</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KKR</name.id>
<electorate>WESTERN AUSTRALIA</electorate>
<party>ALP</party>
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">FRASER, James</name>
<name role="display">Senator FRASER</name>
</talker>
<para>- The Minister for the Army has supplied the following answers : - </para>
</talk.start>
<list type="decimal-dotted">
<item label="1.">
<para>The normal ration scale for Army personnel provides an issue of tinned fish and meat on one day per week to enable existing stocks to be turned over. This applies to hospitals in addition to other units,but is now optional. </para>
</item>
<item label="2.">
<para>If tinned foods are drawn it is not prejudicial to the health of patients, as additional items or special diets are ordered by the medical officer in accordance with the requirements of the patient, and such items arc not governed by the normal ration scale. </para>
</item>
</list>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>387</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>ROYAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE</title>
<page.no>387</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<para>Officers Pay - Acting Rank</para>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>387</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>K7M</name.id>
<electorate />
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">COLLETT, Herbert</name>
<name role="display">Senator COLLETT</name>
</talker>
<para>asked the Minister representing the Minister for Air, <inline font-style="italic">upon notice -</inline></para>
</talk.start>
<list type="decimal-dotted">
<item label="1.">
<para>Has the pay and/or allowances of officers of the Royal Australian Air Force, stationed in the Middle East or abroad, recently been reduced by 3s. daily, or any other amount? If so, why? </para>
</item>
<item label="2.">
<para>If not, is any such reduction contemplated ? </para>
</item>
</list>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>388</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>L8E</name.id>
<electorate>VICTORIA</electorate>
<party>ALP</party>
<role>Minister for Aircraft Production</role>
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">CAMERON, Donald</name>
<name role="display">Senator CAMERON</name>
</talker>
<para>- The Minister for Air has supplied the following answers : - </para>
</talk.start>
<list type="decimal-dotted">
<item label="1.">
<para>Royal Australian Air Force field allowance being paid to members of the Royal Australian Air Force in the Middle East concurrently with somewhat similar allowances drawn under Royal Air Force regulations was withheld for a limited period, pending clarification of an apparent duplication in payments. After review, it was decided to effect payment of both Royal Australian Air Force and Royal Air Force allowance, and retrospective adjustments have been made on that basis. </para>
</item>
<item label="2.">
<para>Sec answer to 1. </para>
</item>
</list>
<continue>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>388</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>K7M</name.id>
<electorate />
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">COLLETT, Herbert</name>
<name role="display">Senator COLLETT</name>
</talker>
<para>asked the Minister representing the Minister for Air, <inline font-style="italic">upon notice -</inline></para>
</talk.start>
</continue>
<quote>
<para>As regards members of the Royal Australian Air Force of non-commissioned rank who may have been granted acting rank whilst on service a.broad - </para>
<list type="decimal-dotted">
<item label="1.">
<para>Is it a fact that, on return to Australia, such acting rank is cancelled, e.g., a corporal reverts to leading aircraftman ? </para>
</item>