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19610322_senate_23_s19.xml
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19610322_senate_23_s19.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>1961-03-22</date>
<parliament.no>23</parliament.no>
<session.no>3</session.no>
<period.no>1</period.no>
<chamber>SENATE</chamber>
<page.no>305</page.no>
<proof>0</proof>
</session.header>
<chamber.xscript>
<business.start>
<day.start>1961-03-22</day.start>
<para>The <inline font-weight="bold">PRESIDENT (Senator the Hon. Sir Alister McMullin)</inline> took the chair at 3 p.m., and read prayers. </para>
</business.start>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>305</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>HOUSING</title>
<page.no>305</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>305</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KUD</name.id>
<electorate>VICTORIA</electorate>
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">MCMANUS, Francis</name>
<name role="display">Senator McMANUS</name>
</talker>
<para>- 1 desire to ask a question of the Minister for National Development. Is he aware that <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. Ebbels,</inline> the Victorian Registrar of Co-operative Societies, has challenged in his latest report figures which he states were issued by the Federal Department of National Development, estimating the Australian housing shortage at 50,000 units in 1959, and has stated that his inquiries support the claim of the Victorian Housing Minister, <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. Petty,</inline> that the Victorian shortage alone is from 35,000 to 40,000 homes? Does the Department of National Development compile its estimates independently or in cooperation with the State housing authorities? Does the Minister believe that in view of the statements by <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. Petty</inline> and <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. Ebbels,</inline> the figures of the Department of National Development need to be re-examined? Can he suggest a reason for the discrepancy between the two estimates? </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>305</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>K7A</name.id>
<electorate>NEW SOUTH WALES</electorate>
<party>LP</party>
<role>Minister for National Development</role>
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">SPOONER, William</name>
<name role="display">Senator SPOONER</name>
</talker>
<para>- I have not seen <inline font-weight="bold">Mr.. Ebbels's</inline> report, nor had I heard of it previously. That being the case, I speak with some hesitation, having a very high opinion indeed of <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. Ebbels</inline> and the work he is doing. There must, however, be some misunderstanding. The Department of National Development has not made any estimate of the housing shortage since 1956, but it did commence to bring its estimates up to date in, I think, 1959 or 1960. The department does not do this work on its own. The work is done in conjunction with experts in the Australian National University, and with other demographers and statisticians. The department reported to me that there was a conflict of opinion about the basis upon which estimates should be made subsequent to 1956 and that, as a result, it had been agreed that it was impracticable to make an estimate with any proper foundation until the next census had been taken. The department has not made an estimate of the national housing position for some time. We do no more than say that there has been a marked improvement in the housing situation and that the num ber of houses being built in all States of the Commonwealth has been substantially in excess of the normal annual demand, even though we are not prepared to put a figure upon that normal annual demand. Generally speaking, we go no further than to say that the housing shortage has been very appreciably reduced. It exists at its worst or highest - whichever word you choose to use - in New South Wales and Victoria. It is greater in those States than in the other States of the Commonwealth. It is very much open to question whether in some States of the Commonwealth a housing shortage exists at all. We have deferred establishing the position statistically until the next census. I do not know to what <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. Ebbels</inline> is referring. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>305</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>AUSTRALIAN MILITARY FORCES</title>
<page.no>305</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>305</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KSN</name.id>
<electorate>TASMANIA</electorate>
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">MARRIOTT, John</name>
<name role="display">Senator MARRIOTT</name>
</talker>
<para>- My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for the Army. Is it not a fact that as from 1st January, 1960, the Army establishment in Tasmania - much to the disappointment of the Tasmanian people - was altered from the status of a command, to that of regimental head-quarters? Has the status now been raised again to a command? If not, why are recruiting advertisements currently appearing in Tasmanian newspapers asking, would-be recruits to inquire at head-quarters, Tasmania Command? </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>305</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KH5</name.id>
<electorate>VICTORIA</electorate>
<party>LP</party>
<role>Minister for the Navy</role>
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">GORTON, John</name>
<name role="display">Senator GORTON</name>
</talker>
<para>- I understand that the position is as stated by the honorable senator, and that the Tasmania Command has been designated' by the Army by a different name. The advertisement to which he refers, and which he has shown to me, invites women to enlist in the Royal Australian Army Nursing Service, Tasmania Command. Quite possibly the use of the word " command " instead of " regimental head-quarters " is a natural slip on the part of a male officer advertising for female officers under whose command he may eventually come. I shall direct the attention of the Minister for the Army to the question that has been asked. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>305</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>FOOD QUALITY</title>
<page.no>305</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>305</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>K6P</name.id>
<electorate>QUEENSLAND</electorate>
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">BROWN, Gordon</name>
<name role="display">Senator BROWN</name>
</talker>
<para>- I should like to ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health some interesting questions. Has he any knowledge of a governmental inquiry in Great Britain into the food' values of certain denatured foods now on the market in the form of breakfast foods? If so, will he make the results of such inquiry available to the Senate? Is it a fact that certain advertisers of similar foods in Australia make extravagant claims on television regarding their vitamin content and food value? Does the department take any action to curb false advertising on television or radio? </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>306</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KH5</name.id>
<electorate />
<party>LP</party>
<role />
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">GORTON, John</name>
<name role="display">Senator GORTON</name>
</talker>
<para>- The answers to the honorable senator's four questions are - (1) No; (2) see answer to No. 1; (3) I do not know, and (4) I will bring the matter to the attention of the Minister for Health and ask him for a reply. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>306</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>AIR-SEA RESCUE</title>
<page.no>306</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>306</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KQQ</name.id>
<electorate>SOUTH AUSTRALIA</electorate>
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">LAUGHT, Keith</name>
<name role="display">Senator LAUGHT</name>
</talker>
<para>- I preface a question to the Minister for Air by pointing out that the part played by Neptune aircraft of the Royal Australian Air Force in the search in the recent sea mishap about 400 miles east of Brisbane has been properly acclaimed in the Senate and elsewhere. I understand that these aircraft are based near Sydney. Was there any reason why Neptune aircraft were not used by the R.A.A.F. in the search for the "Lincoln Star " off the South Australian coast? </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>306</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KAF</name.id>
<electorate>VICTORIA</electorate>
<party>LP</party>
<role>Minister for Air</role>
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">WADE, Harrie</name>
<name role="display">Senator WADE</name>
</talker>
<para>- I appreciate the tribute paid by the honorable senator to the Royal Australian Air Force in its search and rescue work off the Queensland coast. In view of the successful use of the Neptune aircraft in that instance he asks why they were not used in the operation off the South Australian coast. The essence of success in all of these operations stems from the speed at which the operation can be commenced. That is particularly so when lives are endangered at sea. If the question carries the implication that had Neptune bombers been available the result of the search in South Australian waters might have been different, I assure the honorable senator, whose concern in this matter I appreciate, that the aircraft used in the search were just as adequately equipped for a search of this kind as are the Neptunes. It may be appropriate to add that persons who need to be rescued from the sea are at the mercy of the waves, and in a very short space of time they can completely vanish from the surface. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>306</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>ROYAL AUSTRALIAN AIR FORCE</title>
<page.no>306</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>306</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KNU</name.id>
<electorate>VICTORIA</electorate>
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">HANNAN, George</name>
<name role="display">Senator HANNAN</name>
</talker>
<para>- Has the attention of the Minister for Air been directed to an article in the Melbourne " Sun " last Thursday which quotes the Minister as saying that the decision to make the Mirage fighter aircraft in Australia will directly affect the jobs of 2,000 Australian workers? The same report indicates that it is almost certain that the aircraft made in this country will be fitted with Rolls Royce engines, which also are likely to be manufactured here. Are those statements correct? </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>306</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KAF</name.id>
<electorate />
<party>LP</party>
<role />
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">WADE, Harrie</name>
<name role="display">Senator WADE</name>
</talker>
<para>- It is estimated that about 2,000 Australian workers will be directly employed in the assembling and construction of the new Mirage fighter. It is also true that a large number of additional workers will be indirectly employed on work associated with the new fighter, but it is impossible at this juncture to assess what that number may be. The manufacture of the new fighter will give great impetus to the aircraft industry and to industry generally. But it is not correct to say that it seems certain that the Rolls Royce engine will be fitted to these aircraft. I emphasize that a definite statement about the engines to be used cannot be made at this point of time for the very good reason that tests are now being undertaken in France by a selected team of Australian experts, who will report to the Government on the make of engine considered most efficient and best suited to our needs. No decision will be taken to fit either the Rolls Royce engine or a French engine until we have full and comprehensive reports and recommendations from the people who have been sent to France to conduct tests. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>306</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>COAL</title>
<page.no>306</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>306</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>K0N</name.id>
<electorate>NEW SOUTH WALES</electorate>
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">ARNOLD, James</name>
<name role="display">Senator ARNOLD</name>
</talker>
<para>- My question is directed to the Minister for National Development. From time to time, I have asked the Minister questions about the coal industry and the possibility of setting up an industry to manufacture chemical byproducts from coal. I know that the Minister has received reports from experts who have investigated this matter. Having regard to the number of pits that have closed down on the northern coal-fields, is the Minister yet in a position to inform the Senate whether there is any possibility of establishing a coal by-products industry on the northern coalfields within a reasonable time? </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>307</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>K7A</name.id>
<electorate />
<party>LP</party>
<role />
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">SPOONER, William</name>
<name role="display">Senator SPOONER</name>
</talker>
<para>- With the approval of the Government I have had a committee of inquiry appointed to look into this matter and report to the Government. I do nol remember all of the terms of reference, but. the committee was asked first to look at the amount that is now being spent on research into coal. I think the figure is about £350,000 or £400,000 a year. That is an appreciable amount now being spent by the Commonwealth Government on coal research. Secondly, the committee has been asked whether it can advance any proposals which, in the short term, would increase the use of coal. The committee has made a preliminary report and has reviewed, in part, the research programmes. It has pointed out the additional work that it believes it should do before it submits a final report. </para>
</talk.start>
<para>So far the committee has done no more than to express a tentative view that the indications are that the best line of research would be to consider the practicability of producing from coal a gas to be used for industrial purposes. That does not mean that that development is just around the corner. Such development would involve a good deal of research work, followed by a pilot plant experimentation. That is why I have always accepted some little amount of unpopularity for not supporting enthusiastically proposals which suggest that something can be done overnight to discover additional uses for coal. I believe we have a long way to go before we can get scientific and industrial opinion to support such proposals. </para>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>307</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>CREDIT RESTRICTIONS</title>
<page.no>307</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>307</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>K5K</name.id>
<electorate>WESTERN AUSTRALIA</electorate>
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">SCOTT, Malcolm</name>
<name role="display">Senator SCOTT</name>
</talker>
<para>- I preface my question, which is addressed to the Minister representing the Treasurer, by stating that there appeared in the " Farmers' Weekly " of recent date a statement to the effect that finance was being withheld by the banks from farmers for necessary carry-on purposes. I ask the Minister: Is the Government's credit policy designed to have the banks restrict finance to farmers for carryon purposes? Can he inform me whether the banks have requested the recognized stock firms to reduce their overdrafts with the banks, thus forcing those firms to reduce advances to farmers for carry-on purposes? </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>307</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>JZY</name.id>
<electorate>WESTERN AUSTRALIA</electorate>
<party>LP</party>
<role>Minister for Civil Aviation</role>
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">PALTRIDGE, Shane</name>
<name role="display">Senator PALTRIDGE</name>
</talker>
<para>- Both the policy statement on the operation of credit restrictions, which was made by the Treasurer in November last, and the directive issued by the Governor of the central bank to the trading banks made it quite clear that it is not intended that the credit restrictions shall operate so as to hamper in any way production for export, particularly primary production. I am sure that the Treasurer, in his policy speech, made a particular point of that matter, stating that it would be contrary to the purpose of the directive if credit restrictions in any way hampered production for export. Therefore, the statement to the effect that finance is being withheld by the banks, which the honorable senator says appeared in the Western Australian " Farmers' Weekly ", comes as a surprise to me, particularly in the light of the recent statement by the banks to the Governor of the Reserve Bank, and in turn by the Governor of the Reserve Bank to the Treasurer, that the banks themselves would be quite prepared to examine at head office level the complaint of any primary producer who thought he was aggrieved in this connexion. If there are any individual cases of this nature, I suggest that the best method by which to solve the problem would be for the aggrieved person to ask the bank in question to institute, the kind of inquiry that it has agreed to make. </para>
</talk.start>
<para>In reply to the other part of the question - whether the central bank has required the call-up of advances made to stock firms - let me say that it seems to me to be quite possible that that is the case. But again, if that call-up operated in such a way as to hamper primary production, I think it would be a case for examination by the method to which I referred earlier. It is certainly not the intention of the directive that carry-on finance should be denied to primary producers, and I can only refer in most emphatic terms to the directive itself and the statement made by the Treasurer. </para>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>307</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>TOBACCO</title>
<page.no>307</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>307</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>K5X</name.id>
<electorate>VICTORIA</electorate>
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">SHEEHAN, James</name>
<name role="display">Senator SHEEHAN</name>
</talker>
<para>- My question, which is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Primary Industry, is prompted by the prevalent discussion of methods by which we may improve Australia's balance-of-payments position. Is it a fact that the Australian tobacco crop foI this season, 1960-61, is estimated at about 31,000,000 lb., which is an increase of 10,000,000 lb. on the crop in the previous season, 1959-60? If that is so, what saving in Australia's payments overseas, in terms of American dollars, will be brought about by that increase? What has been the trend of consumption of tobacco per head in Australia during the past five years? Is there any factual indication that the increased proportion of Australian-grown tobacco incorporated in Australianmanufactured cigarettes has affected the trend of consumption per head of the population? </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>308</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KAF</name.id>
<electorate />
<party>LP</party>
<role />
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">WADE, Harrie</name>
<name role="display">Senator WADE</name>
</talker>
<para>- <inline font-weight="bold">Senator Sheehan</inline> has asked a most interesting question. I understand that the figure he has quoted - an increase of 10,000,000 lb. in the 1960-61 crop over the 1959-60 crop - is correct. If my arithmetic is right, that would involve a saving of about 5,000,000 dollars in overseas funds. I hasten to assure the honorable senator that not all of our imported leaf comes from America. The smoking trend is upwards, although very slightly. One aspect of the trend is of interest. Pre-war, of all the cigarettes smoked in Australia. 30 per cent, were .tailor-made and 70 per cent, were " roll-your-own "; to-day the position is the reverse of that - 70 per cent, are tailor-made and 30 per cent, are " roll-your-own ". There are no factual indications that the increased proportion of Australian tobacco has affected in any way the sales of cigarettes or tobacco. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>308</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>TELEPHONE SERVICES</title>
<page.no>308</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>308</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>K0L</name.id>
<electorate>SOUTH AUSTRALIA</electorate>
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">PEARSON, Rex</name>
<name role="display">Senator PEARSON</name>
</talker>
<para>- Can the Minister representing the Postmaster-General inform me whether the experiment carried out by the Postmaster-General's Department in regard to the use of light-weight anodized aluminium telephone booths in South Australia during the recent hot summer months has been successful? If it has been successful, does the department intend to erect more of such telephone booths before next summer? </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>308</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KAF</name.id>
<electorate />
<party>LP</party>
<role />
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">WADE, Harrie</name>
<name role="display">Senator WADE</name>
</talker>
<para>- I should like the honorable senator to place that question on the notice-paper. The department is doing some research into this matter and a comprehensive answer to the question is warranted in view of the interest in the experiment. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>308</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>DENTISTS</title>
<page.no>308</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>308</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KUD</name.id>
<electorate />
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">MCMANUS, Francis</name>
<name role="display">Senator McMANUS</name>
</talker>
<para>asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice - </para>
</talk.start>
<list type="decimal-dotted">
<item label="1.">
<para>Is the 'Government aware that there is a great and increasing shortage of qualified dentists in Australia? </para>
</item>
<item label="2.">
<para>Is it a fact that many Australian children are receiving inadequate dental attention because of this shortage and because of the inability of their parents to bear the considerable expense of dental treatment? </para>
</item>
<item label="3.">
<para>Is it a fact .that a considerable number of Australian graduates in dentistry have been attracted to England by the more remunerative opportunities there under the national health scheme, and that business firms in Britain interested in dental supplies are offering most attractive terms to induce Australian dental graduates to go to the United Kingdom? </para>
</item>
<item label="4.">
<para>Did some 170 qualified Australian dentists leave for Britain last year and are some hundreds now domiciled there? </para>
</item>
<item label="5.">
<para>Has the Government any plans to arrest the serious position by (a) a national dental health scheme; and (jb) consultation with bodies representing Australian dentists? </para>
</item>
</list>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>308</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KH5</name.id>
<electorate />
<party>LP</party>
<role />
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">GORTON, John</name>
<name role="display">Senator GORTON</name>
</talker>
<para>- The Minister for Health has now furnished the following reply: - </para>
</talk.start>
<list type="loweralpha-dotted">
<item label="t.">
<para>I understand that the number of qualified dentists in -practice is less than could be desired in some areas of Australia, but is adequate in other areas. </para>
<list type="decimal-dotted">
<item label="2.">
<para>Any inadequacy in the extent to which Australian children receive dental treatment cannot merely be attributed to the two factors suggested. </para>
</item>
<item label="3.">
<para>No doubt a number of graduates faced with purchasing or establishing a dental practice find that there are favorable opportunities for experience in a country which has a much, larger population and the laws of which enable them to practise there. I understand that some Australian dental graduates are attracted to England for these reasons. </para>
</item>
<item label="4.">
<para>The information available to me indicates that the net. migration of qualified dentists to Britain in 1960 would be considerably less than 170. I am not aware of the number of Australian dentists domiciled in Britain. </para>
</item>
<item label="5.">
<para>I have had consultations with the Australian Dental Association from time to time to discuss problems associated with the introduction of a national dental health scheme. </para>
</item>
</list>
</item>
</list>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>309</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>TELEPHONE SERVICES</title>
<page.no>309</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>309</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KRG</name.id>
<electorate>TASMANIA</electorate>
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">LILLICO, Alexander</name>
<name role="display">Senator LILLICO</name>
</talker>
<para>asked the Minister representing the Postmaster-General, upon notice - </para>
</talk.start>
<list type="decimal-dotted">
<item label="1.">
<para>ls the Postmaster-General's Department considering an alteration to what many regard as a most unsatisfactory system of transferring telephones from one subscriber to another, and under which the person to whom the phone is transferred is responsible for all indebtedness contracted by Che previous subscriber? </para>
</item>
<item label="2.">
<para>Would it not be fairer to both parties concerned if a subscriber were made responsible for all indebtedness right up to the exact date on which he relinquished his telephone? </para>
</item>
</list>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>309</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KAF</name.id>
<electorate />
<party>LP</party>
<role />
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">WADE, Harrie</name>
<name role="display">Senator WADE</name>
</talker>
<para>- The PostmasterGeneral has furnished the following reply: - </para>
</talk.start>
<quote>
<para>A complete review of the procedures for transferring telephone services is being undertaken. The system to which the honorable senator refers is one whereby a subscriber leaving the premises concerned could transfer his existing telephone service to a new occupant, the new subscriber accepting liability for all outstanding charges. In these circumstances, the department made it quite clear to the two parties concerned that it looked to them to make a satisfactory mutual adjustment of the charges involved. </para>
<para>The procedure has been widely used, particularly where a new occupant has commenced using an existing service before notifying the department that a transfer is required. In such cases the department cannot definitely determine the charges which are appropriate to the outgoing subscriber and the procedure enables public funds to be safeguarded. However, it was realized that the system had some unsatisfactory features and the department has already introduced alternative arrangements. Any new occupant of premises -where there is a telephone service installed can now take over the service at a future date, providing he gives the department advance notice, and he incurs charges only from that time. </para>
</quote>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>309</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>CENSORSHIP</title>
<page.no>309</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>309</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KSN</name.id>
<electorate />
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">MARRIOTT, John</name>
<name role="display">Senator MARRIOTT</name>
</talker>
<para>asked the Minister acting for the Minister for Customs and Excise, upon notice - </para>
</talk.start>
<list type="decimal-dotted">
<item label="1.">
<para>Is it the Minister's intention to hold a conference with State Ministers with a view to bringing about uniformity in censorship laws in Australia? </para>
</item>
<item label="2.">
<para>If so, will the Minister examine the system of censorship now operating in West Germany, with a view to its adoption in Australia? </para>
</item>
</list>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>309</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KH5</name.id>
<electorate />
<party>LP</party>
<role />
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">GORTON, John</name>
<name role="display">Senator GORTON</name>
</talker>
<para>-I am now able to inform the honorable senator that a conference will be held with State Ministers- on 27th March. The purpose of this meeting will be to discuss the possibility of achieving a uniform approach to censorship in this country. The Government has no knowledge of the details of current censorship methods employed in West Germany but steps are being taken to obtain full information on this matter. </para>
</talk.start>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>309</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>EXTRADITION OF MIGRANT</title>
<page.no>309</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>309</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KH5</name.id>
<electorate>Victoria</electorate>
<party>LP</party>
<role>Minister for the Navy</role>
<in.gov>1</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">GORTON, John</name>
<name role="display">Senator GORTON</name>
</talker>
<para>. - by leave - On 24th February, 1961, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics delivered to the Australian Embassy in Moscow a note requesting the surrender to the Soviet authorities of Ervin Richard Adolf Petrovich Viks because of certain alleged war crimes. </para>
</talk.start>
<para>The note contained an assertion that <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. Viks</inline> had personally participated; in the mass shooting of Soviet citizens near Tartu in July, 1941. It also asserted that while he was in that year chief of the political police of the Tallin-Harin prefecture certain shootings of Soviet citizens and certain arrests of people and their incarceration in concentration camps took place under his official guidance, and that in the following year, whilst chief of a certain department of the Estonian security police, he, in that capacity, guided punitive activities, personally passed death sentences and participated in executions. </para>
<para>No evidence of any kind accompanied the note although it claimed that Soviet investigation agencies had archival documents together with <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. Viks's</inline> signature which the note claimed to testify to <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. Viks's</inline> complicity in annihilating hundreds of people. It also claimed that witnesses were available to confirm the contents of the documents. </para>
<para>The Soviet note, in requesting the surrender of <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. Viks,</inline> called the attention of the Australian Government to what it termed the appropriate international agreements which called for war criminals to be handed over for trial and punishment to the countries in whose territories the war crimes had been committed. </para>
<para>The four international instruments were as follows: - </para>
<list type="loweralpha">
<item label="(a)">
<para>The Moscow Declaration of 30th October, 1943, made by the United Kingdom, the United States and the Soviet Union. </para>
</item>
<item label="(b)">
<para>The agreement of 8th August, 1945, establishing the International Military Tribunal for the trial of major war criminals - in conformity with which the Nuremberg trials took place. </para>
</item>
<item label="(c)">
<para>The resolution of the General Assembly of the United Nations of 13th February, 1946, recommending that member nations take forthwith all necessary measures to cause the arrest of war criminals. </para>
</item>
<item label="(d)">
<para>The resolution of the General Assembly of 31st October, 1947, re-affirming the last-mentioned resolution and recommending that member nations which desired the surrender of war criminals should make their request as soon as possible and should support the request with sufficient evidence to establish a reasonable prima facie case of identity and guilt. </para>
</item>
</list>
<para>The full texts of these instruments are available in the Parliamentary Library. </para>
<para>No claim was made by the Soviet authorities that any extradition treaty existed which imposed any relevant obligation upon the Australian Government. </para>
<para>
<inline font-weight="bold">Mr. President,</inline>this note reached the hands of the Acting Minister for External Affairs, in translation, on 13th March, whereupon he took it immediately into consideration, having the assistance of officers both of the Department of External Affairs and of the Department of the Attorney-General. After investigation, he concluded that the request must be refused. </para>
<para>On 15th March, the Australian Embassy delivered to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics in Moscow the Australian Government's reply to the Soviet request. That reply was in the following terms: - </para>
<quote>
<para>The Australian Embassy presents its compliments to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and has the honour to refer to the Ministry's Note of 24th February requesting the surrender of <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. E.</inline> R. A. P. Viks for alleged war crimes in Estonia 19 years ago. </para>
<para>The Australian Government notes that the Ministry, in the absence of any extradition treaty between Australia and the Soviet Union, bases its request on certain international declarations and recommendations, made between the years 1943-1947, concerning the surrender and prosecution of war criminals. </para>
<para>Australia fully shared in the common desire of the United Nations to bring to justice the Nazi, Fascist and Japanese war criminals and, so far as its own immediate theatre of war was concerned, established or participated in tribunals which conducted the trials of a great number of war criminals. </para>
<para>However, the contents of the Ministry's note and the terms of the above-mentioned instruments make clear when carefully examined, as they have been by the Australian Government, that these instruments have no application to the present matter, and that Australia is under no obligation to surrender <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. Viks.</inline></para>
<para>The Embassy is instructed to add that the Australian Government has not conceded that the place where the alleged offences are said to have been committed constitutes juridically part of the territory of the Soviet Union. </para>
</quote>
<para>Before I explain to the Senate the full reasons for the Australian Government's reply, may I remind the chamber of some basic considerations. The Australian Government has no power or authority to arrest, detain or surrender any person in Australia, whether or not an Australian citizen, except in accordance with the rule of law. There must exist some law authorizing such arrest, detention or surrender, and the Government must meticulously observe all the requirements of that law. The great writ of habeas corpus is always available to bring the executive government before the courts of the land to justify any detention of a person in Australia. Australia knows1 nothing of, and would not for a moment, I am sure, tolerate, any power in the executive government arbitrarily, that is to say without the support of law, to detain persons. On the other hand, some nations know nothing of the rule of law which protects the liberty of the people. </para>
<para>Under our system of law, the surrender of a person to another country takes place under and in accordance with the statutory law, usually in the form of extradition acts, which depend for their operation upon the existence of an extradition treaty with the country to which the surrender is made. Under such acts, there must first be a legal proceeding, in which the evidence against the person sought to be surrendered is closely examined by an impartial tribunal, and in which that person is given full opportunity to place evidence before and to address the tribunal in his own defence. The extradition may take place only if the tribunal is satisfied that a prima facie case of guilt is made out upon the evidence, and authorizes the surrender. </para>
<para>In the present case, no extradition treaty exists between Australia and the Soviet Union. Consequently, there is no legal authority under which the Australian Government could interfere with the liberty of <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. Viks</inline> at the request of the Soviet Government. </para>
<para>I should point out, however, that in the extradition treaties to which Australia is a party, a discretion is reserved to the Government in any case to refuse to surrender a person of Australian citizenship whether by birth or by naturalization. </para>
<para>It is the practice of Australia to refuse to surrender an Australian citizen, even if an extradiction treaty exists. In the instant case, <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. Viks</inline> is an Australian citizen, having been naturalized in the year 1957. I should also point out that extradition treaties to which Australia is a party contain a further limitation, namely, that no surrender should be made if the crime alleged by the requesting country is a political crime in the international sense in which those words are used. This limitation applies to Australian residents as well as to Australian citizens. Broadly speaking, crimes of a political character, for the purpose of the extradition system, include crimes committed in the course of conflict between contending political groups or organizations. Breaches of the laws of war committed by commanders in the field would scarcely come under this heading. But the position of acts performed in the purported exercise of government authority is doubtful. There are cases in which it has been held that acts so done do not justify extradition under the ordinary treaties and statutes. Partly for this reason special international arrangements and recommendations were made, during and at the conclusion of the World War, with respect to the surrender and trial of war criminals. </para>
<para>The Soviet note accordingly bases its request upon international instruments that stand outside the extradition system. Before I briefly inform the Senate of the Australian Government's understanding of each of these instruments, may I say that the Soviet note is based upon the premise that </para>
<para class="block">Estonia is now, and was in July, 1941, part of the Soviet Union so as to make the places in Estonia mentioned in the note part of Soviet territory for the purposes of the international instruments to which the Australian Government is referred. Australia, <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. President,</inline> has never recognized, and does not now recognize, the juridical incorporation of Estonia into Soviet territory - a circumstance of some significance in relation to some of the instruments to which I now turn. </para>
<para>The first of them was the Moscow Declaration of 1943. This was directed to the situation that would arise upon an armistice with Germany, then in prospect, and was in terms limited to German officers and men and members of the Nazi party. Quite clearly, even if it bound Australia - a matter into which I need not go - this declaration has no application to the present case. </para>
<para>The second was the agreement of 1945. This concerned the trial of major war criminals by a particular tribunal - the Nuremberg tribunal - which long ago ceased to exist. The agreement was also limited to German officers and men and members of the Nazi party. This instrument is clearly inapplicable to the present matter. </para>
<para>The third and fourth were the two recommendatory resolutions of the General Assembly of the United Nations. Whilst these resolutions create no obligations, the Australian Government would feel itself obliged to examine closely the question of how far steps should be taken to implement them, if the Government thought that the resolutions were now applicable. But an examination of the resolutions shows quite clearly that they referred to the situation immediately following upon the cessation of hostilities in the war of 1939-45, and that they contemplated prompt action so as expeditiously to clear up questions of war guilt. The terms in which the resolutions are couched lead quite quickly and certainly to the conclusion that the two recommendatory resolutions are now spent, and presently call for no action by the Australian Government. </para>
<para>These conclusions, <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. President,</inline> are sufficient to dispose of the present request for the surrender of <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. Viks.</inline> But I think I should make it quite clear, without in any way assuming guilt on the part of <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. Viks,</inline> that the Australian Government does not condone for one moment such crimes against humanity as have been the subject of the Nuremberg or Tokyo trials, or as may be involved in the acts that the Soviet note here asserts. Australia has demonstrated its conviction in this regard and its willingness to take prompt action - it participated, through its representatives, in approximately 1,000 war crimes trials in respect of the Pacific area. </para>
<para>Two deep-seated human interests, however, may well here come into conflict. On the one hand, there is the utter abhorrence felt by Australians for those offences against humanity to which we give the generic name of war crimes. On the other hand, there is the right of this nation, by receiving people into its country, to enable men to turn their backs on past bitternesses and to make a new life for themselves and for their families in a happier community. This has formed a precious part of the heritage of the West, in which Australia has an honorable share. in a given case the choice between these two human interests may present a government with a difficult decision. In the present instance, however, the Government came to the clear conclusion that, all questions of legal obligation apart, if such a choice had been necessary to resolve the matter, its right of asylum must have prevailed. Australia has established a thorough, though of course no infallible, system for sifting and screening the hundreds of thousands of migrants who have enriched our national life since the World War. In default of a binding obligation requiring Australia at this point of time to do otherwise, these, who have been allowed to make their homes here, must be able to live, in security, new lives under the rule of law. </para>
<para>In saying this, I must not for one moment be thought to be critical of any nation which, in this field, makes a different decision in any particular instance. It may be their duty, and it certainly is their right, to do so. Honorable senators will, no doubt, have in their minds the proceedings now immediately pending in Israel against a man who stands charged, in effect, as a major war criminal. For ourselves, however, in the kind of case which the present demand suggests, and which is distinguishable in many respects from the case in Israel, we think the time has come to close the chapter. It is, truly, the year 1961. This, indeed, is in the spirit of the United Nations resolutions themselves; for the General Assembly recognized how important it was that that which should be done, should be done quickly. </para>
<para>
<inline font-weight="bold">Mr. President,</inline>I have thought, that this statement was due to the Senate in a matter of such importance. The ground of the Government's refusal was based upon a full examination of the international instruments cited by the Soviet Government, for I felt that it was necessary first to examine whether there was any international obligation upon this country. If there had been, I should have felt that Australia would wish to honour it. I was convinced there was no international obligation. The reply therefore took this ground. Consequently, there was no need to rely upon other possible, grounds, some of which I have broadly indicated in what I have said. I ought finally to say that, if there had been an international obligation, legislative steps would have been necessary. The existence of such an international obligation would not of itself have entitled the Government to interfere with personal liberty. Conformably with the rule of law by and under which we live, authority would have had to be sought from the. Parliament. I have explained in detail to the Senate why the Government thought that this course was neither necessary nor desirable. </para>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>COMMITTEES</title>
<page.no>312</page.no>
<type>committee</type>
</debateinfo>
<para>Motions (by <inline font-weight="bold">Senator Spooner)</inline> - by leave - agreed to - </para>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>Standing Orders Committee</title>
<page.no>312</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<para>That a Standing Orders Committee be appointed, to consist of the President, the leader of the Government in the Senate, the Chairman of Committees, and Senators Cooke,. Kendall, Nicholls, O'Byrne, Vincent and Wright, with power to act during recess, and to confer with a similar committee of the House of Representatives: </para>
</subdebate.1>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>House Committee</title>
<page.no>312</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<para>That a House Committee be appointed, to consist of the President and Senators Amour, Aylett, Drake-Brockman, Hannaford, Sandford and Wardlaw, with power to- act during recess, and' to confer or sit as a joint committee with a< similar committee of the House of Representatives. </para>
</subdebate.1>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>Printing Committee</title>
<page.no>312</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<para>That a Printing Committee be appointed, toconsist of Senators Benn, Buttfield, Cooke,. Marriott, Robertson, Sandford and Scott, with, power to confer or sit as a joint committee with a similar committee of the House of Representatives. </para>
</subdebate.1>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>Library Committee</title>
<page.no>313</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<para>Motion (by <inline font-weight="bold">Senator Spooner)</inline> - by leave - proposed - </para>
<quote>
<para>That a Library Committee be appointed, to consist of the President and Senators Arnold, Hendrickson, Kendall, McCallum, Robertson and Tangney, with power to act during recess, and to confer or sit as a joint committee with a similar committee of the House of Representatives. </para>
</quote>
<interjection>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>313</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>K6W</name.id>
<electorate />
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">COLE, George</name>
<name role="display">Senator Cole</name>
</talker>
<para>- <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. President,</inline> pursuant to Standing Order No. 290, I demand a ballot. I wish to nominate <inline font-weight="bold">Senator McManus</inline> to be a member of the Library Committee. </para>
</talk.start>
</interjection>
<para>ThPRESIDENT.- There being no further nominations, a ballot will be taken. Ring the. bells. (The bells having been rung, the Clerk read the names of the candidates and the distribution of the ballot-papers proceeded) - </para>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>313</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>- The clerks at the table having handed out the ballot-papers, honorable senators will now vote by striking out the name of one nominee as indicated on the ballot-paper. </para>
</talk.start>
<para>I invite <inline font-weight="bold">Senator Spooner</inline> to come to the table and act as a scrutineer. (A ballot having been taken) - </para>
<continue>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>313</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 declare that the following senators have been chosen to serve on the Library Commitee: - Senators Arnold, Kendall, McCallum, McManus, Robertson and Tangney. The voting figures were - <inline font-weight="bold">Senator Arnold,</inline> 53; <inline font-weight="bold">Senator Hendrickson,</inline> 24; <inline font-weight="bold">Senator McCallum,</inline> 52; <inline font-weight="bold">Senator Robertson,</inline> 52; <inline font-weight="bold">Senator Kendall,</inline> 53; <inline font-weight="bold">Senator McManus,</inline> 31; <inline font-weight="bold">Senator Tangney,</inline> 53. </para>
</talk.start>
</continue>
<para>The question is - </para>
<quote>
<para>That a Library Committee be appointed, to consist of the President and Senators Arnold, Kendall, McCallum, McManus, Robertson and Tangney, with power to act during recess, and to confer or sit as a joint committee with a similar committee of the House of Representatives. </para>
</quote>
<para class="block">Question resolved in the affirmative. </para>
</speech>
</subdebate.1>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>REGULATIONS AND ORDINANCES COMMITTEE</title>
<page.no>313</page.no>
<type>miscellaneous</type>
</debateinfo>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>313</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 to inform the Senate that I have received letters from the Leader of the Government in the </para>
</talk.start>
<para class="block">Senate nominating Senators Laught, McKellar, Wood and Wright, and from the Leader of the Opposition in the Senate nominating Senators Arnold, Cooke and Willesee, to be members of the Standing Committee on Regulations and Ordinances. </para>
<para>Motion (by <inline font-weight="bold">Senator Spooner)</inline> - by leave - agreed to - </para>
<quote>
<para>That a Standing Committee of Regulations and Ordinances be appointed, to consist of Senators Arnold, Cooke, Laught, McKellar, Willesee, Wood and Wright, such senators having been duly nominated in accordance with the provisions of Standing Orders No. 36a. </para>
</quote>
</speech>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>ADMINISTRATOR'S SPEECH</title>
<page.no>313</page.no>
<type>miscellaneous</type>
</debateinfo>
</debate>
<debate>
<debateinfo>
<title>QUESTION</title>
<page.no>313</page.no>
<type>Questions</type>
</debateinfo>
<subdebate.1>
<subdebateinfo>
<title>ADDRESS-1N-REPLY</title>
<page.no>313</page.no>
</subdebateinfo>
<para>Debate resumed from 21st March (vide page 304), on motion by <inline font-weight="bold">Senator Mattner</inline> - </para>
<quote>
<para>That the following Address-in-Reply to the Speech of His Excellency the Administrator be agreed to: - </para>
<para class="block">May it Please Your Excellency - </para>
<para>We, the Senate of the Commonwealth of Australia in Parliament assembled, desire to express our loyalty to our Most Gracious Sovereign, and to thank Your Excellency for the Speech which you have been pleased to address to Parliament. </para>
</quote>
<para class="block">Upon which <inline font-weight="bold">Senator Armstrong</inline> had moved, by way of amendment - </para>
<quote>
<para>That the following words be added to the Address-in-Reply: - " and the Senate deplores the faulty leadership of the Government in directing the Australian economy resulting in - </para>
<list type="loweralpha">
<item label="(a)">
<para>continuing inflation; </para>
</item>
<item label="(b)">
<para>loss of overseas funds; </para>
</item>
<item label="(c)">
<para>unemployment; (d.) failure of the Public Loan Market; </para>
</item>
<item label="(e)">
<para>retarded National development; </para>
</item>
<item label="(f)">
<para>injustice to wage earners; </para>
</item>
<item label="(g)">
<para>inadequate social services and housing; </para>
</item>
<item label="(h)">
<para>inequitable taxation; </para>
</item>
<item label="(i)">
<para>high interest rates; and </para>
</item>
<item label="(j)">
<para>shortage of steel". </para>
</item>
</list>
</quote>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>313</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KBL</name.id>
<electorate>Queensland</electorate>
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">WOOD, Ian</name>
<name role="display">Senator WOOD</name>
</talker>
<para>.- During my remarks last night I complimented the Government upon its determination to build up Australia's overseas credits. I referred to various secondary industries, the mining industry and the primary industries. When the debate was interrupted, I was referring to the tourist industry as being one means of building up our overseas credits. Just before the Senate adjourned I was pointing out what was needed to make our drive for more tourists effective. I said that we must not think of Australia as being a small nation and that we shall need to spend approximately £1,000,000 a year on publicity. There is a tendency to think that because Australia has a small population we should spend only a corresponding sum on advertising. We must recognize the fact that if we want to make an impact on people in other countries in relation to our tourist attractions, we must do it in the same way as do countries with bigger populations. To make an appeal to prospective tourists effective, it will be necessary to spend a substantial amount of money on advertising. We ourselves know that a small advertisement in the press does not appeal as greatly as does a large advertisement. The same applies when we are seeking to attract the tourists from overseas. I believe that the expenditure of £1,000,000 a year on publicity overseas could very well result in a handsome return for Australia. If, having spent that sum, we were able to build up the value of our tourist industry to £10,000,000 a year in very quick time, the result would be a very great improvement of our overseas balances. As we all know, this is a very important matter. </para>
</talk.start>
<para>I believe that the tourist industry can yield a speedier return from any effort that is put forward than can other industries. We know that people think about and do take holidays at all times during the year. If we were to start advertising now, the response could be almost immediate. The tourist industry is a very valuable one, but it is one which this country has not exploited to the same degree as have other countries. The opportunity to do so is now with us, and it is good to know that apparently the Government is determined to try to do something worth while. It has been said in the past that we have not had accommodation and have not had this and that; but it can truly be said now that we have good hotels and good accommodation generally. As 1 said last night, Australia has features which are different from those of other countries. We must remember that the incentive to travel is the desire to see something different and to see different people. Australia has some unique features which I believe would have an appeal to visitors from overseas. Australia not only has an appeal of its own, but it should have a very strong appeal as the terminating point of travel for people who cross the Pacific from such places as the United States of America. Therefore, the Government is proceeding on right lines in making a determined drive to attract tourists to Australia. </para>
<para>It may be suggested that the expenditure of money by the Government would be a dead loss. People may ask what direct monetary gain the Government would receive. Some may ask, " Why should we spend money to build up the business of individuals and firms? " Let us look at the matter in a broad1 national way. Whatever money flows to various business undertakings increases the profit of those concerns, and in turn the Commonwealth Treasury receives more in the form of taxes. So in that way the Government receives a direct benefit. In addition, taxes are imposed on such commodities as cigarettes, tobacco and liquor. So they, too, mean a direct return to the Government. As I have pointed out previously, income from the tourist industry runs right through the business strata of the community and affects every one in an indirect way. Consequently, it benefits not only the Government but the nation generally. </para>
<interjection>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>314</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KNR</name.id>
<electorate />
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">HANNAFORD, Douglas</name>
<name role="display">Senator Hannaford</name>
</talker>
<para>- There is also the aspect of personal contact with other peoples. </para>
</talk.start>
</interjection>
<continue>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>314</page.no>
<time.stamp />
<name.id>KBL</name.id>
<electorate />
<party />
<role />
<in.gov>0</in.gov>
<first.speech>0</first.speech>
<name role="metadata">WOOD, Ian</name>
<name role="display">Senator WOOD</name>
</talker>
<para>- That is so. To have people coming here from other countries establishes a bond and enables us to understand one another better. Travel helps to remove enmities and ill-feelings and so makes a friendlier world. </para>
</talk.start>
</continue>
<para>Our drive for overseas funds is a matter of dire necessity. In the past we have relied to a very great extent upon our exports of wool, and also upon exports of other primary products, for our overseas earnings'. We are now relying upon overseas investments, too. But I do not think it is wise to have all our eggs in one or two baskets. I believe that the more widely we spread our sources of overseas income the better it is for Australia. Wool has taken a knock in recent times. We have seen the development of synthetics, which have encroached upon the wool market. That has been reflected in wool prices. The decline of wool prices and of our earnings from wool has had a serious effect upon our overseas credits. It is right for the Government to be up and doing now in order to rectify the situation. As I said earlier, we have relied upon overseas investments. But that aspect of our policy perhaps has an element of danger in it. If overseas investments were to taper off to any degree, probably we would be placed in a serious situation. Such reliance is too dangerous for us. Therefore, for those reasons we should try to achieve as wide a range of products and commodities as possible, in order to bring more money into this country. </para>
<para>With regard to the investment of overseas capital in Australia, consideration should be given to the necessity for overseas firms investing here to have some Australian content in their capital structure. Where firms have only overseas capital there is a possibility that they will not strive for overseas markets because by selling in those markets they would compete with parent or associated firms in other countries. Then, of course, there is the matter of the mounting dividends which flow out of Australia. Looking at this matter from the viewpoint of our overseas commitments and the desire to have a share in our own industries, the Government should give consideration to the point I have raised. If we. had a stake in many of the industries that overseas interests have established here, that would make for a much better reaction among our people generally. </para>
<para>The. greatest problem that we have at the moment is the balance of payments. If the position is not rectified, it could create a very serious difficulty for us. Therefore, every one of us should be determined to help in every possible way. As I indicated last night, from various statements that have been made we have seen that a consciousness of that requirement is developing. It has been pointed out that in the cattle industry the sending of beef overseas is very important. Of course, the Government has in mind road development schemes for the northern parts of Australia, where cattle are driven. They could be very valuable in helping to build up that industry to an even greater extent. As I have pointed out previously, in time of drought good roads could be the means of saving millions of pounds worth of stock. If we were able to transport stock by road, it is possible that it could be saved in time of drought and eventually sent overseas, so earning valuable overseas funds. </para>
<para>We have a similar trend in regard to coal. The Government is sponsoring the provision of better coal-handling facilities to assist the export of coal. Moves are being made in that direction. <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. Ernest</inline> Evans, the Minister for Mines in Queensland, recently paid a visit to Japan, and I believe that he did a very good job in that country. The Minister for National Development <inline font-weight="bold">(Senator Spooner)</inline> had previously paid a visit there. We find now that coal from Queensland will be exported to Japan. That not only will create work and assist the industry in Queensland, but also it will be another valuable contribution to our overseas credits. Last night I spoke about iron ore. The export of that commodity could grow to even greater proportions than we envisage at present. The tourist industry, of which I spoke also last night, could be increased considerably. So honorable senators can see that we have a number of things on the move and that collectively they could be of very great value. </para>
<para>In dealing with various aspects of this matter last night, I spoke about secondary industries. That is the field in which 1 think we will probably find the greatest difficulty in building up our overseas earnings. Tax incentives are being offered by the Government in order to encourage secondary industries to export their products, but a responsibility devolves not only upon the Government but also upon the people in secondary industries. A national call goes forth to secondary industries to do everything possible to assist the Government to ensure that we have sufficient overseas credits available, so that, among other things, materials may be imported which secondary industries require in the manufacture of their goods. It is essential that secondary industries play their part. I believe that it can be done if the captains of industry really get behind this move. </para>
<para>We know that last year about 250 people gathered in Canberra to try to work out how overseas credits could be earned. I hope that this call from the Government will act as a stimulus and an encouragement to people to do their best for Australia. All Australians should want to see this country progress and develop in every possible way. If we are hampered by a shortage of overseas funds, we shall always be at a great disadvantage. The initiative and enterprise which Australians have displayed so frequently in other directions should be applied to the building up of our secondary industries and of our export earnings. That can be done, and I am sure that secondary industries will rally to the call of the Government. The Government has set the course for them and the opportunity is there. </para>
<para>There is a national call to sell more cheaply and even to sell at cost, if necessary. Four companies, of which I spoke last night, intend to sell even below cost, if necessary, because greater sales create greater markets. The greater the output, the more economic is the rate of production. This results in cheaper goods. I believe that if secondary industries answer the call in a truly national way we will achieve: what the Government is trying to achieve. </para>
<para>Let me cite the case of a Queensland company, Appleton Industries Limited of Brisbane. A little while ago I received a letter from <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. Spalding,</inline> the chairman and managing director of that company, in which he said - </para>
<quote>
<para>That Australia's real problem is one of a shortage of overseas funds, of course, is correct. As chairman of a Queensland company that, at present, sells its products in over 100 countries and thus does its share in earning overseas currency, I think that we can claim to be doing our part in the export field. </para>
</quote>
<para class="block">That Brisbane firm is selling its products in more than 100 countries because it has initiative, drive and sales know-how. Surely that is an example that many industries in the bigger capital cities of Australia should follow. Appleton Industries Limited is a Queensland company of which I am truly proud, as I am sure most Queenslanders are. I hope that that example will be copied and re-copied by more and more industries throughout Australia. If that is done, I believe that we will achieve our aim of building up our overseas credits and eliminating the trouble which we have had continually in recent times, so making Australia a sounder and more prosperous country. I believe that the greatest problem we have at the moment is our. overseas credits position. <inline font-weight="bold">Mr.. Deputy President,</inline> I have very much pleasure in supporting the motion for the adoption, of the. AddressinReply. </para>
</speech>
<speech>
<talk.start>
<talker>
<page.no>316</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>. - I. desire to associate myself with the remarks) of other speakers in regard to the Address-' in-Reply to the Speech made by His Excellency the Administrator. I consider, that the Address-in-Reply should be: adopted, as other honorable senators do; but I also consider that the words contained in the amendment moved by <inline font-weight="bold">Senator Armstrong</inline> should be added. We know that His Excellency delivered his Speech with great courtesy, dignity and clarity, but we also know that the Speech which he delivered was handed to him by his advisers, of whom he feels in duty bound to take cognizance. Although the Speech was delivered very courteously and with all the' dignity that anybody could expect, in my opinion it was barren or any ideas or meat. That is why I support the amendment moved by the Opposition. </para>
</talk.start>
<para>In the limited time at my disposal I will' be able to deal with only some of the subjects on which I should like to speak. Therefore, I will speak only of those that I consider the most important - namely,, inflation, unemployment, injustice to wageearners, inadequate social services and housing. I will take them in that order.. First, let me refer to inflation. No one will deny that slight inflation was creeping in at the time this Government took office in 1949. But nobody will deny that a very strong rein had been put on that inflation by the Labour Government, particularly through capital issues control and import restrictions. Labour had inflation fairly well controlled. This Government said that it could not bear any controls, and it threw off capital issues controls and import licensing: Inflation' went haywire; like a racehorse racing round a course. Upon seeing that inflation was going haywire, that the value of the £1 was continuing to diminish despite the Government's promise to put value- back in the £1, the Government re-introduced import licensing, took it off again, and- brought it back again and retained it for seven years. A similar thing happened in respect of. capital issues controls. The Government imposed those controls, took them off-, reimposed them, and took them off again The Government thought that such actions would curb the inflationary trend. What has happened? The more the Government muddled about, imposing; capital issues controls and. removing, them, the higher inflation mounted. The more it imposed and removed imports control, the more inflation spiralled'. In spite of everything the Government attempted to do, it did not curb inflation at any stage. Inflation continued to increase year by year. </para>
<para>In the latter part of 1.960, the Government introduced the credit squeeze and increased sales tax on passenger motor vehicles as a cure-all for inflation. What was the result? We sat in this chamber and listened to two supporters of the Government opposing the measures. <inline font-weight="bold">Senator Wright</inline> used, all his eloquence to tell the Government what the result of a credit squeeze and the lifting of imports; control would be, but when the matter came to a vote it was. shown that he had' very little sincerity: <inline font-weight="bold">Senator Wood</inline> spoke with great sincerity about what would happen if the Government took that course. He. backed his opinion by his vote in this chamber; and how right he was. His ideas were supported by every member of. the Opposition who spoke in that debate. </para>
<para>What is the position to-day? In- spite of the credit restrictions and the lifting of imports control, inflation is still1 rising while wages remain at the same level. Not only did all members of the Opposition and some supporters of the Government in the Parliament tell the Government that disaster would befall it, but also some of the Government's keenest supporters outside the Parliament said the same thing. In the Melbourne " Herald " of 20th March, 1961, appeared a statement attributed to Mr: Gordon More, president of the Victorian Chamber of Manufactures. It will be most interesting for the Government and the listening public to hear the results of the survey made by that organization. This is too good a survey and factual statement to ignore. The report, which is headed " Wide range of industry hit hard ", reads - </para>
<quote>
<para>The Chamber of Manufactures said to-day a survey it had make showed that " the detrimental effects of the credit squeeze imposed last November have now extended beyond the build. ing and automotive fields which- were the first to be hit.." </para>
<para>Results of the survey were announced by the president of the chamber, <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. Gordon</inline> More. </para>
<para>
<inline font-weight="bold">Mr. More</inline>said production in. the box and case manufacturing industry was down. 14.5 per cent on last year's level, men's clothing production had fallen 12.3 per cent, lingerie 1S.4 per cent, knitted fabrics 40 per cent, and furnishing fabrics. 40 per cent. </para>
<para>Those industries had also shown the greatest fa.111 in sales. The- woollen and worsted industry had suffered, a sales, drop of 37.9 per cent in the first six weeks of 1961,. compared with the same period last year. " Two of the most serious aspects of the current credit squeeze are the increasing stocks in some industries, combined with rapidly falling orders," <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. More</inline> said. </para>
<para>Industries having most difficulty' in this way were the box and case makers (stocks up 41 per cent, and forward orders down 16.7 per cent), women's frocks (stocks up 17.1 per cent, orders down 14.8 per cent), men's, wear (stocks up 1S.S per cent, orders, down 26.1 per cent), lingerie (stocks up 11 per cent, orders down 39.3 per cent), knitted fabrics (stocks up 54 per cent, orders- down 33.5 per cent), furniture (stocks up 50.8 per cent, orders down- 41.8 per cent), furnishing- fabrics (stocks- up 45 per cent, orders down 57.3 per cent) and woollen weavers and spinners (stocks up 7.5 per cent, orders down 33 per- cent). </para>
<para>
<inline font-weight="bold">Mr. More</inline>said: "This, of course, must unfortunately lead to some retrenchments of employees. The- chamber's survey also indicated considerable reduction of overtime over a. wide spread of industries." </para>
<para>Returns from knitted fabrics factories gave the most serious view of this side of the credit squeeze, said <inline font-weight="bold">Mr. More.</inline> He said employment there had fallen' by 21.5 per cent and overtime had been eliminated. </para>
<para>In box and case making, employment was down 12.5 per cent and overtime down 24.3 per cent; in men's wear factories employment was down 7.6 per cent and overtime had been cut by almost one-third; and in lingerie factories employment was down 7.6 per cent and overtime- down 67.5 per cent. </para>
<para>He said furnishing fabrics factories had reduced employment by 12.5 per cent and cut overtime for the remaining workers by 40 per cent. </para>
<para>Woollen and worsted factories Had put off 5.8 per cent of their employees, and cut overtime by 37.9 per cent. </para>
<para>
<inline font-weight="bold">Mr. More</inline>said, all these things were raising rather than reducing, costs. This was the opposite effect, he said, to what the Government's advisers had envisaged when the credit squeeze began. </para>
<para>Typical examples of increasing unit costs werea six per cent increase for the woollen and' worsted industry; 8.1 per cent for women's frocks, and 10 per cent for furnishing fabrics. </para>
<para>
<inline font-weight="bold">Mr. More</inline>said: "The immediate, reimposition of selective import, restrictions could allow the. early easing of the recent credit restrictions which, together with excessive- imports; are contributing' greatly to this unhappy picture."' </para>
</quote>
<para>When we point out these things, the Government claims, that we are calamity howlers, trying to ruin the prestige and economy of Australia by putting a scare into the people. The survey to which I have just referred shows the factual position. It was made by very careful men who knew their job and were competent to make it. The survey bears out the warning that the Opposition gave to the Government when the economic measures were introduced. It supports all that <inline font-weight="bold">Senator Wood</inline> and <inline font-weight="bold">Senator Wright</inline> said during the Budget session last year. It shows that the Government's measures have been an utter failure. </para>