Queensland

Parliamentary Debates [Hansard]

Legislative Assembly

WEDNESDAY, 12 NOVEMBER 1975

Electronic reproduction of original hardcopy

1798 Traffic Act, &c., Bill (No, 2) [12 NOVEMBER 1975] Ministerial Statement

WEDNESDAY, 12 NOVEMBER 1975

Mr. SPEAKER (Hon. J. E. H. Houghton, Redcliffe) read prayers and took the chair at 11 a.m.

ASSENT TO BILLS Assent to the following Bills reported by Mr. Speaker:- Local Bodies' Loans Guarantee Act Amendment Bill; Liens on Crops of Sugar Cane Act Amendment Bill; Trustee Companies Act Amendment Bill; Small Claims Tribunals Act Amend­ ment Bill; Justices of the Peace Bill; Racing and Betting Act Amendment Bill; Liquor Act Amendment Bill.

PAPERS The following paper was laid on the table, and ordered to be printed:- Report of the Department of Harbours and Marine for the year 1974-75. The following papers were laid on the table:- Orders in Council under the State Housing Act 1945-1974. Regulation under the Factories and Shops Act 1960~1975.

MINISTERIAL STATEMENT WARANA SPRING FESTIVAL Hon. T. G. NEWBERY (Mirani-Minis­ ter for Tourism and Marine Services) (11.7 a.m.): I would like to place on record in this House the fine achievements of the Warana Spring Festival Committee. There is no doubt in my mind that this year's Warana Festival was the most successful so far staged. I'm glad to say that this year's Warana attracted the highest ever level of community participation-and this is what made the festival such a resounding success. The street procession this year attracted a record number of entries and the large crowd which turned out on the day was evidence of Warana's continued growth in popularity. I believe that Warana is setting high stan­ dards in many other areas of activities­ standards of which we, as a community, c,an be very proud. I would like to take this opportunity .to thank all those associated with the organisa­ tion and running of this year's festival. This willing band of community-minded people work virtually all year to make the festival possible-and I speak not just of .the Warana executive but include all those community organisations, businesses and individuals whose collective efforts made the festival Questions Upon Notice [12 NOVEMBER 1975] Questions Upon Notice 1799 such a resounding success. They set out to Answers:- involve people of all ages in the festiv!ll (1) This information is not readily avail­ activ'ties and they were most successful m able without research being undertaken at achieving .this aim. all centres throughout Queensland whereat They have developed a festival with its courts are held. I do not propose causing own distinctive flavour--different from those such research to be undertaken. staged in other Australian cities-and over (2) The number of police attached _to the past 14 years, the Warana Festival has the city station engaged on court dut1es established itself as a highlight on Queens­ varies from nine to 16 members daily, land's tourist and cultural calendar. Monday to Friday, depending on number As well as being a festival for Queens­ of courts sitting. landers, it attracts visitors from interstate (3) I have no information which would ·and from overseas providing a valuable indicate that any individual police officer incentive to the State's tourist industry. It has had up to 1,000 files on hand at any is a festival for the people and is growing given time. It would not be unreasonable, in stature and success year by year. however, for police collectively at partic~J­ I commend the organisers for their efforts lar centres or establishments to have m in 1975 and look forward to the continued excess of this figure. growth of the festival in the years ahead. (4) No, although I can see no reason The Government fully recognises the value why they should not be permitted to do of Warana to the community and Govern­ so if qualified. ment financial assistance will continue to provide a solid foundation for the festival's growth. 3. ART CONTEST-TRUSTEES' PRIZE Mr. MeHoy, pursuant to notice, asked the Minister for Education and Cultural QUESTIONS UPON NOTICE Activities- 1. RE-APPOINTMENT OF RETIRED PoLICE ( 1) Realising that it is cheaper for a OFFICERS Queensland artist to show paintings in his home State-why did the Trustees of Mr. MeHoy, pursuant to notice, asked the the Queensland Art Gallery recently ~ake Minister for Police- the Trustees' Prize a closed competJtwn? ( 1) How many retired officers of the ( 2) On what basis was the list of Police Department have been given posi­ artists chosen to show for the prize? tions with the department, such as Official Police Adviser, Officer in Charge of the ( 3) Did only 64 of the 150 artists Training College, etc.? invited to show actually provide paintings? (2) What are the names of the officers Answers:- concerned, what are their salaries and (1) In order to conduct the Trustees' what benefits do they receive on retire­ Prize again this year, in the gallery's new ment? temporary premises, the trustees . were Answers:- obliged to limit the number of artists to enter to 150 because of storage limitations (1) At present one. In addition it is for entries submitted. These entries have proposed to utilise the services of another to be held in the picture storage area while retired officer in a consultant capacity as awaiting display for the prize. The crates from early December next. and packing for the paintings to be used (2) V. M. Barlow-$250 per fortnight; for their return have to be stored away W. D. Simpson-$170 per fortnight. from the M.I.M. premises because of fire Engagement is on a contract b::sis. No regulations and also because of storage benefits are payable on cessation of the limitations. contract. (2) The list of artists chosen to submit entries for the prize was based on those who had been selected previously from 2. PoLICE DUTIES entries submitted for the prize when it was Mr. Melloy, pursuant to notice, asked the conducted in the gallery's old premises at Minister for Police- Gregory Terrace. The list also included artists whose work has recently shown (!) How many policemen act daily as promise in both local and interstate exhibi­ officers of the court? tions. Of the initial 150 artists invited on (2) How many of these policemen are an Australia-wide basis, 50 were Queens­ from city stations? landers, which is a very fair allowance for (3) Do police from time to time have artists working within the State. Further up to 1,000 files on hand, indicating a more some time after the entry forms major delay in handling routine work? were' posted out, each a~tist was written to and requested to advise 1f he or she would ( 4) Has the Police Commissioner pro­ not be able to submit an entry in order posed that policewomen should ride that another artist could be invited. Some motor-cycles? 20 extra entry forms were sent out as a 1800 Questions Upon Notice [12 NOVEMBER 1975] Questions Upon Notice

result of the vacancies created. The list opinion of the committee should be con­ of artists was prepared by a selection sidered collectively, as single-minded pur­ committee of three professional staff mem­ suit of any one in particular would tend to bers and approved by the trustees. cause policy conflict with others. The com­ (3) In this year's prize, 64 entries were mittee finally suggests a Premiers' Confer­ exhibited as against 65 when the prize was ence might be convened in 1976 to seek last conducted in 1973 at Gregory Ter­ common ground on the respective roles of race. However, the trustees allowed 150 the Commonwealth and State Governments as a maximum possible number of entries in regard to the development of manufac­ by limiting the maximum size of entries to turing industry. In the meantime it is 5 ft. x 4 ft. It is pointed out that the prize is proposed that the Commonwealth Minister acquisitive at $2,500 for the winning entry, for Manufacturing Industry should under­ and the prize money has remained con­ take responsibility for producing a White stant, despite the size limitation. Paper on policy for manufacturing industry for presentation to Parliament within six months. To this end the committee felt the Minister might consider it appropriate to 4. REPORT OF JACKSON COMMITTEE ON confer with the State Ministers concerned POLICIES FOR MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY with industrial development. I am confident that, with a new Government in Canbena, Mr. Lane, pursuant to notice, asked the greater emphasis will be placed on the Minister for Industrial Development, Labour positive aspects of this report than would Relations and Consumer Affairs- have been the case with the Whitlam Gov­ ( 1) Has he or have any of his officers ernment which had a propensity to imple­ yet had an opportunity to study the ment only those parts of reports which Report of the J ackson Committee on suited its particular political ideology. Policies for the Manufacturing Industry and, if so, (a) how is it seen to affect the Government's policy of encouraging 5. ADMINISTRATION OF PART OF TRADE private-enterprise development in this PRACTICES AcT State and (b) what are the implications of some of its recommendations, particularly Mr. Lane, pursuant to notice, asked the in respect of worker participation on Minister for Industrial Development, Labour industrial relations? Relations and Consumer Affairs- (2) If not, will he undertake to have ( 1) Is he aware that in October, by it examined and make a full statement on way of an administrative orders arrange­ the matter as soon as possible? ment, Part V of the Trade Practices Act was transferred from the control of the Commonwealth Attorney-General, and Answer:- consequently the Trade Practices Com­ (1 and 2) Volume I of the report of the mission, to the Minister for Science and J ackson committee, which was appointed Consumer Affairs? by the Commonwealth Government to (2) Is this new arrangement, which advise on policies for manufacturing seems to divorce the supervision of industry in Australia, was tabled in ,the relationships between traders and their House of Representatives on 30 October conduct towards the consumer in the mar­ last. Three further volumes containing ket-place, seen as being beneficial to the supporting material and statistics are still people of Australia? to be presented. My Department of Com­ mercial and Industrial Development has Answers:- obtained an advance copy of the first volume and this is presently being studied. ( 1) I am aware that under administra­ At this stage it can be said the Jackson tive arrangements approved in October, the report has highlighted the bJ:eakdown of enactments administered by the Common­ confidence generally in the manufacturing wealth Attorney-General no longer include sector, the need for better and clearer the Trade Practices Act 1974-1975 Part V policies at national government level, and and that the enactments administered by the the need for improved consultative proced­ Minister for Science and Consumer Affairs ures between national and State Govern­ now include the Trade P,ractices Act 197 4- ments, between Governments generally and 1975 Part V. industry, and between management and its (2) It was only last year that the Trade work-force. The report also emphasises the Practices Act, with its consumer protection need for all sectors to be able to adapt to provisions at Part V, was brought down. As change in what is undoubtedly a very the honourable member will be aware, the changing world. The committee suggests Trade Practices Act was administered by that new or revised policies should, amongst the Commonwealth Attorney-General, but other things, aim at strengthening the work­ now the consumer protection provisions of ing of the economy, improving the quality Part V are to be the responsibility of the of work-life, and increasing the involve­ Minister for Science and Consumer Affairs. ment of Australians in decision-making at There seem to me to be grounds for sug­ various levels. These objectives in th.e gesting that this transfer of powers, together Questions Upon Notice [12 NOVEMBER 1975] Questions Upon Notice 1801

with the proposal to establish an Australian Answers:- Consumer Protection Authority, was seen (1) The statement has been read. The by the Commonwealth Labor Government system now operating in schools was intro­ as a solution to the competition in which duced as a result of a report to the Gov­ certain Commonwealth Ministers were ernment by a select committee composed engaged for some months, for the privilege of leading educationists drawn from a wide of jumping on the popular consumer affairs field of education. One important aspect band wagon. It seems that the battle for of the present system is its flexibility, and control of the consumer protection provi­ schools are given a degree of freedom sions of the Trade Practices Act had been in the way in which the teaching-learning going on for some time, and there were situation is carried out, especially in the suggestions of earlier disagreement on this lower secondary school grades. matter between the former Minister for Science and the Attorney-General. This (2) This department has no evidence, "consumer carve-up", as it has been called, nor has the Board of Secondary School was further evidence of vacillation in the Studies, of widespread teacher discontent implementation of Labor policies. I have with the operation in schools of the system no doubt that, superimposed upon the of school assessment. The rating system statutory provisions under which the various was in operation at the time of the public State consumer affairs authorities have examination system, and its continuance been functioning for some years, the trans­ was recommended by the Radford commit­ fer of the consumer protection provisions tee in its report of the assessment of of Part V of the Trade Practices Act from students' achievements in secondary schools. the Commonwealth Attorney-General to the The Board of Secondary School Studies Minister for Science and Consumer Affairs administers the issue of Junior and Senior will further confuse the business com­ certificates, which contain ratings for each munity, already in difficulties as a result of subject studied. At present two studies are the ineptitude of the Federal Labor Gov­ being carried into the impact of the Rad­ ernment. The same applies, of course, to ford Scheme, but their findings are not yet the consuming public. to hand.

6. MR. HERRING'S VIEWS ON HIGH SCHOOL 7. BUDDHISM AND RELIGIOUS INSTRUCTION IN ScHOOLS COURSES SELECTION AND RATING SYSTEM lHr. Neai, pursuant to notice, asked the Mr. Aikens, pursuant to notice, asked the Minister for Education and Cultural Minister for Education and Cultural Activities- Activities- ( 1) Is he aware that following a recent ( 1) Has his attention been drawn to a A.B.C. programme in which religious statement in "The Townsville Daily ii1Struction in schools was discussed, many Bulletin" of 8 November, wherein Mr. people are under the impression that George Herring, principal of the Pimlico Buddhism is to be taught? High School, stated that it was completely ridiculous to require children of 13 years ( 2) Will Buddhism be taught in of age to choose specific subjects based on schools? their future employment and suggested ( 3) On what basis will religious that students entering high school should instruction be given? be required to do a general course in grades 8, 9 and 10 so that, by the time Answers:- they reached the age of 15 or 16, they (!) I understand that reference was made would have a better idea of the type of in a recent A.B.C. national news item to employment they wanted to pursue? If so the possibility that children in Queensland will he advise the House if the opinion~ will learn about Buddhism as part of a of experienced high-school teachers were new religious education programme. Some sought before introducing the system now people may have misinterpreted this. operating and if it is inflexible? (2) The curriculum project approved by (2) Can he inform the House if, as Cabinet is in its early stages, and the Mr. Herring also stated, there is a dislike Religious Education Advisory Committee, of the high-school rating system among which is representative of the churches, teachers, that there is a quiet rebellion parents, teachers, and the Education De­ partment, has not yet made any recom­ going on against it and that the rating mendations. It is quite possible that stud­ system was the cause of the Board of ents will be given the opportunity 1o learn Secondary Studies "wagging the dog"? If about major world religions other than so, who was responsible for the intro­ Christianity. but I emphasise that this will duction of the unpopular rating system be a decision made locally by those in­ at State high schools and has any investi­ volved. gation been made into the desirability of (3) Religious instruction will continue to scrapping it and replacing it with some­ be the prerogative of the churches and the thing better? parents of the children oonceDned; the 1802 Questions Upon Notice [12 NOVEMBER 1975] Questions Upon Notice

Education Act and Regulations have not (2) What action has his department been changed in any way. This means that taken, in conjunction with the Gold Coast churches retain the right of entry to schools City Council, to prevent this company from and parents retain the right to decide polluting the canal? whether or not their children attend re­ (3) Will he ascertain if the Gold Coast ligious instruction. Religious education City Council gave approval to Lae . Enter­ will not become a compulsory school sub­ prises to construct a conglomeratwn of ject. The curriculum project being de­ open trenches, all draining mud and sand veloped by my department will provide into Oates Canal, thereby bypassing the resource material, printed and audio-visual, works of Lae Enterprises at the Runaway which might be used by any denomination. Bay main drainage channels? In-service training in the use of these re­ source materials will be given to clergy, ( 4) Will he indicate the result of an lay people and volunteer teachers. The inspection by an officer from the Water local parents, clergy and teachers will Quality Council in October this year, which decide co-operatively how religious educa­ officer, at the time of his inspection, took ,tion will be organised in their schools. certain photographs of the area? The indications are that many will select ( 5) Has the officer yet made a report the option to work ecumenically, but those of his inspection? If so, wili the contents denominations which desire to remain ex­ of that report be made known to Parlia­ clusive may do so. I am confident that ment? these improvements will be generally ( 6) Will he ascertain why the Gold accepted because the Churches' Committee Coast City Council has been negligent in on Religious Education, repr,esenting most its supervision by allowing Lae Enterprises denominations, is enthusiastically support­ to continually ignore the appeals of rate­ ing the project. payers from the Oates Canal area to cease polluting this canal? ( 7) Will he request the officers of his department to take the appropriate action 8. QUARANTINE SERVICES bv communicating with the Gold Coast Mr. Neal, pursuant to notice, asked the City Council with a view to making Lae Minister for Primary Industries- Enterprises stop draining into Oates Canal? ( 1) Is he aware of a statement to the Commonwealth Parliament by the Minister Answers:- for Health that all the quarantine services (1) A complaint to this effect was re­ of this nation would be in jeopardy if ceived and was investigated. the present constitutional crisis in Can­ berra remained unsolved? (2) None. (3) It is understood that the Gold Coast (2) Are the State's services in jeopardy City Council gave authority to Lae Enter­ and, if not, has the Minister for Health prises to undertake a drainage scheme in misled the Commonwealth Parliament for the area and to use the excavated material cheap political purposes? as fill on a proposed hotel site. Answers:- (4) The officer observed the work done and in progress, but at the time of his (I) Yes. inspection there was no discharge as the twin culverts under Bayview Road leading (2) I can assure the House that, even to Oates Canal had been closed by an without yesterday's developments. the plant and animal qua,rantine services of this State earth bund. were never even remotely in jeopardy. The (5 to 7) The officer has reported and statement by Dr. Everingham was typical his report is at present being studied. Dis­ of the scare tactics adopted by the Whit­ cussions will take place with the Gold lam Government in its frantic efforts to Coast City Council and the Department retain power. of Harbours and Marine, and pending such discussions I consider it undesirable to make the officer's report public, to assume negligence on the part of the Gold Coast 9. LAE ENTERPRISES, ANGLERS PARADISE City Council or to announce future steps Mr. Dean, pursuant to notice, asked the upon which a decision has not yet been Minister for Local Government and Main made. Roads-

( 1) Has his attention been drawn to 10. MUSICIANS' VIEWS ON NOISE CONTROL the construction of a drainage scheme by Lae Enterprises, Anglers Paradise, which Mr. Dean, pursuant to notice, asked the is resulting in filthy mud and sand being Minister for Local Government and Main drained into Oates Canal, thereby causing Roads- heavy silting to take place which, if ( 1) Has he seen the statement by the allowed to continue, will eventually lead president of the Musicians' Club of to the canal being rendered useless? Queensland that musicians should be given Questions Upon Notice [12 NOVEMBER 1975] Questions Upon Notice 1803

a chance to suggest guide-lines before questions relate to the administration of draft noise-control legislation was com­ the Main Roads regulations and should pleted? therefore be addressed to the appropriate (2) Has he made any arrangements Minister. for groups such as musicians and others who are concerned with noise control and noise problems to have discussions with 13. OVERCHARGING BY TOW-TRUCK his departmental officers before legislation OPERATORS is introduced into the House? Mr. Frawley, pursuant to notice, asked the Minister for Industrial Development, Labour Answ.rs:- Relations and Consumer Affairs- (1) Yes. Has his department received any com­ (2) No, there is little point in such dis­ plaints recently regarding overcharging by cussions at this stage. However, I would tow-truck operators and, if so, what are be pleased to receive wriHen submissions. the names of these operators? Also, my intention is to introduce the Bill during the autumn session and not proceed Answer:- past the first-reading stage at that session. No. However, matters concerning tow­ This will give all people concerned the truck operators come within the adminis­ opportunity to make suggestions regarding tration of my colleague the Honourable this important piece of legislation before its the Minister for Transport. re-introduction in the August 1976 session. Mr. FRAWLEY: I rise to a point of order. It is about time something was done by Ministers to transfer these questions to 11. 0ATES CANAL, ANGLERS PARADISE the appropriate Minister instead of giving Mr. Dean, pursuant to notice, asked the such answers. Minister for Tourism and Marine Services- Mr. SPEAKER: Order! The honourable ( 1) Has the Harbours and Marine member for Murrumba knows the procedure. D~partment carried out an inspection of Oates Canal, Anglers Paradise, because of Honourable Members interjected. heavy s''ting of the canal caused by Lae Enterprioes draining mud and sand into Mr. SPEAKER: Order! The House will the canal instead of through their own come to order. Honourable members on Runaw::~y Bay canals? both sides of the House know the rules about questions and there is already enough (2) If so, what was the date of the evidence about the redirecting of questions inspection and what action has the depart­ to the appropriate Minister. If a question ment taken to protect the canal from destruction? is not within the province of a Minister, honourable members have the right to ask Answers:- that the question be transferred to the appropriate Minister. (1) An inspection of Oates Canal, Ang­ lers Paradise, has been made by officers of my Department of Harbours and Marine. 14. RAIL LINK TO BOHLE INDUSTRIAL (2) The inspection was carried out on EsTATE, TOWNSVILLE 1 October 1975. Action is being taken to D:r. Scott-Young, pursuant to notice, have the minor amount of siltation re­ asked the Minister for Transport- moved by the land development company responsible. ( 1) Is he aware that Townsville, .especi­ ally in the Government industrial estate situated at Bohle, has a booming industrial 11otential for the whole of North 12. BURPENGARY WEIGHBRIDGE Queensland but is being retarded by a Mr. Frawley, pursuant to notice, asked considerable amount of indecision being the Minister for Transport- displayed in planning a safe rail branch into the estate? ( 1) How many vehicles passed through the Burpengary weighbridge in the finan­ (2) When can some finalisation of this cial year 1974-75 and how many were project be anticipated so that large con­ found to be overloaded? tracts might be transported by rail from this industrial complex? (2) How many vehicles were appre­ hended whilst using Old Bay Road, Decep­ Answer:- tion Bay, in order to dodge the weigh­ (1 and 2) As the honourable member bridge? has been informed in response to repre­ sentations made by him to the Honourable Answer:- Minister for Industrial Development, (1 and 2) 185,960 vehicles passed Labour Relations and Consumer Affairs, throug~ the Burpengary weighbridge during plans developed by the Railway Depart­ the financial year 1974-75. The remaining ment in conjunction with the Department 1804 Questions Upon Notice [12 NOVEMBER 1975] Questions Upon Notice

of Commercial and Industrial Develop­ production. Of this area about one-eighth ment provide for the construction of rail is regarded as suitable for slash pine, with access to the Bohle Estate over a route the remainder suitable for Caribbean pine. which best meets departmental engineering requirements, corresponds with the design of the industrial estate and causes the least disturbance to private property. It 17. INTERIM FREE Bus BETWEEN SoUTH is not a matter of indecision, and the ques­ BRISBANE AND BRUNSWICK STREET tion of financing the project is at present RAILWAY STATIONS the subject of negotiation between the two l\1r. Houston, pursuant to notice, asked departments mentioned. The honourable the Minister for Transport- member will be informed of the outcome Until such time as the rail link between in due course. South Brisbane and Roma Street is in operation, will he introduce a free bus service from South Brisbane Railway 15. PENSIONER CONCESSIONS ON URBAN Station through to Brunswick Street and Bus SERVICES vice versa, for the convenience of railway passengers? Mr. Goleby, pursuant to notice, asked the Deputy Premier and Treasurer- Answer:- ( 1 ) When will the proposed conces­ No. I cannot see any logic in the sional pensioner fares, as indicated in the suggestion as fares will apply when rail Budget, operate on urban bus services? services are available. I understand the (2) Will he advertise the date of intro­ journey to which the honourable member duction of the scheme in the Press? refers may be made by Brisbane City Council bus for lOc-seemingly a nominal Answers:- charge-and perhaps he can persuade his (1) As I indicated when introducing the colleagues in the council to waive the Budget, amongst other Government initia­ fare. tives for the enhancement of private urban bus systems, a pensioner concession scheme for travel on urban private buses to the 18. PRICE OF GAS, SoUTH BRISBANE extent of 50 per cent of the normal adult Mr. Houston, pursuant to notice, asked fare will be introduced. My colleague the the Minister for Mines and Energy- Honourable the Minister for Transport indicated during the Debate on the As wages and salaries have not increased Estimates for the Department of Transport in the gas industry this year, why has the that legislation to provide for the con­ price of gas on the south side of Brisbane cession is being drafted. The scheme will increased by 12 per cent from 1 October commence as soon as possible after assent 1975? is given to the legislation. Answer:- (2) My colleague will ensure that adequate publicity will be given to the I am advised there has been a total of scheme so that pensioners will be fully J 7 variations to the wages and salaries informed as to the way the concession paid to employees of Allgas Energy since will operate. 1 August 1974, the date from which the price of gas was previously increased. In addition, owing to a large extent to the inept policies of the Whitlam Government, 16. REPORT OF COASTAL LOWLANDS the cost of all materials used by the STUDY; SUITABLE SoFTWOODS company has increased greatly. I would Mr. Ahern for Mr. Alison, pursuant to point out to the honourable member that notice, asked the Minister for Primary the profit a franchise holder can make is Industries- limited by the Gas Act. Any increase in price only enables the holder to recover With reference to the report of the expenses and pay the allowable dividend. Coastal Lowlands Study by an inter­ departmental committee of the area between the Elliott River and Boonooroo Point, which was expected to have been 19. FREEHOLDING OF LAND BY MR. G. printed by July this year. what proportion STEVENS AT CAPE PALMERSTON of the 76,000 hectares of vacant Crown Mr. Houston, pursuant to notice, asked land in the area of the study would be the Minister for Lands, Forestry, National suitable for softwoods plantation and what Parks and Wildlife Service- types of softwood would be most suitable? ( 1) Did he have a letter sent to Mr. George Stevens giving him permission to Answer:- freehold an area of leasehold land at At this stage of the investigation it is Cape Palmerston on the proviso that he apparent that about 70 per cent of the grant a portion of the site as a national vacant Crown land is suitable for softwood park? Questions Upon Notice (12 NOVEMBER 1975] Questions Upon Notice 1805

(2) Is Mr. Stevens in a financial posi­ 21. INCREASED USE OF FERNY GROVE tion to freehold land and what is the value RAIL LINE WITH CAR-PARKING and area of the land concerned? FACILITIES Mr. Limlsay, pursuant to notice, asked the Answers:- Minister for Transport- ( 1) With regard to rail travel !n Bris­ (1) No. Apparently the honourable bane has there been a notable mcrease member is referring to a parcel of lease­ in the number of commuters using the hold land comprised in Grazing Homestead Ferny Grove line since the completion of 4076, Mackay Land Agent's District, in the excellent car-parking facilities at the respect of which an application to freehold Enoggera, Mitchelton and Ferny Grove was received. In response thereto an offer stations? was conveyed to the registered lessees­ Mr. and Mrs. H. J. Ward and Mr. J. T. (2) If so, what is the percentage increase Cliffe-by letter dated 11 June 1974. in commuters per month for the past four Records reveal that a Mr. George P. months compared with the same period Stevens is desirous of acquiring, by last year? purchase, an interest in such land as may ( 3) Do these figures indicate a need be freehold pursuant to the application for additional rolling-stock on this line, made by and the resultant offer made to apart from the extra 8.15 a.m. train from the registered lessees of the holding. Enoggera which has recently been approved? (2) I am not aware of Mr. Stevens's financial position. The financing of any ( 4) Is there a general shortage of rol­ such purchase would be a matter for the ling-stock for the commuters of Brisbane parties concerned. and, if so, will he give consideration to the purchase or hire of extra vehicles to cover the period prior to electrification?

Answers:- 20. FIREARMS LICENCES ( 1 and 2) Statistics are not readily avail­ Mr. Cory, pursuant to notice, asked the able to establish the comparison sought Minister for Police- bv the honourable member. I am, how­ ever, having a survey made with a view How many licences have been issued to determining the trend in passenger for concealable firearms in each category travel since improved car-parking facilities that requires licences and how many indi­ were provided at the stations mentioned. viduals are holding the licences in each of the categories? (3 and 4) All available carriage stock is at present being utilised on peak hour suburban rail services. As the honourable Answer:- member is aware, priority has been given to the section of railway from Ferny Grove ( l) Firearm licences and permits issued to Darra in the implementation of plans for vear ended 30 June 1975 as are follows:-- for the electrification of the Brisbane sub­ urban rail service. New licences, permits, etc. Licences for concealable firearms 1,324 22. PRE-SCHOOL FOR GROVELY, KEPERRA Licences for concealable firearms AND FERNY GROVE for use at pistol club 1,176 Mr. Lindsay, pursuant to notice, asked the Permits to have possession of Minister for Education and Cultural blankfire concealable firearms 62 Activities- Permits to have possession of and With regard to my question of 20 use licensed concealable fire­ August about the provision of pre­ arms on range of approved pistol school facilities for the expanding Gravely, club 491 Keperra. Ferny Grove and Ferny Hills Permits to have possession of fire­ areas, what is the present position con­ arms as souvenirs 31 cerning the acquisition of suitable land for the planned Gravely and Ferny Hil_ls Renewals of licences, permits, etc. pre-schools which were foreshadowed m Dealer's Certificates 53 his answer? Licences for concealable firearms 5,559 Licences for concealable firearms Answer:- for use at pistol club 2,255 The Land Administration Commission Permits to have possession of has been authorised to proceed with the blankfire concealable firearms 170 acquisition of additional land for pre-school purposes at Gravely. Siting for one. add!­ (2) Records are not kept of the num­ tional unit at Ferny Hills has been Identi­ bers of individuals who hold licences, per­ fied tentatively for consideration as funds mits, etc., referred to in (1). become available to construct further 1806 Questions Upon Notice [12 NOVEMBER 1975] Questions Upon Notice

facilities. In addition, consideration is 25. S.G.I.O. FINANCING OF MANSFIELD presently being given to using departmental TAVERN land in the Oxford Park and Ferny Grove Mr. K. J. Hooper, pursuant to notice, areas and to acquisition of additional land asked the Deputy Premier and Treasurer- at Bunyaville as a means of providing facilities in this general area at an early Has the S.G.I.O. financed the construc­ date. tion of the Mansfield Tavern and, if so, how much was involved and what was the rate of interest? 23. EFFECT ON AGED PERSONS FOLLOWING CIRCULAR FROM Answer:- MINISTER FOR SOCIAL SECURITY Yes. The honourable member should Mr. McKechnie, pursuant to notice, asked be aware of the fact that it is not my the Minister for Health- practice to disclose details of financial transactions between the S.G.I.O. and its ( 1) Has he seen a circular letter dated clients. 29 August which was sent by the Com­ monwealth Minister for Social Security to religious, charitable and other voluntary organisations and local governing bodies? 26. 'INVITATIONS TO NATIONAL PARTY FUNCTION POSTED AT TAXPAYERS' (2) If so, will aged persons in Queens­ EXPENSE ! and suffer as a result of the decisions announced in this circular? lVlr. K. J. Hooper, pursuant to notice, asked the Minister for Water Resources- Answer:- ( 1) Did his department recently send, ( 1 and 2) I have not previously seen at taxpayers' expense, invitations on behalf the circular letter referred to by the hon­ of the Moura and Theodore branches of ourable member for Carnarvon. How­ the National Party to attend a fund-raising ever, the department was aware generally barbecue social function? of the Commonwealth policy decisions as (2) If so, how many letters were sent, conveyed in this circular. The over-all what was the cost involved and is this effect this decision would have on the pro­ traditional State Government practice? vision of accommodation for aged persons in Queensland is not known to my depart­ Answers:­ ment, but it would be reasonable to assume that there would be a slowing down in (1) No. the building programmes normally under­ (2) See answer to (1). taken by religious and charitable organisa­ tions. For the honourable member's information, I would point out that State 27. LEGAL AID TO ABORIGiNES subsidy is not paid towards the capital cost of construction of aged persons homes, Mr. Moore, pursuant to notice, asked the etc., erected by religious or charitable Minister for Justice and Attorney-General- organisations. However, the State Gov­ ( 1) Is he aware that the Aboriginal and ernment does subsidise up to defined limits Torres Strait Islanders' Legal Service may the cost of approved items of furniture, be forced to close because of a shortage of furnishings and equipment which do not Commonwealth Government funds for the attract subsidy from the Commonwealth service? Government. Whilst any project coming (2) Is this shortage in any way related within the ambit of the relevant legisla­ to the delay in the granting of Supply or tion must be initially approved by the is it the result of the Commonwealth Commonwealth for subsidy towards con­ Budget itself? struction costs before any State subsidy is approved, applications for State sub­ (3) Does the Queensland Government sidy towards the cost of furniture, etc., Public Defender's Office provide legal aid may be made by the organisations con­ in criminal cases for Aborigines and part­ cerned and such will be considered sub­ Aborigines? ject to later approval of the major pro­ ( 4) If so, on how many occasions has ject by the Commonwealth. State legal aid been granted to Aborigines in the last year? 24. PRE-SCHOOL, MORANBAH Answers:­ l\1r. Lester, pursuant to notice, asked the (1) Yes. Minister for Works and Housing- (2) The Commonwealth Department of Have tenders been called for the pre­ Aboriginal Affairs has provided signific­ school at Moranbah and, if so, when will antly less this financial year than the they close? amount required for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders' Legal Service to Answer:- continue at the same level of operation as y es. The closing date is 2 p.m., 2 in 1974-75. This action was taken des­ December 1975. pite the fact that Queensland has a larger Questions Upon Notice [12 NovEMBER 1975] Questions Upon Notice 1807

population of Aborigines and Torres Strait slow down registr.ation transfers. Too­ Islanders than any other State or Ter­ woomba is a centre for a decentralised ritory. I understand that the Common­ registration office in 1976 and this should wealth has made excessive per-capita reduce the delays. grants to Aboriginal Legal Services in New South Wales and Victoria when com­ (2) lt would be helpful if specific pared to Queensland. examples could be given for me to follow up so that the cause of delay can be pin­ (3) Public defence will continue to be pointed. I can assure the honourable provided in this State for all Queensland­ member the whole registration system is ·at ers, including Aborigines and Torres Stmit present under reorganisation to on-line Islanders, where the applicant is without computer interrogation system. means to provide defence for himself and it is in the interests of justice that legal aid be provided. - (4) No record is kept of the race or 31. ALLEGED ABSCONDING BY MR. STEVE colour of persons granted legal aid. MONOGHAN FROM CAIRNS Mr. Jones, pursuant to notice, asked the Minister for Police- 28. NURSING HOME, HERVEY BAY ( 1) Have any complaints been lodged Mr. Powell, pursuant to notice • .asked the with the Police Department by Cairns Minister for Health- residents following the departure from the Cairns area, with considerable amounts of What stage of planning has been reached clients' premiums, by Mr. Steve Monaghan, by the Maryborough Hospitals Board an insurance agent? with the proposed 40-bed nursing home complex at Hervey Bay? (2) If so, what action has been taken and is Mr. Monaghan's present where­ Answer:- abouts known? Consideration of preparation of sketch plans and estimate of costs is currently Answers:- being e:-;dertaken within this department. (!) Yes. Two complaints only are recorded as having been lodged with the police at Cairns-one in respect of an 29. Aw TO FATHER-SON, MOTHER-DAUGHTER amount of $129.46 and the other in the MOVEMENT amount of $40. Both complaints were !VIr. PoweH, pursuant to notice, ·asked the lodged at 7.30 p.m. on 22 October 1975. Minister for Education and Cultural Activ­ (2) Inquiries are being made. How- ities- ever, I am not in possession of informa­ Has his department considered financially tion as to the present position of those assisting the Father-Son, Mother-Daughter inquiries. Movement with a view to having this movement, which to date has done an excellent service in true sex education, 32. PROTCCT!ON AGAINST MJSAPPROPRIATIONS undertake more extensively the teaching of BY INSURANCE AGENTS sex education in this State? JVIr. Jones, pursuant to notice, asked the Answqr:- Minister for Justice and Attorney-General- No consideration has been given to the ( 1) What recourse to law do people matter raised by the honourable member. have when insurance agents with whom they have lodged premium payments dis­ appear with the money? 30. DELAYS I:-1 VEHICLE REGISTRATION (2) Is any trust fund required for insur­ TRANSFERS ance agents or are checks made on books ~Ir. Warner, pursuant to notice, asked the of account, such as those required for Minister for Local Government and M·ain solicitors, estate agents or travel agents? Roads- ( 3) If not, is it proposed to take action ( 1) Is he aware of the appalling slow­ to grant protection to people in this ness in dea!ing with the transfer of vehicle situation? registrations? (2) As the position has become nothing Answers:- short of chaotic, will he look into this (!) Their right of action would depend matter urgently? upon the particular facts. They should seek legal advice in relation to the par­ Answers:- ticular circumstances of each case. (1) As the honourable member repre­ (2 and 3) There is no present require­ sents a Toowoomba country electorate, it ment for trust funds. The matter will be must also be pointed out that mail delays considered. 1808 Questions Upon Notice [12 NOVEMBER 1975] Questions Upon Notice

33. FINANCES OF PRIVATE Bus PROPRIETORS; by trail and motor-bikes opposite Buza­ PENSIONER CONCESSIONS cott Street on the southern side of Creek Mr. Jones, pursuant to notice, asked the Road, particularly at week-ends? Minister for Transport- (2) Is there any way that areas could ( 1) Has he seen a report in "The be set aside away from immediate hous­ Sunday Mail" of 9 November in which ing, to provide recreational areas for the secretary of the Private Bus Proprietors' young people pursuing this leisure activity? Association said that some bus proprietors (3) What avenues are available to were going broke whilst the Government residents to achieve some reprieve from the still could not say the date when the noise nuisance? Budget promises in relation to pensioner concessions on private buses and the 10 Answers:- per cent subsidy on urban fares will (1) Whilst I am not aware of the nuis­ operate? ance caused by the use of trail and motor­ (2) When can the bus proprietors and bikes in the particular locality referred to, the pensioners expect to receive these con­ I am aware that noise created by the cessions? operation of these machines in residential areas can cause considerable distress to Answers:­ persons living in such areas. (2) The question as to whether certain (1) Yes. lands loc·ated away from housing areas (2) I would refer the honourable mem­ could be set aside for the pursuit of the ber to the reply given by the Honourable activity referred to is not one coming the Deputy Premier and Treasurer to the within my jurisdiction. I would mention, question addressed to him in relation to however, that the use of land for this this matter. purpose within the Brisbane area could well be governed by the provisions of the City of Brisbane Town Plan and be subject 34. REVIEW OF HOSPITALS UNDER to the consent of the council. MEDIBANK (3) It is suggested that the residents Mr. Byrne, pursuant to notice, asked the could approach the Brisbane City Coun­ Minister for Health- cil under its noise nuisance ordinance and its town plan. (1) At the time Queensland entered the Medibank scheme, was it determined that a review of the capacity of hospitals to cope under the scheme was to be made 36. WORKS DEPARTMENT DEPOT, GOLD from 31 October? COAST OR ALBERT SHIRE ( 2) In view of the difficulties diagnostic Mr. Gibbs, pursuant to notice, asked the services especially are experiencing, has Minister for Works and Housing- such a review commenced and, if so, when Owing to the growth of the Gold Coast will the matter be concluded? and Albert Shire with regard to Works ( 3) If such a review has not com­ Department responsibility, will he con­ menced, will he take such measures to sider setting up a main depot and work­ ascertain why it has not and when it shop in the Gold Coast or Albert Shire will commence? areas? Answer:- Answer:- The allocation of areas under control (1 to 3) Whilst no undertaking of the of district supervisors of works, in Bris­ nature mentioned by the honourable mem­ bane districts, including the Gold Coast ber was given, a continuing review is and Albert Shire, is under revision. The being undertaken of the effects of Medi­ need for additional office and depot facili­ bank on Queensland hospitals. The prob­ ties and their location is being considered lem facing private patients in public hos­ in conjunction with such review. pitals regarding diagnostic services is causing some concern and approaches have been made to the Commonwealth for review of this section. 37. POLICE STATION YARDS, ALBERT ELECTORATE; SOUTHPORT PoLICE STATION Mr. Gibbs, pursuant to notice, asked the Minister for Police- 35. NOISE NUISANCE FROM MOTOR-BIKES, CARINA HEIGHTS ( 1 ) In view of the recent changes and upgrading of the police stations on the Mr. Byrne, pursuant to notice, asked the Gold Coast, has the department given any Minister for Local Government and Main more consideration to leasing part of the Roads- council chambers when they become (1) Is he aware of the inconvenience available early next year, to help overcome and disturbance to local residents in the the bad conditions and overcrowding which Carina Heights area from the noise made exist in the Southport Police Station? Questions Upon Notice [12 NOVEMBER 1975] Questions Upon Notice 1809

(2) Will he give consideration to tidy­ merely because he acted in accordance with ing up some of the police station yards the Constitution and in the best inteJ:ests in the Albert electorate, which have cars of the people of Australia. stored in them for long periods? Answers:- 39. GOVERNMENT MoTOR VEHICLE PURCHASES ( 1) The matter is still under consider­ ation. Mr. Gygar, pursuant to notice, asked the Premier- (2) Vehicles in the possession of the police are held as exhibits, etc. Every ( 1) How many sedan and station sedan effort is made to have them removed from motor vehicles were purchased by the Gov­ police custody as soon as it is legally pos­ ernment in 1974-75? sible to do so. It is difficult to maintain (2) How many of these vehicles were tidiness in these circumstances. allocated to the Police Department? ( 3) What is the make and model of 38. PAYMENTS TO MEMBERS OF ARMED the current type of sedan car purchased FoRCES for normal use? Mr. Gygar, pursuant to notice, asked the ( 4) What is the price paid per vehicle? Minister for Justice and Attorney-General- Answers:- ( 1) Is he aware that servicemen have (1) Sedans-1,036; Station sedans-194. been officially notified that the Common­ wealth Government has no money to pay (2) 420. members of the Armed Forces after 27 (3) For general service requirements, November and that servicemen going on which do not include the Police Depart­ annual leave beyond 27 November are not ment, the Holden Kingswood HJ automatic receiving any leave pay for that period? sedan. (2) Is he also aware that rental accom­ ( 4) Tender prices are regarded as con­ modation and other allowances will not fidential as between the State Stores Board be paid to servicemen after that date? and tenderers. (3) Can this Government officially notify the Governor-General of these facts 40. BEEF INDUSTRY ASSISTANCE so that the Governor-General may take action to replace the current Whitlam Mr. Hartwig, pursuant to notice, asked the administration with advisers who can guar­ Minister for Primary Industries- antee Supply to Her Majesty on and after Following a promise by the Common­ 27 November? wealth Government that recommendations by the Industries Assistance Commission Answer:- report on the beef industry would be ( 1 to 3) The honourable member for implemented within three months of its Stafford obviously has an excellent appre­ being tabled, has such a report been ciation of the principles of the Constitution approved by the interdepartmental com­ and responsible Govemment in Australia mittee as yet and when can it be expected because the course of action proposed in that the Commonwealth Government will the last part of his question was taken implement it? by His Excellency the Governor-General yesterday so that Supply would be granted Answer:- and the services of government maintained. ! have not been informed of the release Anyone who read the Governor-General's of a report by the Federal interdepartmental statement in today's Press would under­ committee on the recommendations of the stand that His Excellency was always totally Industries Assistance Commission on conversant with the situation which was measures of short-term assistance to the developing and fully conscious of the course beef cattle industry. To the best of my of action available to him. Apparently the knowledge no such report has been made only person who was not conscious of it and I could not forecast when a Federal was the former Prime Minister, Mr. Whit­ Government might implement the recom­ lam, who persisted with a fear campaign mendations. relating to the payment of public servants and the defence forces and the maintenance 41. BANK CREDIT TO COVER FEDERAL of government servkes generally. I do GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS not believe that there was ever any pros­ pect that the nation would have been sub­ Mr. Hartwig, pursuant to notice, asked jected to the crisis which Mr. Whitlam the Deputy Premier and Treasurer- threatened. Clearly, the Governor-General As he is aware that Pdme Minister Whit­ always had a very clear understanding of lam recently called in members of various the course available to him under the banking companies (both trading and pri­ Constitution once Supply was blocked in vate) to discuss the financing of var.ious ·the Senate. It is totally deplorable that Government departments of this nation His Excellency should now be vilified by because Supply has not been granted, can Mr. Whitlam and other former Ministers he inform the House whether it would 1810 Questions Upon Notice [12 NOVEMBER 1975] Questions Upon Notice

be constitutional or not for Mr. Whitlam (2) Does the company possess a mining to take over depositors' funds or negotiate lease over any area in the Cape York with banks in relation to using them to Peninsula? If so, over what area does carry on government? such lease run? Answer:- Answers:- I am aware of the Press reports con­ cerning the discussions which have taken ( I) The company holds six authorities place between the former Prime Minister to prospect in this region. These auth­ and the banks relative to the provision orities to prospect cover 1,462 sub-blocks. of finance to persons who had supplied A sub-block is an area of approximately goods or services to the Commonwealth I square mile. Government and who could not be paid. (2) No. While I am not in a position to adjudicate as to whether such action was constitu­ tional, it is clear that the discussions were 44. CONSUMER AFFAIRS COUNCIL a deliberate attempt by the A.L.P. Govern­ MEETINGS AND MEMBERS ment to continue to hold the reins of Gov­ Mr. Yewdale, pursuant to notice, asked ernment. No doubt, in making the decisions the- Minister for Industrial Development, which he made yesterday, the Governor­ Labour Relations and Consumer Affairs- General took into account this action on the part of the former Prime Minister ( 1 ) Do the members of the Consumer as part of the evidence that he was pre­ Affairs Council receive a remuneration for pa

(2) I table a statement showing this information. Attendances at Meetings of The Consumer Affairs Council

1975-1976 1972-1973 *1973-1974 1974-1975 to 31-10-75 Gates .. 8 Wilson 7 Wilson 8 2 A dam 9 Gates 4 Horan 7 2 Horan 7 Horan 6 Pluckrose 7 2 Morrison 7 Parlour 2 Parlour 4 2 O'Loan 6 Riordan 3 Riordan 6 2 Scudamore-Smith 8 A dam 7 Adam .. 7 2 Tunley 8 MacDonald 3 McDonald 7 2 Williams 6 O'Loan 7 Major .. 4 2 Wilson 8 Pluckrose .. 3 Morrison 5 2 Ryan .. 8 Jackson 2 Scudamore-Smith 9 2 Bridger 7 Major 2 Jackson 4 2 Warburton 5 Scudamore-Smith .. 6 O'Loan 6 2 Barry .. 1 Morrison 4 Bridger 4 Ryan 3 Tunley 2 Bradford 2 Warburton 3 Dixon 2 Williams 1

It should be noted that the above figures include proxy members (and some members who were appointed during the financial year shown*.) The Council was re-constituted from 1 January 1974: Since then no proxy members have been appointed. (3) The administration of the Consumer Cairns. There is no doubt that the Affairs Act became my responsibility by previous Whitlam Labor Government, in an Order in Council dated 16 January pursuing its policy of cost recovery, as 1975, and since that date there has been well as phasing out of airline subsidies, no replacement of any member of the was determined to price the average mem­ council. It is the sole prerogative of the ber of the public out of air travel, as Governor in Council to appoint members evidenced by the recent consequent steep of statutory bodies such as the Consumer increases in plane fares. It has ignored Affairs Council and no responsibility rests the general economic conditions which upon the Governor in Council to give exist today because of its mishandling of reasons relating to the constitution of such the economy, and the future viability of bodies which change from time to time. the civil aviation industry which has served Australia and Queensland, in particular, so well in the past must now be doubtful. 45. INCREASED "SUNLANDER" SERVICES FOR SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 46. MISS N. RICHARDSON, VEHICLE Mrs. Kippin, pursuant to notice, asked BUILDERS' UNION MEETING, ADELAIDE the Minister for Transport- Mr. Doumany, pursuant to notice, asked In view of the decrease in the number the Minister for Industrial Development, of people travelling by aeroplane since Labour Relations and Consumer Affairs- the recent steep increases in plane fares, will he ensure that there are sufficient Will he publicly commend the courage seats and sleepers on the "Sunlander" to and wisdom of Miss Natalie Richardson satisfy the increased demand for rail travel of Adelaide, whose leadership at a general from North Queensland, especially during meeting of the Vehicle Builders' Union on the coming school holidays? 7 November resulted in an overwhelming vote by workers to go back to a 40-hour Answer:- week at the Chrys!er plants, despite a call Ail available air-conditioned carriages for a 32-hour week by V.B.U. officials? will be utilised in providing normal as Answer:- well as the following additional services during the period 5 December 1975 to Miss Natalie Richardson's voice is echo­ 25 January 1976: 14 Northbound "Sun­ ing round Australia in the minds of grate­ lander" services; 14 Southbound "Sun­ ful millions. She 'has spoken for the lander" services; 5 Northbound "Capri­ silent. In so doing she has sparked a cornian" services; and 6 Southbound response from ordinary Australian work­ "Capricornian" services. In addition, ers which should for ever be an instruction seven non-air-conditioned trains have been and a warning to union officials who under­ scheduled each way between Brisbane and estimate the sense of responsibility of their 1812 Questions Upon Notice [12 NOVEMBER 1975] Questions Upon Notice

members or their acceptance of obligation Answers:- to our nation. The Vehicle Builders' Union (!) The amount a gas company requires by no means is tame cat. No-one in pos­ as a security deposit is a matter between session of his faculties would believe it is. the company and the consumer. It is not But the overwhelming decision by members controlled by the Gas Act. However, I am at the Tonsley Park Chrysler plant in South informed that the amount of the deposit Australia to work a 40-hour week instead the Brisbane Gas Company Limited of the 32 hours instituted by their officials requires varies with the class of consumer. makes one wonder how many in-plant A deposit of $50 is normally required only strikes throughout the whole spectrum of from small commercial consumers, but industry might have terminated had there several domestic consumers with poor pay­ been a system of secret ballots as we are ment records, who use large quantities of proposing through amendments to our In­ gas, have also been required to lodge a dustrial Conciliation and Arbitration Aot. security deposit of $50. The po:nt is that the vast majority of Aus­ (2) There is no provision in the Gas Act traiians are not loafers, and they are not for the payment of interest on deposits. ignorant. They want to work; they see pro­ ductivity falling and jobs getting scarcer; they fail to see how 40 hours a week is 48. S.G.I.Q. INSURANCE COVER AGAINST excessive and they certainly fail to see how DESIGN ERRORS a 32-hour week will reduce the cost-and Mr. !Harginson for Mr. Hanson, pursuant improve the sales-of their product. The to notice, asked the Deputy Premier and former-and not lamented-Minister for Treasurer- the A.C.T. (Mr. Bryant) had a wonder­ fully simple solution to unemployment. He ( 1) Is cover given in insurance policies said, instead of 6,000,000 people working issued by the S.G .I.O. to contractors 40 hours a week, let us have 8,000,000 insuring against errors by a design depart­ working 30 hours a week. Nothing about ment or by an individual consultant and, correcting the cause of unemployment, if so is the cover available on an annual honourable members will note; just some­ basis' in respect of claims made during how turn an extra 2,000,000 people over­ the year or is it available by single con­ night into skilled tradesmen, and who cares tract covering the same period as the all­ about productivity and prices! Fortunately, risks policy on the contract? the Government which Mr. Bryant-al­ (2) If the policies aforementioned are ready infamous for his administration of available, do they extend to cover of work the Aboriginal Affairs portfolio-repre­ performed by architects, engineers, survey­ sents, has been sacked and Australia will ors and project managers in conne~t!on be spared of his quite unique offices. with the design, specification, supervision Australia is going through the second most of construction and management of con­ severe economic crisis in its history. At a tracts and are there any special provisions time when more output, more investment, to cover loss prior to hand-over, particu­ mo~e enterprise and more confidence are larly in house and turn-key contracts where needed. some union officials want a 32-hour ownership does not become legally binding week. Congratulations to Natalie Richard­ until final acceptance? san. It took a woman of common sense and a woman of guts to do and say what Answers:- she did. She has broken through. The (1) The S.G.I.O. (Queensland) does not day of subservience to unthinking, irres­ insure against errors by a design depart­ ponsible unionism is ending. Union hier­ ment or errors by an individual consultant. archies who seek to suborn and use Its contractors insurance policy specifically unionists as pawns in the political power excludes such risks. It is understood that game should heed the warning. such a cover is written in the London in­ surance market under professional indem­ nity insnrance. The S.G.I.O. (Queensland) has on rare occasions been approached to 47. BRJS:S',NE GAS COMPANY LIMITED underwrite such professional indemnity insurances but, on seeking both rating and INCREASED SECURITY DEPOSITS reinsurance facilities, has found that the Mr. Jensen, pursuant to notice, asked the professional insurers in the London market Minister for Mines and Energy- prefer to write such covers directly. (2) See (1) above. ( 1) Is he aware that the Brisbane Gas Company Limited has recently increased security deposits from $10 to $50 for 49. MINING AUTHORITIES TO PROSPECT Brisbane consumers? WITHIN CITY OF MT. lsA Mr. Marginson for Mr. Hanson, pursuant (2) Is he aware that many Brisbane to notice, asked the Minister for "Mines and consumers are concerned about this steep Energy- increase and whether any interest payments ( 1) What mining leases or applications will accrue on the new deposit of $50 to prospect are held in relation to the area retained by the company? covered by the city of Mt. Isa? Questions Upon Notice [12 NOVEMBER 1975] Questions Upon Notice 1813

(2) What is the name and address of (2) Is his department in the process each company involved? of investigating sites for the purpose of (3) When were these leases granted or adding them as sacred sites under relevant when will the Mining Warden's Court hear legislation? the applications and when were the applications lodged? Answers:- ( 1) All Aboriginal sites as defined by (4) In cases of this nature, does ,the department advise the city council and its the Aboriginal Relics Preservation Act town planners of the applications? automatically receive the protection of the Act. (5) Do companies have to advertise (2) A State-wide programme of site !heir application~ in local newspapers or m any way advise residents whose homes location and recording was commenced in may be erected on the area applied for? 1967 and now involves three professional archaeologists, an establishment of seven Answers:- Aboriginal rangers and over 200 honorary wardens. (1 to 3) The area of the city of Mt. Isa is 15,927 square miles and if the honour­ able member's question relates to this area the compilation of the information desired 51. SURVEY OF ROAD INTO CAPE YORK will take s_ome tin:e. However, it is pre­ PENINSULA sumed he IS refernng to what is normally Mr. Wright, pursuant to notice, asked the regarded as the residential and business Minister for Local Government and Main area of the city. Roads- Details of titles over this area are as ( 1) Has his department made any pre­ follows:- liminary survey for a road into the Cape York Peninsula? Mining Company Date of Grant Lease No. (2) If not, does it have any plans to undertake a survey? 5252 Mount Isa Mines 29-7-1965 Limited Answers:- 5253 Mount Isa Mines 7-10-1965 Limited Because of the excellent representations 5585 Mount Isa Mines 17-1-1974 made by the honourable members for Bar­ Limited ran River and Cook, it was possible for 5589 Mount Isa Mines 19-6-1969 Limited me to allocate approximately $200,000 for 6335 Mount Isa Mines 30-5-1974 work on .the road from Mareeba to Cook­ Limited town. They are excellent members, and 6336 Mount Isa Mines 8-8-1974 Limited obviously there was no need whatever for 6364 Mount Isa Brick & 28-8-1972 the honourable member for Rockhampton Tile Company Pty. Ltd. to ask a question about Cape York. Of 6673 Mount Isa Mines 27-9-1973 course, if he does not have enough to do Limited looking after Rockhampton, I suppose I can 7897 Pegmin Limited .. Application lodg- (Application) ed on 1-9-75- answer him. Not yet set down for hear- (1) The Peninsula Developmental Road ing extends from Mareeba through M.t. Molloy, Laura and Coen to Weipa. Road surveys Authority to prospect No. 1551M-Mount have been carried out as far north as Isa Mines Limited-Two years from Coen, but from there to Weipa survey ~.8.75-0_ver 93 subblocks. (A subblock information is available only on isolated 1s approximately 1 square mile.) sections mainly associated with stream (4) The city council is advised of all crossings. applications for mining leases. (2) The Main Roads Department has no . (5) Copies of the certificates of applica­ immediate plans for further extension sur­ I ti_on m~st )Je published in a newspaper veys in the area. When have any infor­ Circulatmg •n ~he. locality, and copies of mation, I shall give it to the honourable both the applications and certificates of members who represent the area. application must be given to the occupier of Cr:own land and the owner or occupier of pnvate land. 52. SCHOOL SITES AND SIZES Mr. Wright, pursuant to notice, asked the 50. FRASER ISLAND SITES SACRED TO Minister for Education and Cultural ABORIGINES Activities- Mr•. Marginson for Mr. Hanson, pursuant ( 1 ) Has he seen the report that real to notice, asked the Minister for Aboriginal estate developers were making a fortune and Islanders Advancement and Fisheries- from the Education Department because poor planning and lack of co-ordination ( 1) What sites on Fraser Island are between Government departments meant regarded as sacred sites under the relevant that the Education Department was pay1ng Queensland legislation? extraordinarily high prices for school sites? 59 1814 Questions Without Notice [12 NovEMBER 1975] Questions Without Notice

. (2) I~ the lack of schools caused by with a generous grant by the Whitlam Gov­ sites bem~ purchased after development ernment's Arts Council for some purpose occurred mstead of when developments \;ere approved? as yet not completely disclosed? If so, could information be obtained if the Arts . ( 3) Is ~his lack of foresight and plan­ Council grant was made ,to Perkins to m!!¥ causmg the lack of school sites in organise and execute a primitive bone­ cntlcal growth areas such as Woodridge pointing ceremony which had as its object where the State school is now reported the physical and mental deterioration of ~o be one of the largest primary schools the Premier followed by his premature m the world? death? If so, will a request be made for .< 4) What is the ideal size for a State a full public inquiry into the circum­ pnmary school and a State high school? stances of this grant by the Arts Council and others no less flimsy, such as the (5) How many primary schools have over 500 pupils? grant by the same body of $100,000 to Germaine Greer allegedly for public dis­ (6) How many high schools have sertations on sexual deviations and over 800 pupils? excesses?"

Answers:- Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: In reply to the ( 1) I assume that the honourable mem­ honourable member's question without notice ber is referring to a newspaper report of yesterday, which has been shown to me, and a statement made by the president of as it relates to me personally-it was a the Queensland Teachers' Union. rather unusual experience to be confronted, half way between the aerodrome and Alice .(2) I am not awa~e that any Queensland Springs, by a group of men led by Mr. child has been demed education because Charles Perkins, who was sponsored ,and of lack of a school. financed by the Commonwealth Govern­ (3) My del?artment carries out compre­ ment and was using Commonwealth Govern­ hensive plannmg, the practical results of ment vehicles and facilities. The main high­ whi;:h are naturally limited by the finance way into the city was blocked. At the same available. Numerous school sites have been time, these peopie attempted, with Land obtained in anticipation of future needs Rovers, to ram the new vehicle in which I It is true that unprecedented development ,was travelling. They threw bottles and has caused growing pains in the Woodridge damaged that brand-new car. It is incred­ a.rea, but any delay in acquiring a new ible that this man who is sponsored in this site there has been the unavoidable result v.ay by the Commonwealth Government can of legal processes that must be followed use our money in the way in which it "as during acquisition. used. The people there conducted themselves in a disgraceful and disgusting way. It was ( 4) There is no reliable research to sup­ no credit to Mr. Perkins or to the Common­ port any opinion regarding ideal sizes of wealth Government. schools. I beiieve that the children of !he Woodridge State School, large though As the honourable member said, it is high It may be, are receiving educational time that somebody did something about opportunfties equal to any, and I commend these people who take the law into their the dedicated teachers at that school. I own hands and have received the guaranteed shoul~ mention also that my department protection of the Commonwealth Govern­ has given the school special consideration ment which was dismissed yesterday. No by the provision of additional professional policeman is allowed to touch them. They and ancillary staff. are at liberty to do what they want to. They (5) One hundred and fifty of the Sta.te's committed, as it were, highway robbery and 1,050 primary schools have enrolments damaged private property. in excess of 500 pupils. I am quite sure that the present Federal (6) There are 53 high schools with Government under Mr. Fraser will not allow enrolments exceeding 800 students. these people to carry on and do the things that they have been able to do under the Labor Government. Under the Fraser Gov­ ernment there will be a stop to the grants of large sums of money to Germaine Greer, Mr. QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE Perkins and others who had the world at FEDERAL GRANT TO MR. CBARLES PERK:INS their feet-unlimited money and encourage­ Mr. AIKENS: I point out that yesterday ment and backing from the Federal Gov­ ernment. They will find that all of this will I asked a q~estion without notice of the stop. Deputy Pr~mier and Treasurer, who, in his answer, said that the Premier would fur­ ther answer it today. My question was:- . "Can he ascertain and inform the House THREATS BY MR. WHITLAM AGAINST 1f Charles Perkins, a highly paid Com­ GovERNOR-GENERAL monwealth public servant, was recently Mr. AHERN: I ask the Premier: Has his granted leave of absence and provided attention been drawn ·to threats by the Questions Without Notice [12 NoVEMBER 1975] Questions Without Notice 1815

outgoing Prime Minister against the Gov­ carrying on the ordinary services of Gov­ ernor-General and the office of the Gov­ ernment, must either advise a general ernor-General? Does he believe this could election or resign. constitute criminal or even treasonable action "If he refuses to do this I have the by him? authority and indeed the d~ty unde!' ~he Constitution to withdraw h1s commissiOn Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: Everyone in as Prime Minister. The position in Aus­ this nation is now fully aware of the type tralia is quite different from the position of Prime Minister that Mr. Whitlam has in the United Kingdom. been. For a long time we have been warn­ ing the people of Australia that this man is "Here the confidence of both Houses bent on setting up a republic and a dictator­ on Supply is neces~ary t

business is nearing bankruptcy. Over 3 000 time to time. They may work in Portugal big and small businesses went out of exist~nce or some of the other socialist countries, but in the first six months of this year alone. they will not work in Australia. Who is to blame for all this? Is it Malcolm In fact, it is always the socialist countries Fraser? Is it Doug Anthony? Is it Sir John v,ho style themselves as the "People's Demo­ Kerr? Is it this State Government? Of course cratic Republic" or this or that-particularly not! The ones to blame are Gough Whitlam as they have only one party and their Opposi­ and the party represented by members on tion leaders are either dead or in gaol. That the Opposition benches. This is why the is the type of country the former Prime ~abor PartY: is afraid to go to the polls; it Minister wants-a country where there is no IS scared &tiff. We have heard this chorus Opposition; he Is always backing such of hate for Sir John Kerr simply because countries. he forced the Labor Party to face the people. The plain fact is that this election will be The Labor Party cries about democracy. fought and won on Labor's economic dis­ Now it ":'ill.have a taste of democracy. The asters. A Liberal-National Party Govern­ people w1ll Judge the Labor Party as is their ment will bring back stability, confidence and democratic right, and, my word,' the Labor employment. This has begun already. The Party will be weighed in the balance and moment Mr. Whitlam was sacked, new hope will be found wanting. began to return to the nation. It was to be seen in the Stock Exchange; it could Already the Labor mobs are out in the b~ felt in the street; it can be seen in the streets. It's always those who cry loudest business sector and it is noticeable in the about democracy who shout down anyone man on the land in any area we care to who tries to exercise his democratic freedom go. The recovery has started and when the Labor is the party of the clenched fist and Fraser-Anthony Government is elected, it the shouted threats. That is what the Labor will continue to expand and grow. The Party and the Communists-the mixture we Whitlam socialist nightmare will then be have today in the A.L.P.-stand for. just a horrible dream-part of Australia's political history. Queensland Opposition I have listened to calls made by Mr. Hawke members will be part of it. They will go the Leader of the Opposition and othe; down in history as a disgrace to the nation. Lab_or democrats for calm and restraint, but The Labor Government destroyed the nation behmd the scenes they tell the unions to go aEd then destroyed itself. for all they're worth. Labor screams about democracy. It is Mr. Lee: Burns is out doing it now. getting democracy. The people will decide. That is why Labor is so frightened; i-t knows Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: Indeed he is. today exactly what the decision will be. Are the mobs that demonstrate in the streets Labor will be destroyed, just as it has such as during the Springbok tour and th~ destroyed the nation. mor.atorium demonstrations, members of the N a!Jona_l Party or the Liberal Party? Are the umon marches for political purposes COLLUSION TO BRING ABOUT DOWNFALL OF spo~sored by the Liberal Party and the AUSTRALIAN LABOR GOVERNMENT Natwnal Party? Are the organised hecklers and disrupters at political meetings members Mr. MELLOY (Nudgee) (12.18 p.m.): The of our parties? Is abuse beino screamed and Premier has reacted like a man who has are objects being hurled by National Party knocked over a beehive. Judging by the and Liberal Party people? Of course not' dejected expressions on the faces of all the ~ll this is done by the Labor Party and Government members, they don't know Its sul?porters. Generally, of course, they are whether they have won or not. They don't orgamsed and led by the colleagues and know how they're going. friends of Opposition members-the Com­ I have some comments to make on the muni~ts and t~e militar;ts. For example, this most outrageous attack on democracy this mormng ~aune . Carm1cha~l was screaming country has ever known which occurred in for orgamsed st:rkes and disruption in every Canberra yesterday. It was the culmination area. The umons that come out in the of a long-laid plan stemming back to the str~ets are ultramilitant Communist-led time when the Australian Labor Party first umons, such as the Amalgamated Metal took office in Canberra in 1972. It was Workers' Union, the Waterside Workers the the result of a series of intimidatory and Seamen, the Transport Workers and' the blackmail attempts by Mr. Fraser's members. Building Workers. They are in the usual top The Government was blackmailed­ 10 of striking unions. threatened that if it did not hold a general election, Supply would not be passed in the Labor tried its fear tactics a few weeks Senate. The Prime Minister was told, "If a_go, and it flopped. It will flop again this you hold an election, we will put the Approp­ time. I utterly condemn street marches riation Bills through." There was no dis­ and violence. It will not come from cussion on whether the Appropriation Bills Nation~ Party and Liberal Party people. were adequate, or whether the Budget was Australian people have always shown their good or bad. The Opposi-tion's desire was contempt for street marches of the Labor to grasp the reins of government by fair and Communist type that we see from means or foul-and that is what happened. 1818 Matters of Public Interest [12 NovEMBER 19751 Matters of Public Interest

Even the great white knight in shining Government members cannot tell me that, armour, Killen the magnificent-the man with in three visits by Mr. Fraser to the Governor­ the feet of clay-eventually bit the dust. General, this possibility was not discuss~d. He was crushed by Mr. Fraser, then Leader This is the disastrous and despicable actiOn of the Opposition, and every Opposition that has been perpetrated by Mr. Fraser. member in 1he Senate was cowed into sub­ Mr. Speaker, it is a very serious matter mission by Mr. Fraser's standover tactics. that we are called on to deal with a situation Further, what have we seen in the last such as this purely through the political 24 hours? The culmination, the completion ambitions of an outdated, anaemic Leader of of a well-laid plan. We witnessed a diabolical the Opposition such as Mr. Fraser-a man connivance between Mr. Fraser and the who, in effect, does not even have the con­ Governor-General. There is no doubt about fidence of his own party. Because he knew that. that he could not rely on the votes of his Government Members interjected. own members to reject the Budget, he was afraid to put the Appropriation Bill to the Mr. SPEAKER: Order! The House will Senate. come to order. Honourable members Government Members interjected. will refrain from persistent interjections. Mr. MELLOY: Of course there was Mr. SPEAKER: Order! The House will connivance. The whole plan could not have come to order. I warn all honourable mem­ been carried out unless there was connivance. bers that, if they do not contain t~emselves. I will deal with them under Standmg Order Mr. KNOX: Mr. Speaker, I rise to a 123A. point of order. Is the honourable member in order in this House in referring to the Mr. MELLOY: Nobody was less surprised Governor-General as one who has connived than Mr. Fraser at the events yesterday. with people in the community? When he went into the House yesterday Mr. SPEAKER: Order! The Honourable afternoon he knew what was coming. Of the Minister has taken a point of order. course, h~ did not tell members of his own The Deputy Leader of the Opposition knows party. They were walking the passa.geways as well as I do that such remarks about the of Parliament House in Canberra askmg the Governor-General are not permitted in the Pressmen what was happening. In distinct House. I ask him to refrain from making contrast to that, Gough Whitlam called his them. team together and told them what was happening. I don't think Mr. Fraser was Mr. MELLOY: I do not know to whom game to confide in his party members for the remarks were offensive. If the Attorney­ fear that they would try to d!ssua?e him General is offended by them, I regret it, from taking the action that was immment. but I cannot help stating the fact that Mr. Fraser knew all along what was going to It is not only the Queensland Opposition happen. There must have been some contact that is concerned about what happened. What between him and the Queen's representative. was said by Mr. Bunton, the Independ~nt senator from New South Wale.s, wh<;>, like Mr. Speaker, look at the headline of the the representative selected by this Parliament newspaper I am holding- -or rather by this Government-was selected "Governor must sack PM, says Fraser". to fill a vacancy from the A.L.P. ranks? Fraser said that the Governor-General must In his speech to the Senate, Senator Bunton eventually sack the Prime Minister. He said- knew that the Prime Minister was to be "The Opposition has said it will hold sacked. The article, which appears in "The the Bills up until such time as th.e G<;>vern­ Australian", says- ment gives an assurance that It Will g? "The Federal Opposition has stepped up to the people. In other words,. the Opposi­ its pressure on the Governor-General"- tion is quite prepared to admit that .th~re is nothino- wrong with these Appropnatwn and, Mr. Speaker, I ask you to take note Bills . . "'. If the Opposition rejects the of that remark- Budget, well and good, bu~ to say that "The Federal Opposition has stepped up the Budget is all right and will .be ac~epted its pressure on the Governor-General, Sir provided the Government resigns 1s not John Kerr, arguing that unless the Con­ good enough." stitutional deadlock is resolved he would have to dismiss the Prime Minister, Mr. This was the attitude adopted by Senator Whitlam, and form a new Government." Bunton in the Senate in October. He went The article continues- on to say- "Mr. Ellicott said yesterday that if "By flouting the will of the people in Mr. Whitlam persisted in trying to govern the 1972 election and in the second without Supply then the Governor-General election in 1974 and by moving this should withdraw his commission." amendment the Opposition is taking undemocratic action." They knew all along what was to be the ultimate action by the Governor-General! That is exactly what has happened. Matters of Public Interest [12 NoVEMBER 1975] Matters of Public Interest 1819

Senator Steele Hall is reported under the and $3,000,000, when there was not one heading "Fraser has taken a sleazy road" as follows- cent in the coffers of the nation to pay for it. Before a half-Senate election could be "The Liberal Movement Leader (Senator held, there had to be Supply. Steele Hall) last night accused the Federal Opposition Leader (Mr. Fraser) of choos­ Mr. Jones: They got Supply. ing a 'pretty sleazy road' to the Prime Mr. KNOX: Yes, within minutes after M~~istership. Mr. Fraser was invited to be Prime Minister. "In a statement later, Senator Steele So it was not possible for the Prime Hall said the day's events had been a Minister (Mr. Whitlam) to have a half­ 'remarkable exercise in stupidity.' Senate election costing nearly $3,000,000 when there was no Supply granted to the "He said that only a lust for power Governor-General and when in fact the could have induced the Liberal Party to coffers would have been empty before lose its head in this manner." election day. (Time expired.) It was therefore proper for the Governor­ General to take the course that he took, GRANTING OF SUPPLY; GOVERNOR-GENERAL'S because it was the only one that he could APPOINTMENT OF CARETAKER GOVERNMENT take. Mr. Whitlam knew that-and isn't it Hon. W. E. KNOX (Nundah-Minister surprising how these "spontaneous" ~emon­ for Justice and Attorney-General) (12.27 stations, with thousands of people m the p.m.): The only person who knew the streets, erupted all over the nation within inevitable road that this particular matter the hour! was going to take and how it would end I guarantee that the people behind those was the then Prime Minister of Australia demonstrations were advised either early (Gough Whitlam). He is a distinguished yesterday morning or the previous day to ?e lawyer; he is a knowledgeable person; and ready for this sort of situation. Mr. Whit­ up till yesterday he was the consultant of lam must have known that the only answer and the adviser to the Governor-General. that he was going to receive from 1he The Governor-General was prepared to Governor-General was that there could be take his advice while he was Prime Minister no half-Senate election because Supply had of Australia. not been granted. Mr. Wright: He doesn't take his advice, The other day I said in this House in does he? answer to a question without notice that Mr. Whitlam was behaving like Nixon. I said tJ:at Mr. KNOX: He doesn't take it when he h;; was lopping the head off every execuhve is Leader of the Opposition. he could get at, and that very soon his head would have to be lopped off because Mr. Houston: He took Fraser's advice. he could not continue to shelter Mr. KNOX: No, he did not. behind this means of disposing of the guilt for which he was responsible The Governor-General inevitably had to in the iJJegal activities in the loan-raising ask the then Prime Minister (Mr. Whitlam) scandal, and the other· illegal activities in when he would receive a reply to his ques­ which his Government was involved that are tion on when he would be granted Supply. being challenged in the High Court. The then Prime Minister (Mr. Whitlam) could only say, "I can't answer the question." It may well be that Prime Minister Whit­ Obviously the Leader of the Opposition Jam was the greatest Prime Minister that (Mr. Fraser) was the only person who could Australia has had; but he tried to make grant Supply to the Governor-General. himself greater than Parliament, greater than his party, greater than the Constitution, and, Whitlam continually misled the people as of yesterday, greater than the Governor­ leaning heavily on their ignorance of th~ General. He also used the Australian Broad­ Constitution, in trying to have them believe casting Commission as an arm of information that Supply had to be granted to him. and propaganda to deliberately mislead the Supply has to be granted to the Governor­ people. Both he and the A.B.C. kept talking General-not to the Prime Minister-and about a crisis in the Constitution. There the Governor-General is entitled to have an was no constitutional crisis in this nation. answer. He did not get it from the then It was a political crisis, and the Governor­ Prime Minister. But he got it from the General had to restore law and order, and Leader of the Opposition, and Supply flowed good sense, in the community by making immediately. clear whose responsibility it was to provide I say that Whitlam knew that this was him with Supply in order that the affairs the end of the road and deliberately of the nation could proceed. embarked on a statement yesterday that there I quote the first paragraph of Part I of was to be a half-senate election for the Chapter I of the Constitution of the Com­ purpose of being knocked over, because he monwealth- knew that the Governor-General {;Ould not "The legislative power of the Common­ possibly accept a half-senate election, which wealth shall be vested in a Federal Parlia­ would cost the nation between $2,000,000 ment, which shall consist of the Queen, 1820 Matters of Public Interest [12 NovEMBER 1975] Matters of Public Interest

a Senate, and a House of Representatives, did not want to see a House of Lords; they and which is hereinafter called 'The Par­ wanted to see a joint Parliament in which liament', or 'The Parliament of the Com­ there was equal power and equal responsi­ monwealth'." bility, and the first time this power has been That is the Parliament, and the Queen is exercised in this nation (the power correctly represented by ·the Governor-General. They, exercised by the Governor-General), who are not Prime Ministers, are the people who the people who opposed it? The A.L.P.! I constitute the Parliament. There is no men­ warn individual citizens that should the tion of Prime Ministers in that clause. executive Government in this State, in any other State or in the Commonwealth of The Prime Minister continually tried to Australia ever dictate to the Governors or mislead the people, in their lack of knowledge the Governor-General, the situation will then of the Constitution, that he was the chief be that the rights and liberties of the executive of the nation. The chief executive individual citizens of this country will be of this nation is the Governor-General, and forgotten and finished, because in fact there the Prime Minister is only an adviser to him. will be no rights against the power of Mr. Jensen: He is supposed to inform Executive Government should the Governor­ the Queen before he sacks the Prime Minister. General ever be removed from office and his powers stripped from him. So this is Mr. KNOX: The only person who wants the situation that the nation faces at the to sack anybody is Whitlam, who wants to moment. It may well be that Mr. Fraser sack the Governor-General. And why does might not be the greatest; but he is the best. he want to sack him? Why does the Labor And the people of Australia do not want the Party want to sack the Governor-General? greatest in the Prime Ministership; they Because they want to appoint a Viceroy-a want the best, and Fraser and Anthony and man who would be a puppet of the Executive their team are prepared to provide the best Government. He would be a puppet who and get on with the job of governing this would have the right of veto over the elected nation with less histrionics. Parliament of a State; the right to appoint State governors or administrators (administra­ Loss OF DEMOCRATIC SYSTEM OF tors more likely that governors); and the right GoVERNMENT to take all the powers of the States away Mr. HOUSTON (Bulimba) (12.37 p.m.): from them. Those powers would be placed Yesterday, as we all know, was Remembrance in the hands of a Viceroy controlled by the Day in this nation. It marked the end of Executive Government in Canberra, thus deny­ the world conflict during which our fore­ ing the people the opportunity of free expres­ fathers fought the German nation in order sion in their own State Parliaments and to bring peace to the world and to ensure circumventing the Constitution by removing that our democratic system was not in jeop­ the need to go to the people by way of ardy from those who wanted power. Now, referendum. The Government would then 57 years after that day, we have lost our have all the powers that it wanted without democratic system, the system that we have the necessity to go to the people to have known since Federation. So in the future them transferred. The appointment of a instead of observing Remembrance Day Viceroy would enable the Government to purely and simply as a day to honour those circumvent the Constitution and the powers who sacrificed their lives in the defence of of State Parliaments. our way of life, we will have brought home Where will Opposition members stand in to us that it is the anniversary of the day the A.L.P. should that day ever come? that Australia lost its democratic system of Their policy is to abolish the office of Gover­ government. nor-General, and to have Executive Govern­ Government Members interjected. ment control the Constitution of this nation rather than be subservient to it. The law Mr. HOUSTON: Let us analyse exactly of this nation by which Governments have what happened. The Labor Government was to abide is in fact the Constitution. The elected in December 1972 and McMahon people of this nation, particularly public and Anthony were defeated. But, unfor­ servants at this moment, need to be grateful tunately, owing to the timing of Senate elec­ that those who founded the Constitution tions, there was only an election for the thought of this situation. They provided House of Representatives and the Senate that the Senate should have the opportunity remained in the hands of anti-Labor forces. as part of the Parliament-not as some House Of course, the tragedy for this nation was of Lords in some non-elected area-to curb that the defeated Government, that is the irresponsible, dangerous and corrupt Govern­ McMahon-Anthony Government, did not ments. That was their reason for inserting accept the verdict of the people, and t:-vo that provision in the Constitution. days after the election we saw the followmg The people who framed the Constitution. report in the "Australian" on 4 December were first generation Australians and migrants 1972:- to this country who did not want to see "The Premier, Mr. Bjelke-Petersen, said the things that had happened in their own. yesterday it was not up to the Queensland countries happen in this country. They Government to co-operate with the new did not want to see an aristocracy; they Feder;:tl Labor Government." Matters of Public Interest [12 NoVEMBER 1975] Matters of Public Interest 1821

That was a challenge issued immediately, The present crisis continued from 1972 and from that day on the Premier of this till the Senate decided to block Supply. State, supported by his National and Liberal There was an organised attempt by the colleagues carried out that threat to the Liberal and National-Country Parties to letter. create a crisis. As the Minister for Justice Mr. Aikens: I supported him. said, it was a political crisis; but the decision of the Governor-General has now turned it Mr. HOUSTON: Oh, yes, supported by into a constitutional crisis. the honourable member, but he would support Let us look for a moment at some of the any renegades. facts, Mr. Speaker, because every Australian, Mr. Aikens interjected. no matter whether he supports the Labor Party, the Liberal Party or the National­ Mr. HOUSTON: No, that is not right at Country Party, will be affected. The fact is all, but I will not come into that sitJiation. that in future ·the Senate will be the domin­ The remarkable thing we saw over that ant House in this nation. Until now ~he period was how the Federal Liberal Party Lower House has been the dominant House. turned from a middle-of-the-road party into Now that the Governor-General has said a fierce Right-wing party, and that is the that the question of Supply is the deciding reason the Premier of this State became such factor in who shall govern, every time the an ardent supporter of the Liberal leader Upper House is controlled by a political and how Mr. Fraser eventually became the party that is in Opposition in the Lower leader of the Liberal Party. When the House, it will be able to block Supply legally, Premier spoke in the House today, did Sir and every Governor-General will have to take Gordon Chalk follow him? No! It was action similar to that which has now been the Deputy Leader of the Liberal Party who taken. If that happens, a situation could spoke on these matters which are so import­ arise in which people would have to take ant to the nation. part in an election every six months. Government Members interjeoted. Of course, an even worse situation has been created by the Governments of New Mr. SPEAKER: Order! I ask the honour­ South Wales and Queensland, and it is now able members for Merthyr, Belmont and necessary to take into account not only sena­ Everton to contain themselves and refrain tors who have been elected to the Senate by from making persistent interjections. the people. For example, a party in power in the Lower House may have a Mr. HOUSTON: The point is ~hat the Federal Labor Government decided to go to majority of members in the Upper the people in May 1974 because of the House, according to the will of the obstruction of the Senate. They went to the people. But if one or two senators people; the people returned them. But what representing that party should die, a State did we find? The Liberal and National­ Government composed of members of 'the Country Parties would not accept the verdict party in Opposition in the Senate could of the people. They continued to use the appoint someone to the Upper House and completely change the concept of political Senate as a blocking force~something that had never been done in the history of the representation. Therefore, what we are doing nation-and that had far-reaching effects. As in this nation-and it has now been con­ firmed by the attitude and the decision of we ~now, Mr. Speaker, people tend to forget as t1me goes on. the Governor-General-is doing away with the parliamentary system as we have known Mr. AIKENS: I rise to a point of order. it. Mr. HOUSTON: Stop wasting time. If by some mischance the Fraser Govern­ ment is returned to office, the nation will again Mr. SPEAKER: Order! be in turmoil, because Fraser has already promised to do away with Medibank, he has Mr. AIKENS: If we are to have this promised to introduce a new system of taxa­ matter decided, let us have it decided truth­ tion that will double taxation for everyone in fully. The Senate was elected by the people. Queensland, and he has also said that he It represents the people, too. will do away with much educational spend­ ing. Pensioners will remember the raw deal Mr. SPEAKER: Order! they had under McMahon and Anthony. They should not forget that Fraser was then An Honourable Member interjected. a member of Cabinet. These are the things the people of Australia and Queensland can Mr. HOUSTON: Control of the Senate look forward to. was not in the hands of the Liberal and National-Country Parties. That statement is Honourable Members interjected. completely untrue. It is the type of state­ ment one hears continually. The Liberal and Mr. SPEAKER: Order! I ask ·the House National-Country Parties did not have the to come to order. I ask honourable mem­ numbers in •the Senate in their own right. I bers to refrain from making persistent inter­ will tell the House in a moment exactly what jections and allow the honourable member the situation was. to continue his speech in silence. 1822 Matters of Public Interest [12 NOVEMBER 1975] Matters of Public Interest

Mr. HOUSTON: That has been the atti­ ·assembled in Parliament. If Parliament ever tude of the Liberals and Nationals all the lost its capacity to control, our form of time. If they can't beat a man with logic, democracy would be at an end. they shout him down. They use their num­ 350 years ago Parliament established its bers. Not one of them is game to get up ability to control Ministers by depriving and debate .the matter in an orderly man­ them of all sources of funds except those ner. All they do is try to drown people out. that were granted by Parliament. The his­ But they can't beat me with logic, and they tory of the reign of Charles I reveals a will have to shout pretty loud before they battle between Parliament passing laws to will drown me out. prohibit Ministers from raising money out­ In this election Whitlam and his team will side Parliament and the King's Ministers win hands down. They will win both the finding one ingenious expedient .after another House of Representatives and the Senate to prop up their makeshift finances. elections. Mr. Lowes: Like Gough going to the As we know, the Senate is made up of 10 banks. senators from each State. The history of the Senate indicates that .any Senate election Mr. GREENWOOD: Quite so. Mr. Hay­ will be a close one. For example, in 1974, den might be the most recent Minister who the A.L.P. had 29 senators, the Liberal­ has tried to cling to office by forced loans Country Party had 28 senators, the Liberal from the banking system. But forced loans Movement had one senator, the National were not invented by Mr. Hayden. Alliance Party had one, and .there was one The battle for parliamentary supremacy other. It was found that the National was a long one. It is said that those who Alliance senator and the other senator, ignore the lessons of history are condemned Senator Townley, quickly supported the Lib­ to relive it. As we have had such a narrow eral-Country Party. escape, it seems .a worth-while use of our time to recall the struggles and sacrifices (Time expired.) that ended the "Eleven Years Tyranny" of Stratford and his colleagues. In 1625 the King summoned Parliament. BATTLE FOR PARLIAMENTARY SUPREMACY He was eager for a war with Spain and Mr. GREENWOOD (Ashgrove) (12.46 he hoped for a large grant of money for p.m.): I rise to speak on a matter of public the purpose. But the House of Commons interest-the events of 11 November. would grant only two subsidies, and in a formal resolution it expressed a determin­ On 11 November 1975, yesterday, our ation to discover and reform the abuses Governor-Geneml dismissed the Prime Min­ and grievances of the realm and State. ister. On 11 November 1641 Parliament Impatiently, Charles dissolved the Parliament impeached Thomas Wentworth, Earl of Straf­ on 12 August, without the grant of the basic ford. The events are 300 years apart, but taxation of tonnage and poundage. the issues are the same. The question is When Charles called his second Parliament whether •an Executive should be allowed to on 6 February 1626, it was determined to cling to office in defiance of Parliament's alter the policies being implemented by the refusal of Supply. When the Earl of Straf­ King and his Ministers. It prepared ford was Chief Minister, he and his col­ to impeach the Chief Minister, the Duke leagues managed to do it for 11 years. That of Buckingham, and put forward two pro­ period was referred to as the "Eleven Years positions. The fir,t was that the tax on Typanny". Mr. Whitlam's tyranny did not which the conduct of Government depended last that long. -that is, tonnage and poundage--could not Mr. Whitlam was ready to tough it out; legally b~ collected unless granted by the he was ready to ignore Parliament's refusal Parliament. The second was that it would of Supply. He was ready to do anything, not vote Supply unless Buckingham was except resign and give the people a chance removed from office. to speak. But he reckoned without the The King summoned the Commons to fundamental guarantee of our freedoms that his presence and told them that their first Australians possess-the monarch's repre­ duty was to grant Supply. Parliament stood sentative exercising with great patience, but firm. On 15 June the King dissolved his with great determination, the safeguards of second Parliament but the methods by which the Australian Constitution. Parliament was proposing to exert its power over the Government had been defined. It Both Wentworth and Whitlam were men \:ould attempt to control the Government's whose gifts matched their ambitions. Both policies by using the power of the purse. were bold and determined in the face of It would not grant money until the Chief op;Josition. Both were determined to change Minister. who was the adviser and instigator the course of history. Both failed! of these policies, was dismi•sed from office. In this country we have a parliamentary The King tried to govern without Parlia­ cleuocracy-a democracy, because the voters ment. Tonnage and poundage were con­ are able to control those who rule them; tinued without a grant. Benevolences and parlic;mm:ary, because the voters exercise 'rr:ed ~o :1s were demanded. Heavy debts that control through their representatives were contracted. Matters of Public Interest [12 NovEMBER 1975] Matters of Public Interest 1823

War broke out with France in 1627 and, Charles had had enough of Parliaments; despite all these financial expedients, the he resolved to call no more and announced burden of government could not be carried his intention by proclamation. He arrested on without Supply from Parliament. nine members of the House and dissolved The third Parliament of Charles' reign Parliament. was summoned in March 1628. It immedi­ Then began the Eleven Years tyranny. ately prepared a statement describing the The able, ambitious, bold, determined and forced loans and benevolences raised with­ inventive Wentworth, in Ireland, in England out parliamentary authority and declaring and on the Northern Marches, maintained them to be illegal. At first it determined with the aid of a standing army and a to proceed by a Bill which, when accepted "thorough" policy the arbitrary powers of an by the King, would become a statute and executive unguided by Parliament, uncriti­ necessarily binding. The King indicated cised by Parliament and uncontrolled by that he would never consent to such a Bill. Parliament. How did he raise money? How Ultimately it was decided to present to the did he circumvent Parliament? King, from both Houses, a Petition of Right. The mediaeval tax of ship money was If assented to, this would become a matter revised. This was a tax imposed on the of judicial record and be analogous in its maritime counties in time of war and effect to a decided case in the courts. used to convert merchant vessels into war­ ships. Charles and his Minister;; now The petition complained that people were imposed it throughout the whole kingdom "required to lend certain sums of money" when there was no war, and set the tax at and that many of them upon their refusal a level which was sufficient to build new so to do had been "imprisoned, fined and in ships and not merely convert existing vessels. sundry other ways molested and disquieted." J n paragraph 10, both Houses of Parlia­ Mr. Lowes: How did Charles finish up? ment asked- lVh·. GREENWOOD: Charles finished up 'That no man hereafter be compelled with his head chopped off. to make or yie!,d any gift, loan, bene­ When war with Scotland broke out, all volence, tax, these makeshifts were insufficient to provide Mr. Lowes: Gough and the banks! for the expenses of government. In 1640, after a rule of 11 years, Charles and his Mr. GREENWOOD: As my friend says, Ministers were forced to convene a Parlia­ Gough and the banks. Paragraph 10 con­ ment for the purpose of raising taxes. The tinued- first Parliament was sent home again after " ... or such like charge, without common three weeks. The second was the famous consent by Act of Parliament; and that '"Long Parliament", and once again it sought none be called to make answer or take to deprive the King of sources of revenue such oath, or to give attendance, or be which would enable him to continue goven'l­ confined, or otherwise molested or dis­ ing without parliamentary control. The Ship quieted concerning the same or for refusal Money Act (16 Car. I Ch. XIV) declared thereof;" that writs exacting ship money were void and that the particulars prayed in the petition In paragraph 11 the King was asked to of right shall from henceforth be put in declare- execution accordingly. "In the things aforesaid all your officers On the accession of Charles II in 1660, and Ministers shall serve you according another source of income was taken away to the laws and Statutes of ,this Realm." when Parliament abolished feudal tenures. The King gave assent to the Petition. In Fees to the Crown in lieu of knights' service gratitude, Parliament voted five subsidies but and the revenue from ward-ships and mar­ emphasised its right to make the executive riages were all gone. financially dependent by preparing to remon­ Eventually the Bill of Rights (I Will. and strate against the illegal collection of ton­ Mary Session 2 Ch. 2) enacted- n<"lge and poundage. The executive con­ "That levying money for or to the use tinued its rearguard action and Charles of the Crown by pretence of prerogative, brought the session to an end to prevent the remonstrance being passed. without grant of Parliament, for longer time, or in other manner, than the same vVhen the new session opened six months is or shall be granted, is illegal." later, the same question arose. Again the King attempted to prevent action by brief That, in brief, is a recital of the events by adjournments of the House. On the second which we won our liberties. occasion, the Commons refused to adjourn. May I return to Wentworth and his When the Speaker declared he had the King's impeachment in 1640. The most persuasive orders to leave the chair, he was forcibly evidence against him was Vane's note of s>t down and three resolutions, prepared by Wentworth's advice in Council. It went this Sir John Eliot, were carried. The second way- declared again t the collection of tonnage " Borrow of the city a hundred thousand and poundage without grants and the third pounds; go on vigorously to levy ship denounced anyone who should pay these money. Your Majesty having tried the affec­ il!egal duties as an enemy of the Kingdom. tions of your people, you are absolved 1824 Matters of Public Interest [13 NOVEMBER 1975] Papers

and loose from all rules of government, with a reactionary outlook-that his out­ and may do what power will admit. Your look was a move towards fascism. He called Majesty having tried all ways shall on all unionists to take spontaneous action in be acquitted before God and man. the streets. He took the lead given by Bob And you have an army in Ireland, Hawke on behalf of the Australian Labor which you may employ to reduce this Party, whose stooges sit in this House today, kingdom to obedience; for I am confident whose stooges sit here and read the news­ the Scots cannot hold out five months." papers and pretend they are not part of the same party as Gough Whitlam and the That is what government without parliament­ other characters down South and who would, ary Supply means. It means tyranny. It by their performance here, seek to dissociate means "doing what power will admit". It themselves from the actions of their leaders came to an end on 11 November 1640. in the South. The victory was repeated on 11 November 1975. But it has to be the Communist union officials, who run the unions, who have to (Time expired.) go out into the streets to cause this violence; so John Halfpenny of the Amalagamated Metal Workers Union was at the same rally with Ted Bull yesterday. These two Com­ INCITING OF VIOLENCE OVER DISMISSAL OF munists stood side by side on the platform LABOR GOVERNMENT with a number of Labor officials. Ted Bull Mr. LANE (Merthyr) (12.57 p.m.): I said- would like to make some comments in this "People will rise in a wave of anger debate about what is taking place on the and act. It will be a wave of action industrial scene in this nation in conjunction that will mark history for the proletariat." with the occurrences in Canberra; about the attempt by leading A.L.P. figures and their That is the sort of talk we are hearing Communist friends to incite violence in the today. streets of the nation. Today crowds are Mr. SPEAKER: Order! In accordance with marching in the streets under the supervision the Sessional Order, the time allowed for of Communist and A.L.P. union officials, the Matters o(Public Interest debate has now attempting to cause violence to the people expired. and to set aside the rule of law once and for all in this country. The House adjourned at 1.1 p.m. It all commenced yesterday with the very irresponsible attitude of -the former Prime Minister, Mr. Whitlam, when he appeared on the front steps of Parliament House and spoke to the large crowd of union stooges that had been rallied there for this occasion. He encouraged them in no uncertain fashion to go out into the streets and through violence and wild and unruly demonstrations to set aside any respect for law and order or the peaceful ways that Australians are used to. He was followed very closely on national television yesterday evening by the federal president of the Australian Labor Party and the federal president of the Australian Council of Trade Unions (Mr. Bob Hawke) who, with tongue in cheek, said that he did not want to see anything happen but, of course, that he could not blame the unionists if they took spontaneous action-if they got out in the streets and smashed windows; if they got out and did violence to the ordinary citizens going about their business; if they stormed the Liberal Party headquarters in Victoria; if they stormed the Liberal Party headquarters here in Brisbane and threw rocks through the windows. In this endeavour he was setting loose the extreme Left of this nation on a path of destruction that would cut right across our normal way of life. His cry was taken up very quickly, of course, by Ted Bull, the Victorian Secretary of the Waterside Workers' Federation, who at a massed rally yesterday in Melbourne said that the Governor-General was a man.