Queensland

Parliamentary Debates [Hansard]

Legislative Assembly

WEDNESDAY, 25 AUGUST 1976

Electronic reproduction of original hardcopy

Special Adjournment [25 AuGUST 1976] Electoral District of Lockyer 5

WEDNESDAY, 25 AUGUST 1976

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

CLAYFIELD AND PORT CURTIS BY-ELECTIONS RETURN OF WRITS Mr. SPEAKER: I have to inform the House that my writs issued on 27 April 1976 for the election of members to serve in the Legislative Assembly for the electoral districts of Clayfield and Port Curtis have been returned to me with certificates endorsed thereon by the returning officers of the election on 29 May 1976 of Ivan Milton Brown, Esquire, and William George Prest, Esquire, to serve as such members respect­ ively. MEMBERS SWORN Mr. Brown and Mr. Prest were intro­ duced, took the oath of allegiance, and subscribed the roll.

ELECTORAL DISTRICT OF LOCKYER RESIGNATION OF MEMBER Mr. SPEAKER: I have to inform the House that I have received the following letter from the Honourable Sir Gordon William Wesley Chalk, member for the electoral district of Lockyer in the Legislative Assembly of Queensland- "Treasurer of Queensland, "12th August, 1976. "Dear Mr. Speaker, "I hereby tender my resignation as the elected representative of the State Elec­ torate of Lockyer, such resignation to be effective as from m1dnight tonight (12th August). "I would like to express to you my sincere thanks for the many courtesies you have extended to me from time to time, and such expression also applies to all Officials of Parliament. "To the Honourable the Premier, Ministers of the Crown, the Leader of the Opposition and ail Members of the House, I extend my good wishes and trust that future deliberations which take place within this Chamber are such that they prove beneficial to this State and its people. "Finally might I say that I will always value the friendships I have made over my twenty-nine years of Parliamentary Jife, and I look forward to renewing such friendships from time to time as oppor­ tunity presents. "Yours faithfully, "Gordon Chalk. "Honourable J. E. H. Houghton, M.L.A., "Speaker, "Parli&ment House, "Brisbane". 6 Report on Investigation, &c. [25 AUGUST 1976] Ministerial Statements

SEAT DECLARED VACANT MINISTERIAL STATEMENTS Hon. J. B.JELKE-PETERSEN (Barambah CHANGES IN MINISTRY -Premier): I move- Hon. J. BJELKE-PETERSEN (Barambah "That the seat in this House for the -Premier) (11.10 a.m.): I desire to inform electoral district of Lockyer hath become the House that, on 13 August 1976, His and is now vacant by reason of the resigna­ Excellency the Governor- tion of the said Sir Gordon William Wesley Chalk." (a) accepted the resignation tendered by- The Honourable Sir Gordon William Mr. AIKENS (Townsville South) (11.6 Wesley Chalk, K.B.E., LL.D., as a a.m.): As you know, Mr. Speaker, I am not Member of the Executive Council of a social snob-that is one of the reasons Queensland, effective on and after 13 I am not in the A.L.P.-and consequently August 1976; I avoid as I would a pestilence all big social functions. However, I received an invitation (b) accepted the resignations tendered from a gentleman whose name I forget­ by- his name does not matter, but he sent his The Honourable Sir Gordon William address-to a testimonial dinner to be held Wesley Chalk, K.B.E., LL.D., as Deputy for Sir Gordon Chalk next Thursday week. Premier and Treasurer of Queensland; It is a black-tie affair, and although black­ The Honourable William Edward Knox, tie affairs are my pet abomination, I feel so as Minister for Justice and Attorney­ highly about the work that Sir Gordon Chalk General of Queensland; did in this Chamber that I decided to accept the invitation and forwarded my $25. And I The Honourable Alien Maxwell Hodges, want to make it perfectly clear that I will as Minister for Police of Queensland; send another $25 if I am allowed to speak The Honourable Thomas Guy Newbery, at that function and tell the workers of as Minister for Tourism and Marine Queensland of the great work that Sir Gordon Services of Queensland; Chalk did for railwaymen in the five or six The Honourable William Daniel Lickiss, years that he was Minister for Transport. Q.G.M., as Minister for Survey, Valua­ He did more for railwaymen when he was tion, Urban and Regional Affairs of Minister for Transport than his A.L.P. pre­ Queensland, decessors did in the 50 years before that. effective on and after 13 August 1976; I do not think that that section of his (c) appointed- ministerial life should be overshadowed by the very fine job he did as Treasurer. John Ward Greenwood, Esquire, B.A., As Treasurer, he was dealing with money LL.B., to be a Member of the Executive and with men in the upper echelon of finance, Council of Queensland; but as .:'vlinister for Transport he was deal­ (d) appointed- ing with real dinky-die workers who slaved The Honourable William Edward Knox, in the Railway Department. I was in that to be Deputy Premier and Treasurer of department for many years and it has not Queensland; been any good since I left it. As a railway­ man-a man who held every official posi­ The Honourable Alien Maxwell Hodges, tion in the Australian Railways Union other to be Minister for Tourism and Marine than a paid position-! place on record my Services of Queensland; tribute and my deep regard and respect for The Honourable Thomas Guy Newbery, Sir Gordon, who was probably one of the to be Minister for Police of Queensland; best Ministers for Transport that this State The Honourable William Daniel Lickiss, ever had. Q.G.M., to be Minister for Justice and Motion (Mr Bjelke-Petersen) agreed to. Attorney-General of Queensland; The Honourable John Ward Green­ REPORT ON INVESTIGATION BY wood, B.A., LL.B., to be Minister for P ARLIA"Iv1ENTARY COMMISSIONER Survey and Valuation of Queensland. FOR ADMINISTRATIVE INVESTIGA­ I lay upon the table of the House a copy TIONS of the Queensland Government Gazette Mr. SPEAKER: I have to report that I Extraordinary of 13 August 1976 containing have received from the Parliamentary Com­ the relevant notifications. missioner for Administrative Investigations Whereupon the honourable gentleman his report upon the investigation of the laid the Queensland Government Gazette administrative action of the Public Service Extraordinary on the table. Board in recommending the dismissal of three teachers. LEADER OF THE HoUSE I lay the report on the table and ask that copies be distributed to all honourable mem­ Hon. J. BJELKE-PETERSEN (Barambah bers. -Premier) (11.13 a.m.): I desire to inform the House that arrangements have been Whereupon the report was laid on the table. made, as you, Mr. Speaker, have been Papers [25 AUGUST 1976] Papers 7 informed, that the Honourable T. G. New­ Explosives Act 1952-1975. bery, M.L.A., Minister for Police, will Grammar Schools Act 1975 and the undertake the duties of Leader of the House Local Bodies' Loans Guarantee Act for the balance of this Parliament. 1923-1975. Honourable members will be aware that The Rural Training Schools Act of 1965. the responsibilities of this office have been ably and diligently attended to since its The Newstead House Trust Act of 1939. inception by the Honourable A. M. Hedges, Co-operative Housing Societies Act M.L.A., Minister for Tourism and Marine 1958-1974. Services. Mr. Hedges has decided to relin­ quish the position and I am sure I speak State Housing Act 1945-1974. for all members on both sides of the House Fisheries Act 1957-1974. when I say that his efforts have resulted in Art Unions Regulation Act 1964-1974. the better dispatch of parliamentary business and that his co-ordination of House matters Art Unions and Amusements Act 1976. has produced a more efficient Parliament. Collections Act 1966-1975. We all thank him most sincerely for his District Courts Act 1967-1972. contribution in this regard. Jury Act 1929-1976. I am confident that Mr. Newbery will Magistrates Courts Act 1921-1976. receive the same co-operation and assistance from all honourable members now that he The Supreme Court Act of 1921. has assumed this post, and I tmst that our Regulations under- combined efforts will result in further improved and speedier Parliamentary pro­ Children's Services Act 1965-1974. ceedings, if that is possible. Harbours Act 1955-1976. Queensland Marine Act 1958-1975. PAPERS The Canals Acts, 1958 to 1960. The following papers were laid on the Rural Fires Act 1946-1975. table, and ordered to be printed:- Health Act 1937-1976. Reports- Hospitals Act 1936-1976. Public Accountants Registration Board, Grammar Schools Act 1975. for the period 1 January 197 5 to 31 December 1975. Building Societies Act 1886--1976. Board of Trustees of the Queensland Appeal Costs Fund Act 1973. Museum, for the year ended 31 Art Unions and Amusements Act 1976. December 1975. Auctioneers and Agents Act 1971-1975. The following papers were laid on the Companies Act 1961-1975. table:- Co-operative and Other Socic![c:s Act Proclamations under- 1967-1974. Acquisition of Land Act 1967-1969 and Invasion of Priv::tcy Act 1971-1976. the State and Regional Planning and Development, Public Works Organiza­ Liquor Act 1912-1975. tion and Environmental Control Act Valuation of Land Act 1944-1975. 1971-1974. Valuers Registration Act 1965-1974. Harbours Act 1955-1976. By-laws under- Queensland Marine Act 1958-1975. Harbours Act 1955-1976. Orders in Council under- Education Act 1964-1974. Central Queensland Coal Associates Agreement Act 1968. Statutes under- Audit Acts Amendment Act 1926-1971. University of Queensland Act 1965- The Commissions of Inquiry Acts, 1950' 1973. to 1954. Griffith University Act 1971-1973. State and Regional Planning and Balance Sheet and Profit and Loss Account Development, Public Works Organiza­ as at 29 February l 976, of the Union­ tion and Environmental Control Act Fidelity Trustee Company of Aus­ 1971-1974. tralia Limited. Harbours Act 1955-1976. Report of the Moreton Region Growth Beach Protection Act 1968-1972. Strategy Investigations. Water Act 1926-1975. .\udit Inspector's Report on the Books River Improvement Trust Act 1940- and Accounts of the Queensland 1971. Coal Board for the period 8 August Ambulance Services Act 1967-1975. 1975 to 30 June 1976. 8 Deaths of Hon. A. Jones, Mr. J. [25 AUGUST 1976] Donald and Mr. G. Tedman

QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE manner of debate, which was always sup­ ported by a great deal of preparation and SESSIONAL ORDER research. It was his general style that made Hm Donald a leading front-bench debater Hon. T. G. NEWBERY (Mirani---Leader for the Australian Labor Party over many of the House), by leave, without notice: I move- years. "That during this session, unless other­ He was born at Redbank in 1895 of wise ordered, and notwithstanding the Scottish and Australian parents and he provision of Standing Order No. 68, ques­ became interested in politics dght back in tions may be asked by members without the early days when he was attending school. notice being given. The period allotted He began his working life as an apprentice each day for the asking of questions upon cabinet-maker, and at the modest age of 21 notice and without notice and for the was elected president of the Furnishing answering of questions shall not exceed Trades Union. Later he was employed as one hour." a winding-engine driver in the mining industry, and it was there that he began Motion agreed to. acquiring the extensive knowledge that served him so well in :later political life. PETITIONS Jim Donald advanced to become vice­ president and State secretary of the Colliery AMENDMENT OF LIQUOR ACT Employees' Union. Hon. W. E. KNOX (Nundah) presented By the time he entered politics he had a a petition from 98 electors of Queensland good understanding of the mining industry praying that the Parliament of Queensland of his day, and this e:x:perience was soon put will amend the Liquor Act so as to allow to work for Ipswich, which was then one of golf and bowls clubs to sell take-away the State's major mining centres. bottled liquor to their members. He was active in the Bremer electorate Petition read and received. when the sitting member, the late Frank [Similar petitions were presented by Mr. Cooper, resigned in 1946. He was sub­ W. D. Hewitt (12 signatories), Mr. Aikens sequently elected to this House, and in 1947 (175 signatories), Mr. Byrne (112 signatories), was further honoured when he was elected Mr. Miller (119 signatories) and Mr. by his fe11ow Labor members as secretary Hartwig (30 signatories) and these petitions of the Parliamentary Labor Party. In 1958 were read and received.] he became parliamentary leader and Leader of the Opposition in a chain of events which culminated in the death of his predecessor, DEATHS OF HON. A. JONES, MR. J. Mr. Les Wood, whom many of us would DONALD AND MR. G. TEDMAN remember also. It was in that tumultuous period for the A.L.P., which had seen the MoTION OF CoNDOLENCE defeat of Mr. Duggan, the now famous or Hon. J. BJELKE-PETERSEN (Barambah well-known split within A.L.P. ranks and -Premier) (11.35 a.m.), by ,leave, without the eventual expulsion of Mr. Vince Gair, notice: I move- that he held the leadership for a period, perhaps briefly, and it somewhat reflects his "1. That this House desires to place on modest nature that he resigned in favour of record its appreciation of the services Mr. Duggan when Mr. Duggan re-entered rendered to this State by the late Honour­ Parliament in a by-election. able Arthur Jones, a former member of the Parliament of Queensland and Minister Jim Donald's views on temperance and of the Crown, and J ames Donald, Esquire, liquor reform were uncompromising and he and George Tedman, Esquire, former stuck rigidly to his non-smoking and non­ members of the Parliament of Queensland. drinking ethics as a strong testimony to right living and sober practices. I can just 2. That Mr. Speaker be requested to imagine what he would have said today if he convey to the widows and families of the had heard the presentation of the petitions; deceased gentlemen the above resolution, I respect, too, the views of the honourable together with an expression of the sym­ member for Sandgate. pathy and sorrow of the members of the Parliament of Queensland in the loss they Jim Donald will be remembered as an have sustained." influential power in both State and Federal A.L.P. circles for very many years, and it The late James, or Jim, Donald, who died was in these that he served the people of on 4 May this year at Ipswich, was a Ipswich East most capably in promoting former member and Leader of the State development in both political and civic Opposition and he was respected by all fields. members of this Parliament on both sides of the House. I say that quite sincerely. He In his younger days he played representa­ was one of the most modest and unassuming tive cricket and Rugby League for Ipswich gentlemen to serve Queensland, and some of and served a term as president of the Ipswich those present will remember his very quiet and West Moreton Cricket Association. Deaths of Hon. A. lanes, Mr. J. [25 AuausT 1976] Donald and Mr. G. Tedman 9

He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Hilda After a time he became an A.W.U. organ­ Dona:ld, and fami

Hon. W. E. KNOX (Nundah-Deputy eight members here today who served in Par­ Premier and Treasurer) (11.47 a.m.): In liament with him. I am one of those. seconding the motion proposed by the Pre­ Perhaps that demonstrates the comparative mier, I wish to associate the members of the fragility of our political existence. The late Liberal Party with it. Mr. J ones represented western and north­ The late Mr. Tedman was not known to western electorates in the Parliament for a me. He entered and left this House long total of 24 years and he was a Minister for before any of the present members were 15 years. In those times the task of repre­ first elected. Like a large number of other senting electorates remote from Brisbane was members in that period, he was a political even more difficult than it is today. It victim of the depression and he served in was almost as difficult for Ministers, par­ only one Parliament. His entry to politics ticularly in portfolios such as Lands, Mines was nonetheless spectacular in that he defeated and Public Instruction (all of which Mr. the Speaker of the House of the day, the Jones held at one time or another) to ser­ late Honourable 'vV. Bertram, who was the vice adequately the State as a whole. How­ grandfather of my colleague the honourable ever, Mr. Jones was able to do both and member for Brisbane (Mr. Harold Bertram l am certain that it was his knowledge of Lowes). the West and its problems which helped him to do so. During his service in the House Mr. Ted­ man took particular interest in industrial He rose from being a "gun" shearer of development and the creation of employment some note in the West to a senior Minister opportunities in the private sector. An in the last Labor Government. In view examination of "Hansard" for the period of the issues which precipitated the Labor reveals Mr. Tedman's strong commitment to split of 1957, Mr. Jones, as the Minister private enterprise. It was something that for Labor and Industry, figured very pro­ lasted with him all his life; he maintained it minently in the events of what was the most at all times. turbulent period of Queensland's political history. The late Jim Donald was well known to many members. As the Premier has men­ After his retirement he maintained a keen tioned, he served for a brief period as Leader interest in public affairs and enjoyed com­ of the Opposition and voluntarily stuod down paratively good health until the brief illness from that position when Mr. John Duggan which resulted in his death at the age was re-elected to Parliament in 1958. How­ of 84. On behalf of my party, I extend ever, he continued to be a leading member our condolences to his family and to the of the Opposition in this House until he families of the two other former members retired from politics in 1969. He was, as whose deaths this motion records today. the Premier mentioned, an authority on the coal industry, having risen to the position of Mr. BURNS (Lytton-Leader of the State Secretary of the Colliery Employees' Opposition) (11.52 a.m.): I should like to Union prior to his election to this House. associate the Opposition and other members of the Labor Party with the motion moved In my time in the Parliament the know­ by the Premier and seconded by the Deputy ledge of the coal industry which the late Premier. It is always distressing to find Jim Donald possessed and exhibited would on the resumption of Parliament a list of be unequailed by that of any other member. names of those who served the State and His contributions on that subject were always the nation very well and who died during listened to with attention by members on the recess. We are then required to speak both sides. of them, many of whom we may never I think it would be fair to say that Mr. have met and indeed may never have heard Donald was a man of strong political as well of. I did not, for instance, know Mr. as personal convictions. His speeches on Tedman at all. He began his parliamentary matters such as liquor law reform were career before I was even born. In fact, rivalled in their intensity only by those of I would have been less than one year old the honourable member for Sandgate. On when he completed his parliamentary term. the occasion on which he changed offices in But, as is the case with every member of 1957, when I entered the Parliament, I hap­ Parliament, I believe that, as a result of pened to occupy the desk that he previously his parliamentary duties, his family would occupied. During the movement of our per­ have suffered the loss of his assistance, his sonal effects into and out of that office, he co-operation and his personal attendance took half an hour or so of his time to give with them during that period. That hap­ me some friendly advice, which I have pens to the families of all parliamentarians. always heeded. To his family I express my I think therefore that we, as responsible sympathy and that of my colleagues. members, have a duty always to pay our In the long history of this Parliament. respects to them and assure them that we few men who served in it would have had know what they went through whilst the a more in-depth and first-hand knowledge deceased was a member of the House. of the Far West and North West of this In the case of Arthur Jones-I started to State than the late Arthur J ones. Although become active in the party just prior to the it is only 16 years since he retired from split, at which time he was a figure this House, there are I think no more than in the House. He left the Parliament Deaths of Hon. A. Jones, Mr. J. [25 AUGUST 1976] Donald and Mr. G. Tedman 11 in 1960 and I, of course, did not with these motions of condolence, and I pass enter it until 1972. l did not know Arthur on our sympathy to the wives and families Jones in the Parliament, but I knew of him of these deceased members. in the West. I was an organiser for the Australian Labor Party for many years in Western and North-western Queensland, Mr. MARGINSON (Wolston) (11.56 where Arthur Jones was well respected. At a.m.): I join with the previous speakers in the time of the split, as one went round expressing my sympathy to the families of the West one found that there were many the three deceased members. I knew Mr. good Labor men and members of the A.W.U. J ones, and naturaily I knew Mr. Donald. I who would talk with great pride of their d~d not know Mr. Tedman, but I have heard friendship with Arthur J ones and their know­ of him. I am rising this morning to express ledge of him. His friends as well as mem­ my personal sorrow to Mrs. Donald and to bers of his family will miss him and I the family, including the grandchildren, of know that many people in the West will be Jim Donald, who was my immediate pre­ saddened to hear of his death. I join with decessor in this House as the member for the Premier in offering my condolences to Ipswich East. his wife and family. My association with Jim Donald would Jim Donald was a person with whom I date back almost 50 years. He became a worked for a considerable time. On many member of the Ipswich Hospitals Board in occasions he spent some time putting me 1936 when I was the secretary of the board, straight on aspects of my job as an although I had known him previously. I organiser and secretary of the party. When found him a very excellent companion. It Jim Donald became secretary of the Parlia­ was my honour and privilege to be a mem­ mentary Labor Party, I, as an officer of the ber of every campaign committee which party, had a tremendous volume of cor­ helped to elect Jim to this House. He was a respondence with him. Many times he was man of very firm views on many matters prepared to go completely out of his way both politkal and personal, as the Premier to assist the party and the working-class mentioned. He was one who was not afraid movement, as well as the unions concerned, to expound his views both on politics and to solve various problems. I can remember on matters of a personal nature. I feel that him making a trip to Rockhampton one week­ I have benefited from knowing Jim Donald end at a time when he was very busy and for so long. not well. He certainly did not have to go there but he knew that the movement needed He did a lot for Ipswich. He was well the assistance and quiet reassurance that he respected in the electorate of Ipswich East, could give at a difficult time. He came with us which he represented. He first entered Parlia­ and other members of the executive com­ ment in 1946 as the member for Bremer, mittee to solve that problem. an electorate near Ipswich which took in part of the eastern suburbs of Ipswich. He was remember that he was always so respected that he was returned with sub­ prepared to give of his best for the party stantial support on every occasion he stood and for the movement. His work in a for election to this House. I join the short hectic period in 1957 showed, I think, Premier, the Deputy Premier and my Leader the true measure of the man. He took on in paying a tribute to these former members, the leadership of the party after Les Wood particularly Jim Donald, and I express my died, which was a very difficult time. sympathy and sorrow to his widow and Although the party was in complete dis­ family and to the wives and families of the array, he was prepared to take on that very other two members. hard job, and immediately Jack Duggan won the by-election in Toowoomba he handed over the reins. In other words, he was not Hon. N. T. E. HEWITT (Auburn-Minis­ after any personal benefit from the position. ter for Water Resources) (11.59 a.m.): This He was interested in the party itself, and morning I would like to join with the in the union movement. He was a worker Premier, the Deputy Premier and the Leader and he represented them very well, and I of the Opposition in expressing my sincere think it is a fitting tribute that many miners sympathy to the Tedman, Jones and Donald have written to ask me to say on their families. Though I did know Arthur Jones I behalf in this Parliament how much they did not know him as well as I knew Jim will miss the wise counsel of Jim Donald. Donald. Let me say that when I entered this house in 1956 as a fairly young man I know that Evan Marginson, who is sit­ who had never been through the gates of ting behind me and who succeeded Jim Parliament House and who knew very little Donald would say that the years that Jim about politics, Jim Dona1d was the first man spent looking after that area made the seat to approach me. He said, "Nev, if I can do such a strong and worth-while Labor seat anything at all to help you, I will." He that it was a lot easier for Evan, and each took me around to practically every Govern­ and every one of us, to hold for the Labor ment department and introduced me to the Party. I join with the Premier and the people whom I naturally would have to con­ Deputy Premier and associate the Opposi­ tact from time to time. That to me was a tion and an members of the Labor Party marveHous thing. 12 Deaths of Hon. A. Jones, Mr. f. [25 AUGUST 1976] Donald and Mr. G. Tedman

Although we may have been poles apart politically, over the years I came to regard I think it was in 1929 that the late Darby Jim Donald as a great friend. Riordan resigned from the State House to contest the Federal seat of Kennedy against In addition, his daughter, Mrs. Colin a man named Grosvenor Arundell Francis, Dennis, lived in my old electorate of Mack­ who had won the seat more or less acci­ enzie, in the Clermont area, and she has dentally a couple of years before. Darby made a great contribution there. Riordan was the most popular man in the Therefore, I would certainly like to JOin West, and he contested the Federal seat and in the motion of condolence to the three won it and, of course, left his State seat former members. of Burke vacant. Arthur Jones was a lay­ down misere to win the State seat of Burke. Mr. AIKENS (Townsville South) (12.1 He duly won it and was member for Burke p.m.): I join with other honourable members for, I think, two or three years before the in expressing condolence to the relatives of Moore Government's redistribution of 1932 the three members concerned. wiped him and about 10 other members of I d:d not know Mr. Tedman, but I am the A.L.P. out of this Assembly. prepared to accept unreservedly all the fine things that have been said about him by He then became an officer of the Depart­ other honourable members. However, I ment of Labour and Industry in Brisbane, did know very weii the late Arthur Jones and later, when Billy Wellington, who had and the late Jim Donald. I think that Arthur been the member for Charters Towers for Jones was one of the finest Labor men who many years, died, the workers of Charters ever came into this House, and in that Towers sent down to Arthur Jones and said, respect I think he could be paired with "Come up here and contest the Charters Jim Donald. Of course, comparisons are Towers seat on our behalf." He did, and he odious, but I doubt whether the Labor won the seat and held it till the big split Party will ever again bring to the fore two in 1957. He won it again after that split men of the calibre of Arthur Jones and Jim in 1957, but he did not, if I remember cor­ Donald. It seems to me that after men such rectly, contest the 1960 election. as that-and there were only two of them­ have served their time, somebody breaks Arthur Jones was one of the real, dinky­ the mould and throws it away. One certainly die, dyed-in-the-wool Labor men. When I does not see men like them in the Labor look upon the benches occupied by the Party today. However, it is not my purpose members of the A.L.P. today-and I do today to make political capital out of the not want to be acidulous; I certainly do death of two very fine men. not want to indulge in odious comparisons -I can see only one member who even I knew Arthur Jones when he was a faintly resembles Arthur Jones in his adher­ shearer out in the Far North-we&t, and he ence to A.L.P. principles and decencies. was a very good shearer. In the argot of The rest of them are nowhere near the the shearing sheds, he was a deuce artist, same A.L.P. calibre as men like Arthur and there were not very many of those Jones and Jim Donald. about. It meant that he could shear 200 sheep in an eight-hour day. He was a very Arthur Jones was a remarkable Minister. fine type of man, and in those days, of He had a quiet voice and spoke well. He course-and this merely exemplifies how far was a Welshman, of course, and had that the working class has come since then, par­ lovely little lilt that all Welshmen have in ticularly in the shearing industry-shearers their voices-men like Lloyd George and walked to the sheds, rode there on their bikes Billy Hughes. I know it is rather discon­ or horses, or came in buckboards. Arthur certing to A.L.P. men to talk about Biily Jones first rode a bike with his swag over Hughes. Time and time again Arthur Jones the back wheel; later he rode a motor-bike. would stand up in this House and in his In about the early 1920s he became an quiet, lilting, Welsh voice lay the Opposition A.W.U. organiser in the West, when A.W.U. and A.L.P. opponents in the aisles. organisers were dinky-die trade unionists. They would go straight to the shed; they I could talk for hours about what Arthur would not go to the main house. Later on, J ones did as Minister for Labour and Indus­ of course, before the big stations were try, actions which endeared him to everyone broken up, A.W.U. organisers used to drive who knew him. He had a quiet, self-effacing up in motor-cars. They would go straight way. He got on with his job and did it to the homestead, where they would put on properly. He was reared in the Labor move­ a white shirt and a black tie and have din­ ment; he was steeped in the Labor move­ ner with the manager. Arthur Jones was one ment; his very Soul was engrained in the of the old-time A.W.U. organisers who went Labor movement. These days, we see very straight to the bunkhouse where the men few men like Arthur Jones. I personally camped, and he bunked in with them and liked him very much indeed. We were very ate in the mess with them because he was good friends and got on well together. I was one of them. So he brought into this House, very sorry for his wife and relatives when as did many of the old-time Labor men, all I heard that he had died. I only hope he the principles and decencies that one found died as peacefuily and as happily as he in the Labor men of that day. lived. He had a very fine sense of humour. Deaths of Hon. A. Jones, Mr. J. [25 AuGUST 1976] Donald and Mr. G. Tedman 13

J im Donald was a man of a slightly differ­ in the interests of the ordinary people whom ent type; nevertheless, he, too, was dedicated he represented. The member for Bundaberg to the A.L.P. The A.L.P. was Jim Donald's also does this, and is to be commended for it. life. Nothing mattered to Jim Donald except the party. He was prepared to sacrifice all Jim Donald was the representative of a his hopes of promotion in the party in order coal-mining constituency, known at the time to be genuine about what he considered to as Bremer. As the Leader of the Opposition be his duty to the working class and the has said, his party was then beginning to dinky-die members of the Labor Party. As fall into disarray. The Labor Party intro­ the Premier said, Jim Donald did not wallow duced a Bill, even though Jim Donald had in grog. He was a teetotaller, but that did not fought, unsuccessfully, in caucus against cer­ stop him from getting into Parliament. It tain clauses in it, dealing with coal-miners' did not prevent him from being a fine man pensions and entitlements. Jim Donald rose and a reputable, responsible citizen loved and to his feet in the House and said, "I cannot respected by all. and will not vote for this Bill. Although it is being brought forward by a Minister I was in the Labor Party all my life. I was in my own political party, I cannot and penalised and punished and lost a lot of will not vote for it; it is opposed to all things at times for being a member of the my working-class principles and to my sense A.L.P. Jim Donald was one of those who of industrial decency." believed with me that one does not have to hang around pubs and buy grog or associate Jim Donald refused to vote in support with all sorts of drunken no-hopers in order of the Bill, and walked out of the House. to win elections. I can remember when quite He was told by the Labor Party-and it a few Labor men in this Chamber said to made sure that its pledge was kept-that me, "I don't know how you get a vote. that was the last chance he would have of Don't you go around and shout for the boys entering the Ministry. Anyone who cares during an election campaign?" I said, "No." to read the history of the A.L.P. will see One fellow said to me once, "Buy us a beer, that, although Jim Donald remained as the Tom, and I will vote for you." I said, "Look, secretary of the A.L.P. in this House, he l will give you my philosophy on that. If I was never again considered in caucus for can buy your vote for one beer, someone appointment to a ministerial post. Even else can buy it back for himself with two though he was on the way to such a beers. If a beer is the price of your vote, position, he deliberately and calculatedly it's not worth having." threw away the chance in order to be loyal I agree with Jim Donald, the Premier and to the people whom he represented. other people that whether a person drinks or As honourable members know, I do not not is his business. I don't know about mem­ like to turn the knife in the wound, but bers of the A.L.P. but I know that there are I remind them that the obnoxious provisions members of the trade union movement who in the Bill to which Jim Donald objected and believe that the only way to get on in the in relation to which he sacrificed any chance trade union movement is to get a lot of of appointment to the Ministry remained drunken no-hopers around them. They take in the legislation until 1957, when the Nick­ them to various public meetings addressed lin Government was elected. One of its by ·their political opponents. We have one first actions on assuming power was the allegedly prominent fellow in Townsville-a introduction of amendments to the coal min­ professional man-who gathers together a ing legislation incorporating the very pro­ mob of drunken no-hopers every time a pro­ visions that had been urged by Jim Donald. minent member of the Federal Government The Nicklin Government stuck up for the goes up there. He fills those no-hopers up things that Jim Donald stuck up for and with booze at the hotel opposite David Jones proved, on that occasion at least, that it and then takes them along to interject in all had the interests of the coal miners at heart sorts of scurrilous and obscene ways at the more than did the A.L.P., which was swept public meeting. into oblivion in the cataclysm that started in That is the way he thinks he can get on 1957. in the A.L.P. I am glad that a very close I regret the passing of men like Arthur relative of his does not follow the same line. Jones and Jim Donald. However, the wheel He seems to get on in the party to which he of time turns and we have to accept fate belongs without that sort of conduct. That as it is dished up to us. Unfortunately we is something on which we should act. We do not see many men like them today; they should stand behind men like the Premier seem to be a forgotten breed. They seem and Jim Donald and tell the people that it is to be passing away, and no-one seems to not necessary to be a drunk or a potential be taking their place in the A.L.P. alcoholic in order to get into Parliament and hold one's seat in Parliament. Again I express my sincere condolences I am going to say something that perhaps to all those left behind by Mr. Donald, Mr. should go on record, although actually it is Jones and Mr. Tedman. The State is the already on record. It is something that poorer for their passing. should be told to the new breed of the A.L.P. today. Jim Donald was a man who Hon. L. R. EDWARDS (Ipswich-Minister stood up for what he believed to be right for Health) (12.13 p.m.): I rise to support 14 Questions Without Notice [25 AUGUST 1976] Questions Without Notice the motion moved by the Premier and express Have the two Scotland Yard officers aban­ my sympathy to the relatives of the late doned the inquiry in disgust? Has any advice Jim Donald, the former member for Bremer. been received from them as to their inten­ As has been indicated, Jim Donald served tions? the people of Ipswich in the State seat of Bremer, as it was then known, for a very Mr. NEWBERY: The Scotland Yard lengthy period. He was followed by Mr. detectives were booked to return on 9 Sep­ tember. However, they wiH now return to Marginson, and in the redistribution in 1972 Queensland upon the ,completion of the court part of Ipswich East became the seat of case being heard in Brisbane, which is likely Ipswich, to which I was elected at that time. to continue for another 10 weeks. Jim Donald was a devoted and dedicated member of Parliament and one who gained DISMISSAL OF TEACHERS FOLLOWING the respect of the Premier and, as other CONVICTION ON DRUG CHARGES speakers have indicated, all who knew him. He contributed a great deal to the Queens­ Mr. KATTER: I ask the Minister for land Parliament. His strong stand on moral Education and Cultural Activities: Is the issues earned the respect of all who knew Minister aware of moves by the Queensland him. He was, of course, a great fighter Teachers Union to ban classes formerly for the city of Ipswich and its people, no taught by teachers convicted of using drugs matter what their political or other beliefs. and later dismissed by the Public Service The people of Ipswich were always sup­ Board? Is the Minister aware of statements ported by Jim Donald. by the Queensland Teachers Union president As has been indicated, he was a teetotaller (Mr. Costello) to the effect that these offences and a non-smoker and he expressed very are petty and that the teachers have been strong views on temperance and liquor punished excessively? Is this the same Mr. reform. Costello who only 12 months ago was per­ When I was elected to this Parliament, Jim secuting four students at Townsville who Donald was one of the first people to ring were expelled for smoking marijuana? Did me and offer advice as a member of Par­ Mr. Costello at that time make a statement liament representing Ipswich. He did this that the reinstatement of the four students even though we were of different political within a short time would not give the par­ views. He was also a very devout church­ ents the assurance that their children would man. On the Sunday before he died, he be provided with the maximum protection found his place, as was his custom week against exposure to drugs whilst a.t school? by week, in the church to which he belonged. Did the teachers at Townsville also, as quoted Ipswich has lost a great citizen and I believe in "The Townsville Daily Bulletin" of 5 that he will long be remembered for his August, 1976, state that "in future any stud­ service to this Parliament and to the people ents who are expelled from a school for drug of Ipswich. I extend my deepest sympathy offences should not be permitted to re-enter to his wife and family. another school"? I ask the Minister to assure the parents of Mr. HALES (Ipswich West) (12.15 p.m.): Queensland, specifically those of Charters I support this motion, especially that part Towers, that the Government will not tolerate expressing sympathy to Mrs. DonaJd and drug use in our schools and that the Queens­ her family. It is probably 20 years since I land Teachers Union will be reminded of its first met Jim Donald. I went to see him hypocrisy in its present statements concern­ about a dispute I had over a workers' com­ ing the dismissed teachers. pensation daim. I gained a great respect for him. Many other people of Ipswich also Mr. BIRD: Of course, as a result of pub­ held him in high regard as a great Ipswich licity through the news media, we are all gentleman. I am sure that everyone in aware that Mr. CosteMo's casting vote was Ipswich mourns his passing. required to carry a motion that teachers be I was pleased to note that so many people withdrawn from the schools where these attended his funeral and, more particularly, teachers who have been dismissed from the that many parliamentarians and Cabinet teaching service had taught. What action is Ministers were present. That is indicative of being taken at the present time I do not how highly respected he was. Once again know, although I understand that the union I extend my ,condolences to Mrs. Donald has approached the teachers at Camp Hill and her family. and that Mr. Costello is going to Charters Motion (Mr. Bjelke-Petersen) agreed to, Towers to talk to the teachers up there. honourable members standing in silence. As to the absolute hypocrisy of Mr. Costello, the president of the Queensland QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE Teachers Union, I would certainly agree with the honourable member that here is a SCOTLAND YARD INVESTIGATION, POLICE man who is obviously more concerned with DEPARTMENT taking away from the children of this State Mr. MELLOY: I ask the Minister for their right to an education than with any­ Police: Can he inform the House when the thing else. He has not come out and said deferred and delayed inquiry into the that he would support the well-being of the Queensland Police Force is to be resumed? chi,Jdren of this State by ensuring that at no Questions Without Notice [25 AUGUST 1976] Address in Reply 15 time will they be liable to be influenced by Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: Well, substan­ persons who illegally use a drug or commit tial profits. I would not say that is so in any other type of indictable offence. every case. Last week I spent a number of days visiting the various coalfields, and I now I was amazed to see that Mr. Costello have a deeper appreciation of the problems had taken this stand with regard to the facing the companies. I learnt that in one teachers when, as the honourable member area the company concerned was losing over said, only 12 months ago he was insisting $1,000,000, whereas it would have shown a that four students should not be allowed to slight profit on its operations if it had been complete their education, not because they able to retain the $1.50 a tonne. Because of had been found guilty of a drug offence but action instigated by the former Federal Labor simply because they had been caught. Now Government, that company is now showing we have the ridiculous situation where these a loss. It is reaching the point where it must teachers have not only been caught but have decide whether to continue operating on the been found guilty through the normal pro­ present scale or cut back very considerably. cesses of the law of this State. An approach I can only say I believe that this is an was made to the Public Service Board, which entitlement of the companies themselves and recommended to me and to my department that it should not, as suggested by the hon­ that their services be terminated. Might I ourable member, be passed on to overseas say that I had no hesitation whatsoever in companies. acting on the recommendation of the Public Service Board. May I give an assurance to ART UNION FEES the parents and the students of this State, and the great majority of the teachers of this !VIr. ELLIOTT: I ask the Minister for State, who are still dedicated to the educa­ Justice and Attorney-General: Will he com­ tion of the young people of Queensland, that ment on an article appearing in today's similar cases in the future will be dealt with "Telegraph" in which the sum of money in this manner so far as I am concerned. referred to in relation to art unions con­ ducted in the previous year is given as $100? I believe this to be incorrect and ask the REDUCTION IN FEDERAL TAX ON COAL l\1 inister to clarify the matter. EXPORTS Mr. LICKISS: I thank the honourable Mr. CASEY: I ask the Premier: As the member for drawing my attention to this reduction announced recently by the Federal matter. Of course, the amount should read Treasurer of $1.50 a tonne in the coal export "$1,000" not "$100". levy has been interpreted by many Japanese buying companies as an indication that there GOVERNOR'S OPENING SPEECH will be a consequential reduction in the export price of coal from Queensland, can he indi­ Mr. SPEAKER: I have to report that His cate whether any of the mining companies Excellency the Governor, on Tuesday, 24 that have agreements with the Queensland August, delivered to Parliament an Opening Government are in fact reducing their export Speech of which, for greater accuracy, I price of coal by $1.50 a tonne? Are they have obtained a copy. I presume honour­ using that concession to increase their already able members will take the Speech as read? substantial profits from the Queensland coal­ Honourable Members: Hear, hear! fields, or are they passing on the reduction? [Sitting suspended from 12.56 to 2.15 p.m.] Mr. Bjelke-Petersen: Passing on the reduc­ tion to whom? ADDRESS IN REPLY Mr. CASEY: The Federal Treasurer has Mr. SPEAKER: Order! Before calling the recently announced a reduction of $1.50 a honourable member for Clayfield, I remind tonne in the coal export levy. Under the the House that this is the maiden speech terms of their agreements with the Queens­ of the honourable member and I ask that land Government, are the mining companies he be extended the usual courtesies. passing on that reduction to the buying com­ panies in Japan and elsewhere throughout the Mr. BROWN (Clayfield) (2.15 p.m.), who world, or are they simply using it to increase was received with Government "Hear, hears!", their own already substantial profits? said: I move- "That the following Address be pre­ 1\ir. BJELKE-PETERSEN: I would have sented to the Governor in reply to the to admit that I do not know what they do Speech delivered by His Excellency in with the $1.50. From my own general know­ opening this, the third session of the Forty­ ledge and observation of the situation, I first Parliament of Queensland- should think they are entitled to it. If I were 'May it please Your Excellency:- the honourable member, I would not say that they are using it to increase their 'We, Her Majesty's loyal and dutiful "already extensive profits." subjects, the M embers of the Legislature of Queensland, in Parliament assembled, Mr. Casey: "Substantial" was the word I desire to assure Your Excellency of used. our continued loyalty and affection 16 Address in Reply [25 AUGUST 1976] Address in Reply

towards the Throne and Person of our polled 10.2 per cent more than the National Most Gracious Sovereign, and to tender Party, that is, of a combined Liberal/National our thanks to Your Excellency for the vote of 6,714 the Liberal vote was 3,699 Speech with which you have been pleased and the National Party vote 3,015. In the to open the present Session. unusual climate of a by-election, may I 'The various measures to which Your observe this to be a decisive win for the Excellency has referred, and all other Liberal Party. The final figures after dis­ matters that may be brought before us, tribution of preferences of 59.95 per cent will receive our most careful consider­ Liberal, 38.99 per cent A.L.P. and 1.05 ation, and it shall be our earnest endeav­ per cent informal showed a resounding win our so to deal with them that our for the Liberal/National Party coalition, and labours may tend to the advancement substantial rejection of the A.L.P. There and prosperity of the State.' " is no doubt in my mind that the effective campaign mounted by the National Party and I also extend the continuing loyalty and the quality of the National Party candidate affection of the constituents of the Clayfield contributed fo this over-all success. electorate to His Excellency and to the Throne and Person of our most Gracious The electorate of Clayfield is small in Sovereign, Queen Elizabeth II. area but densely populated. Over the years Clayfield has changed. The gracious homes I am compelled to deplore the actions of of Clayfield itself have to some extent been a minority of people, no doubt incited by replaced by multiple-unit dwellings. For­ hard-core professional agitators, who demon­ tunately these are of a high general stand­ strate against the Person of His Excellency ard and provide excellent accommodation. the Governor-General despite the overwhelm­ Clayfield, an inner suburban electorate, ing support of the Australian people, especi­ has no large scale industrial or commercial ally in Queensland, of his action in deter­ activity so its character is largely domestic. mining the appointment of the Labor Prime Contrary to what appears to be general Minister and all the Ministers of that Gov­ belief, the electorate covers a broad cross­ ernment some nine months ago. I am section of society from Clayfield, through doubly honoured therefore to emphasise our the suburbs of Eagle Junction, Wooloowin continued loyalty and affection towards the and parts of Albion and Lutwyche to Kalinga Throne and the Person of our Most Gracious and Kedron. In the 1972 general election Sovereign. the Liberal primary vote was 47 per cent I thank the electors of Clayfield for their and the seat was held after distribution of confidence and I promise to represent my D.L.P. preferences. constituents to the best of my ability and As I emphasised during the by-election without the intrusion of party-political con­ campaign the more pressing needs of the siderations. I particularly wish to thank electorate are more effective police protec­ my campaign director (Mr. Kevin Martin), tion and attention to schools, pre-schools my assistant campaign director (Mr. Michael and child-care facilities. I do not propose Habermann) and the team of dedicated party to dwell on these matters now, except to members who worked so effectively during say that I intend raising them in this House the Clayfield by-election campaign. I am at the appropriate time. Kedron Brook does also deeply appreciative of the assistance not present a problem of the magnitude at given so freely by our busy Liberal Ministers first thought, although attention is required and the many Liberal members of this to alleviate flooding in certain limited areas. Assembly who gave unstintingly of their The clearing of Shulz's Canal has com­ time. I would also sincerely thank Sir menced and when completed will allow Douglas Tooth, a well-known past member unimpeded flow of water from Kedron of this House and retired Minister of the Brook into and through the canal, thus Crown, for his help and good counsel. I reducing the back-up of water in Kedron also thank Federal Members-the Honour­ Brook. able Kevin Cairns (Member for Lilley), Mr. I am opposed to an increase in the price Don Cameron (member for Griffith) and Mr. of electricity for domestic consumers in Peter J ohnson (member for Brisbane)-and Brisbane and will put forward my views on Liberal aldermen Mrs. Dulcie Turnbull and this matter in the proper places and at the Syd McDonald for their assistance. It is with appropriate times. a deep and genuine sense of humility that I give tribute to all who assisted during the As pledged during the campaign, I have campaign, for without such unselfish help established an office in the electorate. success would not have been achieved. I congratulate the Honourable the Deputy Premier on his appointment as Deputy The Clayfield by-election was a three­ Premier and Treasurer of Queensland and cornered contest involving the Liberal Party, on his election as leader of the Parliamentary the National Party and the A.L.P. There Liberal Party. There is no doubt that the have been several statements in the media, Honourable the Deputy Premier will carry attributed to various people, that the Liberal out the responsibilities of his new offices Party held Clayfield with a narrow margin. with the same foresight, diligence and May I point out that, of the combined efficiency that were manifest in his conduct Liberal/National Party vote, the Liberal Party of the Transport and Justice portfolios in Address in Reply [25 AUGUST 1976} Address in Reply 17 the past. I have every confidence that under choice is to devote my full time to the job his leadership, the Liberal Party will prosper of representing the Clayfield electorate and and that, as a result of our continued co­ to making such contribution as I am able as operation with our National Party coalition a member of this Assembly. partners, this State will continue to progress At this stage I wish to pay a tribute to as it has for 19 years of coalition govern­ the former member for Clayfield, Mr. John ment. Murray. As you know, Mr. Speaker, John I would also pay tribute to Sir Gordon Murray was member for Clayfield from 1963 Chalk on his retirement after 29 years of till this year. He is a personal friend of service to this Parliament, 19 years as a mine, and I am sure that he made a worth­ most competent Minister of the Crown while contribution to the debates and deliber­ including 10! years as a State Treasurer of ations of this Assembly. outstanding abiEty. Sir Gordon said on My business background tells me that leaving his high office, "I leave with some the greatest single problem confronting busi­ silver in the till". This typifies the practicality ness today is the erosion of working capital of the man who has contributed so much by inflation. In broad terms, a business to the State of Queensland. The silver in the operating on a working capital of, say, till is represented by a budget surplus of $100,000 in December 1972 required a over $700,000 of an over-all budget of working capital of $145,000 in 1975 to main­ $1,349 million. I believe the figures speak tain a similar volume. Alternatively, and for themselves. without provision for growth, the $100,000 The Honourable the Minister for Industrial in 1972 would have a purchasing power of Development, Labour Relations and Con­ only $61,000 in 1975. This crippling blow sumer Affairs is to be congratulated on his was delivered to the free-enterprise system election to the Deputy Leadership of the by the Whitlam Labor Government, and Parliamentary Liberal Party, a position to it is now pleasing to see, with the intro­ which he will bring his experience and duction of the first Budget from the Fraser integrity to our benefit. Government, measures designed to strengthen the private sector and reduce inflation and, I also congratulate the Honourable the through those measures, to improve the Minister for Justice and Attorney-General, employment situation. Recognition that the Honourable the Minister for Police and inflation is the root cause of our economic the Honourable the Minister for Tourism problems and implementation of measures and Marine Serv:ces on their respective new to reduce the inflation rate augur well for appointments, and also our newly appointed the effectiveness of the 1976-77 Federal Minister the Honourable the Minister for Budget. Survey and Valuation. We are often told that Queenslanders are I would now like to speak briefly of my different, and I think we probably are dif­ own background. On discharge from the ferent, for a variety of reasons. Queensland A.I.F. in late 1945, I was in business on my differs not only in climate but also in terms own account for three years. Following of a decentralisation which manifests itself this, my experience with large companies in distribution of population over a vast area. included the marketing of a wide range of So we have a communications problem products in North Queensland, including pro­ unknown to other States, which are either ducts for the rural industry and for the smaller in area or have the bulk of their hardware, building and electrical industries. population living in an area approximating I moved from Cairns to Townsville as a that of Victoria. From this difference flow branch manager, then to Brisbane as mar­ many problems of cost. For the provision keting manager, and later became State of the basic services of government, the cost manager of a widely diversified company. per capita is greater in Queensland than During these years I represented the com­ in our sister States, and for business to pany at national level. operate throughout the State the cost is Over the past 25 years I have travelled greater. In the business sense, the additional Queensland extensively, usually by car, and costs are borne by the consumer, so the have come to know some of the problems of cost of living in our far-flung provincial the industries within the State. One cannot cities and towns is greater. The cost of develop accurate market projections without getting products to the market-place is greater a study of industry, so I came to know in most cases. Compared to those of Victoria Queensland reasonably well. and New South Wales our internal markets are small, and this also adds to costs. For the past seven years I conducted my own business as a distributor of domestic Queensland also differs from other eastern electronic products throughout Queensland, and southern States in terms of natural the Northern Rivers area of New South resources. The resource development pro­ Wales and Darwin. On election to the jects of the '60s brought Queensland very Queensland Parliament, I made arrangements much to the fore. Intelligent continuing to quit the business, and as of 30 June 1976 development of our natural resources is I have no interest in it, either directly or undoubtedly the key to economic security. indirectly. The business continues under new Continuity of these projects was rudely inter­ ownership and neither my wife nor I derive rupted during the three years of socialist any remuneration from it. My own free rule in Canberra, very much to the detriment 18 Address in Reply (25 AUGUST 1976] Address in Reply of our economic well-being. But now, with that the Minister for Industrial Development national leadership in the hands of respon­ is to create a division for small business sible people, one can see signs of recovery within the framework of his department. and confidence which nnder the leadership This will be of great benefit in the future. and encouragement of the Queensland Gov­ One aspect of small business in which I ernment will restore our position. am interested is what may best be termed the This Gm ernment has done much to foster service industry, with particular emphasis free enterprise. However, in line with other on the skilled tradesman who goes into busi­ States, the 5 per cent pay-roll tax, in spite of ness on his own account. A surprising exemptions relieving some business from this volume of domestic repair work is carried burden, is a bad tax in that it is unrelated out by the skilled tradesman who operates in any way to profit, being calculated simply in a small way. These are the people who on th::: bill of the company concerned. come into our homes to repair electrical and In terms this tax, like all indirect electronic equipment or to carry out plumb­ taxes, is paid for by the consumer, and is ing repairs, carpentry and the like. The well­ therefo;e inr1ationary. As wages rise, the being of the end user of many consumer burden of the tax increases, and when added durables is heavily vested in the ability of to the w •. ge increase becomes a component the service industry to carry out repairs with of the cost of production or the provision competence and at reasonable cost to the of services. Because this tax is a burden to consumer. business, the work-force suffers because In the area of the skilled tradesman in employment opportunities are reduced. I am business on his own account are also those delighted that the honourable the Deputy who are subcontractors to the building indus­ Premier and Treasurer of Queensland has try. I am proud to be an honorary director indicated the intention to initiate a study of a group of domestic electronic technicians and evaluation of the question of pay-roll in Queensland. This group has set a code of tax. ethics to which all members are required As a businessman with 25 years' to subscribe and a standard of technical experience with interests throughout the excellence which each member is required State of Queensland and in other States, I to attain in order to be granted member­ have come to appreciate and understand the ship. Seminars are regularly conducted on meaning of the free-enterprise system, which the latest technical developments. For is best expressed in Liberal philosophy. I example, the group retained the services of am a Liberal because Liberalism encapsu­ a well-qualified electronics engineer to con­ lates my ideals in terms of an understand­ duct regular classes on colour television long able political philosophy which concerns before the introduction of this medium to itself with the individual freedoms, mini­ the Australian market so that its members mum interference by Government in busi­ were competent to service this highly com­ ness and the everyday affairs of the people, plex electronic device when it was first and accent on development of the individual marketed here. The group also organises together with respect for the law and recog­ schools on "running small business" and on nition of responsibility to protect those other topics germane to its style of business. freedoms. As opposed to these freedoms, Prior to the formation of the grorup, the consider the performance of the Australian service industry in this particular field was Labor Party when this party held power in fractured into a large number of small the Federal Parliament, giving effect to what operators, whereas now the members repre­ it chose to call reformist Labor policies. With senting a large proportion of their particular the mindless prosecution of these socialistic service industry may speak with one voice schemes our national economy was decimated. through the group. Such representations are In the space of those three years untold harm listened to by manufacturers, who respect was done to the people of Australia, prov­ and value their advice to the extent that ing that socialism is the system which seeks these technicians who carry out practical to establish public wealth but in reality service work in the field have the oppor­ produces private squalor. tunity to influence design and componentry, Members of the Opposition in this place and this can only be of ultimate benefit to are cast in the same mould as their federal the end user of the product. counterparts. How ludicrous then is the offer As I said, I am proud to be associated of the Leader of the Opposition for a tem­ with this group, which, I believe, through porary Liberal-A.L.P. coalition for the pur­ careful forward planning and the will to pose of a redistribution in Queensland! I learn and succeed, exemplifies what is best join with my colleagues in rejecting such an in our free-enterprise system. It has proved unholy alliance. that the "little bloke" can move forward to I commend the Government for practical better things and, while improving his own attention to small business through the hon­ position, make a valuable contribution to ourable the Minister for Industrial Develop­ society. The honourable member for ment. The excellent publications distributed Pine Rivers, in his maiden speech on 18 and the seminars held lend valuable assist­ March 1975, said, "Pine Rivers has 2,000 ance and encouragement to this most import­ more voters than the electorates of Balonne, ant segment of the over-all business com­ Gregory and Cook together." munity. It is particularly pleasing to note Mr. Akers: It has 5,000 more now. Address in Reply [25 AUGUST 1976] Address in Reply 19

Mr. BROWN: That's the way it goes. to the former Deputy Premier and Treasurer, Sir Gordon Chalk, for his masterful handling He went on to say, "I cite these figures of the Queensland economy over many years. only to show that there is far too great an To his successor, the honourable Bill Knox, imbalance between electorate populations at we all extend our sincere congratulations. present." I support these views eiCpressed This Government and the people of Queens­ by my colleague and, while there might be land look forward to a continuation of the little prospect of a redistribution of electorate wise and sound judgment of our financial boundaries during this the 41st Parliament, affairs. I support the principle of a redistribution which seeks to level out the many anomaEes It is a common fact that these days good that exist at present in this State. leadership is taken for granted. Too often, we regard good stewardship of our State I feel the present number of electorates in as just a matter of fact. In Queensland, Queensland, standing at 82, to be sufficient there are too many successes, however, and as a basis for the redistribution and I favour they happen with too much consistency for a loading in favour of country electorates. it to be simply a matter of fact. The millions I can drive between the widest boundaries of of investment dollars that have poured and my electorate in about 10 minutes and need continue to pour into this State are abundant not draw a comparison between Clayfield testimony of the confidence and the respect and some of our large sparsely populated that people and industry around the world country electorates in terms of the time, have in our Premier, (Joh. Bjelke-Petersen) distance and communications factors to make and this coalition Government. this particular point. This is, however, a subject on which I hold strong views-views The scourge of socialism that threatened that I would hope are shared by many mem­ to bring our great nation to its knees and bers of this House. I submit with respect plunge us into debt from which we may that the people of Queensland will welcome never have emerged has now, thankfully, what is seen to be a fair distribution of elec­ been stopped. Now is the time for us to torate boundaries in this State. once again in a practical way demonstrate to people of this nation that our free-enter­ In conclusion-! am proud to be a Liberal, prise system is the only system which to be a member of the party with a political enables the ordinary man and the ordinary philosophy which seeks to serve the whole of citizen to have the maximum degree of society, not just a particular section of both freedom and prosperity. None of us, society. I pledge to honour the institution of I hope, will allow himself to become apath­ this Parliament by observing the rules and etic about the threat of socialism in the respecting the traditions. future. Mr. BERTONI (Mt. Isa) (2.40 p.m.): Mr. The price of our freedom is indeed eternal Speaker, I rise to second the motion for vigilance. However, this Government must the adoption of the Address in Reply to impress upon industry that it has a duty­ His Excellency's Opening Speech with a a duty to instil in the Australian community great deal of pride. At the same time, I an understanding, confidence and faith in am personally aware of the significance of the free. enterprise system. The Chairman this occasion and the many grave problems of M.I.M. Holdings Ltd., Sir James Foot, said that confront us here in our State of Queens­ recently- land and, indeed, in our nation as a whole. "Unless we stand up and be counted All of us are aware of the pressures that as supporters of the system that has served have been placed on our traditional, inherited us so well despite its faults, unless we take ties with Britain in recent years and those upon ourselves the role of educator in the have intensified even more in recent months. general community, then the system may During this time, none of us could avoid well collapse in the face of a combination being touched by the courage and the dignity of attacks from its opponents who now of the men who have been the representatives enjoy its benefits, and from the apathy and of Her Gracious Majesty, the Queen of ignorance of those who should be its England and Australia, in this country. And supporters". indeed, we in Queensland have been most In free enterprise, the emphasis is on fortunate to have a man of such calibre "free". Too many people these days talk and patriotism as His Excellency Sir Colin of democratic socialism, but surely that is Hannah in these difficult times. a contradiction in terms. Democracy gives At the same time, all Queenslanders deplore people the freedom of choice, while socialism the attitude of those socialist-inspired hood­ cannot do that. It is vital that 'we convince lums whose only claim to fame is causing employees of the merits of the free-enter­ increasing disruption commensurate with prise system. their increase in bribes. These are the very In the words of Sir George Fisher, trade people who scream for the protection of the unions which embrace policies of socialisa­ law while they themselves defy and frustrate tion are, in effect, practising a kind of the law at every opportunity. "death wish" because if they attained their I take this opportunity also to express the objective of '"social ownership" or "social­ approciation of the people of the Mt. Isa ism", they would lose their identity and electorate and, no doubt, all Queenslanders, freedom of action. Bitter experience has 20 Address in Reply [25 AUGUST 1976] Address in Reply shown that in a totalitarian regime there areas and involve them with the people of has never been, and never can be, the right Queensland in the excitement of such mam­ of trade unions to fight against the dictator­ moth development undertakings. Policies ship. There is only one system in the world which encourage business and forget people within which trade unionists cannot be are not what are wanted. We urgently need stopped from fighting for what they believe legislative decisions that will motivate Aus­ to be their rights and that is a free-enterprise tralian industry and the Australian people. democracy. Both industry and the people must be encour­ Now, Mr. Speaker, I would like to reflect aged into co-operative development of our on the specific issues in my own and neigh­ country. bouring electorates. I want to draw the To many in this Parliament who represent attention of this House to decentralised, pro­ city elec~orates, the problems confronting the ductive Queensland. The people of decen­ people of decentralised Queensland probably tralised Queensland are indeed enduring very mean very little. I say this in response to hard times and unless we can find fast and those who would tell us in the decentralised, effective solutions to their problems, few producing regions of the State that our pro­ can ever be expected to again make worth­ duce belongs to all Queenslanders but who, while contributions to the economy of this in their very next breath, would criticise this State. The work of many years by this Government for taking steps to equalise elec­ Government encouraging organised develop­ tricity charges throughout the State. The ment of our State will be lost. same people care little that there are people Many of the problems that exist in decen­ in some sectors of my electorate who are tralised Queensland are a direct result of, or paying as much as $1.20 a gallon for petrol. have been much aggravated by, the policies They care little that freight increases have of the Federal Labor Government when it virtually wiped out the profit of many, many was in office: the thoughtless removal of pri;ate businesses. The combination of this many equalising subsidies for people in long list of tboughtless burdens imposed on remote areas, such as petrol subsidies, rural our people in the North and the West has air subsidies, finance for the Flinders High­ established them as little more than second­ way and the reduction of education tax class citizens who are virtually paying for the deductions. The dramatic cutback in expen­ right to develop this State and this nation. ditures in these areas and the tide of inflation Let us study the income of this State and will destroy the people of docentralised see just exactly where the cream on this Queensland and Australia. State's cake comes from. While we are Granted, it is the responsibility of our doing so, here are some interesting statistics Federal colleagues to overcome many of to digest. The national average gross domes­ these problems; but, as a State Parliament, tic product per person employed in all s&­ we also have our duty to ensure that our tors of industry in Australia today is approxi­ Federal colleagues are continually and con­ mately $7,000. The average in the minerals sistently aware. As a State Government, we and energy industries, which are now the need to look at our responsibilities in our mainstay of docentralised Australia, is three decentralised, productive areas and take every times that amount, at around $21,000. Quite opportunity to ensure that no unnecessary obviously, decentralised Australia and its further hardship is placed on these people industries represent a productive golden because of State Government policies and goose, which I hope we will all have the departmental operations. Government cannot common sense not to destroy. solve the problems of decentralised Australia I believe that if there is one commitment alone, however. We must urgently get back to the business of motivating large-scale pri­ above all that our Government ought to vate investment. This, I know, is very much make in the year ahead, it is a commitment the policy of our Government and I'm pleased to bring about an equalisation of opportu­ to note that the latest Federal Liberal­ nities and services to all Queenslanders, National Country Party Government Budget regardless of where they live. It simply is has introduced such policies. not acceptable that people in the capital cities should be able to live better and In Queensland, we need schemes like the cheaper than those living and operating in proposed east-west North Australian railway remote areas, especially when our State line to utilise the huge coal reserves of derives so much revenue from these decen­ Queensland and the iron ore of West Aus­ tralised regions. Queenslanders have led tralia. Our Premier is to be loudly applauded the nation in decentralised development to hy all Queenslanders for his efforts to date date, but now is not the time to sit back in promoting this project and other major and say that we have done enough. northern development concepts. We need to see every encouragement given to On this occasion I believe it would be exploration and development of oil shale at remiss of me not to bring to the atten­ Julia Creek. We need to continually look to tion of the House the efforts of our Govern­ the possibility of further opening up the Gulf ment in North-west Queensland during the of Carpentaria, realising that North-west two short years in which I have been Queensland contains incredible mineral privileged to be the member for Mt. Isa. wealth and pastoral potential. We need to It has been an encouraging start-but I encourage our major developers in these am a long way from being satisfied yet. Address in Reply (25 AUGUST 1976) Address in Reply 21

Foremost, I would like to record the I ask honourable members: how can thanks of the people of Mt. Isa for the the Leader of the Opposition or any of his financial assistance only recently given to the cohorts have the audacity to expect the city of Mt. Is a to alleviate the serious Queensland people to vote them into Gov­ problems of financing the Julius Dam pro­ ernment when they cannot be taken at their ject and water supply system. I am mind­ word? The fact that the Labor Party did ful of the many other similar projects want­ not have the ability to assess the Mary ing money in the State and I would hope Kathleen project before it committed the that my colleagues in this House who repre­ people-and the millions of dollars of sent those areas will convey a message of Australian taxpayers' money-to the project understanding to their electorates. It is surely is not our responsibility. worth noting that prior to this assistance from An important part of the mineral develop­ our Government there were some 1,000 ment industry in North-west Queensland is homes on the market within the city. This the activities of the small miners in the is an incredible number of homes being region. These operators supply fiuxing ores sold in a city of some 30,000 people. and limestone to the Mt. Isa copper smelter. The underwriting of the $30,000,000 rail­ All will appreciate that this in itself is a way link with the Duchess phosphate deve­ most valuable contribution to the massive lopment in my electorate is another deed Mt. Isa operation. There is also the aspect of this Government that has gone unheralded that these small-scale operators are also carry­ by many. Few noted at the time that the ing out valuable advance exploration in the Federal Labor Government nearly allowed region on deposits which are not ordinarily this wonderful venture to be shelved. It attracting the attention of the major operators. was left to the Queensland Government to Increasing costs and diminishing grades of come forward with the necessary guarantees available near-surface ores are rapidly erod­ to enable development to proceed. I do ing the viability of these operations. How­ believe, however, that our Government should ever, I am continuing my efforts to bring this continue to press for further expansion of situation to the attention of the Minister for phosphate mining in the North-west. The Mines and Energy. It is essential that every­ Lady Annie and other deposits to the north thing possible is done to maintain viable of Mt. lsa are a viable proposition and we operating conditions for these smaller should continue to strive for their develop­ operators, who have a most important con­ ment. tribution to make to the balanced develop­ The re-opening of the Mary Kathleen mine ment of North-west Queensland. in the heart of my electorate has been a I have previously mentioned in this House controversial issue since it was first mooted that I would like to see a detailed feasibility several years ago. All of us should now study undertaken of the mineral potential be aware that, because of inconsistencies around the town of Cloncurry, in the hope within the Labor Party and thoughtless action that sufficient tonnages could be indicated by some union leaders who live many thou­ that would encourage the possible establish­ sands of miles away from the project site, a ment of a copper treatment facility in Cion­ cloud of gloom now rests over the com­ curry. The survey of North-west Queensland munity and the operation at Mary Kathleen. which has only very recently been com­ The 320 workers and their families who have pleted by our Governments will, hopefully, pulled up roots from all over the Com­ have looked into this possibility. We eagerly monwealth to make their contribution to the await its release. re-opening of Mary Kathleen have been sub­ The plight of Cloncurry is common to such jected to a complete lack of understanding small communities of the West, where at and consideration by the people whom I have times nothing but a stout heart and faith previously mentioned. keeps things moving. It is little wonder there­ On the local scene we have trade union fore that the people of North-west Queens­ leaders who are more interested in playing land become excited over the prospects of politics, promising the people of Mary Kath­ a railway line spanning Australia from east Jeen that they are "confident" that every­ to west and serving twin giant steel mills thing will be all right in the future, while in Queensland and Western Australia. This at the same time they are fully aware that is action. This is constructive action that the future of Mary Kathleen rests totally the people of the North-west appreciate. It in the hands of their masters who operate is not mealy-mouthed politics that is bogged out of Sydney and Melbourne. The local down in red tape and meaningless promises union leaders are being used and ignored, and excuses. The people of North-west like mere puppets on strings. Queensland know the benefits that come One of the basic corner-stones of our from such development. They appreciate society must be that we honour our agree­ that it is a waste of time and money to ments. The Labor Party and the trade­ provide welfare homes and myriads of Gov­ union movement backed the reopening of ernment facilities if there is no industry to Mary Kathleen and underwrote the issue for pay for them. reopening funds with the taxes of Queens­ The people of North-west Queensland landers. They must now honour that agree­ understand that development means better ment or totally lose face with the people of living conditions and this is what we are this State. after. We are prepared to live in North-west 22 Address in Reply [25 AUGUST 1976] Address ill Reply

Queensland and develop it, as I know our firstly, that the beef industry should overcome friends in the other remote areas are, so its internal problems and speak with a united long as Government takes action and gets voice; secondly, that the industry should things done. Forget the fancy talk and the co-operate with the State and Federal Gov­ hollow promises. Let us have facts and ernments to reconstitute the Australian Meat action. Let us get back to talking about Board, with a view to implementing a mini­ productivity when we talk about curing the mum price scheme. ills of inflation. Let us not get bogged Mr. Jones interjected. down in believing that all we need to do is to reach agreement with the unions and Mr. BERTONI: No, they should speak everything will be rosy. with one voice. Thirdly, the representation Now we move on to education in North­ on the Meat Board should be selected by all west Queensland. Education in the western producers; fourthly, a long-term stabilisation areas continues to be a problem, but I beef-marketing scheme should be promoted; would like to record my sincere appreciation and, ,lastly, increased home markets should of the interest shown in my electorate by be promoted. I believe that these comments the Minister for Education. are as valid today as they were 18 months ago. Mr. SPEAKER: Order! I draw the hon­ ourable member's attention to the fact that It is noteworthy, Mr. Speaker, that in the reading of speeches in the House is not December this year we will see the long­ permitted. I did allow the honourable awaited completion of the sealing of the member for Clayfield to read his as it was Flinders Highway. I thank the Government, his maiden speech and I intend likewise to and particularly the Minister for Local Gov­ allow the honourable member for Port ernment and Main Roads (Mr. Hinze) and Curtis to read his, but the honourable mem­ the Deputy Leader of the National Party ber should know that he cannot read his (Mr. Ron Camm), for the responsibility they speech and I ask him to refrain from have accepted in seeing that the project was openly doing so. completed. The sealing of the Flinders Highway will open up vast tourist attractions Mr. BERTONI: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. in the Mt. Isa area and also in other They are just copious notes. As I said, areas farther west. That, in turn, will assist I would like to express my appreciation to the mining industry; it will also assist smaller the Minister for Education for his tour of centres and towns in the area. my electorate. We do have problems with Mr. Lane: The museum at Mt. Isa is out­ education in North-west Queensland and standing. Cloncurry is one area where people are experiencing certain difficulties in the educa­ Mr. BERTONI: I must agree with the tion of their children. Children in Cloncurry honourable member that it is a great attrac­ cannot receive education beyond Grade 10 tion. I ask the Minister for Local Govern­ and to obtain a high school education they ment and Main Roads to tackle the problem must either travel 100 kilometres to Mt. Isa of financing similar projects in the area, or go to boarding schools, thus placing an such as the sealing of the road to Gun­ even greater financial burden on people living powder. in this area. The plight of sport in Australia recently I would also like to record my electorate's came to the fore during the Olympic games, support for the stand adopted by the Minister when people throughout Australia were con­ and the Government on the illegal use of cerned about the poor showing of our drugs in our schools. The dedication and athletes. professionalism of the school-teachers and principals in the Mt. Isa electorate never In western areas of Queensland, as in other cease to impress me. I know from private parts of the country, sport plays a very discussions I have had with them that they important part in the development of a com­ are horrified that certain members of their munity spirit. As most people in remote profession would degrade it by illegally using areas are not able to visit the seaside and drugs. They have told me to mention that lack swimming locations and other social they back completely the Government's stand attractions that are readily available in city on the issue. areas, sport becomes one of the main attrac­ tions for them. In areas such as Mt. Isa, The beef industry continues to be a prob­ of course, all codes of football are played; lem throughout the North West and in the but to illustrate the plight of sport in Mt. other remote areas of the State. At the Isa, let me take Rugby League as an example moment, the main cause for concern in the because it is one of the major codes. Many beef industry in my electorate is the lack of honourable members probably are aware that rail wagons in North-west Queensland, and the Mount ha Rugby League team competes it is within the Government's power to ease in the Foley Shield competition against teams the burden that this imposes. from Townsville, Mackay and the Burdekin. I said in my first speech in an Address­ Every time the team competes in one of those in-Reply debate in this Chamber that five areas, it costs the Mount Isa Rugby League important points must be taken into account $4,000, and last year it cost the league more by the Government in attempting to solve the than $20,000 to enable the Mt. Isa team problems of the beef industry. They were: to take part in the co!.I1Jetition. Address in Reply [25 AUGUST 1976] Address in Reply 23

Mr. Aikens: The other teams have to because of a heart problem. His wife had to visit Mt. Isa, too. accompany him on four occasions. Imagine the enormous expense to that family! Mr. BERTONI: Yes, but they have to travel there only once a year. The Mt. Mr. Wright: Why doesn't the Govern­ Isa team has to make three or four trips to ment decentralise health care? centres on the coast. That is the difference. l ask honourable members how sport is to Mr. BERTONI: It might be getting be encouraged in the face of financial bur­ around to that. dens such as that. Frequently parents have to accompany l\l'r. Casey interjected. children. A stretcher case requires three or four seats in the aeroplane, and the addi­ Mr. RERTONI: I might agree with the tional seats have to be paid for. It is a honourable member on that point. I express crippling expense to people living in that part my appreciation to the Minister for Sport, of the State. The Government must look who has always been very helpful to me. to ways and means to alleviate the problem. However, suggest that he look at ways of alleviating the financial burden on teams Dr. Crawford: \Vhat is the fare to Mt. from remote centres that have to travel long Isa now? distances to compete. Mr. BERTONI: About $240. In taking this opportunity to provide the House with an up-to-date appraisal of the I should now like to comment on one of North West I believe it is essential that I the most serious problems that confront this also mention some very basic health and Government, namely, the Aboriginal people community problems. The decision not to of Queensland. On many occasions in this proceed with extensions to the Mt. Isa Base House I have listened to debate on the Hospital has been an enormous blow to our problems of the Aboriginal people, and have area. repeatedly heard criticism of our Govern­ ment's policies from everyone from the Mr. Houston: It must have been poor illustrious Leader of the Opposition to the representation. church leaders in this State. All seem to have the same underlying theme: "Give, Mr. BERTONI: I don't agree with that. give and give more. Cleanse your past sins We ask that the Minister reconsider that against the Aboriginal people with money decision so that building can be commenced and hand-oruts. Denigrate the Aboriginal next year. Mt. Isa is the centre of a vast people with gifts. But whatever you do, region in the North West. Nothing empha­ don't do anything that makes them earn sises the problems of the people in the their way in our community." This Govern­ North West more than the need for up-to­ ment departed from free hand-outs in 1965 date medical facilities. In Mt. Isa we have at the request of the Aboriginal people them­ an organisation known as H.E.L.P. I have selves, that is, at the request of the leaders previously mentioned that that organisation of the Aboriginal Advisory Council. The stands for health equality for all people. It Federal Labor Government took up the free was established in Mt. Isa to endeavour to hand-outs again when it was in office, and obtain the same facilities and privileges for we sincerely hope that the Federal Liberal­ all people in the State, irrespective of where National Country Party Government will they live. It is important that the Govern­ enforce policies for the betterment of the ment look at ways and means of providing Aboriginal people, instead of merely giving free air and rail travel for patients and them hand-outs. relatives required to accompany them to I recall the words of Abraham Lincoln, areas outside of Mt. Isa. I must thank the spoken more than 100 years ago when Minister for Health, Dr. Lew Edwards, for America was tearing itself apart with racial obtaining a number of firsts for Mt. Isa. We are fortunate to have specialists in pediatrics, problems. He said- orthopaedics, gynaecology and ear, nose and "You cannot bring about prosperity by throat and eye specialists now visiting Mt. discouraging thrift. You cannot strengthen Isa. This has taken a great burden off the the weak by weakening the strong. You people in Mt. Isa. However, many patients cannot help the wage-earner by pulling still have to travel to Brisbane or Sydney for down the wage-payer. You cannot further specialist treatment. It would be unrealistic the brotherhood of man by encouraging to expect such people to have to pay for class hatred. You cannot establish sound their own medical treatment and fares. One security on borrowed money alone. You lady in my electorate who spent some weeks cannot build character and courage by in a Sydney hospital spent approximately taking away man's initiative and indepen­ $1,000 on travel and accommodation, dence. You cannot help a man perman­ despite the fact that she had a great deal of ently by doing for him that which he assistance from friends. Another patient can and should do for himself." itemised his Brisbane accounts as: medical Wise words? Yes, indeed! And they were expenses, $230; other expenses, $589. spoken more than 100 years ago. Another person is on his seventh trip to Brisbane in 20 months for more surgery Opposition Members interjected. 24 Address in Reply [25 AuGUST 1976] Local Govt, &c., Bill (No. 2)

Mr. SPEAKER: Order! The Leader of area of our State, of primary production, the Opposition and the Deputy Leader of roads, water, mining, education and cultural the Opposition will cease interjecting. activities and medical and social welfare. Mr. Aikens: Make them go outside to hold I have great pleasure in seconding the their caucus meeting. motion. Debate, on motion of Mr. Burns, Mr. SPEAKER: I suggest that if they adjourned. want to hold a caucus meeting they go out­ side. FORM OF PETITIONS Mr. BERTONI: To repeat-Abraham Lin­ Mr. SPEAKER: Order! I wish to advise coln said, "You cannot help a man per­ that a petition presented to the House this manently by doing for him that which he morning by the honourable member for can and should do for himself." How any Merthyr on behalf of the Windsor Bowls one of us, black or white, can really believe Club is not in order, and I have ruled it out that we have the right to have things given of order. If any honourable member wants to us without earning them is totally beyond assistance in the preparation of a petition, me. How some church ,leaders can place im­ he should see the Clerk of Parliament or me, portance on decrying the Government's hand­ and we will be only too pleased to assist. ling of Aboriginal affairs in this State when they give very little service to the social SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDERS responsibility of the church in the community is more than I can understand. When was LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT AMENDMENT the last time that we heard church leaders BILL (No. 2) come to the fore and admit that the real problem of our Aboriginal people is Hon. R. J. HINZE (South Coast-Minister alcoholism? for Local Government and Main Roads), by leave, without notice: I move- All the beautiful homes and all the money that we give to the Aboriginal people by "That so much of the Standing Orders way of mining royalties won't save them be suspended as would otherwise prevent unless our Government, the Federal Gov­ the immediate initiation in Committee of ernment, the churches and all Australians, the Whole House of a Bill intituled 'A Bill black and white, face this very real fact. to amend the Local Government Act 1936- I could give the House instances of the 1976 in certain particulars and for another destructive influence of alcoholism in my elec­ purpose', and the passing of such Bill torate among the Aboriginal people. It is through all its stages in one day." true, of course, that we recognise that Motion agreed to. alcoholism is a problem in the whole com­ munity not merely among the Aborigines. LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT Our Labor colleagues have little to be AMENDMENT BILL (No. 2) proud of in their handling of the problems confronting the Aboriginal people. They INITIATION IN CoMMITTEE spent a lot of money and made a lot of (Mr. Miller, Ithaca, in the chair) promises, and then relaxed in their padded chairs and said, "Well done." But I would Hon. R. J. HINZE (South Coast-Minister like to see one instance of the Aboriginal for Local Government and Main Roads) (3.17 people of Australia really benefiting as indi­ p.m.): I move- viduals during those three years. "That a Bill be introduced to amend Hand-outs and free rides have never made the Local Government Act 1936-1976 in a good citizen in all the history of the certain particulars and for another pur­ world. I cannot see how any one of us pose." can expect that fact of life to alter now. This Bill is a simple measure relative to Somehow the Aboriginal people need to the provisions of the Local Government Act find their feet. They must regain their dig­ dealing with the appointment of an advisory nity and realise that they have a right to be committee to advise the administrator of a here, a right to work and a right to reap dissolved local authmity. all the benefits that this society has to offer. The Local Government Act presently pro­ To this end, I strongly advocate that a vides that, where the council of a local programme of education of the pitfalls of authority is dissolved and an administrator alcoholism be undertaken among the Abori­ is appointed to carry on the affairs of the ginal people and every encouragement be council until fully elected local government given them to ensure that the children make is restored, the Minister may appoint an liberal use of the educational and financial advisory committee to advise the administra­ assistance offered by this Government. tor on the administration of the council. In conclusion-! look forward with con­ Advisory committees have been appointed by fidence to further advancement of the way me to advise the administrators of the shires of life of the whole community, including of Cook and Torres, which are the only two the Aboriginal people. This can be achieved local authority areas in the State the councils only by the development of the productive of which are dissolved. Local Government Act [25 AuGUST 1976} Amendment Bill (No. 2) 25

Following representations to me by mem­ Fees and expenses payable to members of bers of the advisory committee appointed to the committee will be met by the local advise the administrator of the Shire of authority concerned. Cook, I visited Cooktown recently to discuss Under the Bill an executive committee the administration of the shire with the will cease to exist upon the restoration of administrator and members of the committee. elected local government to the area affected. The members of the committee felt that, for the committee to be effective, the administra­ The Bill provides that the holding of an tor should be bound by majority decisions of office of a member of an advisory committee the committee on matters of policy. Under prior to the coming into force of the amend­ present law the committee acts in an advis­ ing legislation has at no time been an office ory capacity only and final decisions on all or place of profit under the Crown. The matters relating to the administration of the purpose of the provision is to avoid any local authority area rest with the administra­ possible argument that the holding of such tor, who is answerable to the Minister. office was in contravention of section 5 of the Officials in Parliament Act. Members of advisory committees are selected to represent particular parts or inter­ The effect of the amending legislation ests of the local authority area concerned so will be that the administration of a dis­ as to give a fair spread of representation. solved local authority will move from that Many of them have to travel many miles to of an administrator with sole autonomy to attend meetings of the advisory committee the position where electors of the area will and they are concerned that the work of the have some say through the Executive Coun­ committee could be frustrated if effect is not cil in the administration of local government given to majority decisions of the committee in their area. In other words, the Bill moves on matters of policy. half way towards the restoration of full local government to the area. The aim of The Government feels that there is merit the Government is, of course, to foster and in these representations. It has therefore promote the autonomy of local government, been decided to amend the law to provide and it is the wish of the Government to for the appointment by the Minister of an restore elected local government as soon executive committee to a dissolved local as practicable to those areas where admin­ authority and the appointment of advisory istrators have been appointed. committees will be discontinued. The func­ tion of an executive committee will be to I think honourable members will agree assist the administrator of a dissolved local that the Bill will provide for the better authority area with the administration of administration of dissolved local authority the affairs of the local authority. areas, and I commend it to the Committee. The Bill provides that the administrator Mr. MARGINSON (Wolston) (3.22 p.m.): is to give effect to decisions of the executive This Parliament has been in recess for committee on matters of policy. It provides, something like five months. It has done very however, that where the administrator con­ little this year. In fact, since 1 January, siders that the implementation of a decision Parliament has sat for something >like 22 of the committee would not be in the best days; yet on our first day of sitting a Bill interests of the local authority, he may within has been presented that the Government 14 days of the decision refer the matter to wants to rush through all stages. As we have the Minister for determination. The deter­ been in recess for so long, I want to know mination of the Minister is deemed to be a why it is so urgent. decision of the executive committee and the administrator has to give effect t; such Mr. Tenni interjected. determination. Mr. MARGINSON: I am not talking to The Bill provides that the administrator you. of a dissolved local authority area will be ex officio chairman of an executive com­ Mr. K. J. Hooper: He's a half-wit. mittee appointed by the Minister in respect The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN (Mr. of that area. It also provides that an advisory Miller): Order! committee appointed prior to the coming into force of the amending legislation will Mr. MARGINSON: I want to know why continue to be constituted as an executive this is so urgent. There must be something committee and the members of the advisory that the Government wants to overcome committee will continue in office as mem­ quickly. I ask the Minister to consider going bers of the executive committee. through the introductory stage only today, As in the case of the previous law, the so that the Opposition in this Parliament will Bill provides that members of an executive have its rights preserved and be allowed to committee may be appointed by the Min­ examine the proposed legislation. ister for such period as he thinks fit and the As an indication of just how it has been Minister may determine how often the thrust upon us, I mention that it was not executive committee shall meet and fix the even on the Business Paper this morning! amount of any fees and expenses payable At 11 o'clock this morning this legislation to members of the executive committee for was not indicated; yet this afternoon it has attendance at meetings of the committee and been placed in front of us. The Minister for making inspections authorised by it. wants to push it through all stages today. 26 Local Government Act [25 AUGUST 1976] Amendment Bill (No. 2)

Mr. Houston: Cabinet is holding this when the Minister will have to appoint an Parliament in contempt. administrator to look after the aff«irs of the city of Townsville, which has been Mr. MARGINSON: It certainly is. That is controlled since the last election bv an what Queensland has suffered for many years A.L.P. council and an A.L.P. mayor. -That under the present Premier. was brought about-I am not going to spare I want the Minister in his reply to tell the Government-by the fact that at the last us why this has to be done now. He has local authority election there were three shied away from any such explanation. He National Party teams each of 10 running gave us no reason why it has to be done. against one A.L.P. team. It was a mathe­ matical certainty that the A.L.P. team would Mr. Bje!ke-Petersen: You couldn't have be elected. There was one National Partv been listening. team headed by the mayor (I forget h{s Mr. MARGINSON: I am not talking to name for the moment; he is a dentist) and you, either. another National Party team run by Alder­ man Arnold. There was vet another Mr. Houston: Why didn't you put it on National Party team run by Brian Newell your Business Paper? and there were three Independents. Hagarty, The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN: Order! by the way, was the name of the incumbent mayor. There were therefore 43 candidates Mr. MARGINSON: I realise that we in the field, only 10 of them A.L.P. I am have only had two administrators in local absolutely astonished that in those conditions government in Queensland and that we have and under those circumstances, and with that had an advisory committee for quite some handicap, the anti-Labour forces were able time; but isn't it time that local government to have three aldermen elected of ~he i 1 on had its own council? We have been told that the TownsviHe City Council. the Government believes in the autonomy of That was only a few short months ago but the councils, but it has taken much away since then things have already reached an from them. At the same time, however, it explosive state in Townsville. Not only have has loaded local government with responsi­ rates been jacked up to the sky and charges bilities that should be carried by ·the Gov­ jacked up much higher than the average ernment. I visualise the administration of person can affond, but it has been blandlv the noise pollution legislation also being and calmly announced that no work at all thrown on to local government. I ask the will be done in the council area. Not even Minister to give serious consideration to grass-cutting is going to be done. In addi­ deferring this legislation to allow the Oppos­ tion to that, \"1 hen the Municipal Officers' ition, which is surely entitled to some con­ Association, which consists of a few f8t cat~ sideration, to have a look at what is pro­ in the administration section of tbe cnuncil, posed. I also ask the Minister to give us applied for incremental increases a"d was some details of why this is to be done. knocked back by the industrial tribunal, the Mr. AIKENS (Townsville South) (3.26 Townsvillc City Council said, "We do:1't give p.m.): Experience has taught me to walk a damn what the Arbitration Court said. We very warily round any motion rushed into are going to grant these men annual incre­ the Parliament without prior notice, and to mentnl payments." Those pJyments amount walk particularly warily round any motion to $83,000 a year. that provides for the passage of a Bill In addition, the aldermen said. "A1tbough through all stages in one day. I for one the council is in perhaps the worst state of would like some elucidation of why this has financial distress ever, we will give ourselves been done in the present case. The Minister an increase in aldermanic allowances of 100 for Local Government is a man who speaks per cent." And they did. I wonder what very lucidly and I understood everything they would say if members of this Parlia­ that he said in his introductory remarks. ment rmve themselves a 100 per cent increase Although he mentioned Cooktown, the Bill in their salaries and allowances? I would does not refer only to Cooktown. I can be vote for it because I am worth it. I do not corrected if I misunderstood what the Minis­ know whether I would vote for it for other ter said. However, as I heard the Minister, members, because I do not know whether the Bill gives him power to set up a com­ they are worth it. But that is what the mittee with respect to the appointment and aldermen are doing. powers of an administrator in any local Let us make it abundantly dear: they authority area in Queensland. It is, as I see have the support of the media in Towns­ it, a simple machinery amendment and, if it ville. As a matter of fact, the other day is as I think it is, the sooner it goes through the Maj.or of Townsville said, "I am the the House the better. When the .legislation Chief Magistrate of Townsville", and he becomes law, as I suppose it will by tomor­ ordered a man out of town. That man was row when the Governor signs it, the Minister a reporter for one of the radin stations. will have power to set up an administrator and when the Mayor of Town urgent and if he has in the back of his through the second reading, Committee and mind the idea that he might have to apply third reading stages tomorrow afternoon? this legislation even more quickly than he That would be a delay of only one day, and thinks he should, but not as quickly as it would not break down the procedures of the people of Townsville think he should this Assembly. As this is the beginning of a in regard to the Townsville City Council, new session, I say that I hope this is not in order to have an administrator inquire going to establish a pattern for getting legis­ into the affairs of that benighted city, then lation through the Chamber. No matter how I am quite happy to support the measure important legislation is, surely its passage and shoot it through this Parliament in the could be delayed for 24 hours. one day and take it up to the Governor for his signature as quickly as possible. What did the Minister say? Briefly, he said that there is an administrator in only two lVk HOUSTON (Bulimba) (3.34 p.m.): As local authority areas. He said also that he the Deputy Premier and Treasurer said this visited them some time ago. If it was morning, there are not many of us who absolutely urgent that this matter be dealt were in this place prior to 1960, but as with, Parliament could have sat earlier. There 28 Local Government Act (25 AUGUST 1976} Amendment Bill (No. 2) have been occasions in the past when it has concerns the principle that the greatest pos­ sat earlier because a certain situation has sible cross-section of the community should arisen. I remember, for example, a special have an opportunity to be represented here sitting to deal with the situation at Mt. Isa. in this Chamber, that democracy should have There has been plenty of opportunity for the its way in that the maximum number of Minister to recall Parliament if he so desired. people, irrespective of their occupation or to I believe that there is some hidden reason what representative body they belong, should why this legislation is being put through be qualified to come here without any inhibi­ today. tion in law against their representing the Actually, I am not so concerned about the views of the people in this Parliament, so reason for the introduction of this Bill as I that the broadest view can be expressed in am about the pattern of a breakdown of par­ this place. This is a great principle by which liamentary procedures that have been fol­ many of us have stood so frequently in lowed long before any of us came into this Parliament and out on the highways and Chamber, and which certainly have been by-ways of the State, and it is something followed in the 19 years of this Government. that we are intending to perpetuate here I can recall only one or two occasions when today in this amending legislation. It is the honourable members have been asked to pass principle that as few people in the com­ legislation through the Chamber in one day, munity as possible should be precluded from as we are now being asked to do. eligibility for election to this Parliament. As I said earlier, the legislation only That is the principle we are concerned with. changes a method. The Minister said that I would hope that honourable members on exactly the same people will constitute the both sides, particularly those dull individuals advisory committee and that the committee who ocoupy the few Opposition benches, will advise the same administrator. Appar­ would grasp this principle immediately and ently, the only difference is that at present if go with it. Obviously Opposition members the majority of the advisory committee vote are in a state of confiusion because they have for something the administrator has not no firm reference point in terms of political to take that advice. It appears to principle. They have no firm reference point me that there must be some issue at all. They are without the advantage of upon which the advisory committee being briefed by their fancy research officers ilias said, "It should be this,", and the and their pretty-speech writers outside the administrator has said, "It need not be." Chamber. Therefore they are very flat today. That would seem to me to be the only Their contribution to the debate will be flat situation that would justify the sudden and dead. introduction of the legisla!ion. If that is so, It is not unusual to see that the so-called I believe that the Committee should be told. Leader of the Opposition is absent from the It is not good enough for the Premier to Chamber once again. Once again he is quite come into the Chamber and say, "You will inadequate when it comes to grasping some­ be told." The object of the Minister's intro­ thing off the cuff or spontaneously in this ductory speech is to inform the Committee place. The former Leader of the Opposi­ what the legislation is all about, and I believe tion (the honourable member for Bulimba). that the Minister for Local Government and who was disposed of some years ago but Main Roads should tell honourable members who still sits there on those benches in his what it is all about. As he has failed to do shame, once again has had to rise and take that, the Leader of the Opposition has asked over the leadership of the Opposition in me to say that the Opposition does not this Parliament. He has had to do that intend to support the introduction of the because the man who formally holds the legislation. We oppose it not because of what Opposition leadership is quite inadequate for is in it but because of the method of intro­ the position. He is not only inadequate in duction used and because the Minister has terms of principle but he is also inadequate not clearly told the Committee why it is in terms of leading a team on the floor of needed so urgently. Parliament. He is probably the most inadequate parliamentarian who ever stepped Mr. LINDSAY (Everton) (3.39 p.m.): As into this Chamber. That is why he does not the democratically elected representative of grasp what is at stake here today. I am the silent majority of the Everton electorate, sure we cannot expect anything better from I, too, have not yet been convinced by the honourable members opposite, but I know Minister that the Bill needs to be rushed we can expect something better from mem­ through the Chamber today, in its three bers on this side. We can expect them to readings, after Parliament has been in recess take a view based on the principle of having for five months. I look forward to hearing the greatest cross-section of the community a more detailed explanation from the Minister being elected representatives in this place­ as to why it is necessary to have the matter persons who are prepared to face the people, finalised today. not appointees through the Labor machine, and to enter this Parliament irrespective of Mr. LANE (Merthyr) (3.40 p.m.): Those their occupation. honourable members who listened carefully to the Minister's introductory speech would I found it strange when I came to this have grasped immediately that what we are place from the Public Service where very doing here today concerns a principle. It definitely I held an office of profit under the Local Government Act [25 AuGUST 1976] Amendment Bill (No. 2) 29

Crown. I had to exclude myself from my Under the circumstances, and in the light former place of employment. I had to resign of the points made by the honourable mem­ to be qualified to come here. I hope that ber for Bulimba and the Opposition spokes­ in due ,course that wiU be corrected so that man on Local Government, we will call for public servants, members of the Police Force, divisions. for the reason that we are not too members of the Railway Department and sure of the ramifications of the Bill, and we members of various Government bodies will will continue to call for divisions until we be able to come here without fear of being are sure of them. caught by some legal technicality which they may not comprehend immediately. Mr. .JONES (Cairns) (3.47 p.m.): I share Obviously it is not comprehended by the the concern expressed by my Opposition col­ Leader of the Oppo_§_[tion. Other people in leagues. On my very first day in this Cham­ the community who stand for Parliament ber the Government of the day brought for­ may not see that fine point of the law, and ward a Bill and had it passed through all they could find themselves excluded. That its stages in the one day. The two new mem­ might occur to some unsophisticated people bers who have entered the Chamber today -persons who are not lawyers might fi.nd for the first time are experiencing eJCactly themselves in that predicament. So I sup­ what I experienced when I walked into this port any proposal which removes inhibitions Assembly as a new member. on the eligibility of anyone for election to Mr. Moore: What year was that? this Parliament. Mr. JONES: 1965. At that time the Gov­ Mr. BURNS (Lytton-Leader of the ernment brought forward its anti-picketing Opposition) (3.45 p.m.): I am thankful to laws to overcome an emergency that arose on the Premier for speaking to me in the lobby that day. I disagreed vehemently with that for a few moments and explaining some legislation, and it would be remiss of me on of the reasons for the introduction of this this occasion if I did not rise and voice my measure. Opposition members were upset and opposition to this measure. concerned at the way in which this legislation The present situation in the Cook Shire was rushed into the Chamber and at the has been created by the Minister for Local fact that we were not advised of any of its Government and Main Roads. From what I ramifications or the reason for its introduc­ have heard, it is not an entirely satisfactory tion. Now that we have heard some Govern­ situation. Apparently the advisory committee ment members talk about their belief in has been appointed or selected by the Min­ principles and selections, we are even more ister. His nominees sit on this advisory com­ concerned about it. mittee. Whoever they may be, they are not answerable to the ratepayers. Furthermore, The Minister in his introductory speech they may have pecuniary interests in their clearly stated that advisory committees have area. If they reside there, they must have been appointed by him. Appointed! We have such interests. They are using a particular heard Government members talk about elec­ political force in their area to get what they tions, democracy, adult franchise, the rights want. My information is that on many occa­ of the individual and private enterprise. The sions they have been in conflict with the honourable member for Merthyr had the present administrator and that they have hide to talk about democratic principles in ganged up on him. On prior occasions he a matter concerning the appointment of a has had the administrative responsibility of committee by the Minister. The Minister also overruling their wishes. They are not elected said that members of advisory committees representatives. If the Minister were honest are selected. Selected! We hear no more he would give the ratepayers a vote to let about elections or about giving the rate­ them elect their own people. He should give payers in the area a say. We hear nothing these people a democratic right to elect their about persons over 18 or 21 years of age representatives on their local authority bodies. having a say or about property franchise, That is not untoward in any way. What is which the honourable member for Merthyr happening in that area is peculiar to the would like to see. We are told that the Cook Shire and the Shire of Torres. These Minister is selecting people to represent an people should not be set aparL They should area. be given the democratic right to select their own people by secret ballot. Why don't we go back to the basic principle We have heard much about secret ballots of democracy, which is that the people in in trade unions and the upholding of the the area should be able to elect their rep­ democratic principle of secret ballots. Let resentatives? Aren't the people in Cook or us apply this theory in principle and in Torres going to be treated in the same way practice in this area. If that were to be as those in any other local authority area in Queensland? Do we have to accept the demo­ done I am sure the Minister would get cratic principle enunciated by the honour­ a response from these people in this far able member for Merthyr and other Govern­ northern area. ment members, that is, that the Minister I am very sorry that the honourable will appoint or select four or five people and member for Cook, the representative of the put them there to take control of the area? area, is not in the House today. I should That's democracy "Shady" Lane style! have liked him to have his say on what 30 Local Government Act [25 AUGUST 1976] Amendment Bill (No. 2) is happening and on what is being steam­ Mr. Marginson interjected. rollered through this Assembly. We would like to know its background. We are not Mr. HINZE: Of course the honourable being told and I do not believe what is member will hear about it. He was selected happening today is honest. I am very sus­ especially to represent the interests of the picious of this measure. I am concerned Aboriginal community of the shire. about the v. ay in which so-called democratic forms are being applied and I will vote Mr. K. J. Hooper: By the Premier. in opposition to the measure. It is wrong that we should be making such a decision. Mr. HINZE: By this Government. We certainly have not got the Bill before us and we do not know its ramifications. We Of course, he is a National Party represen­ have not seen a written word of the Bill. tative in this Parliament. Senator Bonner is Until about 3 o'clock this afternoon we a Liberal Party representative in the Federal had no indication that the Bill was to be House. Who is there to represent the Opposi­ introduced. Nothing appears on the Business tion in either this Assembly or the Federal Paper about it. We got information through House? Perhaps it is racial discrimination; I the back door that the Bill was to be wouldn't know. introduced at the conclusion of the speech The honourable member for Cook has not seconding the motion for the adoption of received any payment from the Crown. The the Address in Reply. I am very concerned. only payments he receives are the normal I appeal to the Minister not to go beyond meeting fees paid by the Cook Shire Council. the first reading today but to give us an Legal advice, however, is that his appoint­ opportunity to study the Bill and handle ment by the Minister could affect his position this matter in a truly democratic way. as a member of the Legislative Assembly, even though that he receives no payment Hm:t. R. J. HINZE (South Coast-Minister from the Crown. He has not taken his place for Locai Government and Main Roads) in the Chamber today. (3.53 p.m.). in reply: I am sorry to have to say to the honourable member for Cairns Mr. Deeral's appointment was made in that it appears he got caught with his pants good faith and he has performed very useful down. He was not listening. He was pro­ work in his capacity as a member of the bably babbling to one of his colleagues and advisory committee. To overcome any pos­ did not hear what I said when I introduced sibility of his position as a member of this the Bill. This is what I said at page 7 of Parliament being affected, the Bill provides my prepared speech- that the holding of an office as a member of "The Bill provides that the holding of an advisory committee prior to the com­ an office of a member of an advisory mencement of the amending legislation does committee prior to the coming into force not and never did constitute the holding of of the amending legislation has at no an office or place of profit under the Crown time been an office or place of profit within the meaning of the Officials in Par­ under the Crown." liament Act. That is

As I said previously, I went to the area PRINTING OF BILL and met the advisory committee in Cook­ town. This does not very often happen. I Hon. R. J. HINZE (South Coast-Minister spoke to the advisory members, who travel for Local Government and Main Roads) hundreds of miles at their own expense. (4.7 p.m.): I move- Frankly, these fellows who make up the "That the Bill be printed." advisory committee are the salt of the earth. But all that the members of the Opposition In doing so I should explain to the Com­ can do is criticise the measure. mittee that, in accordance with practice, copies of the Bill have been printed and Mr. Burns: Why don't you let them run are held ready for distribution. These copies, for election? having been printed in advance, do not con­ tain in the long title the concluding words Mr. HINZE: I don't think it will be too "and for another purpose" which have been long before we do that. added to the long title of the Bill as intro­ Mr. Burns: Then we don't need this Bill. duced; otherwise the copies of the Bill are identical. Mr. HINZE: I would say we do need the Motion (Mr. Hinze) agreed to. Bill, for the very simple reason that I ex­ plained about our friend and colleague the honourable member for Cook. SECOND READING I do not think that I should prolong the Hon. R. J. HINZE (South Coast-Minister debate any further. I have indicated the for Local Government and Main Roads): reason for the introduction of the amending I move- legislation. "That the Bill be now read second Question-That the motion (Mr. Hinze) time." be agreed to-put; and the Committee Mr. MARGINSON (Wolston) (4.9 p.m.): divided- Having now heard the real reason why we AYES, 58 have had this legislation rushed into the Aikens Knox Chamber this afternoon and why it has to Akers Kyburz pass all stages before we leave, we accept Alison Lamond the point made with respect to the honour­ Armstrong Lane Bertoni Lee able member for Cook, and if we had been Bird Lester told-- Bjelke-Petersen Lickiss Brown Lindsay An Honourable Member: Why vote against Byrne Lowes it 7 Camm McKechnie Camp bell Miller Cory Muller Mr. MARGINSON: We vot-ed against Crawford Newbery having it put through in this manner and Doumany Porter Edwards Powell we m<:de it clear that that is what we voted Elliott Row against. \Ve will continue to oppose this sort Gibbs Scott-Young of thing, when an attempt is made to put G!asson Simpson Goleby Small legislation through all stages like this. But Greenwood Tenni we accept it now that we have been told Gunn Tomkins why, and if we had been told i:t the first Hales Turner Hartwig Warner place the Government would have saved Herbert \Vharton some time. But I want to say that in the Hinze Young Hodges last few minutes I have found that this Hooper, K. W. matter was discussed at the Local Govern­ Hooper, M. D. Tellers: ment Conference in North Queensland last Katter week. Kaus Ahern Kippin Moore Mr. Lane: Why don't you take .·.n interest in what goes on? NoEs, 10 Burns Prest Mr. MARGINSON: The Minister did not Casey Wright tell us that. The decision reached at the Hooper. K. J. Houston Tellers: Local Government Conference in North Jones Jensen Queensland was far from unanimous. Quite Melloy Margin son a number of delegates spoke against this principle. Why cannot we say that we would PAIRS: like a further look at it? Frawley Dean Sullivan Yewdale It is true that at this stage the adminis­ Resolved in the affirmative. trators of both of these local authorities need not accept the advice and the recom­ Resolution reported. mendations of the advisory committee. Under the existing legislation, the administrator has FIRST READING the sole power to deal with the matter Bill presented and, on motion of Mr. as he wishes. After all, men who are made Hinze, read a first time. administrators of local authorities are men 32 Local Government Act [25 AUGUST 1976] Amendment Bill (No. 2) of great experience. Under the Government's them had the intestinal fortitude to rise proposal this afternoon, a select group of in his place in the Chamber and express people will be appointed by the Government his pique and his surprise at what had to carry out the work and the duties of happened. Of course, most Government elected aldermen or shire councils. The members were getting ready for the party Government will be able to put on the meeting at half past 3 this afternoon, at advisory committees any of its mates, if which they might have found out about it it wishes to do so, and they will not even and that an effort was being made to get it be responsible to the electors of the particular through. area. Quite candidly, I would rather have a democratically elected council control the Let us look at the principles contained area concerned, even if it got into debt, in the Bill and see why there is a need than have stooges of the Government put for such a rush. In his reply, the Minister onto the advisory committees to do what the indicated in a half-hearted sort of way that Government dictates that they shall do. it was introduced because of the position of the member for Cook. I think we all I again express my regret that the Minister respect the fact that the honourable member did not give any notice of this legislation. for Cook is a conscientious member of the Until five minutes before he rose to his House. I would express the thoughts of feet, we did not even know that he intended my colleague the honourable member for to introduce it. We certainly did not know Townsville South who earlier today said, what the legislation was until he began to "Where is Eric Deeral? I have not seen speak, and he then requested that we pass him about today." When we see the principle the Bill through all stages in the one day. embodied in the Bill, we realise that if there The Opposition will continue to oppose rush­ is any problem because of his holding an ing Bills through this Parliament. Honour­ office of profit under the Crown, the Bill able members are well aware of what has is clearly retrospective. Surely that com­ happened in the case of much legislation pletely negates any need for speed on this that has been passed through this Chamber. occasion. I completely agree with the hon­ On a record number of occasions during ourable member for Wolston, who at both the last 18 months or two years, measures stages has expressed his opposition to the that have been introduced by the present rapidity with which the legislation is being Treasurer have had to be amended. A passed. remarkable number of changes have had to be made to laws relating to the Depart­ Let us consider the two shires covered by ment of Justice. I hope honourable members that aspect of the legislation, bearing in mind, are not going to be asked again and again as has been pointed out by the Leader of during the life of this Parliament to pass the Opposition, that this could happen with legislation without being given the opportu­ any council anywhere in Queensland. The nity to express considered opinions on the Minister himself has acknowledged that. The proposals. honourable member for Townsville South has asked him to look at another council. Because of current matters I have no doubt that, Mr. CASEY (Mackay) (4.13 p.m.): It was if the Minister were able to exercise his not only members of the Opposition who own complete rights, he would ask for some­ were stunned by the Minister's request that thing similar in respect of the Gold Coast this Bill be passed through all stages in one City Council. That is obvious from his day. One back-bench member on the Gov­ criticism of the mayor of that council and ernment side expressed his opinion. How­ what has occurred in that area. When we look ever, I very carefully looked round at the at the statistics for local authorities in Queens­ time and noted the looks on the faces of land, we realise that the Cook Shire covers most Government back-benchers, and it was a very big expanse of some 122,800 square quite obvious that they had absolutely no kilometres of Queensland. Contained within knowledge of the measure now before us. that area are 7,500 people, according to Mr. I"am:: Are you a mind reader, or the latest statistical figures available. something? Mr. Lowes: How many ratepayers?

Mr. CASEY: Well, the honourable mem­ Mr. CASEY: We often hear that call from ber for Merthyr! Today was the first time Liberal members who think that all persons we have ever seen a member come into should be judged by the property they own. the House and present a blank piece of We are looking at adult franchise in Queens­ paper as a petition. He did not get it land. We have had adult franchise for signed properly. It is probably just as well a considerable time. It is the duty of every that he left the Police Force. His powers member of this Parliament to ensure that we of investigation could not have been very have continuing adult franchise. But there good. are two exceptions where we do not have When one looks at the introduction of adult franchise. I refer to local authority this legislation, one sees that the people most elections in the Shires of Cook and Torres. maltreated by the Premier and the Minister Every member in the House knows that are the Government back-benchers, who had the majority of people in those shires are absolutely no knowledge of it. One of of either Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Local Government Act [25 AUGUST 1976] Amendment Bill (No. 2) 33

descent-the coloured people in the com­ different; we are going in an opposite direc­ munity. How much lip-service is being paid tion to that of every other State in the to some of the Government's stated policies Commonwealth in the matter of rights for about the coloured people in the community? Aborigines and Torres Strait Islanders. This The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander legislation, introduced in haste, is not in people living in those shires are denied the best interests of the people of Queens­ adult franchise in local authority elections. land. The principle embodied in the Bill further strengthens the Government's control by Mr. AKERS (Pine Rivers) (4.22 p.m.): As insisting that the people concerned with local a member of local government, I completely authority administration in those areas do support the principles embodied in this Bill. exactly what they are told by the Government. Until the Minister told me the reason for the hasty introduction of this Bill, I was not Let us make some comparisons. I men­ happy with the way in which it was to be tioned the area and population of the Cook rushed through. Shire. The Torres Shire has an acknowledged area of 2,800 square kilometres and a popu­ Mr. Houston: He told you? lation of 5,400. The population of the two shires is more than the population of the Mr. AKERS: He told me the reason for Shire of Sarina of which the new Leader it. The reason for rushing through this very of the House and Minister for Police was sound principle is that it will enable a certain chairman for a number of years. I am member of the House to remain here. positive he would never have wanted to see the appointment of an administrator in The division on the first reading of the that shire or the adult franchise taken away Bill showed Opposition members for what from the people of the area. Furthermore, they really are-a bunch of racists. They most of the larger western shires in Queens­ spoke to the Bill without knowing anything land contain areas approximately half that about it, but when they called for a division of the Cook Shire, yet they have only about they knew what it was all about, and in one-tenth of the population of the Cook spite of that they called for a division. They Shire. In the main, the people in these showed that they did not want an Aboriginal western shires live in grazing communities member of Parliament. Their vote clearly and are of Caucasian descent, and unlike showed that. the Aborigines and Torres Strait Islanders on the Cape York Peninsula and the Torres Mr. Melloy: We didn't know what was in Strait islands, they enjoy full adult franchise. the Bill. Both the Cook and T0rres Shires have Mr. AKERS: Of course they knew what larger populations than the Shires of Won­ was in the Bill. They had been told by the dai, Murgon and Nanango, all of which are Minister what was in it. in the Premier's electorate. Mr. Gunn: Not Nanango. Mr. Melloy: We didn't know; we hadn't seen it. Mr. CASEY: Parts of the Nanango Shire are within his electorate. Mr. AKERS: They did know. On other Mr. Gunn interjected. occasions I have seen Opposition members vote in favour of the introduction of a Mr. CASEY: As the honourable member measure while claiming that they did not looks after the Nanango Shire, he should be know what was in it. On this occasion, as on his feet trying to get for the people in soon as they found out that if this Bill was the Cook and Torres Shires the same rights not introduced the member for Cook would as those enjoyed by the people in the Nan­ be kicked out, they voted against it. They ango Shire. I will accept ,the honourable did not care about better representation or member's interjection concerning Nanango. about a wider base of power in local author­ Let us take the Kingaroy Shire, which is in ities that have an administrator appointed to the Premier's electorate. It has far fewer them. The principle of the Bill is that, instead people than the Cook Shire. of one man being in charge of a local auth­ ority area, there will be a committee that Let us get down to tin-tacks. We hear a will have full say. lot of talk in the community about giving more and better rights to Aborigines and Mr. Houston: Appointed. Why don't you Torres Strait Islanders. This legislation, how­ elect the committee? ever, will strengthen the Government's con­ trol over Aborigines and Torres Strait Island­ Mr. AKERS: I know the committee will ers and will deprive them of autonomy. It be appointed. But ,there has to be reason for will not give them adult franchise, nor will having an administrator in the first place. it give them the right to have a say in their Administrators are appointed, and this is the own local government affairs. first step towards the election of a council. Earlier today either the mover or the Any of the local authorities in New South seconder of the Address in Reply said that Wales over which administrators have been Queenslanders are different. We are certainly appointed have finally gone back to elected 2 34 Local Government Act [25 AUGUST 1976] Amendment Bill (No. 2) councils. That is what the shires of Cook It is a matter of tremendous personal and Torres are heading for. I should like to pride to me as a man born in Brisbane who think that if the same situation arose in my spent many years in the defence of his shire, one administrator would not be con­ country in places like Papua New Guinea, trolling the whole shire-that at least a com­ Malaya, Borneo and Vietnam, and who has mittee would control it. That is why I sup­ travelled extensively in other areas, to know port the Bill, although I am not happy that that we have in this House a democratically we have had to rush it through all stages in elected Aboriginal representative. It is well one day. to point out that we also have Senator Bon­ The honourable member for Wolston ner, who is a man of my own political per­ referred in his second-reading speech to suasion. It is interesting to note that only stooges of the Government on this committee. the Liberal and National parties in Queens­ Yet Opposition members supported the Whit­ land are prepared to nominate and select lam Government that wanted to introduce Aborigines. The A.L.P. does not have a the interstate commission. Has anybody very worthy history in this field. looked into what that commission was about? As part of the socialist philosophy, we It was to be composed completely of stooges might look, too, at Communist China. of the A.L.P. Government and it would Nobody ever says how the Chinese look have controlled every item in Australia. It is after their Aborigines. They have Aborigines, completely hypocritical for the honourable who are forced into the rugged country to member for Wolston to talk about stooges the south-west of China. Let us look at of the Government running a shire when he Malaysia. The people most brutalised by was prepared to accept a group of people­ the Communists during the Malaysian emer­ stooges of the Federal Labor Government­ gency were in fact the Malay Aborigines. to run the whole of Australia. Where are they? Are they in the Par­ The honorable member for Mackay said liament of that country? No. They are in that this covers all councils in Queensland. the Cameron Highlands. They have been That is the point which must be borne in forced out into the bush. The Dyaks in mind when we are considering the basic Borneo have been similarly treated. In principle of this legislation. As I said, I Vietnam, who were the ones most slaughtered would not like my council area to be con­ by the North Vietnamese battalions and trolled by one man. This principle will regiments as they -streamed down from the cover the whole area. northern part of Vietnam into South Viet­ nam? Who were the ones most badly Mr. Houston: Would you like to see your treated? Of course, the Montagnards. council dissolved and an administrator appointed? However, back home in Queensland, we have in our Parliament an Aborigine-Eric Mr. AKERS: Two calls have been made Deeral-who is a tremendous fellow. I for my council to be dissolved, but the have travelled with him throughout his elec­ Minister has seen fit to reject them because torate-through all the Aboriginal reserves my council has done a good job. and through most of the Torres Strait islands. He is highly regarded by all of his constitu­ In Cook and Torres the appointment of ents. For my part, I cannot find it in my administrators was necessary. I will be heart, representing as I do the silent majority watching closely what happens (as no doubt of the people of Everton, to vote him out will the honourable member for Cook now of this Parliament on a technicality. I am that he can stay here), and hope that we quite sure that the electors of Everton would will get elected councils in the area. agree with me, and they are the ones I Mr. LINDSAY (Everton) (4.28 p.m.): At am interested in, for they are the people the introductory stage I indicated on behalf who put me here. of the silent majority of the electorate of Mr. LANE (Merthyr) (4.32 p.m.): I hesi­ Everton that after a recess of five months I tate to rise twice in the debate on this legis­ had serious doubts about a Bill being rushed lation. It is a simple machinery matter through all stages today. I asked the Minister that should slide through the Parliament to explain why that should be done and I am fairly quickly without any opposition. grateful to him, as I am sure the silent Unfortunately, the members of the Labor majority of the Everton electorate are, for his Party saw fit, when they realised who was explanation. It boils down to the fact that affected by the legislation, to oppose it by we must support this measure. If we do voting against it, in the full knowledge not, the democratically elected Aboriginal of what they were doing and who they were member for Cook will no longer be eligible attempting to exclude from Parliament. That to be a member of this House. Inadvert­ is a burden of guilt that will sit upon their ently he continued to hold an advisory com­ heads for the rest of their days. mittee position in the Aboriginal and Islander Advancement area. The silent majority of They already have a very poor record in the Everton electorate will understand that encouraging our indigenous people in any it was a genuine mistake by the honourable real and practical way. If they wish to member for Cook. Therefore, on their behalf, prove otherwise, one of the members opposite I support the measure. ought to stand aside at the next election. Local Government Act [25 AUGUST 1976] Amendment Bill (No. 2) 35

Perhaps endorsement for Nudgee or some today and attempted by their votes to excl~de other reasonably certain Labor seat should from this House a very worthy representative be give.n to an indigenous person. Endorse­ and a conscientious and respectable gentle­ ment might be given to one of their friends man of the Torres Strait with whom we on in the Aboriginal community-Dennis this side of the House are proud to serve. Walker or one of the others who run Mr. JONES (Cairns) (4.37 p.m.): Initially with the Labor Party. Maybe we could have Dennis Walker sitting in this House I want to correct the wrong assumptions as the Labor Party member for Nudgee after made by some Government Members on the the next election, representing that electorate objection of the Opposition to the method of bringing down this legislation. 1\S a full member of the Australian Labor Party. The only way they could erase the Mr. Lane: You are making excuses now. sins of their vote in this Chamber on the Get off the hook if you can. introduction of this Bill would be to endorse Dennis Walker for Nudgee. Honourable Members interjected. An Honourable Member: When he gets Mr. SPEAKER: Order! out. Mr. JONES: Our objection was to the way in which the Bill was brought before Mr. LANE: He is in gaol now, but he Parliament. It concerns more than just the will get out in time. He will not be so future of the honourable member for Cook very different from some of the members who in this Assembly. Now that the Bill has sit on the Opposition benches now. In fact, been printed, we see that it occupies about his behaviour on the streets is not so dif­ a page and a half and only six lines refer ferent-although I dare say it is a little to the position of the honourable member different in gaol. for Cook. However, I want to apply myself to some Mr. Houston: It was an afterthought. of the principles involved in the Bill. During the introductory debate I spoke about the Mr. JONES: It is the last clause in the principle of allowing maximum representation Bill. I commend to the honourable member in this place-that is, allowing representation for Merthyr a reading at leisure of this here from the broadest cross-section of the Hitler-type legislation. In effect, the Minister community. But I am happy to support becomes the de facto council of the Cook the other proposals encompassed in the Bill­ Shire. He appoints a committee; he hand­ those giving an administrator full power to selects its members. That committee will act as such and providing for a proper degree make decisions irrespective of whether the of supervision over him by the Minister for administrator likes it or not. If the adminis­ Local Government, the man who is the trator does not agree with a decision, he responsible Minister in this State for seeing can appeal to the Minister who has appointed that local government is conducted in a pro­ the committee. I ask honourable members per, business-like fashion. what ('hance the administrator would have when he finds himself between two such I feel it is a great shame that the Australian heavyweights-a majority decision and a Labor Party has taken this attitude. Incident­ ministerial decision. In those circumstances ally, I notice that the Leader of the Opposi­ the administrator would have only a very tion is absent once again. As usual, he slim chance. has left it to the honourable member for Bulimba to stand in and hold up the front What chance, then, would there be for the bench. It is not difficult to understand why ratepayers of Cook to have any say in any so often we now hear the cry in this place, decisions made by these two big guns? The "Bring Jack back." At least we would people might disagree with the executive then know to whom we referred when we council (or whatever it is to be called) spoke of the Leader of the Opposition. The but they will have no chance at all of moment the debate becomes a little heavy being heard. and requires a knowledge of parliamentary The Minister seems to be earning for him­ procedures and Standing Orders, the Leader self a reputation for taking over and stand­ of the Opposition flees and hides his head. ing over. We do not have to refer to Perhaps he goes up the road and gets Jack the matter concerning the bird sanctuary at Stanaway out of the pub for advice. Currumbin to get an indication of what is happening; we have it in this type of Mr. SPEAKER: Order! legislation that is now being brought before the House. The Minister is spoiling his Mr. LANE: I know that all members on reputation. He is no longer a benevolent this side of the House are happy to give Minister; he is starting to adopt a dictatorial their support to the Bill, just as they were attitude. happy to endorse Neville Banner as a Liberal candidate for Senate election a few years Mr. SPEAKER: Order! The honourable ago and as the National Party was happy member will spoil his own reputation if to have Eric Deeral run for Cook. But he does not return to the provisions of the Labor Party members have stood up here Bill. 36 Local Government Act [25 AUGUST 1976] Amendment Bill (No. 2)

Mr. JONES: Under the provisions of the towards autonomy for local government, but Bill the Minister appoints all the members according to my advice and the feelings of and decides everything. The majority in this meeting of the Local Government Asso­ the electorate will have no say; they are ciation in North Queensland, that is not true. not represented. I said that this was Hilter­ type legislation and I repeat that. In fact, I say that Cooktown cannot afford it and I do not think that Hitler could have done that it will not provide it with any more better. I think that even Idi Amin, a man money. It creates a precedent. It is a Big of some deeper colour than the Minister but Brother situation in which the Government of somewhat similar proportions, would have can appoint its own nominees to the execu­ been proud of the Minister's efforts on this tive committee. A very dangerous precedent occasion. is set when the Government can appoint its own nominees and can interfere to this It would appear that the Minister wants degree at this level of local government to hand-pick the executive committee but through legislation and thereby kill local wants its verdict to be compulsory. If the government in the area completely in the administrator, in his wisdom and with his guise of greater efficiency, as the Minister knowledge of local government matters, said. I do not believe that is the situation. which the executive committee might It has yet to be proved, and I do not believe not have, disagrees with a decision of the it. committee, he has the right to appeal to The big problem in the Cook Shire is the Minister, who will act as judge and jury. that if universal franchise were introduced, He will be the fellow who says yea or nay. Aborigines at the Hopevale Mission and He will be the man to bring down the axe other Aborigines would be eligible to vote on the poor old ratepayers of the Cook at 'local government elections. If true Shire. The poor innocent ratepayers will not democracy prevailed, they would outnumber have any say at all. The Minister appoints all the Eruropean votes in the area. Tech­ his committee and then has the power of nically, therefore, the proposed amendment veto over the committee, the administrator could be seen as being essentially racist and and everybody else. designed to deprive those people of their Frankly, if we pass this Bill with such sus­ franchise. picious haste we might as well do it without As the Minister would be aware, there going through the Committee stage at all. have been some innuendoes and slurs We might as well do away altogether with against the administrator and his family the administrator and with the executive arising from the suggestion by the previous committee. We might as well abandon any advisory committee that the administrator, thought of ever electing a council in the because he was a consulting engineer, had Cook Shire and simply install the Minister contracts with the Cook Shire Council. as "El Supremo" or "El Presidente" of Cook However, an investigation by Mr. J ohnson Shire. found that he was completely above board and a totally honest person, and I should Surely we should look at the financial like to hear the Minister reiterate that when arrangements. I wonder whether the Cook Shire is going broke because some people up he replies to my contribution to the debate. If that is so, what is the need for a change there are not paying their rates. When the in the administration or the administrator? Premier was in Cairns recently he had some It is not necessary to change the entire discussion with Mr. Wiley Fancher, who is system-as I see it, it is a change that a ratepayer in that area. Recently, about threatens local government as a whole­ seven days after he had some financial dis­ simply to get rid of an administrator or to cussions with the Premier, he went bankrupt. overrule him. If the Minister has no con­ The Minister might even appoint Wiley fidence in him, I suggest that there are Fancher to the executive committee. It is other means at his disposal under the Act up to the Minister. There is nothing to say to overrule him. Why hoodwink the House it is not possible; the Minister has the power. by introducing a measure in this guise if I want to draw attention to the fact that that is the purpose behind it? this matter was discussed at a recent meeting As a former alderman of the Cairns of the Local Government Association in City Council and a representative of local North Queensland. I believe that one of the government, I concede that there are uniform principal speakers at that meeting was Mr. problems in local government. They are Kattenberg, the chairman of the Atherton going to be compounded because less Shire Council. I believe that there were other financial assistance will be available from speakers, including Mr. Dickson, Chair­ the Federal Government in the current finan­ man of the Johnstone Shire Council. cial year. Uniform problems are not con­ The unanimous feeling of the meeting fined to the regional councils. Local auth­ was against any amendment to the orities make their decisions, which are then Local Government Act, and in fact reflected in the regional councils. Of course, another unanimous motion was passed con­ the Co-ordinator-General would be aware demning the amendment to the Local Gov­ of that situation, and the Minister would not ernment Act whioh is now before the House. need to be reminded of the difficulties that The Minister's argument is that it is a step are inherent in all local government matters. Local Government Act [25 AUGUST 1976] Amendment Bill (No. 2) 37

The Minister has already appointed an it, namely, racism. In my own home town advisory committee to advise the admini­ of Cloncurry a number of people repre­ strator. The administrator is the expert senting a party that is represented by very in the local government sphere, but the small numbers on the opposite side of the Minister now seeks to ratify through the House were on the local council. They measure before the House, which will become were the only three councillors who voted an Act of Parliament, the decision that the for the destruction of Aboriginal homes. advisory committee alone-a non-elected Councillors of different political persuasion­ body-should be the decision-making auth­ ! am proud to say they were of my political ority within the Cook Shire. Previously persuasion-trenchantly opposed the move the committee acted in an advisory capacity and tried to prevent 20 homes from being to the administrator, but the Bill decrees torn down. that the people selected by the Minister will bind the administrator of the Cook Shire That is the issue we see today. The A.L.P. to a majority decision of the executive com­ constantly lines up on the side of people mittee. It will not be an elected committee in this State who unfortunately are racists. but a committee nominated and selected by the Minister alone, on any ground that he An Opposition Member: What has this to may determine. We have not been told do with the Bill? what type of people will be on that com­ mittee. The Minister determines that, and Mr. KA'ITER: It has a lot to do with the he adjudicates their excellence, ability and Bill. Opposition members are attempting capability. The Minister alone will determine to punish a person for not having certain who the members of the executive committee knowledge. Many of us have a European shall be. The administrator will be bound by background. We have access to certain the decision of that committee. and I think knowledge and are brought up with know­ that is a shame. It will be a blight on our ledge vastly superior to that enjoyed by many democratic processes. people with an Aboriginal background. Lack of knowledge is probably why they are dis­ Previously, all matters relating to the criminated against. Because of lack of administration of the shire were decided by knowledge and education, a person has been the administrator, advised by the advisory caught in a situation where democracy is committee. He was answerable only to the defeated on a technicality. That is the Minister. Now, of course, the advisory essence of discrimination. Because of his lack committee is answerable only to the of knowledge, Opposition members want to Minister. I say unequivocably that it punish that per_son. should be the ratepayers that those people are responsible to-the voters, Opposition Members interjected. the citizens of the Cook Shire. Now the Minister again appoints an executive com­ Mr. KATTER: That is exactly what the mittee, which is the old advisory committee. Bill is all about. These personnel will be empowered to assist the administrator. That is a nice choice of The power in a democracy lies right here words. They will "assist" the Minister with in this room, in a room in Canberra, or a power of majority decision. Previously in a room in a local council. That is where they were only advisers, but now they tell the real power lies. Let us reflect upon the administrator what to do on all matters. how many times the A.L.P. has been pre­ The administrator now technically works pared to give this ultimate power to members under their direction-a non-elected executive of the Aboriginal race throughout Australia. committee. The administrator has the power Not on one single occasion in the history of appeal to the Minister against the Minis­ of this nation has the A.L.P. attempted to ter's own appointees-an appeal from get a person of Aboriginal origin into a Caesar to Caesar. Whether it will be effec­ position of power. tive will be the Minister's decision. Mr. Houston interjected. It is a sad day for democracy in Queens­ land when an administrator is put in an Mr. KATTER: I defy the honourable ex officio position as the chairman of a member for Bulimba to cite one instance shire council. He could be compared with when the A.L.P. has pushed forward a per­ Sir Bruce Small, who is a shire chairman son of Aboriginal descent to fill a position with no power because he has no numbers of real power in this State-either in this on the council. It is a non-elected body. House or in the Federal House. It is an undemocratic situation which I vehemently oppose. It is undemocratic and Mr. HOUSfON: I rise to a point of order. unrealistic in this day and age. I know the I don't want to argue with the honourable Opposition will be opposing the Bill on that member, but just to put the record straight, ground. an Aborigine is the Governor of South Aus­ tralia, and he was appointed by a Labor Mr. KA'ITER (Flinders) (4.52 p.m.): I Government. Furthermore, we had a can­ should like to make a few observations on didate standing in a Queensland State elec­ the Bill and the hidden issue involved in tion prior to Senator Bonner or Mr. Deeral 38 Local Government Act [25 AUGUST 1976) Amendment Bill (No. 2)

I do not intend to name the person con­ do not want to repeat. The honourable cerned, but the House can take my word for member for Wolston referred to members of it that that is so. the advisory committee and suggested that they could be stooges of the Minister. I Mr. SPEAKER: Order! I ask the honour­ know he did not mean that. He has been in able member for Flinders to accept the denial this House and a member of local govern­ of the honourable member for Bulimba. ment for far too long to think that members of any responsible authority would be Mr. KATTER: I will accept it on one stooges. basis. But I was referring not to token power but to real power. We have been pre­ The Bill provides that a member of an pared to give that. We gave Eric Deeral a executive committee will be in a position very real and genuine chance of getting into similar to a member of an elected council in this House, but now we see a very con­ regard to pecuniary interest. It provides that certed attempt by Opposition members to if a matter is raised at a meeting of an remove him from this House. He is the only executive committee and a member of that person of his race presently in the House. committee has an interest in it he must disclose his interest and refrain from voting The only thing the A.LP. has done for on the matter. That takes care of pecuniary the Aboriginal race is spend someone else's interest. money upon them. It has taken money from other people by way of taxes and thrown it I want to assure the House that it is my at the Aborigines, saying, "What good fel­ intention to restore as quickly as possible to lows we are for having done that." Unfor­ the Cook Shire the right to elect its own local tunately some Aborigines have been deceived authority. This is a sort of transitionary by that policy. period that it is going through. As the honourable member for Cairns has said, Let me conclude by saving that the real there is concern in some quarters at giving power lies here. The A.L.P. has made a con­ to those fellows who make up the executive certed effort to remove from this House the council the authority to vote. I would ask only person of Aboriginal extraction who has the honourable member to put himself in ever succeeded in getting to it. I am quite their position. They travel hundreds of miles certa.in that the Aboriginal people of Queens­ to Cooktown to attend a meeting and are land will long remember what the A.L.P. told by the administrator, "O.K., you can has attempted to do today. make your representations but you have no vote." Hon. R. J. HINZE (South Coast-Minister for Local Government and Main Roads) (4.58 I have tried .to give these fellows the p.m.), in reply: I want to allay any fears of right to some say by way of a vote until the Opposition concerning the continuation of councils are appointed. I have tried to give the type of council in which an administrator the administrator a semblance of a position is appointed. in that, if the voting is three all, he has the casting vote. That does not take away his I just want to give a brief history of this authority. I have recently recommended to matter. The Cook and Torres Shires were the Government that he receive a salary dissolved because of their financial problems. from the State. That has never happened In both shires Government reserves represent in the past. He also has the right to make a large area and this had the effect of reduc­ representations to me if he disagrees with ing the area of rateable land in Torres the executive committee. I have to report to by 70 per cent. In Torres, the rates hardly Parliament, so let there be no silly ideas or cover the clerk's salary. In both areas sub­ suggestions that I intend to appoint Wiley stantial Government grants have had to be Fancher or anybody else. It should be well made to enable the local authorities to understood that such appointments cannot carry on. be made when we are dealing with responsible positions. Frankly I believe that what is The matter is kept under review and we being done is a step forward. feel that the time is not yet ripe to restore elected local government. This will be done, I do not wish to dwell further on the however, when the Government is satisfied person involved other than to say that I that elected representatives could carry on am sure honourable members opposite agree the affairs of the Cook and Torres Shires on with the steps I have taken now that the a firm financial basis as a normal local position has been explained to them. authority. Mr. Houston: We said that. The Bill, by enabling executive committees to be appointed to assist in the running of the shires, goes half way to restoring elected Mr. HINZE: I am not arguing with the local authorities. Opposition. Quite frankly I thought that the Opposition knew. Somebody said to me, . Th~ member for Cairns referred to pecun­ "The Opposition knows exactly what you Iary mterests of members of the executive intend to do." That is why I oresented the committees. He made some remarks that I Bill in the way I did. I now accept the Local Government Act [25 AUGUST 1976] Amendment Bill (No. 2) 39

Opposition's attitude and I also accept that I wonder whether this aspect of protecting the Opposition does not intend to oppose a member of an advisory committee by the Bill any further. allowing him to receive dual emoluments will be extended to representatives in local Motion (Mr. Hinze) agreed to. government and to all other offices of the Crown. Why are we doing it? Are we COMMITTEE doing it to protect one member of the Parlia­ ment? If we are legislating for one member, (The Chairman of Committees, Mr. W. D. I wonder on what occasion the Assembly Hewitt, Chatsworth, in the chair) will next be required to legislate. Whenever an instance is brought to light of somebody Clauses 1 and 2, as read, agreed to. making a mistake, the Government will cover it up. Speaking generally, this should Clause 3-0ffice of a member of advisory be a matter for determination by our courts committee not an office of profit under the of law. We should not be covering up the Crown- situation with legislation. Mr. MARGINSON (Wolston) (5.2 p.m.): An Honourable Member interjected. The first sentence in my second-reading Mr. JONES: I heard the word "racist". speech was, "The Opposition accepts the If there is anything racist about it, it is position with respect to the member for these people raising that issue. The member Cook." Since that time honourable mem­ for Cook is a member of this Legislative bers who have been anxious to make pro­ Assembly. He is not merely a member of paganda have made accusations of racism any political party; he is a member of Parlia­ and the like. Clause 3 has some relevance to the Officials in Parliament Act 1899-1961, ment. We are legislating for an individual, no matter what he is, who he is or whom he and section 5 (1) of that Act reads- represents. Whom he represents in this " Any person holding any office or place place is more important than who he is or of profit under the Crown ... who is also what he is. That is the overriding principle a Member of the Legislative Assembly of the parliamentary system. Surely we . . . shall be incapable of being elected, or should be looking at it from that point of of sitting or voting, as a member of the view. Legislative Assembly; and the election of such person to be a member of the Legis­ Although the Opposition is greatly out­ lative Assembly shall be null and void, numbered by members on the Government and a writ shall forthwith issue for the side, I still want it to be recorded that election of a member in his stead." Government members are putting themselves in an invidious position, They will have to I am pleased-and the Opposition is pleased, legislate every time a member of Parliament -if there is any doubt about the. gets into trouble by either wittingly or unwit­ position of the honourable member for tingly receiving emoluments from the Crown. Cook being on this advisory committee, On this occasion we are dealing with a mem­ that the Government should introduce clause ber of an advisory committee to the admin­ 3 of this legislation to cover any doubt. There istrator of the Cook Shire. What will it be must be some doubt because someone made next week? On a previous occasion it was it plain-I think it was the Premier-that a barrister's fee for a member who was the honourable member for Cook would not some sort of legal adviser to the Air Force. be in the Chamber today until this legislation Are we on some other occasion to be faced went through. I make it quite clear that we with a Bill being rushed through all stages are not opposing clause 3. We support it in the Parliament for the protection of for the reason outlined by the Minister. another individual? I wonder whether the same enthusiasm would be exhibited in this Mr. JONES (Cairns) (5.4 p.m.): Today, Parliament, with the numbers as they now we have heard debate for and against the are, for a member of the Opposition who ramifications of the Bill. I have made my found himself in this predicament. Would opinions known to this Assembly. On this Parliament be making this decision this occasion I intend once again to put my afternoon if a member of the Opposition opinion before the Chamber as a member of were involved? Her Majesty's loyal Opposition. We are set­ Clause 3 is a matter for determination by ting a precedent, whether it be for a pre­ numbers in this place; but it is also a matter sently elected member of the Assembly or of precedence in the Parliament, which will for some future representative. Previously, a be lumbered with the precedent for ever­ member of Parliament could not receive two more. emoluments from the Crown. As a railway employee, I could not hold down my posi­ Mr. AIKENS (Townsville South) (5.1 0 tion and remain as an elected member of p.m.): T had not intended to participate in this Parliament. On other occasions we have this debate again. but I have listened to seen similar legislation brought down for the perhaps the most deplorable, detestable, benefit of a member. I do not believe that ctespicable exhibition of lugubrious, slobber­ that is right. ing hypocrisy that I have ever heard. I 40 Local Government Act [25 AUGUST 1976) Amendment Bill (No. 2)

refer to the speech just delivered by the withdraw if you want me to. At least honourable member for Cairns. Nobody I can understand what you say and I know knows better than he that this Parliament the points that you make. makes laws as well as it can, free of errors and loop-holes. Every now and again the Fancy the honourable member for Cairns, attention of Parliament is drawn to a loop­ of all people, telling us that, if a member hole in a law enacted by it and almost of the A.L.P. found himself in the same immediately Parliament closes that loop-hole. predicament as the honourable member for The honourable member for Cairns should Cook owing to an honest error, Parliament look through the pages of "Hansard". I can would not legislate to protect him from the remember at least 30 occasions on which consequences of that honest error! We all this Parliament has brought down legisla­ know, of course, that "A.L.P." stands for tion of this type. At times it has been "Academics and Lawyers' Party". The hon­ not simply a clause in a general Bill, as ourable member for Cairns has the gall to is the case now, but a specia1 Act of Parlia­ suggest that such matters should not be ment to exempt a member, irrespective of cleared up and rectified by Parliament but his party-political complexion, from the that the unfortunate person concerned should operation of the law regarding an office go to law. Who wins when people go to of profit under the Crown. law? The only winners are lawyers, and no point is ever adequately cleared up by I can remember Parliament passing a court action. special Bill to exempt a member of the Labor Party who held a casket agent's I am very sorry that the honourable mem­ licence. It was thought that that was an ber for Cairns adopted the attitude that he office of profit under the Crown and a did. I hold him in high regard in certain special Bill was brought down to protect respects but I think the years are beginning that person. to tell on him. I remember an old union mate of mine describing him as possessing I remember when Parliament passed a a particularly brilliant and bright mentality. special Bil: t.s: protect a member of the But that was many years ago. It is now A.L.P. who held a pastoral lease. Some almost non-existent. I am sorry that he made legal eagle or vulture considered that bv the remarks that he did. On the one hand, holding such a lease he was breaking the the A.L.P., led by Senator James Keeffe, the law relating to the holding of offices of architect of legalisation of homosexuality, profit under the Crown. I can remember abortion, prostitution and all similar activities the amazing case of a special Act being and the one who completely ran the A.L.P. passed to give to a member of the Liberal Labor-in-Politics Convention in Cairns, the Party, who is back again on the gravy train, honourable member's home town, 18 months the ri,ght and authority to hold down a ago, poses now and again as the champion job in the Air Force. I forget the number of the downtrodden Aborigines. To have of titles that went with it. the honourable member for Cairns come and speak against the tenets laid down by Jim Mr. Jones: Judge Advocate-General. Keeffe is rather confusing. I am beginning to think that, if I listen to the honourable Mr. AIKENS: Yes-and he was not a member for Cairns, his mental condition judge, an advocate or a general. might be contagious and it might be better As soon as this loop-hole in the law for me to leave the Chamber every time he was realised, Parliament passed a Bill to speaks. close it. It is just not correct for the hon­ ourable member for Cairns to suggest that Clause 3, as read, agreed to. this Bill has been brought down only because Bill reported. without amendment. the member concerned is a member of the National Party. That is an example of cowardly racism by him and his party and THIRD READING I for one will have no part of it. Bill, on motion of Mr. Hinze, read a Mr. JONES: I rise to a point of order. third time. The honourable member was known as "Energy" Aikens in the railways. I object to his reference. SPECIAL ADJOURNMENT The CHAIRMAN: Order! The honour­ able member has taken his point of order. Hon. T. G. NEWBERY (Mirani-Leader The honourable member for Townsville of the House): I move- South wiH withdraw the remark that is offens­ ive to the honourable member for Cairns. "That the House, at its rising, do adjourn until 11 a.m. tomorrow." Mr. AIKENS: I do not know what he said, Mr. Hewitt. He mumbles to himself Motion agreed to. and he is almost completely incomprehens­ ible. However, whatever he said, I will The House adjourned at 5.18 p.m.