Queensland

Parliamentary Debates [Hansard]

Legislative Assembly

WEDNESDAY, 28 AUGUST 1957

Electronic reproduction of original hardcopy

Administrat01·'s Opening Speech. [28 AUGUST.] Administrat01·'s Opening Speech. 9

''My Ministers and I express to His Excellency our appreciation of the magnifi­ cent work which he has done for this State during the past 11 years, and in doing so, we are not unmindful of the prominent and important part which Lady Lavarack has taken in the public life of our community. We hope that His Excellency will soon be restored to health and we wish both him and Lady Lavaraek many years to enjoy their retirement. ''In the early part of this year there was an unusually dry period, but, although this affected crops and pastures, the general prosperity of the community continues to be buoyant. ''The new Government is fully cognisant of the fact that available capital resources from the usual channels are wholly inadquate for the proper development of the State, and that WEDNESDAY, 28 AUGUST, 1957. the future advancement of the State to a place of high prominence in the Australian economy hinges on the ability of the Govern­ ment to attract to Queensland the huge Mr. SPEAKER (Hon. A. R. Fletcher, capital investment necessary to fully exploit Cunningham) took the chair at 11.57 a.m. and develop the unparalleled natural resources of our State. PRESENTATION OF MR. SPEAKER. "With this object in mind, they propose Mr. SPEAKER: I have to report that a full-scale drive throughout the Common­ yesterday I presented myself to His Excel­ wealth and abroad to publicise Queensland lency the Administrator at Govemment to potential investors. The success of such House, as the member chosen to fill the high a move-dedicated, as it is, to development­ and honourable office of Speaker of this is regarded with the utmost confidence, and House, and that His Excellency was pleased is expected to usher in the greatest era of to congratulate me upon my election. p1·osperity ever known in this State. ''My Advisers welcome the early display ADMINISTRATOR'S OPENING SPEECH. of initiativE' and co-operation by industrial, commercial, and development interests which At noon His Excellency the Administrator are organising an overseas trip by a delega­ came in state to Parliament House. was tion of Queensland businessmen early in 1958 announced by the Sergeant-at-Arms, received for the purpose of attracting new capital to by Mr. Speaker (Hon. A. R. Fletcher) at the Bar, and accompanied to the dais. the State. ''My Advisers also propose to give every Hon. members being seated, His Excel· lency read the following Opening Speech:-- encouragement to the decentralisation of existing and prospective industries so that ''GENTLEMEN OF THE LEGISLATIVE all parts of the State can share in the AssEMBLY- resultant expansion and prosperity. " You have been called together in this, the ''The first steps in this direction have first session of the Thirty-fifth Parliament already been taken by my Advisers in the of Queensland, to give your attention to, allocation of a senior portfolio-the Minister and make decisions upon, matters pertaining for Development-embracing the major to the welfare of the people of this State. aspects of State development. "The proposed visit to Australia during ' 'In addition, the Minister for Labour and the coming year of Her Majesty Queen Industry has already visited other States Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, has been seeking investment from outside Queensland. acclaimed throughout the length and breadth of Queensland, and all Queenslanders look ''In accordance with their election forward to the opportunity of demonstrating promises, my Advisers propose to take as anew their loyality and affection for the soon as practicable legislative action to Royal Family. entrench in the Constitution of this State ''The Governor, His Excellency Lieutenant­ certain provisions designed to protect and General Sir John Lavarack, became ill on preserve the political institutions of the 24 January, and he is still unable, on State, the basic political rights of the people, account of his indisposition, to perform the the freedom of the individual and the pro­ duties of his office. He is due to retire at tection of his property, and to maintain an. the end of next month. independent judiciary. 10 Administrator's Opening Speech. [ASSEMBLY.] Administratm·'s Opening Speech.

''Advances in the mining industry are "During the year ended 30 June, 1957, still a feature of the development of the 63 blocks of good quality grazing and mixed natural resources of this State, and the farming lands with an area of 648,695 acres recent discovery in the Cape York Peninsula were made available for new settlement. of what is estimated to oo one of the largest known deposits of high grade bauxite augurs '' Resumptions from four pastoral hold­ well for the future settlement of that ings for closer settlement, totalling 277,040 sparsely populated area. acres, were determined by the Land Court in pursuance of Section 146 of the Land ''Bulk loading of sugar has commenced Acts. at Mackay. The saving in cost of produc­ ''In the sphere of land administration, tion which will result from this and from my Advisers propose to effect many needed proposed similar installations at Lucinda reforms, the foundation of which will be Point, Bundaberg and TownsYille will do closer settlement, based on adequate living much to meet the ever rising costs in an areas. industry which is so impoTtant in our economy. ''Legislation will be introduced as soon as possible to do away with the present ''Receipts of the Consolidated Revenue restrictive policy whereby existing and pros­ Fund for the year ended 30 June, 1957, pective settlers and holders of town and were £85,158,100. Expenditme totalled suburban allotments from the Government £85,142,870, the resultant surplus being are debarred from securing land on free­ £15,230. When the Budget was brought holding tenures of any kind. down it was anticipated that there would be a surplus of £15,153. ''Purchases of suitable freehold or lease­ hold property made for the purpose of closer ''The stated Consolidated Revenue surplus settlement or soldier settlement will hence­ of £15,230 should, however, be considered in forth be made on just acquisition terms. the light of the fact that, in the same year, it was necessary to withdraw over £1 million ''My Advisers also propose an immediate from what amounted to the reserve funds of resumption of soldier settlement and, for the State. this purpose, will enter into prompt negotia­ tions \vith the Commonwealth Government ''The entire monies available to the State for inclusion in the Commonwealth scheme for loan expenditure were fully utilised. as an Agent State. Expenditure from Loan Fund amounted to £22,976,064, an increase of £1,320,925 over '' -:vry Advisers ha Ye surveyed housing last year's expenditure and £976,064 over needs ancl, on the most recent advices avail­ the approved programme of £22 million. The able, the housing shortage in this State can .increase was largely due to favourable be stated as Metropolitan, 4,738, and weather conditions allowing uninterrupted Country, 1,807, a total of 6,545 homes. progress on construction woTks thToughout the State. ''In the year just completed, dwellings constructed through the Queensland Housing ''Main items of expenditure \YeTe- Commission totalled 1,912, made up of ' 'Railways, £5,353,960; Public Build­ Metropolitan, 1,255, and Country, 657. ings, Schools, etc., £3,004,741; Construc­ tion Works under the control of the ''My Advisers are not content to regard Co-ordinator-General, £2,451,892; Irriga­ the Commission as the sole, or even the tion and Water Supply, £2,337,587; and dominating, factor in meeting the housing advances to Local Bodies and Hospitals needs of the people. Every avenue of home Boards, £4,816,136. construction and finance will be explored in order to contribute to a greater total per­ "A record volume of \YOol (798,906 bales) formance. Building societies, insurance com­ was sold during the 1956-57 season; it panies, and other sources of finance will be returned £83t million, the second highest encouraged to share in this task alongside figure on Tecord. The outturn of beef cattle all the available resources of the State was high, but export sales were made at a Housing Commission. lower price level than in the previous year. ''Whilst my Advisers recognise an endur­ ·'Raw sugar production from the 1956 ing need for rental homes, they place greater crop was 1,171,500 tons, 36,000 tons higher emphasis on home ownership as a cardinal than from the 1955 crop, and realised freature of the social structure they seek to £54t million. encourage. Accordingly, home ownership ''A record planting of tobacco (7,265 will feature prominently in Commission acres) was made in 1956 and a record yield activity, and dominantly in the supplemental of about 41!: million lb. was obtained. sources to which I have previously referred. Still further, Commission tenants will be "Provision of funds for building a cool encouraged either to purchase the houses storage research station at Hamilton opens which they are occupying or, by purchasing the way for wider investigations of problems a new home, built to their selected design, of fruit and vegetable storage, transport free their existing houses for occupation by and processing. the waiting applicants. Administrator's Opening Speech. [28 AuGUST.] Administrator's Opening Speech. 11

"It is unfortunate that a not inconsider­ ''Industrial developments associated with able portion of the Commission funds will be th§.. mining industry in the Northern part of diverted from new construction to the the State again dominated development of corrective treatment and repair of the houses the State as a whole. at Zillmere where extensive attack of the ''Good progress was made with the con· imported softwoods by a European borer has struction of the town and plant of Mary necessitated both preventive fumigation and Kathleen Uranium Ltd. near Cloncurrv and repair of damaged timbers. This work will the plant is expected to commence prod~ction be carried out with expedition, and provides early in 1959. another chapter in adversity for this ill-fated venture. ''The significant discoveries of additional reserves of copper and lead-zinc ore bodies ''My advisers are determined to press by Mount Isa Mines Ltd. and the huge home building activity to the point where developmental programme envisaged by that there is a full utilisation of all available company as well as important mineral dis· resources of skilled manpower and materials. coveries in the Cloncurry field by other They reject a society in which homeless or exploration companies presage a very bright badly housed families live side by side with future for the North-western part of the unemployed tradesmen and idle sawmills. State. "Almost £1,300,000 was spent in the last ''The Government is fully aware of the financial year in providing for the future tremendous part the mining industry has timber needs of the State. An additional played in the past and will play in the future 5,300 acres of plantations were established, development of this State, and intends to bringing the total area to 78,000 acres. The give every practicable encouragement to Forestry Department aims to plant a mineral exploration and mining development minimum area of 5,000 acres yearly towards which will promote further development of the ultimate goal of 200,000 acres, which is Queensland. the estimated minimum area required to meet the State's softwood needs of the future. ''Value of Queensland's mineral pro· duction for the year ended December 31, "Total expenditure on electrical develop· 1956, amounted to more than £37 million­ ment throughout the State during the past an increase of more than £5,800,000 over year amounted to £12~ million. that of the previous year. ''The interconnecting transmission line ''The Railway Department has pursue·cl a from Tully Falls, linking the Cairns and policy of progressively strengthening its Townsville Regions with electricity will be resources of locomotive power and rolling supplying hydro-electric power to Townsville stock, the progressive dieselisation of loco· in the near future. motives being the main theme. Forty-four diesel-electric locomotives are now in service. ''Twenty-nine centres have now been T:he Department has allotted these loco· supplied with electricity under the small townships scheme, mainly in Western Queens­ motives to the working of mail train services, northbound fast freight services and the land. Only a few small communities in that haulage of trains generally on the part of the State now remain without elec­ tricity supplies. Toowoomba-Brisbane section on which two mountain ranges have to be ''During the past year the efforts of the negotiated, and between Brisbane and Rock· Irrigation and Water Supply Commission hampton, where there is a heavy concentra· were direeted chiefly to construction of the tion of traffic. Mareeba-Dimbulah Irrigation Project. ''In 1956-57, the high level dual-purpose ''The works have now reached a stage bridge over the Burdekin River, built by the where it is expected that the Tinaroo Falls Co-ordinator-General of Public Works' Dam will be storing water by the end of Department, was completed. A two-span 1957, and that it will be completed in 1959. steel and concrete bridge over the Brisbane River at Indooroopilly should be completed ''Concurrently with the erection of the by the end of the present calendar year. A dam, work is proceeding on channel con· contract was let to Electric Power Trans· struction to permit use of the water as soon mission Pty. Ltd. for the provision of a as possible after storage is available. £276,000 high-level bridge over the Haughton ''Gross value of factory output has River near Giru. advanced by no less than £15.55 millions to ''The new £H million workshops project a new reeord of £371.64 millions. There are at Redbank is taking shape, whilst nearby now 5,378 factories in Queensland employing the Bulk Store and Reclamation Depot approximately 103,000 workers. should be occupied in October of this year. ''In Southern Queensland the preliminaries "During the year, £715,000 was spent in associated with the establishment of a furthering work on the suburban quadrupli· building board mill at Ebbw Vale have been cation scheme to overcome traffic bottleneck~. completed. The Petrie paper board mill, ''The tourist industry is taking an increas· a major project, will commence production ingly important part in the economics of later in this year. Queensland. Queensland is now in a position 12 Administrator's Opening Speech. [ASSEMBLY.] Administrator's Opening Speech.

to offer first-class accommodation to over­ ''Where traffic density is heavy, four lane seas and interstate tourists at Brisbane, pavements are being provided. On the Pacific Toowoomba, the North and South Coast, Highway, the length of such roadway has Hayman Island, Cairns and elsewhere. been increased, and on the Brisbane­ "The Queensland Government Tourist Toowoomba road, work is in progress on a Bureau over-the-counter receipts for the deviation which will divert through traffic year 1956-57 were £1,302,408, which was a from the congested streets of Ipswich. record. ''Construction of a gravel road from ''Other countries, less blessed by nature Cloncurry to the uranium deposit at Mary than Queensland, have increased their Kathleen is nearing completion. Bitumen national income greatly by the tourist surfacing of this road is proposed as soon industry, and the new Government considers as the gravel has been thoroughly compacted that, with proper development, our State can by traffic. benefit considerably in the next few years, "My Advisers intend, during the life of and it will attach major importance to this this Parliament, to progressively attack the valuable means of attracting outside capital task of bitumen sealing the uncompleted por­ to the State. tions of the coastal highway to Cairns, and ''The Government will give its whole­ the construction of all-weather roads on the hearted support to a vigorous immigration main arterial routes linking the coast with policy. The State Migration Office is con­ the western and distant parts of the State. cerned primarily with the nomination and settlement of British migrants, although it ''It is anticipated that enrolments in State also renders settlement assistance to non­ Primary Schools will reach 200,000 during British migrants in Queensland. the next year. ''The number of Personal Nominations ''The scheme of teacher recruitment has lodged with the State Migration Office enlisted greater numbers of young people for in 1957, already exceeds the total for training as teachers than at any previous any year of the post-war period with the period in the history of the State. Junior exception of 1951. The record 1951 total Teacher Scholarship-holders preparing for probably will be exceeded before the end the Senior Public Examination in Secondary of the year. Schools number some 1,400 and, in addition, some 1,100 students are in training at the "The Government will continue to nom­ Teachers' College. inate British migrants under the various Queensland Government Group Nomination "In the field of the education of handi­ schemes, besides giving its full support to capped children, a new Opportunity School the Commonwealth Government ''Bring Out will be opened in Townsville in the immediate a Briton'' campaign. future. ''A progressive policy of port development "Clinical examination of handicapped is being adopted. Work being undertaken children by Departmental Officers, both prior includes the provision of new wharves and to their admission to school and during their facilities, the installation of improved navi­ school careers, is permitting more efficient gation aids and the deepening of dredged use of special schools and special courses. channels. ''The Conservatorium of Music already has "Work is in hand on the new deep-water attracted a promising number of students. port at Bundaberg. Courses are offered both for the professional ''The proposal to mine and treat bauxite and the amateur student, facilities being in Cape York Peninsula involves the provi­ available to students taking single studies sion of a port on the Gulf of Carpentaria over a wide range of subjects. The Diploma and a survey of potential sites is now under awarded from the Conservatorium is intended way. as a professional qualification of the highest order. ''The discoveries of new grounds for trawling for prawns and scallops off the "My Advisers recognise the urgent need Queensland coast is of real significance, and for improved facilities for teacher training the Commonwealth Division of Fisheries is and for the restora;tion of the two-year now carrying out a survey of the prawn training period. To meet this need, a resources of the Queensland coa.st. Teachers' College will be commenced at ''The dimensions of the prawning grounds Kedron and preliminary investigations will are not yet known, but already there is suf­ be instituted into the erection at St. Lucia ficient to indicate the possibility of a sub­ of a second college, preferably vvith boarding stantial overseas market-particularly a accommodation for country students. dollar-earning market-being established. ''An Education Week is planned for 1958. ''On the Coastal Highway between Bris­ Through this agency, the new Government bane and Cairns, further works have been aims to establish closer relations between the carried out towards the provision of a school and the home and to emphasise the continuous bitumen surfaced roadway on importance of education in a democratic this important route. community. Commisswn to Administer Oath. [28 AUGUST.] Ministerial Statement. 13

''Technical education continues to expand MEMBER SWORN. to meet the needs of the industrial and scientific age in which we live. During the MR. J. BJELKE-PETERSEN. last year, over £1 million was spent on the Mr. Johannes Bjelke-Petersen, having provision of technical facilities. In addition, taken the oath of allegiance and subscribed modern, well-equipped workshops were opened the roll, took his seat as member for the elec­ at Cairns, Bundaberg and Brisbane. toral district of Barambah. ''Of the total expenditure of slightly more than £3~ million by the Department of Public PANEL OF TEMPORARY CHAIRMEN. \Vorks on buildings during 1956-57, nwre than £2 million was spent on educational Mr. SPEAKER: Pursuant to the require­ buildings. ments of Standing Order No. 13, I nominate the following members to form the panel of "It will be the objective of the new Temporary Chairmen for the present Government to completely relieve overcrowd­ session:- ing in Mental Hospitals within the shortest possible time. William Edward Baxter, Esquire, Mem­ ber for the electoral district of Norman; ''The brevity of the period since my Alexander Tattenhall Dewar, Esquirr., Advisers assumed office prevents their Member for the electoral district o: furnishing a full legislative programme for Chermside; consideration during the Session in 1957. Paul Jerome Remigius Hilton, Esquire, Parliament will, however, be asked to resume Member for the electoral district of its labours early in the New Year for a Carnarvon; longer period than has been customary, when David Alan Low, Esquire, Member for the main legislative programme of my the electoral district of Cooroora; Advisers will be brought forward. David Eric Nicholson, Esquire, Member ''During the current Session, you will be for the electoral district of Murrumba. invited to give consideration to the follow­ ing, among other measures:- MINISTERL\L STATEMENT. A Bill to amend the Industrial Concilia­ tion and Arbitration Atcs, 1932 to 1955, Hon. G. F. R. NICKLIN (Landsborough­ in certain particulars. Premier) (2.33 p.m.): I desire to inform A Bill to amend the Universitv of Queens­ the House that on Monday, 12 August, 1957, land Acts, 1909 to 1956; in certain His Excellency the Administrator of the particulars. Government- A Bill to amend the Liquor Acts, 1912 to ( a) accepted the resignation tendered 1954, in certain particulars. by- A Bill to amend the Law Relating to The Honourable V. C. Gair Coroners, and for other purposes. as Vice-President and member of the A Bill to amend the Local Bodies' Loans Executive Council of Queensland; Guarantee Acts, 1923 to 1936, in certain (b) accepted the resignations tendered particulars. by- A Bill to amend the Sugar Experiment The Honourable Edward Joseph Walsh, Stations Acts, 1900 to 1954, in certain The Honourable Harold Henry Collins, particulars. The Honourable Arthur J ones, ''I invite your earnest consideration of The Honourable William Matthew all matters that may be brought before you, Moore, and I pray that the blessings of Divine The Honourable William Power, Providence attend your labours.'' The Honourable Paul J erome Remigius His Excellency then left the Chamber. Hilton, The Honourable Colin George Mr. Speaker left the chair at 12.25 p.m.• McCathie, and resumed it at 2.30 p.m. The Honourable Leslie Frank Diplock, and COMMISSION TO ADMINIST'ER OATH. The Honourable Thomas Moores as members of the Executive Council of M:r. SPEAKER: I have to inform the Queensland ; House that His Excellency the Administra­ (c) accepted the resignations tendered by­ tor has been pleased to issue a commission The Honourable Vincent Clair Gair as under the public seal of the State empower­ Premier and Chief Secretary of ing me to administer the oath or affirmation Queensland. of allegiance to such members as might The Hon. Edwarcl Joseph Walsh as hereafter present themselves to be sworn, Treasurer of Queensland. which I now ask the Clerk to read to the The Hon. Harold Henrv Oollins as House. Secretary for Agricultu~·e and Stock Commission thereupon read by the Clerk. of Queensland. 14 Ministerial Statement. [ASSEMBLY.] Leade'f'ship of Opposition.

The Hon. Arthur J ones as Secretary for The Hon. James Alfred Heading, C.M.G., Labour and Industry of Queensland. to be Minister for Public Works and The Hon. William Matthew Moore as Local Government of Queensland; and Secretary for Health and Ham~ The Hon. G01·don William W esley Chalk Affairs of Queensland. to be Minister for Transport of The Hon. William Power as Attorney­ Queensland. General of Queensland. I now lay upon the table of the House The Hon. Paul Jerome Remigius Hilton a copy of the ''Queensland Government as Secretary for Public Lands and Gazette Extraordinary'' dated 12 August, Irrigation of Queensland. 1957, containing notification of the above. 'T'he Hon. Colin George McCathie as !Secretary for Public Works, Housing Whereupon the hon. gentleman laid the and Immigration of Queensland. ''Government Gazette Extraordinary'' upon the table. The Hon. Leslie Frank Diplock as Secretary for Public Instruction of I also wish to inform the House that the Queensland; and hon. member for Whitsunday, Mr. L. H. S. The Hon. Thomas Moores as Minister Roberts, has been appointed Government for Transport of Queensland. Whip and the hon. member for Sherwood, Mr. J. D. Herbert, Secretary of the (d) appointed Government Party. George Francis Reuben Nicklin, Esquire, to be a Member and the Vice-President LEADERSHIP OF OPPOSITION. of the Executive Council of Queensland; .and RESCISSION OF RESOLUTION • Kenneth J ames Morris, Esquire, Hon. G. F. R. NICKLIN (Landsborough­ Jack Charles Allan Pizzey, Esquire, B.A,. Premier) (2.37 p.m.), by leave, without Dip.Ed, notice: I move-:- Alan Whiteside Munro, Esquire, ''That the Resolution passed by the then Thomas Alfred Hiley, E-squire, Legislative Assembly on the eleventh day Ernest Evans, Esquire, of June, one thousand nine hundred and Adolf Gustave Muller, E'squire, iifty-seven, with respect to the offices of Henry Winston Noble, Esquire, M.B., Leader of the Opposition, Deputy Leader B.S., of the Opposition, Opposition Whip and Opposition Secretary shall be and is hereby Otto Ottosen Madsen, Esquire, rescinded.'' James Alfred Heading, Esquire, C.M.G., Gordon William Wesley Chalk, Esquire, The motion has for its object the repeal of to be Members of the Executive Council a Resolution moved by myself and passed by of Queensland. the preceding Legislative Assembly on 11 June last. I do not wish to recapitulate (e) appointed in detail the reasons for the Resolution of 'l'he Hon. George Francis Reuben 11 June last. I think it is sufficient to say Nicklin to be Premier and Chief that I moved it because I considered that the then Speaker erred in his application Secretary of Queensland; of Standing Order 333 to a question which The Hon. Kenneth James Morris to be had arisen concerning Opposition offices in Minister for Labour and Industry of the then Assembly. Queensland ; The Hon. Jack Charles Allan Pizzey, Necessarily, having regard to the issues B.A., Dip.Ed., to be Minister for involved, and the action taken in the matter Education of Queensland. by the then Speaker, the Resolution was framed in very wide terms. As it cannot The Hon. Alan Whiteside Munro to be possibly be applied to this new House or Attorney-General of Queensland; conceivably to any future Assembly, it is, The Hon. Thomas Alfred Hiley to be I think, expedient to rescind it and I move Treasurer and Minister for Housing accordingly. of Queensland; Motion (Mr. Nieklin) agreed to. 'l'he Hon. Ernest Evans to be Minister for Development, Mines and Main Roads of Queensland ; LEADER OF OPPOSITION. 'l'he Hon. Adolf Gustave Muller to be Mr. WOOD (North Toowoomba-Leader Minister for Public Lands and Irriga­ of the Opposition) (2.40 p.m.): I desire tion of Queensland; to inform the House that I have been elected The Hon. Henry Winston Noble, M.B., Leader of the Australian Labour Party, the B.S., to be Minister for Health and hon. member for Kedron (Mr. E. G. Lloyd), Home Affairs of Queensland; Deputy Leader, the hon. member for Hinchin­ The Hon. Otto Ottosen Madsen to be brook (Mr. C. G. Jesson), Whip, and the Minister for Agriculture and Stock of hon. member for Bremer (Mr. J. Donald), Queensland; Secretary. Death of Hon. G. H. Devries. [28 AUGUST.) Motion of Condolence. 15

LEAD.ER OF QUEENSLAND LABOUR Mr. Devries was born in Manchester, was PARTY. apprenticed as a midshipman at the age of 15, and served four years at sea. He lUr. GAIR (South Brisbane) (2.41 p.m.) : then came to Australia to join his parents I desire to inform the House that I have on the land at Bushley, near Rockhampton. been elected Leader of the Queensland He had a wide experience in the agricul· Labour Party, the hon. member for Bunda­ tural and pastoral industries of the State. berg (Mr. E. J. Walsh), Deputy Leader, the hon. member for Condamine (Mr. L. F. During World War I he served with the Diplock), Secretary, and the hon. member 15th Battalion in France and Belgium; he for Rockhampton (Mr. H. R. Gardner), had an excellent record as a soldier in that Whip. well-known Queensland battalion. He leaves a widow, two daughters a11d two sons. When I heard of his death I thought not DEATH OF HON. G. H. DEVRIES. only of his good personal qualities but also of his war service, and I felt glad that he Mr. SPEAKER: I have to inform the had died still adhering to those high prin­ House that I have received from the ciples for which he had always fought. Registrar-General a certified copy of the registration of the death, on 17 July, 1957, lUr. WOOD (North Toowoomba-Leader of the Hon. George Henry Devries, who at of the Opposition) (2.45 p.m.): I associate that time was Secretary for Mines and mem­ the members of the Opposition with this motion. ber for the electoral district of Gregory. We have very pleasant recollections of many happy hours spent in the kindly, warm and good-hearted company of the late George MOTION OF CONDOLENCE, Devries. He was a friend to most of us, an enemy to none. And regardless of political Hon. G. F. R. NICKLIN (Landsborough­ affiliations, all hon. members liked and Pre_mier) (2.42 p.m.), by leave, without respected him. nohce: I move- He had a long association with the trade '' 1. That this House desires to place on union movement, he was a member of that record its sense of the loss this State has great organisation the Australian Workers' sustained by the death of the Honourable Union. His association with working people in George Henry Devries, who was Secretary the outback parts of the State in that for Mines and member for the electoral organisation fully qualified him to take his district of Gregory. place as a member of the Parliamentary 2. That Mr. Speaker be requested to Labour Party. convey to the widow and family of the On the executive side, my principal recol­ deceased gentleman the above resolution, lections are of his work as Secretary for together with an expression of the Public Instruction. He had to overcome many sympathy and sorrow of the members of difficulties but, he was, in my opinion, one of the Parliament of Queensland, in the loss the most successful Secreta.ries for Public they have sustained.'' Instruction that the State has ever had. He was outstanding in his affection for children I am sure all hon. members were deeply and it was reciprocated by them. We deeply grieved at the sudden death, on 13 July, of regret his passing and we extend our sincere the former Secretary for Mines, Mr. George sympathy to his relatives. Devries. We deeply regret his death and we extend our deepest sympathy to his Mr. GAIR (South Brisbane) (2.48 p.m.): relatives in their sad loss. I join with the previous speakers in expressing sympathy to the widow and family Mr. Devries died unexpectedly from a of the late George Henry Devries. As most heart attack whilst he was engaged in the of us know, he dedicated his life to the electoral campaign in the electorate of industrial and political wellbeing of the State. Gregory. He came into prominence in 1929 when he vVe all remember him as an excellent was appointed Secretary of the western gentleman, a man of ve1·y high principle, district of the Australian Workers' Union. one admired by his political friends and In that capacity he worked zealously for 12 opponents alike. He carried out his Parlia­ years for his fellow workers and members of mentary and Ministerial duties zealously, his union and he earned the reputation of with credit to himself and the high office being a formidable foe of the Communists that he held. both in and outside the union. He won a reputation for his charity and He entered Parliament as member for philanthropy, particularly during the Gregory in March, 1941, and he retained the depression years of the late '20s and early confidence of his constituents until his death. '30s. He made many friends among those During the 16 years of service that he gave who appreciated his help in those wretched to the State, Mr. Devries served for half years and they were grateful to him. Hence, that time as a Cabinet Minister. He became when he decided to enter Parliament he had Attorney-General in June, 1949, was appointed no difficulty in winning the Gregory seat. I Secretary for Public Instruction in 1950, and am sure that if he had been spared he would assumed the Mines portfolio last year. have continn~d to hold it after the recent 16 Death of Hon. G. H. Devries. [ASSEMBLY.] Death of Mr. J. Larcombe. election. His earnestness of purpose and people or the needs of the people who :first conscientiousness were well known and he sent him to Parliament. If I might use the displayed those qualities and characteristics term in a most complimentary sense he as a Minister of the Government. I was a remained ''a rough diamond'' to the end. member of the Executive Council with him for It was as Secretary for Public Instruction a number of years and I always found him that I think he demonstrated his real worth. loyal and ready to serve the Government and "\V e have seen many Ministers come and go. the people. He held three portfolios, We have seen some Ministers who, if I may Attorney-General, Secretary for Public use this term, were more or less rubber Instruction, and Secretary for Mines. He stamps for the heads of their departments. will be remembered most by his association Some ministers exercised some control over with the Department of Public Instruction their departments and others really controlled because he was so keen about the education their departments. George Devries certainly of children. During his regime there was was one of the latter. He did that as a marked growth in school transport services Secretary for Public Instruction. His in the country areas for he was cognisant of decisions were based on his own observations, the hardships that children in the back blocks his own fund of common sense and worldly suffered through lack of transport facilities. knowledge. I have a particularly vivid recollection of George Devries as Secretary It is a matter of great regret that during the recent election campaign the then hon. member for Public Instruction insofar as a favorable decision he gave on a couple of matters for Toowoomba saw fit to say that I had in my own electorate are concerned. demanded the resignation of George Devries He came to the electorate and said as a member of the Executive Council. In in effect ''I am the Secretary for Public fa'irness to the late Mr. Devries and to Instructi~n. I am responsible for anything myself I take the opportunity to deny that that is done or is not done and I am going I did it. At no time did I seek the resig­ to decide to do so-and-so in regard to these nation of Mr. Devries-or for that matter, matters." I never forgot him for that. I any other Minister. Hon. members will gave him full credit for individuality and understand that had I done so it would have courage. had to be forthcoming. During his travels abroad as a Minister he It is true that we differed on the closure set a very commendable example. Very often of a provincial school at Elaroo. I did not we have seen Ministers travelling round with agree with what he did and I exercised my an entourage, frequently with a private right to have the school re-opened. secretary and the head of the department, I was associated with Mr. Devries in the but George Devries frequently travelled Executive Council and as a fellow member of round by himself-without even a private the Government party, and I had an oppor­ secretary. I remember on one occasion when tunity of knowing his true worth and value, he was in the far North-west of Queensland, his loyalties, ideals, and way of life. He how at considerable inconvenience to himself rendered faithful service to his electorate and he and the Regional Director of Education passed away amongst the people whom he and the local inspector of schools travelled so ably represented. for hundreds of miles at night in little rail­ Before his departure to enter upon the way motor section cars in order to visit campaign in Gregory and other electorates outlying schools in the area. I do not know in which he was to assist he was confident of any other Minister who has ridden through of his own success and the success of the the night in a section car in order to get Queensland Labour Party candidates in con­ back to the central starting point after tiguous electorates. visiting the farflung country schools during the day. I was shocked and stunned when I am proud to have been associated with I heard that he had passed away. I am not him. He was a real man. Although he knew going to be a hypocrite and say that I have he was not well physically, he embarked on had any tears to shed at the passing of some an election campaign in the interests of his members of Parliament, rather have I been State to further the ideals for which he elated to hear of their passing. But I was fought for many years. Until 13 July deeply shocked and profoundly moved to he fought vigorously in the defence of our hear of the sudden passing of George Devries. parliamentary system of Government when my He was a man whom this Parliament and this party took a stand on a major issue. There State will sadly miss. was never any question at any stage where Mr. Devries stood. Motion (Mr. Nicklin) agreed to, hon. members standing in silence. Mr. AIKENS (Mundingburra) (2.54 p.m.): I join with other hon. member~ i,n DEATH OF MR. J. LARCOMBE. expressing my sympathy to Mr. Devnes s widow and children. In the years that I MoTION OF CONDOLENCE. knew George Devries in this Chamber I Hon. G. F. R. NICKLIN (Landsborough­ formed a very great liking for him because Premier) (2.59 p.m.), by leave, without he was essentially a man of great humanity notice: I move- and simple honesty, attributes seldom found " (1) That this House desires to place in men today. He never forgot the class on record its appreciation of the services from which he sprang; he never forgot the rendered to this State by the late James Death of Mr. J. Larcombe. (28 AUGUST.] Death of Mr. J. Larcombe. 17

Larcombe, Esquire, a former Member of the The late Mr. Larcombe was an able Parliament of Queensland and Minister of administrator, a formidable debater, and a the Crown. warm and very approachable person. His (2) That Mr. Speaker be requested to valuable service to the State of Queensland convey to the relatives of the deceased will long be remembered not only by those gentleman the above resolution, together who had the privilege of being associated with an expression of the sympathy and with him in this Parliament but also by his sorrow of the Members of the Parliament many hundreds of friends throughout the of Queensland, in the loss they have State. sustained. '' I am sure all hon. members will join with I am sure all hon. members learned with me in extending to the relatives of the late great regret of the passing on 20 June last Mr. Larcombe our deepest sympathy in their of a veteran Labour politician in the person sad and great loss. of the late Mr. James Larcombe. Mr. WOOD (North Toowoomba-Leader Jimmy, as he was affectionately called by of the Opposition) (3.4 p.m.): I join with those who knew him well and valued his the Premier in expressing our deepest friendship, lived to the good age of 73 years. regret at the loss of one of the great Labour He was a colourful :figure in Queensland stalwarts of the Commonwealth. politics for the greater part of the past half­ century. He had a great parliamentary As the Premier quite rightly pointed out, record of which any hon. member could be the late Jimmy Larcombe had three great proud. loves, :first, his love for the Labour Movement, second, love of literature, particularly that He entered Parliament on 27 April, 1912, of Bobby Burns, and, third, good sport and as member for Keppel and was Father of in particular Rugby League football, but his the House when he retired before the 1956 outstanding characteristic was loyalty. I elections. have no knowledge in my personal or political He represented Keppel until 21 May, 1929, experience of any man with loyalty more and for the last 10 years of that period held intensely developed than it was in Jimmy Cabinet rank. He lost his seat in the 1929 Larcombe. At no time did he deviate from election, but was returned to Parliament in the great ideal of loyalty that meant so much 1932 as member for Rockhampton and to him. He was undoubtedly an authority re-entered the Cabinet in 1939. In all he on the activities of the Labour movement. held Cabinet rank for almost 23 years, :filling His whole life was wrapped up in it and the positions of Minister without portfolio he contributed very greatly to the movement on two occasions and the portfolios of Public of which he was so proud. Although -small Works, Railways, Mines, Attorney-General, in stature he was an extremely formidable Transport and Treasurer. There are not too debater, and as the Premier said, he was many who enter this Parliament who achieve vigorous and forthright but never nasty. He the great parliamentary record of the late was particulady at home in dealing with the James Larcombe during his long service in period 1929-1932 when there was so much this House. hardship in the land. We have heard him We remember him as a vigomus debater, a deliver extremely forthright speeches on the man who very carefully prepared the material hardships of those days. he used in his speeches, a man who under It was my pleasure to hear his wise com­ :fire never lost his temper and at all times ments on the games of Rugby League foot­ maintained an attitude of good humour during ball that we watched up to just before he the most heated debates. died. He was intensely interested in the In addition to being a parliamentarian with game that he helped so much to develop in a wonderful record, Mr. Larcombe in his the State. younger days was an excellent athlete. In He always helped new members in this his youth he represented Rockhampton at Assembly. Three or four days ago when I Rugby Union football, and later became was cleaning out a desk I formerly occupied president of the Rockhampton Rugby League I came across some notes written by the and patron of the Queensland Rugby League. late James Larcombe for the use of the late He helped to found the Australian Rugby Waiter Ingram who represented the electorate League Board of Control. We all know his of Keppel. He had set out the ideals that keenness right to the end for the game of he thought a new member of this Assembly football that he did so much to foster in should follow, and he had given some this State. extremely valuable hints concerning repre­ He was an authority on the growth of the sentation not only on behalf of the people of Labour Movement and in 1926 wrote a his­ the State but also of his electorate. We tory of Labour administration entitled, will all miss the late Mr. Larcombe. The Labour movement has produced many great ''Ten Years of Labour Government.'' men but few have lived up to its ideals as He was also an authority on the works the late gentleman did. of the poet Burns, whom he admired very much and from whose works he often quoted Mr. GAIR (South Brisbane) (3.8 p.m.): passages during the course of debates in I, too, express my sympathy to the relatives this Chamber. of the late James Larcombe. I suppose I 18 Papers. [ASSEMBLY.] Administrator's Opening Speech.

can claim to have known him longer than Order in Council under the State Develop­ most members of this Assembly. As a native ment and Public Works Organisation of Rockhampton, and one interested in Acts, 1938 to 1954 and the Tully Falls politics at at early age, I used to sit on vacant Hydro-Electric Project Act of 1950. allotments at Rockhampton during election Orders in Cout1cil under the Labour and campaigns and listen to the late J ames Industry Acts, 1946 to 1952. Larcombe. I knew him and his brothers as Regulations under the Traffic Acts, 1949 footballers. I have always enjoyed the to 1957. friendship of the late Jimmy Larcombe. He was a prolific reader and a great student of Orders in Council under the Traffic Acts, more subjects than politics. He had a very 1949 to 1957. ordinary education but he improved himself Regulations under the Apprentices and

Motion (Mr. Nicklin) agreed to, holll. MR. SPEAKER's RULING. members standing in silence. Mr. BAXTER (Norman) having given notice of motions for Private Members' Day- PAPERS. Mr. SPEAKER: I would point out to The following paper was laid on the the hon. member for N ormall that under the table, and ordered to be printed:- Standing Orders I can take only one Notice Report of the Public Accountants Regis­ of Motion from him at a time; I cannot tration Board of Queensland for the take two consecutively. His second Notice year 1956-1957. of Motion will have to give precedence to The following papers were laid on the Notices of Motion by other members. table:- ADMINISTRATOR'S OPENING SPEECH. Proclamations under the Public Works Land Resumption Acts, 1906 to 1955 Mr. SPEAKER: I have to report that and the State Development and Public His Excellency the Administrator this day Works Organisation Acts, 1938 to 1954. delivered to Parliament an Opening Speech .Address in Reply. [28 AUGUST.] .Address in Reply. 19 of which, for greater accuracy, I have In February next year the Queen Mother obtained a copy. I presume hon. members is to visit Australia. We well remember will take the Speech as read' her visit to Queensland as the Duchess of York and we look forward with eager­ Honourable Members: Hear, hear! ness to the opportunity of welcoming her to our State again. We are also mindful ADDRESS IN REPLY. of the fact that in 1959, during the term of office of this Government, Queensland will OPENING DAY. be celebrating its centenary. Negotiations Mr. ANDERSON (Toowoomba) (3.33 are in train for a Royal visit to the State p.m.), who was received with Government on that occasion, and I sincerely trust that ''Hear, hears! '' said: I move- my Government will spare no effort to make '' That the following Address be pre­ it possible. sented to the Administrator of the Govern­ ment in reply to the Speech delivered by In speaking to the motion I do so with His Excellency in opening this, the first a feeling of regret that we have recently session of the Thirty-fifth Parliament of lost the services of a very distinguished Queensland:- man, both in war and in peace, in the person "May it please Your Excellency-­ of our Governor Sir John Lavarack. During his term as Governor of the State his record "We, Her Majesty's loyal and dutiful of achievement was equalled only by his subjects, the Members of the Legislature military record. In each instance we owe of Queensland, in Parliament assembled, him a great debt of gratitude. It is with desire to assure Your Excellency of our sorrow that I record that ill health forced continued loyalf;y and affection towards Sir John into retirement before his term the Throne and Person of Our Most expired. However, I trust that he will be Gracious Sovereign, and to tender our long spared to enjoy a well earned rest, thanks to Y.our Excellency for the Speech secure in the knowledge that he served with which you have been pleased to open Queensland and Australia well. T'o Lady the present Session. Lavarack I also express the sincere thanks ''The various measures to which Your of my Government for her outstanding Excellency has referred and all other contribution to the many charitable and matters that may be brought before us, community services in the State, not only will receive our most careful consideration, in taking her official place beside Sir John and it shall be our earnest endeavour sQ on so many occasions, but also in her to deal with them that our labours may individual effort. She has endeared herself tend to the advancement and prosperity to all with whom she cam.e in contact. It of the State." is our sincere wish that she too will be Before I speak to the motion, I desire to long spared to enjoy a well-earned rest in tender to you, Mr. Speaker, my congratula­ retirement. tions on your election to the important office that you now hold. It is indeed gratifying We are fortunate in having the services to me to know that such a distinct honour of such a distinguished and capable adminis­ should be conferred on a friend of mine of trator in the person of His Honour Mr. long standing and that it should go to a Justice Mansfield. Might I compliment His person who has so ably represented one of Excellency on the manner in which he has the greatest agricultural districts in Queens­ handled the duties of his office. He too has land. Having enjoyed your friendship, I left an indelible mark in the history of the am well acquainted with your capacity for State and his record of achievement, par­ sound judgment, the essential fairness of 'ticularly since the termination of World your outlook, and at times your unparalleled War II. is very noteworthy indeed. wit. I have no doubt that you will execute At this juncture it would be fitting for the duties of your new office with distinction me to offer my congratulations to the and dignity, and thus bring added honour to the Parliament which today honours you. Premier and the members of ·his Cabinet who have been elected to guide the destiny In reaffirming our loyalty to Her Most of this State for, I trust, many years to Gracious Majesty, I am, fully conscious that come. I know that they have prepared them­ I am a new hon. member of a new Govern­ selves well for the very important and diffi­ ment and like my parliam.entary colleagues, cult task that lies before them, but they will will approach my responsibilities with humility and caution, but will nevertheless be secure in the knowledge that they will stand steadfast in my loyalty to the throne. have the wholehearted support and co-opera­ I cannot help but recall the year 1954 when tion of every member of the Government. we in Australia were graced with the singu­ Speaking for them, and on my own behalf, lar honour of a visit by Her Most Gracious it is our intention to approach the task of Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. On that governing this State with earnestness and momentous occasion in Australian history humility, at all times endeavouring to avoid our allegiance to the throne was never more the pitfalls that many politicians encounter vividly demonstrated throughout the so easily in their desire to serve a narrow Co=onwealth. party interest. We are determined that the 20 Address in Reply. [ASSEMBLY.] Address in Reply. advancement of Queensland and the well­ The development of Queensland is our aim, being of all its people will be our first and and Queensland it will be. Take my own paramount consideration. city of Toowoomba, for example. And I can speak with a certain amount of experience As I have said, I am a new member of on this matter, because in my position as Parliament, but it is not necessary to hold Mayor of Toowoomba I have been able t<> such a position to realise that Queensland is observe many instances where progress has lagging behind her sister States in many been retarded through unbusinesslike and respects. Possibly this lag could be unco-operative approaches by past Govern­ expressed simply as a lack of progress and ments to the problems of local authorities development, brought about by various con­ such as the Toowoomba City Council. ditions that have existed within these walls in the past. I do not intend to analyse those Let us examine problems presently con­ conditions except to say that the new Govern­ fronting local governments like Toowoomba. ment, of which I am honoured to be a mem­ I have already commended my Government ber, will immediately set about eliminating for their definite and immediate approach to any condition that might have a retarding the housing problem. It must be appreci­ influence on Queensland's progress and ated, however, that hand in hand with the development. It will be our aim to encour­ provision of housing, it is the function of local age, not retard, the development of Queens­ government to provide for the construction land, and when offering this encouragement and maintenance of roads. Moreover, it is we shall not be unmindful of the fact that also its function to provide such public the attraction of further industries is of utilities as water, and sewerage and, at times, paramount importance. electricity and public transport to meet the demands of this exp-anding housing pro­ However, in order of priority, we must gramme. Local government is prepared to first ensure that we can offer sufficient accom­ carry out these functions as long as loan modation to the many people who necessarily funds and other revenues are available in will be attracted to this State. In this sufficient amounts to provide for the expendi­ respect, it is indeed very gratifying to record ture necessary on these capital works. Every that positive steps have already been taken new home erected makes additional demands in an . effort to overcome the housing short­ on the local authorities -and, I might add, the age. I refer of course to the Treasurer's home-owner has every right to expect these immediate appraisal of the acute problems provisions from local government. that exist within the Queensland Housing Commission, and his business-like approach I urge my Government to give urgent con­ to them. We already have evii!ence that his sideration to loan raising and the system at sound business capacity and judgment will present employed by local authorities. An undoubtedly lead us to the solution of those analysis of the present system .shows that, problems, and whilst all of them will not be whilst the Loan Council is the final authority rectified immediately, it is pleasing to note on the amount of loan money available for that an amount of £200,000 has already been raising, it also limits the rate of interest provided to enable further contracts to be that can be paid on such loans. Under these quickly completed. I should say that the limitations, local government bodies find it Premier has shown sound judgment in very difficult indeed to compete in a field placing housing in the very capable hands when more attractive returns are offered to of the Treasurer, for in no other depart­ investors elsewhere. As an example, I point ment is the need for a very close liaison with to the present Commonwealth Loan. It is finance more necessary. being advertised as a 4 per cent. loan issued at £95 4s. and repayable in 1959. The follow­ However, in our quest for greater develop­ ing table shows the effective return from ment we must not concentrate on the city various taxable incomes after allowing for of Brisbane to the detriment of other cities the special rebate on the Commonwealth Loan. and towns in Queensland. Whilst we all realise that this is by no means the aim Returns. of the Government, we are equally aware Taxable Incomes Per cent. that development must take place over the 1,000 5.1 whole of Queensland. And, might I ask, 2 000 5.5 what State offers a greater potential for 5;ooo 5.9 development than Queensland f No-one, not 10,000 6.3 even the people of Brisbane, wants to see all the industries crowded into the capital city. AND THE FIVE PER CENT. LOAN. Indeed, the city of Brisbane will be stronger 1,000 5.6 following the development of other cities 2,000 5.8 and towns and the growth of new industries 5~00 ~1 simultaneously throughout the State. A glance at these :figures is sufficient to prove Let us not, right at the beginning of this that, whilst local governments have an interest new era of government in Queensland, show rate :fixed at £5 7s. 6d. per cent to £5 10s. any favouritism towards cities lest we be per cent., they cannot hope to achieve any­ criticised-and rightly, too-for being mem­ thing spectacular in their loan-raising efforts. bers of a Queen Street Government or, if The absence of a tax rebate puts them at a you like, a Ruthven Street Government. very severe disadvantage. You will know Address in Repl;y. [28 AUGUST.] Address in Reply. 21

from your own experience, Mr. Speaker, that As a precedent for this proposal I refer it is not practicable to compete on such to what happened a few years ago concern­ terms. If a more equal basis for loan raisings ing loans for roadmaking plant. At that were approved, we should not have the spec­ time plant was not readily available. Instead tacle of Lord Mayors, Mayors, Shire Chairmen of every council holding loan funds for pro· and others going hat in hand to lending posed road-plant purchasPs approval was authorities trying to raise loans under less given for councils to incur approved com· attractive terms in an endeavour to provide mitments and the loan was made available sufficient finance to complete urgent projects. as soon as delivery could be macle. This Apart from that, travelling costs and the should apply generally to the problem that high cost of advertising the large number of now confronts local authorities throughout loans would also be avoided, and that would the State. represent a big saving to local authorities. My reference to the City of Toowoomba Whilst still developing the problems con· is merely by way of example, but it is fronting local governments, let us examine equally applicable to cities and towns extend­ the Commonwealth Aid Roads Grant to local ing from Coolangatta as far as Cairns, and authorities. A very acceptable amount of again throughout the central ancl western money is made available for road construction portions of the State, from Cunnamulla and the provision of road-making plant under through Central Queensland, Longreach, the present formula for the allocation of Winton and Mount Isa. Naturally my this fund. However, under the present system thoughts turn to my own city of Toowoomba grants from the fund are made to Government and at this stage might I say that the people instrumentalities. I suggest that considera­ of Toowoomba deem it an honour that their tion be given to allocating a proportion of representative should be selected to move the grant direct to local authorities. the Address in Reply. Might I suggest that a pool of loans funds be established for semi-governmental and This is an historic occasion in the parlia· local authorities projects, particularly for mentary history of Queensland. For the eases where delayed delivery of plant or first time in 25 years a new Government take office. We thank the people of Queens· materials is in evidence~ land for their confidence in electing us in Let me again give an example of this prob­ such great numbers. lem as it confronts Toowoomba at the present time. We have initiated a long-term plan to We will justify that confidence by govern­ provide Toowoomba with sufficient water in ing the State in a truly democratic way, years to come and a start has already been with a constant desire to serve the great mass made on the Perseverance Dam project. of the people. However, under the present system. we must I have not hacl any parliamentary experi· have loan funds available before orders can ence and perhaps I may be forgiven if, at be placed for the delivery of necessary piping times, I depart from the traditional practice fm. Teticulation. Even though there is a of parliamentary procedure. However, there delivery delay of anything up to two years are certain thoughts I should like to express with these pipes, the Toowoomba City Council for consideration by the Premier, one of is not permitted to place the order until which was brought to rriind when I referred sufficient loan funds are available. Surely to democratic government. such a state of affairs should not be permitted for longer than is necessary. First of all, I have been greatly impressed by the apparent neecl for ''All Party Corn· Hon. members will realise that councils mittees'' to function under the various have to borrow money for such definite pro­ Ministers. I clo not know whether such a jects. Once the money is raised for a practice has been previously adopted in specific project it cannot be spent on any Queensland, but with it I can visualise more other. It means that considerable sums are democratic government. I support any move tied up in watertight compartments for to include hon. members of the Opposition on such committees because I believe it lengthy periods to the detriment of other will help the Govemment to bring clown local government works which could be legislation acceptable to the people. For too carried out without delay. Moreover, when long now the only function of the Opposition we are successful in raising loan moneys in has been to oppose when such talented hon. a field of very stiff opposition we are also members might well serve on these Com· faced with the problem that lending authori­ mittees. I humbly suggest, Mr. Speaker, ties generally expect us to take up the loans that the Premier give earnest consideration within a reasonable period otherwise they to my suggestion. Jose interest on their money. On the other Very few people have the opportunity to hand, if a central pool of loan moneys were see Parliament as an institution, to see it created the activities of local authorities function, and to have the opportunity of would not be so restricted by long-term pro­ seeing ancl meeting men in public life. They jects because loan moneys could be made occasionally reacl their speeches and see available as equipment becam·e available. It their photographs in the Press, but they never would also tend to expedite works. have an opportunity of meeting them or get· 22 Address in Reply. [ASSEMBLY.] Address in Reply. ting to know them. Many hon. members never denied normal good health which so many of see Queensland and never get to know the us enjoy. I am also conscious of the fact State. that there is a distinct absence in Queensland Many hon. members have travelled widely of schools which, for want of a better name, and really know this State. They are well could be termed opportunity schools. Such a?qu~inted with local problems in far-away schools could serve a very useful purpose drstncts, but they are insufficient in number in the community in developing backward to suJ?port a tolerant and sympathetic nnc1er­ children who are at present denied the extra stanc1mg of them with a view to eliminating time needed to teach them. When I say that them. Is this really in the best interests of they are denied the time, I hasten to point the people of Queensland~ I do not think so. out that no blame can be attached to either There are a number of methods bv which it the eel uca tion system or the teachers them­ could be overcome, and to which 'I think a selves. These children are quite normal but, wise Government should give careful because of their slow assimilation, they sooner consideration. One is to bring public men or later lag behind their classmates. It is under the observation of the people by obvious that a teacher cannot devote extra holcling Cabinet meetings in various centres. time to them at the expense of the progress The people would have a greater opportunity of the other pupils. I was gratified to hear of observing the men who guide the destiny this afternoon that an opportunity school is of Queensland. Much is said about democracy to be established in Townsville. I trust the being on trial but democracy can function Minister for Education will see that oppor­ best when the people are given greater tunity schools are established at other cities opportunities of observing the workings of throughout the State. Therefore I suggest Parliament, and the members of Parliament to the Government when they are considering actually engaged in the government of their each phase of the education system that they State. Such a move would be of great value do not overlook these important factors. In to democracy. It would tend to arrest the the quest for further development of the growing deiire for New States. We well State we must not lose sight of the fact that remember a controversy years ago regarding one of the :first considerations must be the a referendum, the effect of which could have development of our youth, who, after all, will brought about a unification of government in be the citizens of tomorrow. •Australia. I reeall the late Mr. E. M. Hanlon 's remarks when he referred to the In the programme of health there is still inadvisability of one Government's admin­ need for greater facilities and I trust that in istering every State. He said, ''The Trouble due course consideration will be given to with the Government in Canberra is that everv that. The Minister for Health has already time they look to the North they seem to shown his very keen desire to become get the sun in their eyes.'' There are some acquainted with local problems in all cities northern people who say the same thing about and towns. He has already visited Too­ Brisbane. It may well be that by taking woomba and he has assured me that he will the Government to the North on occasions we visit many other cities. It will become will consolidate a single Queensland outlook apparent to him that some provincial and and so help the people of the North to realise country hospitals are totally inadequate to that, after all, this Government is their meet the demands of increased population. Government just as they are the Government Many patients come from surrounding dis­ of the people in sonthem Queensland. I commend these suggestions to the Government tricts for hospitalisation and treatment. The for their earnest consideration. hospitals are not only inadequate, but they are also outmoded. They may have served their One matter that calls for urgent considera­ purpose in the past, but the time has arrived tion lies in the field of education. V.' e are to provide modern structures that will cope well aware of the need for high schools in not only with our present needs but also many cities. Apart from providing adequate playing :fields, they should offer hostel with the future population. The high cost accommodation for pupils from surrounding of maintaining obsolete buildings will be districts. I would suggest to my Government obviated. that consideration be given to hostel accom­ In conclusion I express the hope that every modation on a :five-day week basis. There hon. member who speaks in this debate will are many pupils, sons and daughters of the respond to the inspiration so evident in His people who have built the great agricultural Excellency's Opening Speech. Each has a industry, and it is our duty to given them varied background of experience but none the opportunity of securing a good education. Of course, high schools could not be built in with a monopoly of knowledge or ideas. every city and town, but at least we could Parliament and the State demand that each make hostel accommodation available in the give of his best in thought and hard work, larger centres. Again I have in mind the with sympathy at all times for everybody subnormal children's training school in and tolerance for our opponents. Toowoomba, a project with which I have been intimately concemed. The Govemment I ask that the debates be conducted on should accept greater responsibility for the the highest plane and with a dignity that adequate training facilities for these children will become a Parliament of Her Majesty. who, through no fault of their own, are In this spirit I offer my humble contribution. Address in Reply. [28 AuGUST.] Address in Reply. 23

I appreciate the great kindness extended migrants should be assimilated through local to me by my colleagues in asking me to government bodies. T-hey have the organisa­ move this motion. I value also the tolerant tion to gainfully employ labour and develop­ manner in which hon. members opposite have mental expenditure. Such bodies are quick received my remarks. I commend the motion to see the lag in employment where no to the House. secondary industries exist.

Government Members: Hear, hear! We in the Gympie end of the Nash elec­ Mr. HODGES (Nash) (4.3 p.m.): It is torate must have the benefit of port freight with pleasure that I second the motion so rates similar to those extended to the ably and eloquently moved by the hon. mem­ northern end of it. These rates are not con­ ber for Toowoomba. tingent upon the establishment of a port because Toowoomba and other towns have I endorse his expressions of loyalty to Her the benefit of port rates. Majesty. I suggest also, if acceptable to the State or Commonwealth Government, that I am sure that every hon. member knows an invitation should be extended to Lord that the first gold that went into the Altrincham to visit this country so that we treasury of this State came from the Gympie can assist him to adopt a more loyal attitude goldfields in the Nash electorate. Being a towards Her Most Gracious Majesty. gold-mining area most of the land tenures Mr. Aikens: We have enough bodgies in are Miners' Homestead leases, but the time the place without bringing him out. is ripe to permit the holders to convert to freehold. Associated with these is a need for Mr. HODGES: On that score the hon. a more reasonable assessment of land valua­ member can go back to Mundingburra. tions by the Department of the Valuer­ The electorate of Nash that I represent General. is approximately 126 miles north of the In my electorate there is a large tract of capital. I have been honoured by the people land known as the '' W allum.'' '' W allum'' of the Nash electorate in being elected as implies waste, but that is not so. Reliable their representative. It has been a hard authority has it that with modern agricultural task to get Liberal representation for that science the wallum lands, if thrown open to electorate-its boundaries include three private capital on a freehold basis, would suburbs of the city of Maryborough, quickly justify their existence aud worth. approximately 70 miles north of Gympie. The Reforestation, too, must take its pla{le in any electorate contains much high and low fer­ plan for the development of the State. tile land suitable for all types of primary production but is sadly lacking in secondary There is definite room for improvement in industries and such Government favours as Queensland's system of hospitalisation. I have been extended to certain other towns should like to see an open house to all and cities. The electorate is of crazy design, doctors in Queensland so that they could so obvious to all, but it is hoped that in the follow their child and pensioner patients future it will be designed according to into every part of a public institution. I community interest, not political considera­ except, of course, student-training hospitals. tions. As it is a primary-producing area Early and late life are both very big prob­ its greatest enemy is drought. Every mem­ lems. ber of this Assembly, every worker in the State, has to realise that his job depends It is very encouraging to me-and I am on the productivity of the soil. The remedy sure to every Queenslander-to know that for drought is water conservation not neces­ the Pr~rr;ier and hi~ Deputy have displayed sarily large irrigation schemes like those in such v_Iswn and wisdom in establishing a the north, but individual efforts by farmers portfolio to promote the development of this could be subsidised by the Government and great State. Already actions have spoken assisted by the Department of Irrigation louder than words. In view of the overseas and Water Supply. It would need help and capital invested, and being invested in South co-operation from the Departments of Agri­ Australia, Victoria and New South' Wales at culture and Stock, Main Roads, Department the expense of Queensland, the time will come of Irrigation, and Local Authorities. when this type of aiel coming into Australia Individual efforts require the co-operation will need to be restricted because of the drain of these departments; they must learn to that outgoing dividends will make on our \York in harmony with one another. Such a ?verseas credit balances. Queensland, with scheme is necessary. The loss sustained by Its exports of wool, meat, wheat and sugar dairymen in this district because of drought dominating the scene, has a favourable bal­ during the three months ending 30 June, ance of exports over imports, whereas New 1957, amounted to approximately £90,000, South Wales, Victoria and South Australia apart from stock losses. That is good have deficits. In fact, Queensland contri­ enough reason why any Government should buted 68 per cent. of Australia's overseas seriously consider such water conservation balances during the last 12 months. If, schemes. during the last 10 years, Queensland had encouraged industry and capital to this State Employment should be stabilised through and had kept pace with her sister States, we Local Government as much as possible and should not be in the position in which we 24 Address in Reply. [ASSEMBLY.] Address in Reply.

find ourselves today, without enough same period. Queensland's factory output, secondary industries to combat the threat on the over-all Australian figure, has fallen from our sister States to depart from the back by 1.1 per cent. system of uniform taxation. Uniform taxa­ tion is definitely to our advantage, but there As to secondary industries open to develop­ is no wonder that New South Wales and ment in Queensland which could attract over­ Victoria contested its validity. They both seas capital, I think that, in view of the have huge secondary industries that can bear distance from the large Australian internal taxation to provide subsidies for the main­ markets, those most suitable for further tenance of primary production, as is done c1evelopment are probably those allied to the in the United States of America. If our processing of raw materials already produced sister States demand the return of taxing in the State and whose establishment is powers, Queensland should counterclaim the warranted by local demand. The setting up right to use the surplus trade balances that of factories to supply the markets of South­ she earns for Australia. East Asia may bear further investigation, too. What I have said can be illustrated more Manufacturing ind1:1stry seems inescapably clearly by bringing the matter within the linked with raw materials such as sugar, circle of a family with four sons. One of butter, cheese, meat, fruit, cotton, tobacco, the sons-Queensland-earns profits but hands timber and wool, many of which are processed them over to his three brothers-Victoria, near ·IYhere they are grown. There has South Australia and New South Wales-to already been heavy capital investment in those use for the betterment of themselves and industries and their expansion will depend their families, to the detriment of Queensland on agricultural and pastoral development. and his family. Methods being tried by the Federal and ·western Australian Governments with the Until secondary industrieA in Queensland Chase Syndicate could perhaps be tried in the can do the job that they do in the United Wallum area, the brigalow belt and the States of America, the primary export indus­ Channel lands. Results will depend on three tries that I have previously mentioned, which things- are of great importance not only to Queens­ land but to the whole of Australia, must ( a) Making possible the freeholding of dominate the development scene. If neces­ living areas within the large tracts of land sary, they should receive Commonwealth sup­ (84 per cent. of the total area of the port in some acceptable form. State) now held under various forms of I have listed three ways in which, in n1y Crown tenure; opinion, Queensland has lagged, in develop­ (b) Research into further possible land ment over the past 10 years. The first is its use and methods of clearing and pasture­ inability to attract and build up sufficient growing; and population. On the figures, four States are (c) Adequate transport arrangements. ahead of us, Western Australia leading with an increase of 27.3 per cent. as against our However, the most att1·active prospects of 19.1 per cent. In the last five years only 8 obtaining foreign capital for secondary per cent. of Australia's total intake of industries, would seem to be in the develop­ migrants from abroad became domiciled in ment of the rich mineral resources in the Queensland. North and North-west of the State. The second is that sufficient investment capital has not been forthcoming either from As long as sufficient power and adequate local public and private investment or from transport are made available American and an inflow of foreign capital. Large-scale British investors, who· are attracted to the public and private investment will be neces­ extractive industries, can perhaps be sary if Queensland's enormous potentialities interested in the further development and are to be fully exploited. Queensland has processing of the proved mineral deposits in not shared very considerably in the total of these regions. Uranium, copper, and lead foreign investments in Australia. The offer further possibilities for processing, Queensland-British Food Corporation failure although treatment plants and refineries are damned the State as a field for investment in already under construction or in operation. similar ventures. That is something we have If cheap hydro-electric power, water, and to live down. port facilities can be provided bauxite would offer opportunities for processing the ore to The third is that Victoria, New South separate the alumina and for the establish­ Wales and South Australia have seized the ment of a plant to produce aluminium. initiative in obtaining the establishment of new secondary industries and their associated Beach sand concentrates also provide pos­ skilled immigrant technicians. The southern sibilities for further development. Funda­ States have not been backward in selling mental to any expansion of secondary indus­ themselves or in offering facilities to entice try is adequate power. Rural electrification secondarv industries there. In thE' establish­ plans would need to be stepped up together ment of factories over the last 10 years, with all-round better transport facilities Queensland has sadly lagged behind every allied with a growth in the population. Rural other mainland State, the increase being 23.6 research and more exploratory wor'k: for' as against 34.3 for the highest State in the mineral resources could then set the stage Questions. (29 AUGUST.] Questions. 25 for sound, but quicker, industrial expansion. Overseas capital investment can be encour· aged by Government action to ensure that local facilities will be available and adequate, and also by acti \'e solicitation. Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia have, through their Agent-Generals and by dele· gations of businessmen and Government repre­ sentation, actively sought new industries for their States. There are many other matters that I have left unmentioned but the development of Queensland is predominant in my mind. In conclusion, let me say that I am proud to be associated with the new Governm,ent because I am sure that their approach to the many problems will be as statesmen thinking of the next generation, not as politicians' looking to the next elections. As this Assembly gathers here let us seek the bles­ sings of our Divine Creator that we might seek in some way to build in Queensland something of the spirit that moved in the heart of Christ. Honourable 1\Iembers: Hear, hear! Debate, on motion of Mr. ~Wood, adjoumed.

SPECIAL ADJOURNMENT. Hon. G. F. R. NICKLIN (Landsborough­ Premier) : I move- '' That the House, at its rising, do adjourn until 11 a.m. tomorrow." Motion agreed to. The House adjourned nt 4.26 p.m.