Queensland

Parliamentary Debates [Hansard]

Legislative Assembly

THURSDAY, 13 MARCH 1975

Electronic reproduction of original hardcopy

Matters of Public Interest (13 MARCH 1975] Papers 249

THURSDAY, 13 MARCH 1975

Mr. SPEAKER (Hon. J. E. H. Houghton, Redcliffe) read prayers and took the chair at 11 a.m. PAPERS The following paper was laid on the table, and ordered to be printed:- Report of the Department of Primary Industries for the year 1973-74. The following papers were laid on the table:- Orders in Council under- The Agricultural Bank (Loans) Act of 1959. The City of Brisbane Market Acts, 1960 to 1967. Co-ordination of Rural Advances and Agricultural Bank Act 1938-1969. Dairy Products Stabilisation Act 1933- 1972. Explosives Act 1952-1974. Fauna Conservation Act 1974. Fish Supply Management Act 1972. Meat Industry Act 1965-1973. The Milk Supply Acts, 1952 to 1961. Plague Grasshoppers Extermination Act 1937-1971. Primary Producers' Organisation and Marketing Act 1926-1973. Regulation of Sugar Cane Prices Act 1962-1972. Sugar Experiment Stations Act 1900- 1973. Swine Compensation Fund Act 1962- 1969. Wheat Pool Act 1920-1972. 250 Questions Upon Notice [13 MARCH 1975] Questions Upon Notice

Regulations under- (2) "The names of the Directors ef Agricultural Standards Act 1952-1972. Lae Enterprises may be obtained from Dairy Products Stabilisation Act 1933- the Commissioner for Corporate Affairs, 1972. Anzac Square Government Buildings, Fruit and Vegetable Act 1947-1972. Adelaide Street." Hen Quotas Act 1973. (3) "The Clean Air Act is directed Hospitals Act 1936-1971. towards industry, and land development Meat Industry Act 1965-1973. does not come within the scope of the Primary Producers' Organisation and regulations." Marketing Act 1926-1973. The Tobacco Industry Protection Act of 1965. CoMMUNITY HEALTH CENTRE, GLADSTONE Notifications of Approvals under The Soil (a) Mr. Hanson, pursuant to notice, asked Conservation Act of 1965. The Minister for Health,- (1) As the Commonwealth Government PETITION finance for the establishment of a com­ PRESERVATION OF THE "BELLEVUE" munity health centre in Gladstone was BUILDING AND "THE MANSIONS" .forwarded to his department in October, 1974, and as the State Director of Com­ Mr. BURNS (Lytton-Leader of the munity Health said ·in November that it Opposition) presented a petition from 179 was expected that the centre would operate citizens of Queensland praying rthat the from February, when can Gladstone people 'Parliament of Queensland will do all in its expect the centre to start operating? power to preserve the "Bellevue" building and "The Mansions" as part of that heritage (2) Has any staff been appointed for which should properly continue to be enjoyed this centre, what are the numbers to be by the people of the State of Queensland. or likely to be appointed and what will be Petition read and received. the qualifications and classifications of these personnel?

QUESTIONS UPON NOTICE Answers:- DUST NUISANCE FROM LAE ENTERPRISES ( 1) "Four properties were investigated PROJECT, HoLLYWELL and one building is under consideration for purchase." Mr. K. J. Hooper for Mr. Dean, pursuant to notice, asked The Minister for Local (2) "Two community health nurses who Government,- have commenced training will take up ( 1) Is he aware of the grave danger to duty within three months. When the health and property created by a fine, centre is established there will be regular black dust from a development project at visits by the medical officer in charge of iHoHywell by 'a company named Lae community medicine at Rockhampton and Bnterprlses and that motor vehioles have the services of therapists and psychologists to drive whh headlight's full on as early will be provided from Rockhampton on as 10 a.m. because of poor visibility? a sessional basis. The full time staff of the centre will include a social worker who (2) Will he ascertain the names of the must be eligible for membership of the directors of Lae Enterprises who are Australian Association of Social Workers; -responsible for the development of the a home help organiser capable of organis­ 75-acre Shearwater Estate at HollyweH? ing and supervising temporary home helpers and who is usually recruited from the com­ (3) Will he invoke the Olean Air Aot munity because of local knowledge; three by forcing this company to comply with positions for community health aides (two the regmations and ,to oomplete the of which may be appointed before the end development as a matter of urgency so that of June); a clerk; and two clerk-typists. ifesidents and parents with children are I would advise the Honourable Member not subjected to this continual threat to that Commonwealth approval of a grant their health and well-being? towards the establishment of a Com­ munity Health Centre at Gladstone was Answers:- received on October 24, 1974. In accord­ (1) "I am not aware of a danger to ance with financial arrangements advances health and property at Hollywell because have been received from the Common­ of black dust. The Division of Air wealth to meet forecasted expenditure for Pollution Control has not received any the quarter ending March 31, 1975 in complaints, and the planning officer of the respect of capital cost of purchase of Gold Coast City Council has made fre­ property abovementioned and anticipated quent visits to the site without encountering expenditure on salaries for community a dust nuisance." health nurses already employed." Questions Upon Notice [13 MARCH 1975] Questions Upon Notice 251

(b) Mr. Hanson, pursuant to notice, asked ( 4) Will he also provide the House with The Minister for Works,- a complete and detailed breakdown of the ( 1) Were any officers of his department schools in which all such teachers have engaged in the sekction of properties in been placed ·in the last two years? Gladstone recently for a community health centre? Answers:- (2) Was any decision made by depart­ (!) "Yes, there had been evidence of mental officers and how many buildings some criticism in this regard but in dis­ or houses were inspected? cussions with the Queensland Teachers' Union this has been satisfactorily resolved." (3) When is it likely that a decision wiH be made on the centre's location? (2) "No." Answer:- (3) "Yes." ( 1 to 3) "A report has been furnished ( 4) "In reply to a similar Question by my department to the Department of last year by Mr. Peter Wood, a list of Health on four properties inspected by a the placements of overseas teachers in departmental architect, in connection with the twelve months to September 20, 1974 a proposal for the establishment of a was compiled and forwarded to Mr. Wood. Community Health Centre at Gladstone. As evidence that my department has To the best of my knowledge no decision nothing to hide in this regard, I table has yet been made for the acquisition of that list. However, the list took several a property or properties in this connection." days to compile last year and I am reluct­ ant to direct that officers be diverted from their duties to compile a new list. A further 250 overseas teachers have been CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETY REGISTRATIONS appointed since the list was compiled, and !\:fr. Ahem for Mr. Armstrong, pursuant to I am informed that a similar pattern of notice, asked The Minister for Justice,- appointment has been followed." ( 1) How many co-operatives are regis­ Paper.-Whereupon Mr. Bird laid upon tered under the Co-operative and Other the Table of the House a copy of the Societies Act? contract and the list referred to . . (2) How many applications for registra­ tior; ':'ere made on behalf of community societies formed solely for the distribution of Commonweahh Government grants for REHABILITATION OF FORMER PRISONERS the housing of A>borigines? Mr. Wright, pursuant to notice, asked The (3) How many such applica~ions have Minister for Community and Welfare been approved and how many are under Services,- consideration? (!~ What assistance is acvailable to ex-pnsoners to enaJble them to obtain Answers:- employment upon release? ( I) "245." (2) What organisations, both com­ (2) "28." munity and Government-sponsored, give (3) "Of the above, 10 societies have such assistance? been registered. The rules of another 14 (3) Does the Railway Department societies are being examined by either the refuse to employ persons with a prison Crown Law Officer or the Registrar. The record? If so, how does he explain such remaining four applications were lodged a policy, which obviously conflicts with with the Registrar on March 11, 1975." his own department's stated aim of assist­ ing in the rehabilitation of ex-prisoners?

TEACHERS RECRUITED FROM OVERSEAS Answers:- Mr. Wright, pursuant to notice asked The (!) "Welfare officers have been Minister for Education,- ' appointed to the Prisons Department and (1) Is he aware of criticism by and part of their duties is to assist prisoners to obtain employment on discharge. In concen~ amongst members of the teaahing profess1on that special treatment is being addition a monthly visit is made by an given by his department to those teachers officer of the District Employment Office who have come from overseas? and he advises prisoners on job oppor­ tunities." (2) Are these teachers being given guarantees that they will be placed in (2) "The Salvation Army; the Society metropolitan or provincial city areas? of St. Vincent de Paul; Teen Challenge; the Prisoners Aid Society; the Legion of (3) Will he table a copy of the contract Mary Hostel; the New Life Centre, and conditions entered into by these Ipswich; Stewart Lodge for Women; the teachers? William Powell Home; Morris House and 252 Questions Upon Notice [13 MARCH 1975] Questions Upon Notice

the Commonwealth Aboriginal Hostel, STATEMENTS BY DR. H. POWELSON New Farm offer shelter to ex-prisoners and ON MARIJUANA assistance in obtaining employment. The Mr. Miller, pursuant to notice, asked The Friary at Brookfield provides a sheltered Minister for Health,- workshop situation." (1) In view of the statement by Dr. (3) "The policy of the Railway Depart­ Everingham that penruties for some drug ~ent regarding the engagement of labour offences would be lowered and the sta:te­ IS not a matter which comes within my ment by Dr. Harvey Powelson that administration." marijuana is now known to be amongst the most dangerous of drugs, will he assure the House thaJt ,the Government NEW SUPREME AND DISTRICT COURTS will oppose any reduction of penalties? COMPLEX, ROCKHAMPTON (2) Is Dr. Powelson the same person Mr. Wrigbt, pursuant to notice, asked The who CAustralia is bound purchase adjacent land owned by an oil by the Single Convention on Narcotics company, the school was informed that which is an international agreement. Under it was not the policy of the department this agreement cannabis is regarded as a to purchase Jand from an oil company? dangerous and prohibited drug and must continue to be so regarded while Australia (2) Is this correct and, if not, will he remains a signatory to the International look into the matter as quickJy as Convention on Narcotics. Queensland's possible? view is that no alteration should be made to the Single Convention on Narcotics and Answers:- if necessary would represent this view not only for Queensland but in the interests ( 1) "Yes, I am aware that lunch of international health and safety." breaks are being staggered at South Girls School, Toowoomba at present." LICENSING COMMISSION POWERS OVER (2) "It is not correct that my depart­ PREMISES USED FOR FOOD PREPARATION ment does not purchase land from oil companies. The offer of an area of 40 Mr. Miller, pursuant to notice, asked The perches of land adjacent to the school Minister for Justice,- was rejected last year as the price was ( 1) What powers are possessed by the considered to be exorbitant. Inquiries will Licensing Commission to force licensees again be made into the possibility of to maintain in a clean condition those securing additional land to enlarge the parts of licensed premises used for food school grounds." preparation? Questions Upon Notice [13 MARCH 1975] Questions Upon Notice 253

(2) On how many occasions in the last (2) What were the registration figures year has the commission ordered licensees for the 17 to 20 years and the 21 to 29 to maintain premises in a clean condition? years age groups? Answers:- Answers:- ( 1) "Authority is vested in the commis­ ( I) "At December 31, 1974, there were sion under the provisions of Regulation 43 955,393 motor vehicles registered. The (7) of the Liquor Regulations." figures for the preceding six years were- (2) "On numerous occasions during the 1968, 642,203; 1969, 678,863; 1970, last year, the commission has ordered 715,895; 1971, 761,509; 1972, 818,478; licensees to maintain premises in a clean condition. On one occasion only did the and 1973, 888,410." commission consider the conditions found (2) "Ages of registered owners are not to be existing to be prejudicial to the recorded." health of the public and constitute an immediate health hazard." ROAD ACCIDENT STATISTICS Mr. Goleby, pursuant to notice, asked The MOTOR VEHICLE REGISTRATIONS Minister for Police,- Mr. Goleby, pursuant to notice, asked The In view of the increased motor-cycle Minister for Local Government,- registrations in the last five years, what ( I) What was the number of motor are the numbers of (a) deaths and (b) vehicle ·registrations to December, 1974, injuries involving motor cycles and and what were the relative registration (c) road deaths and (d) road injuries figures for the preceding six years? excluding those involving motor-cycles? Answer:-

" Fatalities I 1969-70 1970---71 1971-72 1972-73 1973-74 (a) Motor Cyclists ...... 17 31 44 80 69 Pillion passengers .. .. 3 5 8 13 11 Total ...... 20 36 52 93 80 (b) Injuries- Motor Cyclists ...... 705 897 1,111 1,331 1,672 Pillion passengers . . .. 91 133 174 207 283 Total ...... 796 1,030 1,285 1,538 1,955 (c) Total Road Fatalities . . .. 527 580 579 625 603 (d) Total Road Injuries .. . . 10,350 11,440 11,295 10,903 11,276"

AUSTRALIAN TIMBERS IN DARWIN so very many good Australian timber RECONSTRUCTION workers are unemployed. I might add Mr. Neal, pursuant to notice, asked The that Australian hardwoods are well known Minister for Lands,- throughout the world as being unsurpassed Is he aware that the proposals for recon­ for strength and durability." struction at Darwin are not expected to specify the use of Australian timbers, SUBSIDY TO BUSH NURSES AssOCIATION despite significant unemployment in the Mr. Neal, pursuant to notice, asked The timber industry associated with the recent Minister for Health,- and dramatic collapse of the housing ( 1) Is he aware that the Government market, particularly in South-east subsidy payable to the Bush Nurses Asso­ Queensland? ciation barely meets ha.Jf of the salary of the Sister-in-Charge of each centre, due Answer:- to increased costs? "Yes, I believe that something like (2) As the centres provide an invaluable 1,000 men or 20 per cent of the direct service to residents of areas which do not work force in sawmills in Queensland enjoy the usual medical services, will he have been laid off in recent months, due raise the subsidy to at least cover the to the fall off in demand for timber pro­ payment of the salary of the Sister-in­ ducts. I am appalled to think that in these Charge, thereby leaving the local com­ circumstances the Commonwealth Govern­ mittee with the responsibility only of ment would not specify the use of Aus­ raising money for the council rates and tralian timbers, despite strong representa­ maintenance of the centre? tions and offers of co-operation by the timber industry itself. It seems beyond Answers:- belief that the Commonwealth Government ( 1) "The present rate of subsidy paid should allow the use of imported timbers to the Queensland Bush Nursing Associa­ even at a minor price advantage, while tion is $3,100 per sister for each of its 254 Questions Upon Notice [13 MARCH 1975] Questions Upon Notice

five one-sister centres. This rate has been ctttzen for an alleged breach of any law applicable since October 1, 1974. Although or regulation is compdled to take out the the State Government has supported the summons in the petty sessions district in association by way of annual grant for which the alleged breach occurred, so many years, it was never intended that the that the case, if any, can be heard and grant should be the major source of determined at the nearest court house and income of the association. I note that the the person is not grossly inconveni­ association has not made any recent appli­ enced or faced with the unjust alternative cation for an alteration in the rate of sub­ sidy, nor has any evidence been placed of submitting to the proposed financial before my Department that the Queens­ imposition because it wm be cheaper than land Bush Nursing Association is in need coming to Brisbane to fight the case? of additional funds." (2) "Should the Queensland Bush Nurs­ Answer:- ing Association consider that an increase "U nder the Justices Act, the jurisdiction in subsidy is warranted, and makes appli­ of a court in respect of simple offences cation to my Department supported by is invariably linked with the place where financial and other relevant data, its sub­ the offence was committed. However, in mission will receive every consideration. respect of certain statutory obligations, There are no funds available for an such as lodgement of returns, the obliga­ increase in subsidy during the current tion arises in Brisbane and, consequently, financial year. Any proposal for an the offence is prosecuted in Brisbane. There increase in subsidy following an applica­ are many considerations involved. The tion by the association will be listed for situations which do call for the prosecution consideration when the Budget Estimates in Brisbane are such that the persons for 1975-76 are being framed." having the responsibility should be well aware of their obligation to comply with ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF CLASSIFICATIONS, the requirements. Sympathetic considera­ MAIN ROADS DEPART M ENT tion is given in circumstances where there 3re reasonable grounds for failing to com­ Mr. Neal, pursuant to notice, asked The ply with the statutory requirements. Each Minister for Local Government,- case, however, must be looked at in the Has any action been taken to review the light of its own circumstances." classifications of administrative officers at the Main Roads Department?

Answer:- ROAD TRANSPORT PERMIT FEES "A review commenced last year by the department was completed by Public Ser­ Mr. Jones, pursuant to notice, asked The vice Inspectors. This resulted in proposals Treasurer,- to create 36 new classified positions and a (!) Has he seen the statement in The number of reclassificatioJ:>s being referred Cairns Post of March 3 by the Far 'to the State Service Union. The union Northern Zone Vice-President of the advised that it accepted the proposals National Party concerning road tax levied under protest, and currently there is an in Queensland? overtime ban, and under Union directions, refusals by officers to carry out certain (2) When does the Government propose duties, which are seriously disrupting the to implement the promise to remove road operations of the department." tax, which it made 12 months ago? (3) Does he agree with Mr. Rankine LIQUOR LICENCES that it is unfair to continue the tax in Mr. Ahern for Mr. Aikens, pursuant to the light of the p,resent ruml situation? notice, asked The Minister for Justice,- May a liquor Ecence be granted to a Answer:- single woman but not to a single man ( 1 to 3) "When the Honourable Mem­ and, if so, what is the reason for this ber recovers from his apparent comatose discrimination? condition, I suggest he read my Answer to a somewhat similar Question he asked Answer:- of me last week." "No."

SUMMONSES ISSUED IN PETTY SESSIONS NEW PRIMARY SCHOOL AND PRE-SCHOOL DISTRICTS CENTRE, SoUTH CAIRNS Mr. Ahern for Mr. Aikens, pursuant to notice, asked The Premier,- !Vir. Jones, pursuant to notice, asked The Will his Government give favourable Minister for Education,- consideration to ensuring that any Govern­ ( 1) What stage has planning reached in ment department which is reluctantly com­ the estahlishment of a new primary schoo,l pelled to take out a summons against any at South Cairns? Questions Upon Notice [13 MARCH 1975] Questions Upon Notice 255

(2) Has land been secured at Earlville to having them included in one of the or Bayview Heights and, if so, has a training schemes of the Commonwealth pre-·school centre received consideration Government combined with the payment of in the planning? subsidies as are presently being paid by the Commonwealth Government in respect (3) If not, what stage has been reached of its various training schemes." and what Pcfiority wiH be granted to the establishment and opening of a pre-school centre at the new school? RAILWAY HOUSING SHORTAGE, BLUFF AND BLACKWATER Answers:- Mr. Lester, pursuant to notice, asked The (1) "The establishment of a new prim­ Minister for Transport,- ary school at Bayview Heights is included in my department's forward planning." What has been done so far to relieve the acute railway housing shortage at Bluff (2 and 3) "Land tenure has not been and Blackwater and what plans are there secured at either Earlville or Bayview for future action on this matte.r? Heights but the Land Administration Com­ mission is proceeding towards acquisition Answer:- of a site in each locality. Provision for pre-school facilities will be made in con­ "The provision of additional housing at junction with provisions at the primary these centres is dependent upon the amount level." of finance which can be made available for such works from the department's over­ all loan allocation which, in itself, is limited when regard is had to the many MORANBAH REPRESENTATIVE ON projects which require to be financed. CLERMONT HOSPITALS BOARD There is, too, the question of the extent Mr. Lester, pursuant to notice, asked The to which the Railway Department, a trans­ Minister for Health,- port undertaking, can be expected to As the new hospital will open soon, assume responsibility for the provision of is it possible to appoint an extra member housing. The department has nevertheless to the Clermont Hospitals Board to rep.re­ not been inactive. Plans have been sent the fast-growing town of Moranbah? developed-and presented to the unions for examination-for the early construc­ tion of new quarters at Bluff for both Answer:- permanent and foreign trainmen. Admit­ "There is a vacancy for a Government tedly, these quarters will not provide representative on the Clermont Hospitals accommodation for employees' families but Board and I am currently giving con­ they will represent the investment of some sideration to the appointment of this hundreds of thousands of dollars in con­ additional board member." siderably improved facilities and amenities for the occupants. Approaches have been made to the Housing Commission in sup­ TRAINING OF J ACKAROOS port of requests for the allocation of Housing Commission homes to railwaymen Mr. Lester, pursuant to notice, asked The and other avenues of providing .houses at Minister for Industrial Development,- Bluff are being explored. The Honourable Is it feasible to put forward a case to Member may be assured that his rep­ introduce an incentive to cattlemen resentations in regard to the housing of employing jackaroos, similar to that pay­ railwaymen at Blackwater will also be able to employers of ll!pprentices in other fully examined. At the same time, how­ trades, which would help the depressed ever, the Honourable Member must realise cattle industry? that Queensland is represented by 82 Mem­ bers and many of them have similar requirements in regard to railway facilities. Answer:- Unfortunately there is only a certain "In view of the attention now being amount of money allocated for these pur­ given to various training and re-training poses and the best possible is done to schemes and which are being heavily sub­ ensure that, consistent with the importance sidised by the Commonwealth Government, and urgency of each case, every area I feel that the Question asked by the Hon­ receives a share of the funds." ourable Member is timely. The maHer has also been raised by the Honourable Member for Balonne. I shall be pleased PETITIONS FOR DIVORCE to have the matter examined to see whether it would be practicable to include the Mr. Gygar, pursuant to notice, asked The training of jackaroos as a calling under Minister for Justice,- the Apprenticeship Act. In addition, I ( 1) How many petitions for divorce shall be pleased to make immediate rep­ were :lodged in the Supreme Court resentations to the Commonwealth Minister Southern District in each of the years for Labour and Immigration with a view 1972, 1973 and 1974? 256 Questions Upon Notice [13 MARCH 1975] Questions Upon Notice t (2) How many petitions have been (2) When will the pre-school at South lodged so far this year? Bundaberg School be open? Answers:- Answers:- (!) "1972, 1,625; 1973, 2,051; and 1974, 2,811." ( 1) "This proposal has been carried forward by the Department of Education (2) "1975 as at March 12, 1975-535." for consideration during the 1975-76 financial year in relation to funds which DISCIPLINE IN SCHOOLS may be made available." Mr. Frawley, pursuant to notice asked (2) "This building will be available for The Minister for Education,- ' occupation in about three weeks time. The ( 1) Are some of the recent outbreaks date on which the pre-school centre will of violence at schools attributable to the open is a matter for determination by the actions of Dr. D'Urso and his Council for Department of Education." Democracy in Schools, who have openly advocated that discipline should be abolished in schools and have encouraged pupils to resist discipline? WORKLOAD OF STAFF, BUNDABERG PoLICE (2) Have the utterances of the President DISTRICT of the Teachers' Union also contrvbuted Mr. Jensen, pursuant to notice, asked The to the undermining of school discipline? Minister for Police,- Answer:- How did the excision of five police divi­ sions from the Bundaberg Police District ( 1 and 2) "There is no tangible evidence to suggest that injuries to students at affect the work load of the senior sergeants, schools can be attributed to the utterances causing the reduction of one, as the divi­ of Dr. D'Urso and/or the President of the sions normally come under the control of Queensland Teachers' Union. It must also the inspectors of police at the stations? be said that investigation into all such incidents reveals no proof of any intent Answer:- to injure, but rather injury was an out­ come of skylarking in almost every case. 'The excision of five police divisions It could fairly be asserted however that a from the Bundaberg Police District affected number of statements made by Dr. D'Urso the workload generally at Bundaberg Police and/or the President of the Queensland Station, particularly in so far as the reliev­ Teachers' Union are designed more to ing component was concerned. Thus, a cause unrest and sow doubt in the minds compensatory reduction in strength of of parents, teachers and students than to Bundaberg Police Station had to be engender confidence in sohools." considered. As part of the establishment of new police districts and regions, a gen­ SUBSIDY FOR TRAINING OF OBEDIENCE eral policy has been adopted that one DOGS senior sergeant be stationed at large Mr. Jensen, pursuant to notice, asked The stations as officer in charge of the divisions Minister for Sport,- and that shift sergeants be provided to meet the requirements of the Police A ward As the card game "bridge" is classified as a recreation and consequently is eligible -State. This policy is consistent with for subsidy under the grants for sporting good administrative practice as it allows bodies, why is the training of obedience clear definition of responsibility, and dogs not classified as a recreation for the establishes a proper chain of command. allowing of a subsidy? On this basis, then, the position of the second senior sergeant at Bundaberg was Answer:- eliminated." " No application for financial assistance has ever been received by my Department from a club for the training of obedience CouNCIL OF STATES dogs." Mr. Moore, pursuant to notice, asked The Minister for Justice,- PRE-SCHOOL CENTRES, BUNDABERG DISTRICT ( 1) Have South Australia and Tasmania been invited to join the Council of States? Mr. Jensen, pursuant to notice, asked The Minister for Works,- ( 2) Has either State indicated that it is (1) In view of the reply by the Minister interested in joining? for Education to my Question on October 18, 1973, that the pre-school for North ( 3) Is it proposed to form a secretariat Bundaberg would be built in 1974-75, what to service the council and, if so, where will is the present position? it be located? Questions Upon Notice [13 MARCH 1975] Questions Upon Notice 257

Answers:­ Railway Department at Hughenden, and (1) "Yes." the practica:bility of having further pro­ vision made apart from that associated with (2) "The Premiers of Tasmania and the development of phosphate traffic will South Australia advised that they would be fully investigated. I draw the Honour­ not be sending a representative to the meet­ able Member's attention to the last para­ ing at which formation of the council was graph of my Answer to the Question this considered." morning by the Honourable Member for ( 3) "It is proposed that the executive Belyando." officer of the council be a member of the Public Service of the State of the Chair­ man for the time being of the Council. He TRAFFIC SIGNS AT RoAD CRoSSINGS FOR will be situated in that State. The details ScHooL CmLDREN of other staffing requirements have not yet been worked out." Mr. Yewdale, pursuant to notice, asked The Premier,- In view of the general concern in the HOUSING FOR RAILWAY EMPLOYEES, community regarding traffic problems in HUGHENDEN this State and throughout the Common­ wealth and, in particular, where children Mr. Katter, pursuant to notice, asked The are concerned, what criteria are used by the Minister for Transport,- Police Department, the local authority and ( 1 ) Is he aware that in Hughenden at the Main Roads Department combined, least six married railwaymen are living when a decision is made to erect suitable separated from their families because there signs at a road-crossing which is frequently is no accommodation available? used by school children? (2) Is he aware that another two rail­ way families are to be rendered homeless Answer:- in the next fortnight as a result of eviction "Crossing signs and markings come notices? within the scope of 'Official Traffic Signs' (3) Is he aware that owing to the as defined in section 9 of the Traffic Act 1949-1974. Methods, standards and pro­ increase in traffic on the Mount Isa line cedures for these are contained in the a further 15 drivers and firemen will be Manual of Uniform Traffic Control transferred to Hughenden this year, thus Devices issued by the Commissioner of exacerbating an already intolerable situa­ Main Roads." tion? ( 4) What action will he take to over­ come this problem and will he guarantee BICYCLE LANE ON NEW BRIDGE, the rent on a dozen Housing Commission ROCKHAMPTON houses? Mr. Yewdale, pursuant to notice, asked The Minister for Local Government,- Answers:- ( 1) "I was not so aware, but accept that ( 1) With reference to the proposed new the Honourable Member has satisfied him­ traffic bridge to be constructed in Rock­ self that such is the case." hampton between the present traffic bridge and the railway bridge, has any considera­ (2) "My advice is that one of the two tion been given in the design of the bridge families served with notice to quit the to making provision for bicycles, which are private accommodation occupied has used as transport in Rockhampton by obtained alternative accommodation." large numbers of adults and children? (3) "The Honourable Member presum­ (2) If no consideration has been given ably is referring to the planned increase in for this facility, will he confer with his staff to cope with the movement of phos­ departmental officers regarding its pro­ phate from Phosphate Hill to Townsville. vision? It is n9t foreseen that as many as 15 addi­ tional enginemen will be required this year Answer:- in this connection." ( 1 and 2) "Yes. The lanes on the old ( 4) "The capital sum to be advanced to bridge are only 9 feet wide. On the new the department by the sponsors of the bridge the outside lane is 14 feet wide. phosphate project includes provision for The 5 feet additional width should allow the erection of additional housing. 34 cycles to operate to the left of the lane houses have already been provided by the without impeding motor traffic." 258 Questions Without Notice (13 MARCH 1975] Questions Without Notice

APPLICATIONS HELD BY HOUSING remedy the situation, if Mr. Jones is fair COMMISSION, ROCKHAMPTON dinkum and the Federal Government really Mr. Yewdale, pursuant to notice, asked wants to. For the past three years the The Minister for Works,- State Government has been telling Mr. Jones and his socialist Government that we need What applications for accommodation much more road finance, and we have warned are presently held by the Rockhampton consistently of what would happen to our office of the Queensland Housing Com­ roads if it is not forthcoming. mission and, of this figure, how many are for (a) rental, (b) purchase and (c) The Commonwealth Bureau of Roads has aged-person units? agreed with us, and the Commonwealth allocations for roads in Queensland, par­ Answer:- ticularly the urban and rural arterial roads, "Applications on hand at February 28, fall far short of what even the Bureau says 1975 were-(a) and (b) for rental and/ we need. or purchase houses-lOO points 11; 80 For Mr. Jones to claim now that the points 3; 60 points 2; 40 points 32; nil State Government is to blame for the con­ priority 92; (c) for aged persons units­ dition of sections of highway he describes as single persons 20; couples 5." "death traps" is hypocritical in the extreme. I am saying in plain terms that Mr. Jones is PROFITS OF ELECTRIC AUTHORITIES a hypocrite. To put it bluntly, he finds it very difficult to keep to the truth. In fact Mr. Dean asked The Minister for Mines,- he treats the truth rather lightly. In view of the intended rationalisation scheme in the local authority industry, Opposition Members interjected. will he give an indication as to the profits Mr. SPEAKER: Order! On earlier occas­ made by each of the major electric auth­ orities during 1973-74? ions I have staied that I will not allow persistent interjections while Ministers are (Originally asked March 12, 1975) answering questions. All honourable mem­ bers will have the opportunity to ask quest­ Answer:- ions, so I ask them to refrain from pers1st­ "No. Any surpluses of revenue over ent interjections. expenditure by the major electric auth­ orities are utilised for the benefit of elec­ Mr. illNZE: Mr. Jones has cited increased tricity consumers. There is no profit in Commonwealth allocations for roads in the the normal sense." Clurent three-year period, compared with the previous three years. However, the inescapable faot is that, allowing even for QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOHCE modest inflation, the funds provided will build cons'iderably less road. FEDERAL ROADS GRANTS The State Government contends that, at Mr. ROW: I ask the Minister for Local the present rate of financing for national Government and Main Roads: In view of highways, including the Bruce Highway, it the recent media statements attributed to the will be 15 years before the system is Federal Transport Minister (Mr. Jones) during :brought up to an acceptable standard. his recent visit to Queensland, wherein he criticised the Queensland Government for On rural arterial roads, with an alleged mishandling of Federal roads grants acknowledged need of $265,000,000 and allocations, will he inform the House over seven years and a Common­ of the true position concerning these road wealth grant of $31,000,000 over funds? three years, prospects are considerably worse --even with maximum State funding. The Mr. illNZE: I deplore the fact that Mr. finance allotted by the Commonwealth for J ones has chosen to use his tour of Queens­ rural arterial and urban arterial roads is land centres this week to wage a propaganda well below what we have sought and need, campaign against State roads policy, on the and our construction and planning pro­ eve of talks with me and with local authority grammes for both these categories have representatives tlomorrow. At stops from been grell!tly disrupted and set back as a Cairns south Mr. Jones made a point of result. wHacking the Premier and the State Govern­ ment at every opportunity over Queensland I can only hope that Mr. Jones's reported road conditions and spending. I had hoped orirticisms can be taken as an indication that that Mr. Jones's tour would produce some­ he now recognises the validity of Queens­ thing more tangible in the way of an land's submissions. appreciation of the State's road problems, The Commonwealth's current allocation for and co-operation to do something about them. national highways is $11,100,000 more than 'I quite agree with Mr. Jones that more the amount recommended by the Common­ money is needed to be spent on Queensland's wealth Bureau of Roads. However, for other roads, and the Commonwealth (not the classes of roads, including the urban and State) has the money and the power to rural arterials, urban and rural locals, and Questions Without Notice [13 MARCH 1975] Questions Without Notice 259 the beef roads, the Commonwealth allocation That is my first point. Secondly, Dr. Cairns is $92,300,000 less than the Bureau recom­ certainly has plenty of staff with him. I mended should be spent. thought the Leader of the Opposition would Mr. J ones will have the opportunity to­ have directed a question about this trip since morrow, when I meet him, to show, with he and other members of the Opposition more than empty words, that he .genuinely expressed such great concern at the cost of shares my concern and the concern of the my trip to London, when I travelled on my State Government over inadequate road own as Premier of the State. However, they spending. have been very silent on the matter of the trip by Dr. Cairns, which is costing the TEXTBOOK ALLOWANCES taxpayers of this country a great deal of money, not only for the fares of secretaries Mrs. KIPPIN: I ask the Minister for Education and Cultural Activities: Is he and their secretaries and others accompanying aware that on the A.B.C. news broadcast him on the mission but also for the cost of at 7.15 this morning an announcement was flying a V.I.P. aircraft from Australia so that attributed to him to the effect that he had Dr. Cairns and his party may travel through made it clear that textbook allowances the Middle East. These matters must be would not be increased this year? If he is brought to the nation's attention. It is a aware of this announcement, is it not con­ complete and utter disgrace. trary to the fact? It is a tragedy, too, when the trip is Mr. BIRD: I thank the honourable mem­ thought of in terms of the destruction of our ber for her question. I am aware of the oil industry. The Commonwealth Govern­ broadcast report. I am very disappointed ment has destroyed private enterprise and the to think that the statement as broadcast inflow of overseas capital into this country could lead people to infer that the situation for exploration. Dr. Cairns is now attempting is exactly the opposite to what it is, as to get money from the Middle East. I think outlined in the statement which I released. that members on this side of the House as I pointed out in my Press statement that well as honourable members opposite-- the Government has already substantially Mr. Wright interjected. increased textbook allowances this financial year. This statement followed a recent con­ Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: And I include tribution by the honourable member for the honourable member for Rockhampton. If Rockhampton in the House in which he he had any gumption or backbone he would said that because of an alleged racket in be on his feet condemning these things; but the sale of textbooks, textbook allowances we know very well that he has neither the should be increased. If indeed there is a courage nor the ability to do so. I will be racket in the sale of textbooks, we would interested to see whether the Leader of the be far better off remedying the situation Opposition has some courage, too; whether be than adding to the racket itself and to will stand up for his State and for the inflation, as his cohmts in the Federal sphere community generally on this debacle after have done, by simply increasing textbook the way the Commonwealth has acted. allowances further. Today we have had revealed another I am disappointed to think that my first change of policy by the Federal Govern­ Press statement should have been reported ment, which has gone into reverse gear on incorrectly. I hope that the facts contained its oil search policy, which completely in it will be brought to the notice of the disregarded the economy and well-being of public. the nation.

MIDDLE EAST TOUR BY DR. CAIRNS Mr. Knox: Don't forget that the Leader of the Opposition is an expert on bulls. He took Mr. HARTWIG: I ask the Premier: As one to China. the front page in today's "Courier-Mail" displays in no uncertain manner that Dr. Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: I realise that. Cairns has flown to the Middle East, in view The Leader of the Opposition incurred for of the Australian Government's refusal to this nation a great deal of expense when he allow further exploration for oil in this coun­ went to Red China following the Common­ try and as our own trade mission has just wealth Government's gift of a bull to that reported that prospective markets exist in the country. That bull was transported in a hig Middle East, from the knowledge he gained air freighter. I think he ought to be ashamed overseas can he inform the House whether of himself when he criticises one aspect of or not Dr. Cairns has sufficient secretarial everyday living and does not stand up and staff to assist in negotiating sales of beef say something about these other things that and other commodities? are happening. I should like to see him display a little courage in this regard too. Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: In the first The action of the Deputy Prime Minister instance, I do not think Dr. Cairns would .draws the attention of the nation to the have much interest in beef negotiations, let tragedy of Labor's policies and the result of alone the knowledge so essential for them. them. 260 Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply

CONTRIBUTIONS TO AUSTRALIAN importantly, to draw attention to those areas LABOR PARTY FUNDS where the Government has shunned its obli­ Mr. FRAWLEY: I ask the Premier: In gations to the people of Queensland. This view of the SJtatement in today's "Australian" is a responsibility we intend to exercise to that the Labor Party intends to approach the fulleSJt. Depleted though we are in num­ business firms for donations to party funds, is bers, we are steadfast in our determination. he aware of the huge contribution of $60,000 already made by the Seamen's Union and I believe that the Premier and his Govern­ a total of $250,000 by the Amalgamated ment have reached the heights of hypocrisy Metal Workers' Union? Doesn't this latest in declaring their priorities in this new Parlia­ attitude of Labor reek of blackmail as it is ment-a Bill to give ministerial portfolios to obvious that firms with import and export four more of the Premier's friends; a Bill to licences will be subjected to a great deal of increase the number of Supreme Court pressure to contribute to L8!bor funds? judges; and a Bill 'to give effect to the 111-year-old office of Agent-General in Mr. BJELKE·PETERSEN: Obviously it London. does reek of blackmail of certain business people. H also demonstrates the socialistic Back in the world of reality, people are attitude of the Labor Party. It seems to waiting-incredulous at this selfish display­ think and believe that all people, organisations for some signs of the Queensland Utopia the and political parties are alike and that they Premier promised they would have if they should be expected to contribute in like would only put their trust in him as he manner to all political parties. I cannot imagine how anyone could think along those rushed them to the polls on 7 December. lines. We all know that the A.L.P., through But the Premier has made promises before, trade unions, collects dues from people in all shaped on events of the moment-hollow walks of life who do not even subscribe to promises in a growing list, conceived in its policies. Now the A.L.P. wants to go expediency and forgotten in haste. further and demand that people in businesses of all types, irrespective of their political This is our Premier of principle who views, be compelled to subscribe equally to prostitutes principles at whim; this is the all parties. I am quite sure that his pro­ State-rights Premier who sells out the rights posal will receive the recognition that it of our State in the interests of his own per­ merits, which is complete rejection. sonal friendships; this is the law-and-order Premier who is happy to scorn the law and A

That is an extract from the Premier's elec­ his undisciplined supporters and to condemn tion policy speech three years ago, and even these demonstrations as un-Australian, or, if then the words were untrue. We found that, he preferred, as un-Queensland. But the while the Premier was piously claiming an masquerade was over. The Premier no increase in the number of crimes solved longer pretended to be an advocate of law under his Government's administration, the and order in this State. It was over and Police Commissioner was telling the full forgotten and so far from the Premier's story. Although the number of crimes solved mind that he was moved to appear on a had increased, the actual solution rate had fallen by 2 per cent. In other words, crime Cairns radio programme where he told was rising faster than police could solve it. amazed, law-abiding citizens that he condoned Undaunted, however, the Premier went on to the demonstration because he could under­ tell voters that, to safeguard Queenslandcrs' the demonstrators' motives. Of course he rights against organised attempts to under­ could-because they were National Party­ mine them, the Liberal-Country Party inspired motives that actuated the demon­ intended to introduce new legislation on strators on that occasion in Cairns. public safety. A few months ago we had the same And what success has the Premier had? Premier turning a blind eye to demonstrations In 1973-74 there were 89 offences classified by a minority group of farmers, again as homicides in Queensland. Four murders inspired by the National Party or the League and one attempted murder remain unsolved. of Rights, which in Queensland now are Rape, attempted rape and other sexual offences totalled 1,200, only 787 of which almost one and the same. were cleared up. And this, of course, includes only those offences which were Mr. FRAWLEY: I rise to a point of order. reported. Breaking and enterings totalled The Deputy Leader of the Opposition attrib­ 13,908, only 2,844 of which were solved. uted these demonstrations to members of the This is less than 20 per cent. Stealing National Party. That is untrue. offences numbered 29,442, only 7,705 or 27 per cent of which were solved. Drug offences Mr. DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr. W. D. soared out of all proportion to 1,285, a rise Hewitt): Order! There is no point of order. of 101 per cent from 639 in 1972-73. In total, only 38 per cent of the 72,454 reported Mr. MELLOY: The National Party and criminal offences in Queensland last year the League of Rights are now practically one were cleared. Well might we ask: What and the same in Queensland. has happened to law and order in this glorious State of Queensland? No wonder Let me now speak in more detail of the people are unhappy. It is a far cry matters directly concerning the breakdown of from the administrative days of a State law and order under this Government, and Labor Government when the Queensland the misplaced priorities of the custodians Police Force enjoyed a world-wide reputation of law and order under the administration for its efficiency and effectiveness. Its crime of their Minister, the Minister for Police. detection rate then was higher than Scot­ land Yard and the Canadian Mounties. This Minister, who to date has been only a part-time Minister for Police, has presided The 1972 version of the Premier on the over an era of increased crime, a reduced campaign trail told us that his Government rate of conviction, a hopelessly undermanned regarded "law" as meaning "the protection Police Force, and an all-time low in police of the rights of all in the community", morale. We will watch with interest what and "order" as "the orderly working of happens now that he is able to devote his society". The latest version-the campaign full-time attention to police matters. Premier of 1974---did not find any motive for brushing the dust off his law and order Mr. K. J. Hooper: The position will file. In fact, he skipped over both his probably get worse. Government's record and its plans for the Police Force in 40 words, so ashamed was Mr. MELWY: We as an Opposition hope he of the deterioration and low morale under that we will be proved wrong. We do not his administration. want to see the Minister fall down on his job. We are concerned about the main­ Mr. Jensen: He ruined the Police Force. tenance of law and order, so we hope he does his job. Mr. MELLOY: We don't have a Police Force. Obviously, if the Premier had been inter­ We soon found that he was no longer ested in raising the morale of the Police even feigning interest in law and order. Force and in helping to restore public con­ In Cairns an unruly rabble of National fidence in its administration, he would have Party-inspired demonstrators, armed with appointed a new Police Minister during his placards and signs, attempted violent dis­ extravagant Cabinet manoeuvres. Even sec­ ruption of a visit by the Prime Minister, tions within the present Minister's own party Mr. Whitlam. We might reasonably have believe that a new man at the top would expected the Premier to urge restraint upon help the police image. 262 Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply

Dissatisfaction within the National Party help for her husband, who suddenly became with the present administration goes back ill late at night. When she went to the as far as 1972. And the Minister himself public telephone booth, she found to her has shown more interest in an overseas dismay that it had been wrecked recently. appointment than in trying to inspire any Fortunately she was able to arouse her real meaning of law and order in Queensland. neighbours and use their phone. However, we can well imagine how serious the results In the last Budget we were told that police could have been if this private phone had strength was to be increased by an additional not been available. 251 officers this year, from 3,772 to 4,023. On paper, this is a commendable move. Often, we read of so-called crack-downs But at the time of the Budget the strength on crime-crack-downs on motorists and of the force was down to 3,337, or 435 crack-downs on pedestrians; but under this fewer than the 3,772. In other words, Government's priorities, most of the real before being able to go out and recruit crack-downs are misdirected, at the commun­ the 251 new police officers, the Government ity's expense. first needed to fill 435 gaps in the ranks of Why should police senior sergeants guard serving policemen and policewomen. a hole in the ground? On a main road I should like the Minister to tell the recently, I saw a senior sergeant guarding House what success he has had in this an excavation. venture. We have seen no evidence of such Mr. Burns: There was one on the main success in the strength of suburban police road near the 'Gabba Post Office. stations. We have yet to see the benefit of any increased recruitment in the Police Force. Mr. MELLOY: That is so. Every hon­ I ask: What is the current strength of our ourable member has seen similar instances. Police Porce? Is the all-time-high resignation What a reckless waste of expertise and man­ rate of 1973-74 continuing? The Minister power. Recently I saw two policemen book­ should give us this information. ing parents who stopped to pick up their children from a kindergarten. There was a When low morale and lack of police con­ recent vendetta against jay-walkers, and fidence in the Government's haphazard admin­ another against motorists who owned cars istration bring about record resignations, how with towbars that partly obscured the num­ on earth can enough recruits be attracted berplate. to allow the Police Force to operate at full strength? What misdirection! While police are guarding holes in the ground, swooping on Let me say I cast no reflection on the parents at kindergartens, admonishing jay­ men and women of the Police Force. We walkers, and seeking out partly obscured acknowledge the job they do and the diffi­ numberplates, we have unprecedented domes­ culties under which they work. It is not tic violence on our streets, on our buses their fault that the Police Force can no and in our trains. These are the places longer provide proper protection for Qneens­ where police are needed, not wasting their landers and their property. Suburban police time guarding holes in the ground and pros­ protection disappeared with the suburban ecuting young mothers who are picking up policeman. their children. How often have members of this House seen a telephone booth wrecked by neigh­ A girl is mugged and raped almost in the borhood louts and vandals? No one expects heart of the city; terrorising louts force sub­ a policeman to spend all his time prowling urban bus operators to end night services; about trying to catch telephone vandals, frightened mothers refuse to let their but in the days of the suburban policeman, daughters work at night because there is no certainty that they will get home safely; late­ who knew his local community and knew night train passengers are man-handled by who the local louts were, it was a different young hoods. This is law and order under this proposition. Government. We need new priorities­ Protection of a public phone may seem a proper priorities in the interests of people. trifling matter. But a life can sometimes We need a Police Force that is allowed to depend on a phone, as it did this week carry on and act like a Police Force. What only a matter of miles from this House. A better way to wreck a crack policeman's middle-aged woman needed urgent medical morale-an N.C.O.-than to ask him, his Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply 263 three hard-earned stripes notwithstanding, to 12 months is alarming and, indeed, frighten­ guard a hole. This is a matter of priority. ing. But what is the Government doing? What a waste of manpower! It is allowing drugs to creep into school­ grounds while policemen book parents for Policemen have a thankless task. They parking outside the schools. What a shocking are not well paid. They work long and state of affairs this is! unregulated hours. They are abused and accused-and under this Government they On a radio talk-back programme this are misused. But the common quality which week, the Rev. Charles Ringma, of Teen kept the force together was pride in a job Challenge, which is a youth-counselling ser­ well done. This Government's distorted vice, told listeners that drug use was still priorities have ruined that pride and the increasing. Some of Brisbane's marijuana people of Queensland are paying the price. smokers and pill-poppers were as young as 10 or 11 years of age, he said. He knew Freedom from fear is a democratic right. of heroin users as young as 18. I would But when that right is threatened it is time expect a responsible Government to be con­ for a responsible Government to move in a cerned about these disturbing reports; I would responsible way. expect a responsible Government to be It is time for a responsible approach when appalled that, under its administration a the public transport system to which people person only 18 years of age was on the way are entitled breaks down, as it has done in to ruin because its policemen were too busy suburbs on both sides of the Brisbane River, notching up parking convictions to seek because unruly louts interfere with the bus out drug pushers and bring them to justice. drivers in the execution of their duty. No That is the situation in this State. As I worker should be asked to undertake a job said before, it illustrates a misdirection of which threatens his personal safety, as the the priorities I would expect from a respons­ personal safety of bus drivers was threatened. ible Government-but, on the evidence, not In our society we would expect the threat from this Government. I am urging more tu be removed; but, instead, this Government positive action on such matters. allowed the threat to remain and allowed the Mr. HODGES: I rise to a point of order. community's night bus service to be removed. The Police Force has done a magnificent job Instead of doing something constructive to in the apprehension of drug pushers. remove the threat from drivers, this Govern­ ment through its Police Force took no action Mr. Houston: That's not a point of order. and the bus service was allowed to lapse. Mr. HODGES: My point of order is that The only choice open to young people just recently three offenders were apprehended and families without a car in these suburbs and subsequently they appealed against their was to pay for a taxi to get home safely sentences of five years and four years. The at night or to stay at home. The Police other day the Commonwealth Government Minister would do well to talk to the released them after they had served 12 parents of Inala and Wynnum about his months. record on law and order. Mr. DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr. W. D. Or perhaps he could explain his priorities I-Iewitt): Order! The honourable member to the worried parents of primary-school for Nudgee will continue with his speech. children who have discovered that their child­ Mr. MELLOY: I am afraid I do not see ren are juvenile dope addicts. These are the point of order, but I will accept it. serious matters. The Government would do well to listen intently to such complaints There has been no response to our great and concentrate its energies on remedying need in this State for socially orientated the situation. legislation, partly because the Government I mentioned earlier that the number of does not care, partly because it has its head drug users detected in Queensland-and in the ground and partly because it is led by Ministers out of touch with reality. And ' detected" is the operative word-increased I instance the Minister for Police. by 101 per cent from 639 in 1972-73 to 1,285 last year. This is a frightening record Some of the $2,000,000 this Government at a time when every member of the com­ uses on political public relations propaganda munity should be aware of the menace of could be used far better on an intensified drug-taking. The disclosure that this prob­ education programme to impress on our lem has increased further in the space of young, particularly, the dangers inherent in 264 Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply

taking hard drugs. It is alarming to find The police officer who reported this new that we have drug-takers in our schools. system of placing on record the names of This problem must be dealt with in the decent, law-abiding citizens, said that the early stages. We could find them in our Police Department, under this Minister for schools if we had a proper programme of Police, is encouraging policemen to fill out drug detection. Drug pedlars and social as many of these field interrogation reports workers are aiming at the same market. But as possible. He said the department was social workers are hamstrung by lack of of the opinion that police who filed many finance and lack of research facilities, and field interrogation reports were doing a good the drug pedlars, who are rampant because job. police are otherwise occupied, are winning. But the people whose names have been In this morning's Press the Reverend Ringma recorded, and this Parliament, are entitled is reported as saying that his Teen Challenge to a full explanation from the Police Minister organisation is closing down because of of the reasons for this abuse of privacy, lack of Government support to enable it which it surely is. I would expect a to continue its work. The drug pedlars responsible Police Minister and a responsible are winning the race all along the line Government to remove these "Big Brother" because they are not being harassed as they files immediately and permanently. This type would be if we had adequate police. of thing has no place in Queensland's A few days ago, a Brisbane policeman democratic society today. who was concerned because police activities Queensland criminologist Dr. Paul Wilson were being misdirected drew attention to recently urged a restructuring of Australia's another matter-a dangerous, "Big Brother" Police Forces. network. He reported that the Police Depart­ ment was introducing a system of recording Mr. Hodges: What classification did you the names and addresses of people spoken give him and who is he? to at random on Brisbane streets. I can Mr. MELLOY: Dr. Paul Wilson. understand a system such as this for keeping tabs on convicted criminals, but not on Mr. Hodges: What is he? innocent people guilty of no more than Mr. MELLOY: The Minister knows him. minding their own business. This is a The Minister should not try to kid me. The hit-and-run procedure of pouncing on people Minister is not going to have me on. He and taking their names for various reasons. knows him better than he knows anybody This is the way the system works: police else. are issued with cards described as "Field Dr. Wilson said that the justice structure Interrogation Reports", and young, over­ ruthlessly pursued blue-collar criminals-­ zealous police and some not so young­ those who broke and entered houses, or guns on hip, of course--are stopping anybody those who were charged with public drunken­ and everybody so that they can take names, ness. The justice structure did not pursue the addresses and make other notations in order rich and the powerful, he said. Embezzlers, to prove to their superiors that they have pyramid sellers, finance-lending organisa­ been working hard. It is not that they tions which milked the poor, and businesses enjoy these duties-and anybody who wants which preyed on the ignorance or powerless­ proof should speak to a policeman in his ness of the underprivileged created an "any­ area-but they know they are judged on thing goes" philosophy about life, he said. their records. It hardly engendered respect for the law, or Mr. Moore: If you are right, it's a scandal. criminal justice personnel and procedures. I agree. But here in Queensland, often the Mr. MELLOY: It is an absolute scandal. police are not even given the chance to deal I agree with the honourable member and with the blue-collar criminal, into which cate­ suggest that he convey that to the Minister. ·gory I put vice operators. Mr. Jones: The Minister denied any knowl­ While police are busy taking the names edge of it yesterday in reply to a question of innocent people who happen to be walk­ I asked him. ing on the streets at night, underground prostitution is gaining a stranglehold on Mr. MELLOY: As I said, present Ministers, Brisbane through the most unsubtle fronts of particularly the Minister for Police, are out escort agencies and massage parlors. A of touch with reality. report in the Brisbane "Telegraph" a few Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply 265 days ago, which failed to evoke a responsible "massage"-which means an oily rub or a reaction from the Queensland Government, good sprinkling of baby powder over the supports matters previously reported to me undraped body-costs from $8 to $10. Even by my own constituents. For the information high-school boys, by the way, are aware of of honourable members, I read extracts from these charges. A "topless"-which is the this newspaper report, which I believe to be same service performed by a topless massage very factual- girl, and usually including crude "extras"­ "A confidential call girl service, gener­ costs from $12 to $15. Sex is around $20- ally using escort agencies as fronts, is and there are other variations. operating in all Australian capital cities. These havens of ill-health are quite easy The service caters for the wealthy and to find, even for those unable to read the uses a referral system for clients travelling yellow pages of the telephone directory, the interstate. One girl said it was easy to get advertisements in the daily newspapers, or $150 for sex. She had been offered $400. the "business" cards distributed by trusted At least three of Brisbane's 12 escort agen­ clients. Because of business drop-offs--and cies, although owned independently, are these days, I understand, this rarely happens­ linked with southern agencies in the refer­ some of these girls have been known to ral service." walk out on to the streets and recruit cus­ One girl interviewed in this report said she tomers. They advertise their services and estimated there were about 100 girls work­ their attributes without leaving anything to ing regularly for escort agencies in Brisbane, the imagination. and that at least 20 of these were call girls. When police move in and manage the Three women reported that some Brisbane rather difficult task of gaining adequate agencies were providing full call girl services evidence for a charge of prostitution, the for from $50 upwards, in addition to the girls work twice as hard to pay the fine. basic escort fee of $30 a night. They boast of making $7 5 tax free on A girl described as a former prostitute a good night-and that is their take after said there were some "heavy people" involved the employer, who usually keeps out of in the escort agency racket in Sydney, but sight, takes his share. The vice kings who so far it was "pretty casual" in Brisbane. To manage these parlors escape charges and my mind, the Queensland Government is operate without harassment. being just as casual. A report like that It's time for a responsible Government demanded a full and immediate investigation. to move in a responsible way. If the It demanded urgent attention before the racket involved "heavy people" in Brisbane. Police Minister will not rearrange Police priorities, it's time someone rearranged them In fairness to some of the entrepreneurs, for him. It's time to face reality. Without I will say that the report pointed out that not proper controls, standover men, crime, and all Brisbane escort agencies were involved in an appalling lack of hygiene are the norm sex on call. Some of them are probably with underground prostitution rackets, I do quite genuine. But an associated, or similar, not condone prostitution, but I recognise that sex racket is also being allowed to thrive it exists; and while it exists, as many pre­ under this Government's system of priorities. cautions as possible must be taken to There are the massage parlors and vice dens eliminate associated crime and health risks. which masquerade behind the misnomer of Health Department statistics tell part of "health studio." Good health is the last the story. They show that the incidence of rthing clients of these establishments expect, or receive. The Government knows where venereal disease rose by 35 per cent from 1970-71 to 2,555 reported cases last year. these parlors are; it knows who runs them; The biggest rise was in the number of and it knows many of the girls who work as reported cases in women-from 439 in massage girls, because they have appeared 1970-71 by 100 per cent to 879. How­ in court on charges of prostitution. But, as ever, the departmental report revealed that I said earlier, the Government is too busy a survey had shown the reported incidence preaching against the evils of prostitution, of venereal disease to be markedly lower and sending its policemen out to fill in name than the actual incidence. Figures reported cards, to be concerned. by private practitioners comprised only 12.4 All manner of curious perversions are per cent of the total notifications. A break­ available, along with the certain risk of down shows that the age group most involved venereal disease. In these establishments, a with prosecutions involving prostitution in 266 Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply massage parlors is the over-25 group, which Mr. GREENWOOD (Ashgrove) (12.39 is responsible for more than 42 per cent p.m.): One of the issues on which the coalition of the total notifications. The Government parties fought the last election was that of has taken an ostrich-like attitude; it has centralism. It is not a new problem. For adopted a "shut the eyes and it will go many years the Government of Australia away" policy. But this will not work, as has been drifting steadily towards centralism. its law-enforcement policies are not working. But since December 1972 what was merely Since the present incumbent took office, a drift has been transformed into the drive the Budget for the Premier's Department of a Federal Government deeply committed has increased by a staggering 288 per cent. to centralism as an article of faith. Let us see the same type of attention given I have said that this process has been to law and order and to cleaning up vice going on for a number of years. We have operations on which criminals thrive. all been conscious of it. We have watched The Government has no need to defend while the power of the Federal Parliament policies which have not worked. When in Canberra has steadily grown and that crime is rising twice as fast as the popu­ of the States has steadily declined. What we lation and people are afraid to walk on should now do is ask: What is causing it? the streets of their cities and suburbs at We should ask whether it will continue. night, we need a complete house-cleaning. We should ask ourselves whether we should, If the present Minister for Police finds at this point in Australia's history, endeavour he is inadequate for this task, then the to do something which will restore and protect Police Department must be given new that federal division of powers which was leadership with a new Police Minister. New the deliberate choice of the Australian people. direction for our Police Force must, of There is no doubt that federalism was necessity, mean new priorities. We want Australia's firm choice. There is no doubt our streets and our buses and our late­ that it was a deliberate choice. The idea night trains free from fear again; we want of a unitary system was rejected. Power was an unmerciful war against the pushers who not to be centralised but was to be distributed. are selling drugs to our children; and we In this distribution it was necessary that many want an immediate crack-down on the crime important powers, such as defence and foreign kings and shoddy operators who are reap­ affairs, be held exclusively by the central ing huge profits and spreading disease through Government; but, at the same time, it was vice parlors and underground prostitutes. regarded as essential that the State Parlia­ Most of all, we want a Police Force which ments retain powers which were to be full once again can be proud of its record and and plenary in their own proper spheres. confident in its administration. These principles were stated in Barger's These are the problems confronting the Government. The Opposition challenges the case. It is said that that case casts a long Government and the Minister for Police shadow. So it should. It was decided by to take effective action in relation to law three High Court judges who participated in and order in the city of Brisbane and in framing the Constitution. Who will con­ the State of Queensland. Even this morn­ tradict their statement that- ing, honourable members heard two mem­ "The scheme of the Australian Constitu­ bers on the Government side-one a mem­ tion, like that of the United States of ber of the Liberal Party, the other a member America, is to confer certain definite of the National Party-ask questions seek­ powers on the Commonwealth, and to ing further police protection for their con­ reserve to the States, whose powers before stituents, and I think that every member the establishment of the Commonwealth of this Assembly realises that the suburban were plenary, all powers not expressly con­ police situation at present is shocking and ferred on the Commonwealth." out of control. Children are no longer safe The belief of those who framed our Con­ even going to school, because there they are stitution was that good government depends preyed upon by drug-pushers and the like. on being as close as possible to the problems (Time expired.) being solved. There was no doubt in the Mr. DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr. W. D. minds of those framing our Constitution that Hewitt): Order! The honourable member for the more remote the decision-makers are Ashgrove. As this is the honourable mem­ from those who are affected by their decisions, ber's maiden speech, I ask the House to the less responsive and sensitive to public extend to him the traditional courtesies. opinion they are likely to be. Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply 267

Whilst it was essential that matters like I am attempting to show that the contin­ defence and foreign affairs should be dealt ued authority of colonial Parliaments was with by the central Government, it was one of the fundamental assumptions made equally essential that as far as possible power by the draftsmen of the Australian Con­ and authority remain as close as possible stitution, but to put the matter beyond to the people being governed. doubt, and to make it absolutely clear that This concept of federalism is not new. States' rights should be maintained in the It was used by the American States, by federation, section 107 was inserted. the Germans and by the Dutch. It involves Section 107 of the Australian Constitution a division of powers under which neither provides- the Central nor the State Government is " Every power of the Parliament of a inferior, one to the other, but each is Colony which has become or becomes a supreme in its allotted sphere. State, shall unless it is by this Constitution I should refer in more detail to the exclusively vested in the Parliament of American experience. The concepts which the Commonwealth or withdrawn from underlie the Constitution of the United States the Parliament of the State, continue as were used as a model by Australia's states­ at the establishment of the Commonwealth, men, and the American Convention debates or as at the admission or establishment in which those concepts were developed and of the State, as the case may be." their interaction analysed were referred to I hope that I have satisfied honourable by our own leaders when confronted with members that our Constitution was designed similar problems. to protect the powers possessed by the States. I should refer particularly to the defence But the question arises as to how extensive of federalism as a concept by Alexander those powers were. Were they plenary, Hamilton at the Constitutional Convention to use the expression of Griffith, Barton and at New York on 24 June 1788. Hamilton O'Connor? Were they sovereign powers, to rose to his feet after the previous speaker use the expression of Alexander Hamilton? had attacked the concept of equality between The Victorian Full Court seems to have no State and Federal Governments. The previous doubt about the matter. To it, it was plain speaker had contended .that it was not possible that the powers of an Australian colonial to have two supreme Governments. He had Parliament were sovereign powers, extending concluded by saying that there can be only beyond the territorial boundaries of the one supreme Government and that the central State. Whether this view on extra-terri­ Government must necessarily be that one. toriality can now be supported is beside the Hamilton's reply was a classic. It at once point. defended and defined the concept of federal­ The important thing for us to remember ism. He referred to the previous speaker's is that this was the view accepted by the statement that "where the laws of the Union leaders of the Australian people when they are supreme, those of the States must be drafted section 107, and these were the subordinate because there cannot be two powers that they had in mind when they supremes", and he said- declared that the powers of State Parliaments "This is curious sophistry. That two should be preserved. The decision of the supreme powers cannot act together is Victorian Full Court that I referred to false. They are inconsistent only when is The Queen against Call. (ex parte they are aimed at each other or at one Murphy, 1881, 7 V.L.R. (L) 113 at p. 120 indivisible object. The laws of the United pp. 122-4.) That case arose out of a States are supreme as to all their proper, Victorian Act which allowed New South constitutional objects; the laws of the Wales warrants to be enforced in Victoria States are supreme in the same way." and vice versa. It was argued that the Having made his point about the division Victorian Parliament had exceeded its powers. of powers, Hamilton then turned to the diffi­ It was argued that the Victorian Parliament cult area in the middle where a few powers, was legislating with respect to New South such as the power to tax, are possessed Wales, that this was extraterritorial legisla­ by both the State and the Central Govern­ tion and that the Victorian court should ment. Of this he said the courts should regard it as invalid and refuse to enforce it. "declare that both the taxes shall have equal Implicit in this attack is the notion that a operation: That both the powers, in that colonial Legislature has limited powers and respect, are sovereign and co-extensive." that it is one of the duties of the Queen's 268 Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply

judges to see that colonial Legislatures do Take the grants power, section 96. It has not exceed them. Mr. Justice Higinbotham become the most potent instrument of control declined to supervise the Victorian Parlia­ which the central Government possesses. In ment in this way. He cited English auth­ recent years we have seen States becoming orities describing the relationship between more and more dependent upon special grants the Queen-in-Parliament at Westminster and and, as this has happened, the Federal Labor the courts and then used similar language to Government has become more and more describe the position of the Victorian Legis­ insistent that those grants should be spent lature. He said- only on projects which have been submitted "Laws are the decrees of the high court for detailed approval by Canberra. This is of Parliament, and if the Supreme Court not a distribution of power but the very should allow itself to judge of the com­ negation of it. petence of Parliament to enact this or any And yet it is quite clear that section 96 other law the inferior would be sitting was designed to do the very opposite: it was as a court of appeal from the superior designed to strengthen State Parliaments and court, and by refusing to administer would, help them over the first 10 years of federation in effect, unmake or repeal the law." when it was thought that some of the smaller States would have some temporary financial In other words he was prepared to concede problems. To appreciate section 96 one should to a colonial Legislature the attributes of look at the group of sections which were sovereignty. And from what followed, it inserted with it, that is, sections 94, 93, 89, appears that he drew support from the case of Phillips v. Eyre. Phillips v. Eyre was 87 and 86. The crucial section was 86, which transferred to the Commonwealth the decided as long ago as 1869. A Jamaican statute had the effect of depriving a man collection and control of customs and excise duties. And one must remember that the of his right of action in an English court. He argued that an English court should not most important source of revenue for most enforce suc'h an Act. But the Lord Chief of the colonies at that time was the revenue Justice and a Full Bench decided that English from customs and excise duties. courts should extend to those colonial Legis­ These sections provided various methods for latures which have plenary powers the same returning part of this revenue to the States. comity and recognition extended to Legis­ But ultima;tely the problem was to be solved latures of foreign powers. by section 94, which was to start operating in about the eighth year after federation. It is for these reasons that I say that it Seotion 94 provided for all surplus Com­ was the deliberate choice of Australians monwealth revenue to be returned to the that the powers of State Parliaments should States in monthly instalments. But despite be protected in the federation, and it was these measures it was common ground that the understanding of Australians that those for the first 10 years there might be dif­ powers were full, plenary and sovereign. And ficulties, and therefore section 96 provided- so a Constitution was framed to give effect to these ideas and aspi~ations. Yet we have "During a period of ten years after the seen in recent years how a Constitution establishment of the Commonwealth and conceived in this way can be used to achieve thereafter until the Parliament otherwise a wholly different result. provides, the Parliament may grant financial assistance to any State on such terms and I turn now to those provisions that have conditions as the Parliament thinks fit." been used to give the Commonwealth a Section 96 has lived on. It has lived on dominating posi•tion in Commonwealth-State past its allotted span and been given a new relations. The three that are most significant lease of life. The financial difficulties faced are the grants power (section 96), the para­ by some States between 1901 and 1911 were mountcy provision (section 109), and tte unavoidable. But financial difficulties in later taxation power. It is important to look at years have been caused by the deliberate these three as they are used and interpreted action of the Commonwealth Government. now. It is even more important to look The States have been made into suppliants at them as they were used and interpreted and the process was not accidental. by the people who framed the Constitution, for there is no doubt that, in their inception, The first step was in 1908. It will be they were never intended to be the tyrants remembered that I referred to section 94, they have since become. under which the Commonwealth was to give Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975} Address in Reply 269

all its surplus revenue 'back to the States. Treasurer could, by notice in writing to any Well, it soon side-stepped that one. It passed State Treasurer, bring about the temporary an ACit that said that surplus revenues were transfer to the Public Service of the Com­ deemed to have been spent in certain circum­ monwealth of those State public servants stances. The Surplus Revenue Act of 1908 who had previously been engaged in collecting provided in this way that payments made to State income tax. In other words, it was a trust funds should be deemed to be expendi­ take-over designed to deprive the States of ture. Then, whenever there was a surplus, their capacity to collect tax. the Commonwealth paid the surplus into a The four Acts amounted to a clever trust fund for old-age pensions or coast scheme to prevent the States from levying defence. income tax. They were opposed by Queens­ Having taken customs and excise duties land, Victoria, South Australia and Western and side-stepped the provision which was Australia when first introduced for the dura­ meant to compensate the States, the next tion of the war. The States again opposed centralis! step was to strip the States of it when the Commonwealth extended the their power to levy income tax. Depriving scheme after the war. On both occasions States of a fundamental constitutional right the States failed. like the right to levy income tax took a lot of doing, but in 1942 a centralis! A.L.P. [Sitting suspended from 1 to 2.15 p.m.] Government managed it. Mr. GREENWOOD: I have dealt with The danger to the financial independence both section 96 (the gmnts power) and the of the States can be seen from the figures. taxing power of the Commonwealth. In both Income tax was between 67 and 68 per cent cases the federation that we live under in of Queensland's tax revenue in 1941, so it 1975 is a very different thing from the le£t our treasury with very little. The other federation to which the States and the Aus­ States were variously affected. Victoria and tralian community consented in 1900. Tasmania were low-tax States and in their cases the loss of revenue was 53 per cent The other provision in the Constitution and 47 per cent respectively. On the average, which has helped bring about this change is the States lost 63 per cent of their total tax section 109 which provides- revenue. "When a law of a State is inconsistent The scheme devised by the Commonwealth with a law of the Commonwealth, the was as follows. Firstly, its Income Tax Act latter shall prevail, and the former shall, jmposed taxes at very high rates-rates of to the extent of the inconsistency, be up to 18s. in the £-which made it a prac­ invalid." tical impossibility to impose an additional That section was necessary because, in addi­ State tax upon income. Secondly, the Income tion to powers held exclusively by the Com­ Tax Assessment Act gave priority to the monwealth and powers held exclusively by Commonwealth over the States in respect of the States, there -is a range of activities in the payment of income tax. Taken together, which both the States and the Commonwealth these two Acts effectively excluded the States have concurrent powers of legislation. from the field. After the Commonwealth tax was paid, nothing was left for the States. On its face, the paragraph refers to matters That was the stick. of detail and State Acts are only to be invalid to the extent of the inconsistency. But The third Act was the carrot. The third Act since the "cover the field" test was developed was the States Grants (Income Tax Reim­ by Mr. Justice Isaacs in Cowburn's case, any bursement) Act, which was an exercise of legislation at all by the Commonwealth the grants power to which I have already which indicates its intention to cover the referred. Grants were to be made to the whole field eJ~:cludes the whole of the corre­ States on the basis of the average colleotion sponding State legislation. Moreover, it of tax by each State during 1939-40 and excludes State legislation whether there is in 1940-41, but on a condition. The condition fact an inconsistency or not. was that the States did not impose an income Section 109 is a necessary provision for tax themselves. the resolution of conflict, but the "cover the The fourth Act purported to be an exer­ field" doctrine has given it a capacity for cise of the defence power and was entitled overkill. The way this capacity is used by a the Income Tax (Wartime Arrangements) Federal Liberal-Country Party Government Act. It provided that the Commonwealth and the way it can be used by a Federal 270 Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975) Address in Reply

Labor Party Government bent on centralism an express prohibition in terms similar to are two entirely different things. In the 75 those which the early High Court judges years since federation, more and more areas were prepared to imply. Secondly, it will that were intended to be concurrent have be necessary to guarantee to the States a become the exclusive province of the Com­ reasonable share of tax revenue and allow monwealth Government. them to disburse it in accordance with priorities of their choice. In my opinion, So section 109, the grants power (section the drafting of acceptable amendments to 96), and the taxation power, have brought achieve those results is the most important about a federal society which is very different task facing the Constitutional Convention. from the one originally contemplated. There is no doubt in my mind that if I turn now to the changes that have been some positive step is not taken to retrieve made as a result of centralist philosophies the position, within 25 years State Govern­ on the High Court. Immediately after ments will be able to do little that is of federation, the Constitution was applied and importance in Australian society. interpreted by men who had framed it. I turn now from a discussion of the Their knowledge of what was intended by Federal aspect of our Constitution to the the constitutional conventions was reflected central and pivotal position of the Crown. in their judgments, and their reasoning It has been my privilege to succeed Sir contains many references to the spirit of the Douglas Tooth as the member for Ash­ Constitution. They regarded the Constitution grove, and consequently it is my privilege as being based on a number of fundamental on this occasion to express the loyalty assumptions about the rights of the States and allegiance of the electors of Ashgrove and they were prepared to go so far as to to Her Majesty the Queen. From time to say that it should be interpreted as if it time one reads in the Press mutterings by contained an implied prohibition against those who advocate a republican form of direct interference by the Commonwealth government. They should read their history with matters reserved exclusively to the books. Our community tried republicanism States. 300 years ago, and once was quite enough. By 1920, these men had passed from the It rapidly descended into a military dictator­ bench and in that year Mr. Justice Isaacs, ship for life, and the same pattern has been who had been a frequent dissenter in judg­ repeated again and again in recent years. ments which had upheld States' rights, For a while, South America provided the delivered the leading judgment in the outstanding examples, but now people such Engineers' case. That case rejected the use as General Amin are showing that the poli­ of the spirit of the Constitution when inter­ tical evolution from president to dictator preting it. has nothing to do with geographical location. Mr. Justice Isaacs declared that the The plain fact of the matter is that when Constitution was an ordinary Act of the power is concentrated in a Prime Minister British Parliament and that the intention and President of the same political party, should be collected from the words that were they sooner or later reach the stage where used and from no other source. This was they cannot see any good reason for allowing an enormous blow to the protection of States' the community to vote them out of office. rights. They therefore abolish elections and, if the people wish to get rid of them, they must Mr. Justice Isaacs relied on the fact that do it by revolution. Since 1688, the British the Privy Council had adopted the same people have had numerous changes of gov­ approach in cases dealing with the British ernment, and political power has passed North America Act which contains the Con­ from the hands of one party to another. stitution of the Dominion of Canada; but Profound social and economic changes have the Constitution of the Dominion of Canada taken place as a result-and all this without arose in a completely different way from ours. There were no conventions of states­ revolution. men which debated and defined the intended The reasons for this are that the Sovereign scope of the various clauses. There was is above politics; the army is loyal to her simply a report by Lord Durham-"Radical person and not to a political party; and Jack"-and consideration by Whitehall of that in her two prerogatives of dissolution its implications. Finally, there was the of the House and dismissal of the Ministry enactment of legislation in the ordinary way. lie the fundamental guarantees of our freedom. The reliance by Mr. Justice Isaacs on Mr. K. J. Hooper: An anachronism. the Privy Council's attitude to the Canadian Constitution is a good example of how judi­ Mr. GREENWOOD: An anachronism that cial technique can arrive at an unwelcome protects the honourable member for Archer­ decision in constitutional matters if it is field as well as all the rest of us. divorced from an appreciation of history. In pledging our continued loyalty and If we are to return to the federal division obedience to the Sovereign, we guarantee of powers which Australia originally our continued right to live in freedom in intended, it will be necessary to amend the a parliamentary democracy, and so, for Constitution in at least two respects. In the reasons I have stated, I supp0rt the the first place, it will be necessary to insert motion before the House. Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply 271

Mr. HANSON (Port Curtis) (2.26 p.m.): attain his goal at the least possible human In one's parliamentary service, speaking in cost-he was prone to desirable moderation. the Address-in-Reply debate certainly pro­ This reason, combined with compassion, vides a very refreshing interlude. It is showed him as a man of worth and traditional for members of Parliament, in substance. the course of their address in this debate, His first maxim was that he believed in to state their loyalty to Her Majesty the and respected only those whose motives were Queen. On a number of occasions, I, on compassionaJte and could stand the test of behalf of the electors of Port Curtis, have rational inquiry. His other maxim was a expressed that loyalty. When members face trust in the solid and the true and a distrust the Commissioners appointed for the day of the sad revolutionary, believing, quite and take the oath before actually taking rightly, that those who are overenthusiastic their seats in Parliament, many members of today are the oppressors of tomorrow. the Opposition do not take that oath lightly. Unrealistic words? Certainly not. They believe that an oath is something that One must learn to listen to people-not is taken with due recognition of the role just to what they say-but to how they say of the monarch, and, in pledging their it. The criminals, the fanatics, the psycho­ allegiance, they do so in a fashion that is paths can all use the language of compassion so necessary to their functions as members in their political rhetoric; but it is their of Parliament. voices that betray them. The thirst for dom­ I have always recognised the wonderful ination, the intoxication with a "redeeming" service that has been given by His Excellency spirit, the dark thrust of madness-these are the Governor, Sir Colin Hannah, and Lady the motives that are hard to control over a Hannah, and I give them due recognition. period of time. One must therefore listen carefully and patiently, and particularly Many honourable members say that this watch for the ability to laugh. Nothing is Parliament is unique because of the imbal­ more revealing than false laughter or false ance that has been thrust upon it by the attempts at it. Listen to their voices; watch electors, and it really is unique. Other mem­ for the signals of compassion and watch bers of the Opposition have stated very force­ how they laugh. It is not all that difficult in fully that the views of the large percentage the end to discern with whom one belongs of people in the State who accorded a vote in the arena of political activity. to the Australian Labor Party will be respect­ fully advocated by the Opposition. We will Later this year we will have the pleasure be a very effective Opposition, Mr. Deputy of seeing presented in this Chamber the Speaker; make no error about that. Treasurer's Financial Statement, the main document that comes before us covering the I feel in a very generous mood at this Budget. In the light of the present political particular moment. Of course, I wish to circumstances and controversies it should be congratulate those who have come into this a most enlightening and interesting one. Assembly for the first time, and it is not Government speakers, many of them without significance that two women members making their maiden speech, have been con­ have taken their seats. This is rather historic, demnatory of the A.L.

I mention these matters because it is customer for many Australian products­ obvious that numerous speeches of recent a great trading partner-but it is only in days have been made for the gratification recent times that it has imported meat. of party leaders in the hope that names I believe that for the sake of our meat will be noted in the leaders' memories. industry some f01'm of stabilisation is neces­ Whilst their remarks have been somewhat sary. Unanimity among cattle producers of indiscreet the speakers hope that eventually the nation wiH be required to aohieve it. I they could bring them higher things in the may add that if stabilisation is obtained it political sphere. would be disadvantageous for them to work from the present price level. The ind

The next town I mention is Emerald, which Moving further down the Capricorn High­ is centrally situated in the Belyando electorate. way, we come to the new town of Black­ The population of town and district runs water. It was the first mining town to to approximately 4,000, and nearby are the be established in my area. Three mining Fairbairn Dam-a magnificent structure-and companies operate in Blackwater and some also a pastoral college. I might point out problems exist concerning hospitals (which we that we are not without our problems in will have shortly), education services and the irrigation of the Emerald area. Because water in this town. Unfortunately, much of silting and other problems, a difficult time of the problem appears to be brought about is being experienced. However, we are grate­ by the presence of three mining companies, ful to the State and Federal Governments each of which is trying to get a better for making money available to keep irrigation deal than the others. This is the difference workers in employment on the Fairbairn between Blackwater and Moranbah where Dam. I register our appreciation in this there is only one company to deal with, House. although we are not without problems in My electorate office is situated in Emerald. that town either. We will keep working As I live in Clermont, I thought it best on the Blackwater problems and see what to have my office in Emerald. we can achieve. Emerald will be the central town involved I record that I am delighted at the won­ when B.H.P. commences the operations of derful vote the people in Blackwater gave Queensland Coal. In time it is hoped that me. It was better than I thought I would Emerald as a result will become a much get, so I will have to try to do my best bigger town. When cattle prices improve for them. we are anxious to see the establishment of It is necessary for me to point out very a meatworks there. forcefully that there is a desperate need for Moving down the railway line, one comes playgrounds at the Blackwater High School. to smaller places such as Yamala and Comet. No playgrounds have been provided and Of course, honourable members do not need that is not really good when one realises me to tell them about the problems of that the school has been in existence for the Comet River bridge, on the Capricorn some 2t years. Very forthright representa­ Highway. I mentioned it again in the House tions will be made on this issue. There today. Only the other day I read in an is no need to point out the problems exist­ old "Hansard" where the present Minister for ing at a high school without playgrounds. Water Resources (Mr. Hewitt) advocated that I commend the Government on the work a new Comet bridge should be built at an it has done. It has done quite a deal in early date. That appears in his maiden Blackwater. Recently money has been speech in 1956! I tell the Minister that allocated for a new parade ground at the the progress made in that time has been Blackwater School. That will be a big absolutely nil. help to the students in that town. In Mr. Yewdale: What constructive criticism addition, money has been allocated for the you are making! maintenance of the Blackwater High School. Mr. LESTER: Recognising that I am a I shall now move further down the Capri­ voice for the rural people, members of the corn Highway. This morning I asked a ques­ Opposition are trying to disrupt me. I tion in all sincerity concerning railway hous­ wonder if the position would have been ing at Bluff. I know now that there are the same had Mr. Hewitt continued to plans to build a new complex to house rail­ represent that area. waymen. Train crews hauling coal from Utah change over at Bluff. It is very upset­ Many people suffer difficulties because of ting to visit that town and see the problems the present Comet River bridge. We could that exist there. It is bad enough being lose our coach service because the coach a politician and being forced to be away cannot cross the bridge on many occasions. from one's wife, but the men at Bluff I have personally had to go to that bridge are away from their wives for so long that it and help many distressed people whose cars is indeed a problem. I know that the Minister were sandwiched there and they were for Transport, who has entered the Chamber unable to get out of the area. I am fair purposely to listen to me, is doing his dinkum in speaking about the Comet River very best. I thank him for the excellent Bridge and I will add to my comments work he has already done to help us. If the representations of the honourable member he can do more for us, it will be appreciated. for Bundaberg who, I am sure, supports me in every way. Bluff has the reputation of giving me my Mr. Jensen interjected. rowdiest street meeting of my campaign. One fellow came across the road and was Mr. LESTER: I appreciate this help. going to flatten me because I asked where The honourable member can join my their member had been for the past three deputation. Opposition members must admit years. We overcame that problem and have that I have not been getting stuck into since become quite good friends. The union them. We have been trying to work together men, too, have been quite good to me, to find a solution to our problems. so we are not going too badly in Bluff. Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply 279

Travelling a little further down the Capri­ My next observation may be a corn Hi~way over some of the really rough rather touchy one. I might say that I am road whtch I hope the Minister for Main not fully possessed of all the facts in the Roads will try to fix up for us, we come matter, so I ask honourable members not to Dingo. It is a sawmilling town. Around to rubbish me. It seems that first-class air it is grazing area. The graziers there are travel is available to all members of Parlia­ not without their problems either. ment and most public servants. This surprises me. I, for example, travel in a A little further on we come to the one-class aircraft to Rockhampton, and the Duaringa area. It has a special place in my trip from Rockhampton to Brisbane takes heart because that is where I started in three-quarters of an hour. It beats me why business. I went to the bakery at Duaringa, people have to travel first class on such a and .I was there for some two years before trip. I call on members of Parlimnent and movmg to Clermont. I record in this House public servants who may feel as I do on this my appreciation of the magnificent help matter to volunteer to travel, at least on that _was given to me by the people of some occasions, economy class as a contribu­ Duannga. The Minister for Health has tion to helping the economy of the State. I before him a submission from me for a feel that that is not too much to ask. I relieving doctor to be made available for am prepared to do it some of the time, and the people of Duaringa at least once a week, if a few others were of the same mind or perhaps once a fortnight. If he is able it would be a small but tangible way of to do this, it will be very much appreciated. reducing the awesome costs of government. Other places in the district are the Federal members of Parliament might like Woorabinda Aboriginal Community and the to take me up on this offer, too. It Bauhi?ia Downs area. People have settled would be appreciated, and it would show on bngalow land there, and I shall be going that they were not being one-eyed about to see them. the matter. It is necessary that I now refer briefly It is very frustrating to see that all to the cattle industry and its present state in A.L.P. members except one have left the Australia. It is absolutely heartbreaking to Chamber and not bothered to stay to listen me to see the great distress that has been to me. This means that they cannot be caused to country people and the strain very concerned about the electorate of that has been imposed on them because Belyan~o. It means also that they must the cattle industry is failing at present. Many ~ave gtven up hope of regaining the seat people will argue that prices were very m the future. In reporting to the newspaper in my electorate, I will be able to say that high last year. However, when prices were the honourable member for Cairns was the high and people in the industry were told only A.L.P. member who listened to my that they would have good incomes for maiden speech. years and years, cattle producers borrowed further money and improved their properties. I come. now to Alpha and Jericho. Alpha They are now faced with overdraft and has a rmlway workshop and is the centre taxation problems, and an attempt must be of a large cattle industry. Jericho is the made to assist them. centre of a sheep and cattle area and the Jeric~o Shire Council is administe;ed by To try to get my message across, I point Mrs. Elste Langston, M.B.E., who is one out to the House that the present situation of the few madam chairmen in this State. of cattle producers would be similar to the I will have her name recorded in my maiden situation in which I, as a baker, would be speech in tribute to the wonderful work if I had been receiving 40c a loaf for bread that she has done over the years for so last year and were now receiving about lOc many people. a loaf and producing bread for only about one-third of the year. It is very frustrating I~ would be _inappropriate if at this stage to me when people come to my office and I dtd not mentwn a few of the observations say, "Look, Vince, I have received a rate that I have made since coming to this place. notice. I owe $80,000 or $90,000. What can It concerns me greatly that there appears I do?" I try to get help for them, but to be an appalling waste of money in I know that I am only putting them further Government departments. I say this in all into debt if I do. sincerity, and I ask all people in responsible positions to see whether anything can be I call upon everybody concerned to consider done to reduce costs. Only the other the situation in the cattle industry and see day I ascertained that the quotation for what can be done about it. The State a certain Works Department job was of the Government has made some moves in this order of $1,900. Just as an exercise, and field, but certainly more assistance is needed. without making it known to anybody, I The $20,000,000 loan made available by the obtained another quotation for the same Federal Government is appreciated, but the job, and it was $800. It just beats me where interest rates are a little beyond the capacity the money is going. Inflation is presenting of cattle producers to pay. I again call for considerable problems, and there is a every form of assistance-combined assistance definite need for us to endeavour to keep -to be given to save the cattle industry costs down in Government departments. from its present plight. 280 Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply

The Federal Government has no reason to everything else must cost a heck of a lot query the Premier's attitude to coal deals more. I cannot stress too strongly that the with Japan. It surprises me that it has return of unsold bread should be outlawed not got behind this honourable man, and it in Australia as part of the effort to halt surprises me also that it should begin inflation. quibbling about what he has done when its own policies are holding up the develop­ The small baker should be given a fair go. ment of the coal mines at Norwich Park and Again there is no doubt in my mind that the Blair Athol in the Clermont area. Its att}tude big wholesale companies are doing nothing to Utah, the company which has done a for the bread industry. We need the small great deal for Australia, is surprising. What men and we need some big companies, so would the level of unemployment be in let us not get too outlandish in our ideals Queensland if these coal mines were not and do away with all the small people. They opera·ting? have a job to do and they play a very important part in our State. There is no doubt in my mind that tbe Government of Queensland has acted cor­ I am pleased to see that hot-bread shops rectly all through on the coal issue. It is a are opening in Queensland. I hope that small fact that in future the Government will have private enterprise can be encouraged and that to demand tha.t the companies make more the hot-bread shops will not be taken over money available for schooling and similar by the big merchants. ameni!ies, as these are creating very big It is necessary that the Queensland and financial problems for it. The mines are Federal Governments do all they can to costing the Government a great deal of recognise the voice of the rural people. It money, and without doubt its decision last has been very disturbing to me that the year to increase royalties was justified. The Federal Government has taken so much fact that royalties were lower in earlier years away from country areas. It has given us a at lea~t ga_ve comp~nies a chance to begin redistribution which it hopes will be some­ operatiOns m ~~straha when they were facing thing like one vote one value. Goodness me, severe competitiOn from overse<)s countries. what are the city people talking about? They I turn now to the bread industry. just do not understand. Even in my elector­ ate I find it difficult to give the people the Mr. K. J. Hooper: Weevils and all! service I would like to give. It becomes a major operation for me to try to do what Mr. LESTER: No, there are no weevils in I want to do. It means that I am away my bread. The honourable member may from my family for up to two and three come to my bakery at any time and I will weeks at a time. One vote one value might give him a loaf of bread. He will not sound all right in some instances, but it find any weevils in i·t, and it is not fattening cannot be applied in country areas. Country either. ' electorates need to have fewer voters because of the huge distances involved. As a fair­ Mr. K. J. Hooper: I am not av·ailable. minded person I believe that country people have a right to fair representation. Every Mr. LESTER: You will be very welcome As all honourable members know, I am th~ time a country person in my electorate rings only_ baker _who has ever been elected to me up it means a trunkline call for him. I Parhament m Australia, and that is why ask people to be fair in their considerations. I have something to say about bread. Most Goodness me, I have to swim creeks and do ?akers--this is not an indictment of the all sorts of things to get to people in my mdustry--;have to work . so hard that they electorate! All I ask for is a fair go. have no time to become mterested in politics I~ they are interested they do not get tb~ An Opposition Member interjected. time to carry on the way I have done over the past few years. Mr. LESTER: The honourable member can come with me one of these days and Queensland bread is still the cheapest in then he will see what I am talking about. Australia, but there is one way I believe we But let him not ask me to save him from could bring costs down even further. There drowning. is no doubt in my mind that the return of unsold bread should be outlawed in this I thank honourable members for listening State. It encourages wastefulness. Most to me. I have tried to give a fair appraisal shops buy more bread than they need and of the problems of country people, including therefore bread is being wasted. It is argued people in my electorate. I give them my that the extra production involved does not pledge here and now that I will work as cost very much. I would ask those people hard as I can in their interests, and will try who argue along those lines just what they to be a stable and sensible member of the know about the bread industry. If a baker Government working towards sound has to make more bread, his wages and legislation. Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply 281

Mr. CASEY (Mackay) (3.44 p.m.): Having happen. I suppose, however, that it was to just partaken of the staff of life, I should like be expected, because the State Government to offer my congratulations through you, Mr. is attempting to form a council of the States Deputy Speaker, to Mr. Speaker on his elec­ of Australia. Goodness me! Such a step tion. The office of Speaker is a noble would take us back 75 years. I thought the position to which every honourable member Australian States federated in 1901 to become should pay tribute. the Commonwealth of Australia. After the election of Mr. Speaker I was Mr. Moore: But now we've got Gough grateful to have the opportunity to accom­ Whit! am. pany him on a visit to His Excellency the Governor, Sir Colin Hannah. At that stage Mr. CASEY: It doesn't matter whether it I was able to pass on to him the loyalty of is Gough Whitlam or Bob Menzies. Many the people of my electorate of Mackay to people in Queensland were dissatisfied with Queen Elizabeth the Queen of Australia. I Bob Menzies, but they put up with him am very happy that she now has the new title because he was the properly constituted of Queen of my nation, my homeland. I leader of the nation; he was Prime Minister am also very proud on occasions-tmfor­ of the honourable member's country and tunately they are too infrequent in Queens­ mine. laud-to be able to stand up for the Aus­ To revert to the C.S.R. take-over of Aus­ tralian National Anthem. tralian Estates-the C.S.R. company is one I am also very pleased to see the institu­ of Australia's two largest companies. In tion of the Order of Australia, which is an fact, it is one of only two Australian com­ Australian honour for Australians. The panies listed in "Fortune" magazine among Order of the British Empire means nothing the 300 largest companies outside the whatever to me. After all, the term "British United States af America. Empire" is a relic of the colonial days. The The C.S.R. company has vast interests in British Empire has long since disappeared mining, chemical industries and the produc­ and to continue to pay tribute to it is ridicu­ tion of building materials. It also has a lous. It no longer exists. major investment portfolio. As in the case of many other titles that It is very interesting to examine the names have emanated from ancient times, I do not of the directors of the C.S.R. company. Two know whether St. Michael and St. George of them are also directors of the Bank of would feel honoured if they were able to see New South Wales; two are also directors of some of the gentlemen upon whom orders the Commercial Banking Company of Syd­ bearing their names have been heaped. 'l ney; others are associated with well-known doubt whether some of those gentlemen who trustee companies, such as Perpetual Trustees, have received the Order of the Bath have which controls major trustee organisations one very often. throughout the Commonwealth; and another I offer my thanks to the people of is connected with the Lend Lease Corpora­ Mackay for their strong support in the tion. It is interesting to notice the altera­ recent election campaign. I particularly tion that has occurred over the past few mention those men and women who worked years in the constitution of these boards. It very, very hard for me both over the past is interesting to note how the banker and three years and during the election campaign. financier interests of Australia started to take control of our major industrial organisations. The campaign in Queensland was a rather The main interest of the Colonial Sugar interesting one. I think all honourable mem­ Refining Company Limited is just what the bers would agree that it resulted in an ALP. name implies, but the company has been loss rather than a Government gain. From forward enough, or progressive enough­ the campaign the A.L.P. can learn important even as a bastion of conservatism-to drop lessons. I warn the Government, however, the title Colonial Sugar Refining Company that it should not be complacent or over­ Limited, and merely call itself C.S.R. Ltd. confident, because it, too, should have learned many lessons from the campaign. For Under the new set-up, with the take-over example, the result in the Mackay electorate of Australian Estates, this company will con­ proved conclusively that, where the people trol 30 per cent of Australia's sugar pro­ felt there was an acceptable alternative, the duction. It already controls 96 per cent of Government lost ground. In fact, the Mackay Australia's sugar refining capacity. As agents electorate is the only one in the entire State for the Queensland Sugar Board and the in which the Government lost ground. Queensland Government, it controls 100 per So the Government cannot regard its vic­ cent of our export sales of sugar. In tory as being a total one. It must look to addition, it has a strong influence on all the statutory organisations established by the certain things which I shall mention later. sugar industry. The mill-owners' representa­ The Queensland Government's complacency tive on the Central Sugar Cane Prices Board and over-confidence are shown by the fact is a C.S.R. man. The C.S.R. is represented that it allowed C.S.R. Ltd. to take over The on the Sugar Board by the mill-owners' Australian Estates Co. Ltd., so turning back representative, while a C.S.R. man is chair­ the sugar industry's clock 50 years. 'lt is man of all the bulk sugar terminal organisa­ disgraceful that this should be allowed to tions in Queensland. Despite these controls, 11 282 Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply the company does not participate in the work C.S.R.'s history in the sugar industry is of the Australian Sugar Producers Associa­ a very interesting one. It is a history of tion nor is it a member of the Proprietary take-overs and mergers. That has been the Millers Association, the body set up by the pattern throughout the company's lifetime and privately owned mills in Queensland as as a result it has developed into a vast opposed to the co-operatives. In the past, organisation. I suppose "history of take­ the company has not contributed to the overs and mergers" is a polite term to use finances of Suga:r Research Institutes Limited, when the booklet the company itself pro­ an institute set up to sponsor research into duced in the 1950's to mark its centenary the manufacture of sugar throughout Aus­ referred to it as "the high cost of putting tralia, and which has done a tremendous job down opposition". That is the way in to uplift the sugar industry in Australia in which the C.S.R. company viewed the past 25 years. One has only to talk to transactions. a group of cane-growers or farmers in a This corporate giant was originally estab­ C.S.R. mill area to realise their feelings lished by the Knox family in Sydney. I towards the company and how opposed it is do not know whether there is any connection to the work of certain cane-growers in between that family and our Attorney­ Queensland. The company completely con­ General. I doubt it very much because he trols the refining of sugar in New Zealand. is quite a nice person, really, and fairly In recent years it was kicked out of Fiji honest, which cannot be said for too many when the Fijian Government and Fijian of the Knox predecessors in the C.S.R. farmers took over the organising and control group. I say unhesitatingly that ~-S:R. of the island's sugar industry after almost a built its entire fortune by cruel expl01tat10n century of C.S.R. control. So strong is this of labour-white, yellow and black-as well company's influence on the sugar industry­ as the farmers who pioneered the sugar without this new acquisition-that the ques­ industry. tion is often asked whether the C.S.R. is the agent of the Queensland Government I can remember as a small child hearing or the Queensland Government is the agent the tales of pioneer workers in the industry of the C.S.R. about the way in which C.S.R. ruthlessly ruled the roost in many Queensland cane Australian Estates has been associated with plantations in the early . da):'s. Of cot;rse, the sugar industry in Australia for a long one of the things for whtch It was notonous time through its subsidiary Amalgamated was black-birding. C.S.R. was the organi­ Sugar Mills. It owns the Pleystowe sugar­ sation that gained most from the black­ birding of South Sea Islanders into the mill near Mackay and Kalamia sugar-mill on sugar industry-! refer to that nefarious and the Burdekin. By a strange course of action ugly trade carried on for many, many years, in recent years, it purchased 65 per cent of by which the people of the South Sea the shareholdings in the Invicta sugar-mill Islands were so cruelly exploited. Spurious at Giru, or in the Haughton Sugar Mill Pty. explanations were given about the way in Ltd. Amalgamated Sugar Mills is owned which it was carried out. On many occasions by the Sir Denys Lowson Trusts of the C.S.R. imported Chinese labour in order to united Kingdom. If we try to examine the break the spirit of Australian workers, who tie-up there, it becomes so complicated with were trying to get a better deal. That is all the various trusts and companies that it is how the fortune of the C.S.R. Company was extremely confusing and difficult, even for built. the purchasers, to work out who owns what. Then, with the invention of farm imple­ This was admitted by C.S.R. ments which proved to be more productive than kanaka labour, C.S.R. decided to look Australian Estates, as well as owning the elsewhere. Its operations were extended to sugar-mills, is a major property owner in Fiji-and what happened there? Coolie Australia. Let me detail some of its interests. labour was imported from India. because It conducts wool-braking operations at Mel­ that was cheaper than the local Fijian bourne, Portland (in Victoria) and Brisbane. labour. That is how most of the Indians In recent years it averaged about 200,000 came to be in Fiji. bales a year. Some of our western members C.S.R. realised that it could control the will appreciate that that is no small figure sugar-mills through its refineries, which is in the wool industry. It operates over 50 exactly what happened. As the industry in stock and station agency branches in Victoria, Australia grew to a stage of self -sufficiency, Queensland, New South Wales and South C.S.R. realised that it could control the Australia, which deal in property merchan­ balance of the industry by becoming the dise, livestock, insurance, etc. As pastoralists exporting agent. It felt in the earlier part the group runs about 160,000 head of sheep of the century that through its selling agencies and 190,000 head of cattle, in Queensland, it could control the sugar industry without New South Wales and the Northern Territory. having to run the risk of the fluctuations This gives an idea of the vast extent of the inherent in growing sugar-cane. C.S.R.'s operations of the company. The last figures plantations were split up and many of th_e I was able to find, which relate to 1972 mills sold. The company kept what It indicate that Australian Estates had a~ considered at that time to be its best mills. annual turnover of about $162,000,000. However, over the last 30 or 40 years there Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply 283

~ave been tremendous changes in the sugar I mention the Proserpine Mill especially. mdustry. The change commenced with the The Minister for Mines and Energy, who Sugar Acquisition Act of 1915. From that was chairman of directors of that mill for time till the 1930's there followed the sup­ port of the Labor Government to help farmers a time, would admit that he would not dare control their own industries. Those moves get up in Proserpine and advocate that that were a credit to the members of this House mill, which has grower control within its at that time. own area, be sold off to a company like C.S.R. Ltd. The Mackay and Burdekin areas, which at that time were considered to be very poor The amalgamation of mills into co­ sugar-growing areas, have now become the operatives has resulted in the continuing best in the State. In those days the farmers prosperity and progress of the sugar industry. were struggling in this high-cost industry; The industry had become stabilised and so C.S.R. sold out its mills in Mackay then, suddenly, within the past three years and other areas. However, the industry has we have witnessed a changing trend in stabilised its development over that period mill-ownership. This has been brought about and many of the small mills were amal­ by some of the smarties who realise that gamated into central mills, which had finan­ cial backing from the Queensland Govern­ the Central Sugar Cane Prices Board has no ment. On many occasions the Queensland control over the sale of mills. This has Government actually purchased the mills. led to take-overs of mills in this State. I refer to an answer I received to a question Mr. Lowes: You'll get back. I asked the other day of the Acting Minister for Primary Industries. He confirmed that Mr. CASEY: If the honourable member the change in ownership of a sugar mill for Brisbane would show some interest and does not require approval in the same way listen carefully, he would discover that the as the transfer of cane assignments. sugar industry is the strongest agricultural industry in Australia today. If he examines Peaks are issued to mills by the Central the structure of the industry he will realise Sugar Cane Prices Board and are then dis­ that its strength lies in the fact that the tributed in accordance with mill area schemes. industry is subject to the strongest rural It is most important that legislative provision legislative controls. It could be said that should be introduced urgently to bring it is probably the most nationalised or changes in the ownership of mills under socialised industry in Australia. That, indeed, the control of the Central board. has been the measure of its success. Even five or 10 years ago I do not think Small mills were amalgamated into central anybody in this House would have thought sugar-mills. I might add that all of the these circumstances could have arisen. But farmers in this State, through the Queens­ it has occurred. First of all, the Wallaville land Cane Growers' Council, unanimously Mill was taken over by Gibson and Howes. a:;ree with this control, whether they be Then the Bundaberg Sugar Co. was formed Labcr voters, Liberal voters or National as a major company controlling milling in Party voters. Many of these mills were the Bundaberg area and took the mill over financed by the Queensland Government. from Gibson and Howes. This has all Many of them were owned by the Queens­ happened within the past few years. Plane land Government. In a struggling period Creek Mill was changed from a co-operative when sugar prices were very low and it to a company and the company was then was very difficult for mills to continue to sold to Pioneer Sugar Mills. The main operate, the Government ensured that the people who benefited were not the growers farmers were not let down and that the but the major shareholders of the mill. industry kept on moving. Now we have Australian Estates being taken When the mills started to get back on over by C.S.R. Ltd. Those three companies their feet, the Government turned them over between them-the Bundaberg Sugar Co., to the farmers themselves as co-operatives. Pioneer Sugar Mills and C.S.R. Ltd.-now In my own area, six of tf!e eight mills are control just on 50 per cent of Queensland co-operative mills. The strength of the sugar. C.S.R. alone controls just on 30 per sugar industry in the Mackay district is cent. that every penny of profit earned from the There is more to come. We are awaiting industry in that area is poured back into an announcement from the Central Sugar the industry. Cane Prices Board on additional peak assign­ ments in mill areas and how they will be In one seven-year period-from 1924 to distributed. I am waiting to see just what 1931-Babinda, Farleigh, South Johnstone proportion the various C.S.R. mills will get N~Jrth _Eton, Gin Gin, Tully and Proserpin~ out of this deal. As I pointed out before, mills, JUSt to name a few with which many because of its representative membership honourable members are associated, were on the Central board, it already has confi­ made into co-operatives by the Government dential information that is not known to and given to the farmers to control. The any other mills in the area. industry has continued to become stronger since that time. Mr. Doumany interjected. 284 Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply

Mr. CASEY: The honourable member for which it is proposed to establish the first Kurilpa displayed his lack of knowledge bagasse-pulping plant in Queensland. It will of the sugar industry the other day when provide major feed-stock for that plant, he spoke about fertiliser. There were prob­ which again will make that mill far more lems in the sugar industry with fertiliser profitable than it has been. The establish­ supflies until a few years ago, when Austral­ ment of such a plant was another project Pacific entered the field in Queensland. At that C.S.R. tried to knock. The Minister for long last, monopoly control was taken out Industrial Development is not in the House, of the hands of one company. But what but he will recall being in Mackay in 1971 happened? Within a very short time, A.C.F. at a seminar that he organised at which & Shirleys and Austral-Pacific amalgamated C.S.R. representatives tried to knock this to form another major monopoly known as proposal. Fortunately there were others Consolidated Fertilisers Ltd. The farmers sufficiently interested to take up the banner, now have exactly the same trouble, with and it is hoped that within a short time ~he control of the fertiliser industry back this project will be a reality. m the hands of one monopolistic group. If At long last we see what is happening. t~e honourable. member for Kurilpa would The Government has had an opportunity to sit back and hsten, he would learn a little step in and help the farmers of the Kalamia, of what is happening. Pleystowe and Invicta sugar areas to take An examination of the sugar areas of over their mills as a co-operative. There Queensland will reveal that three major water was an opportunity for the Government to development schemes are under way or show whether it was a friend of the farmers contemplated. These will help to guarautee or of C.S.R. Ltd. At the recent Queensland the expansion and consolidation of certain Cane Growers' Council conference representa­ mill areas. They are the three areas in tives of all cane-growing areas unanimously which the three major companies to which supported the proposal that mills for sale I .referred have ~egun to buy. There is the should be made into co-operatives under the K!nchant Dam m the Mackay area, which control of the farmers. There are members will benefit not only the North Eton of this Assembly who were engaged in other co-operative mill but also Amalgamated industries before coming here and who would Sugar Mills' Pleystowe mill. There is the dearly love to have control of those industries Bundaberg scheme, which is of full benefit in their own hands. If control of the beef to the three mill areas under the control industry had been in different hands, it might of t~e Bundaberg . Sugar Company. It is not have reached its present situation. The certamly not helpmg the Isis co-operative wcol industry, with its fluctuations, has been mill at present. in a similar situation at various times. There is also the investigation currently So there was an opportunity for the being made into water development on the Government to assist North Queensland Burdekin and Haughton Rivers, which will farmers to control their own industry. But help the Kalamia, Pioneer and Inkerman what happened? Did it show leadership mills in the Burdekin area, and the Invicta or give support when it was needed? Did mill at Giru. Again it is seen that these it show that it was the friend of C.S.R. companies are obtaining control of the better Ltd., or did it show that it was the friend of areas in which expansion in the sugar indus­ the farmer? I believe that it showed it try must come. It will certainly not come was the friend of C.S.R. Ltd. Could that in the . areas that C.S.R. Ltd. previously have been because C.S.R. Ltd. is a major owned ~n the Far North. Much of it, at contributor to National Party funds? It least, will not go there, because that locality could well be so. Only the Government is limited in area. would know that. So many problems are there in that area The Government cannot say that it did that only 12 months ago the C.S.R. advocate not know what was happening, because stated before the Central Sugar Cane Prices I raised the matter as far back as 26 Board that his company felt that there should September last year, in a question to Hon. not be any expansion of the sugar industry, V. B. Sullivan, the Minister for Primary and that no additional assignments or peaks Industries. His answer then was that he should be given. Fortunately the majority was not aware that these sugar mills were of board members felt that there should be for sale; yet C.S.R. Ltd., which is the an expansion, and since then Queensland has agent of the Queensland Government in been able to supply the market, and also sugar sales thoughout the world, was the additional markets throughout the world. If very company making the offer to the Aust­ C.S.R. had had its way, that would not have ralian Estates Co. Ltd. in London. What happened. Now, 12 months later, not only sort of an agent was that company? It has that company changed its mind; it is was busily looking after its own interests. racing in to buy the best mill areas and C.S.R. Ltd. knew all along what the so expand its own profitability. At that situation was, because on 4 February this time, the company had nowhere else to year the chairman of the company admitted expand. It has now taken over areas in which it can expand. that a number of exchanges took place between the board of Australian Estates Another point I make is that the Pley­ and C.S.R. during the latter part of 1974. stowe mill area is close by the area in These took place at a time when C.S.R., Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply 285

as Queensland Government agent, was in growers, as have previous Governments in possession of information regarding 1974 this State. Even the notorious Moore Gov­ crop sales and possible profits and returns ernment in the early 1930's helped co-opera­ to the shareholders of Australian Estates that tives to take over some sugar-mills, and in was then completely unknown to the board that way continued the policy of previous of Australian Estates and to the shareholders Labor Governments. But not this Govern­ of that company-privy information that it ment! We saw the two representatives of had as agent of the Government because it the 650 growers in the Burdekin and Mackay was making commercial sugar sales through­ areas, cap in hand, walking around London out the world-and it used that information merchant banks trying to get finance. What to exploit the shareholders and the directors was the reaction of the Queensland Govern­ of Australian Estates. As I said before, ment before they went? H said it would "The high cost of putting down opposition" look at any proposition. -the words it used rather than "take-over". Any Government worth its salt would have Of course, the other point was-and this known what the situation was. Any Govern­ is the most important point-that the infor­ ment of a State that is so dependent on the mation that C.S.R. Ltd. had on 1974 sugar sugar industry would have known what was sales was also unknown to the farmers of going on. I do not believe that this one did the Kalamia, Pleystowe and Invicta mill not know what was going on. I believe it areas. I have seen a copy of a circular letter did, but it just stood by. Certainly it dis­ that was sent by C.S.R. Ltd. to shareholders played quite clearly that the State Govern­ of Australian Estates. As I said, most of ment is no friend of the farmers of Queens­ the companies involved are trustee companies land. It is a friend of C.S.R. Ltd. It is to owned in England, and Australian Estates its shame and disgrace that it allowed this is also interested in the cattle industry. take-over of Kalamia, Pleystowe and C.S.R. Ltd. frightened the shareholders by Invicta Mills without stepping into the breach pointing out the slump in cattle prices and assisting the canefarmers of the State. and the slump in general world economic conditions, and it even tried to allege that I wish to move on to another important the Australian Government's ownership con­ matter which, up to this stage, I have not ditions were working against them. The heard discussed in the House. During the shareholders were unfamiliar with what was recess, while we were conducting our elec­ happening in the Australian sugar industry tion campaigns, we received the report of other than that the industry had lost its the Royal Commissions into exploratory and United Kingdom market, which at that production drilling for petroleum in the area stage was its most important market. They of the Great Barrier Reef. The royal com­ were unaware that new contracts were to be mission was established by joint Common­ signed in Asia-with Malaysia and South wealth-State agreement on 5 May 1970. The Korea, and particularly with Japan-but report was presented on 30 October 1974 to C.S.R. Ltd. knew this because it was the the Premier and Prime Minister, but it was commercial agent operating on behalf of the not released until after the House had risen. Queensland Government. For some 4t years that royal commission was active. That was the period from the I believe that the directors and share­ time of its appointment and drafting of its holders of Australian Estates were duped terms of reference until its report was pre­ by C.S.R. into believing that the world-record sented to the House. price of £650 a ton for sugar was being As soon as the commissioners began their reflected in their profits at that time. In hearings it became apparent to them that fact, very little Australian sugar was being throughout the length and breadth of the sold at that price on world markets. They world there was no accurate information were unaware, also, that Australian sugar available on the effects of crude oil on the sales were then secure for at least five years life, life cycle, reproduction and food chains at a very high price because negotiations were of coral organisms, or indeed of any of the being finalised by C.S.R. Ltd. Therefore, animal and marine life that constitutes the they were prepared to accept the offer. delicate balance of reef structures. It was Thus C.S.R. Ltd. maintained its track immediately apparent to them that there was record and purchased for less than a great need for both short and long-term $53.000,000 sugar mills and properties owned scientific experiments and data to determine by the Australian Estates Co. Ltd. that were the effects of oil on coral structures. With­ worth more than $90,000,000. The growers out the relevant information they knew they were not in the hunt, because privileged would be completely unable to give any information was used by C.S.R. Ltd. to get answer at all to term of reference number itself into a position where no-one else 2. For the benefit of those who are unfamiliar could make a share offer of the type with it, term of reference number 2 simply that it was making. stated- One body that should have been informed "What would be the probable effects of was the Queensland Government, because such an oil or gas leak and of the subse­ C.S.R. was its agent. The Government quent remedial measures on- should have known what was going on. It (A) The coral reefs themselves; should have come to the assistance of the (B) The coastline; 286 Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply

(C) The ecological and biological It is essential that the research recom­ aspects of life in the area." mended by the commission be conducted. This research programme is set out quite This is very important to everyone who clearly at page 159 of volume 1 of the lives along the Queensland coastline. Indeed, report. The commission recommends it is very important to the whole of the State research into the full life cycle of reefs on of Queensland. But what happened? Once both short-term and long-term bases. The the commissioners had received a report Queensland Government has the major from a group of scientists whom they had responsibility to see that this research is asked to give them any information they had carried out. As I have said, it should take on this, the chairman wrote to the then the lead. Prime Minister, Mr. Gorton, and our present Premier, Mr. Bjelke-Petersen, request­ Another finding of the commission was ing experiments by C.S.I.R.O. and a deter­ that, if there is commercial drilling on the mination on these things. In June 1971, eight reef, any economic benefits therefrom will months later, they finally got correspondence flow to Queensland more than to any other from Mr. McMahon, who was then Prime part of Austraiia. If we want to share in Minister, and Mr. Bjelke-Petersen, refusing these benefits, we must set an example by to provide information or to allow ensuring that the other conditions set out C.S.,I.R.O. to carry out the required experi­ in the commission's report are complied with. ments. Any further requests were also The Queensland University, the James refused. The reason given in general terms Cook University and the new Griffith Uni­ vvas that C.S.I.R.O. had indicated that versity should be put to work immediately they would be of no real value. on scientific and biological research. Fur­ thermore, the Commonwealth Government If honourable members look at the report should ensure that C.S.I.R.O., through its of the commissioners they will find quite Marine Institute, compiles this technical clearly set out in evidence given by the information and data as quickly as possible. principal research scientists of the Division of Fisheries and Oceanography of C.S.I.R.O. (Time expired.) on 24 June 1971 that C.S.I.R.O. had pro­ Mr. DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr. W. D. posed to both the Prime Minister and the Hewitt): Order! Before calling upon the Premier of Queensland that scientific experi­ honourable member for Everton I remind ments be set up exactly along the lines sug­ the House that he is about to make his gested by the commission, but that no reply maiden speech and I ask that he be accorded was given to this. Almost every technical the usual courtesies. and scientific expert examined by the com­ mission agreed that it would be no good MJ:r. LINDSAY (Everton) (4.23 p.m.): In making any findings at all unless they were rising to make my maiden speech as part of based on long-term properly evaluated the debate on the motion for the adoption scientific research. Notwithstanding that, of the Address in Reply in the 41st Queens­ both the Queensland and the Australian Gov­ lar.d Parliament, I feel that in deference to ernments refused to allow C.S.I.R.O. to my grandfather, the late Queensland Senator enter into it. John Valentine MacDonald (Labor), I should The commission's report contained the first make the point to the Labor 11 that clear finding that there is no great geological they should not feel obliged to remain silent knowledge of reef problems; it is sketchy. during this or any other speech that I make. Seismic surveys have never been made of a Again in deference to my late grandfather, large portion of the reef. I believe that, and because I believe that no man, and cer­ having been furnished with the report, the tainly no party, has a monopoly on truth, the Queensland Governrnent should do a11 in its members of tbe Labor Opposition can be rower to ensure that this scientific data is assured that I will attempt to be a good compiled. The experiments recommended listener to their submissions. ·whilst I will by the commission should be carried out, and often di~agrce with what they say, I am pre­ in this area the Queensland Government pared to fight for their right to say it. should take the lead by having this work To fight for the policies of the democratic­ undertaken as soon as possible. ally elZcted Government of the day is of The other findings of the commi,sion are course not new to me. I refer here to my first oath of allegiance on entry to the of equal importance. The commission found Duntroon Military College and to my subse­ that, although there was a small risk of quent 16 years' service in the defence forces blow-out, there was a grave risk of both of this country. I allude to these experiences chronic and random spills. In fact the because I wish to make it perfectly clear to commission stated that in any oil-drilling on each and every member of this Parliament the Great Barrier Reef chronic and random that I belong with the great mass of Aus­ spills were absolutely certain to occur. The tralians, the silent majority, square in the commission also found that no proper safety middle of the Australian political spectrum. precautions had been laid down. It added that in the light of changing technology the In the short time that I have been involved code of regulations drawn up by the Queens­ politically-! have been a member of the land and Commonwealth Governments was Liberal Party for only the last two years­ totally inadequate. what has shocked me most in the over-all Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply 287 political spectrum is the existence in this, unknown quantity, and "spert", a drip under my own State of Queensland, of fanatics pressure. The facts are that Australians, who espouse the political views of the extreme and particularly we Queenslanders, will this Left or the extreme Right. To those of the year have to cope with the existence of extreme Right I say this- another independent neighbouring power. How "In recent years you have had ample many members of this Assembly, let alone opportunity in Korea, in Malaya, in Borneo how many Queenslanders, have begun to and, more recently, in South Vietnam, to think of the possible consequences? put your courage where your mouth was In this context, knowledge of the past will and combat, as we the Australian fighting tend to govern the usefulness of what is soldiers did, those forces who represented done in the future when the battle for the extreme Left. The fact that none of political power really begins. I do not intend you were there, and that Australians in turning this into a history lesson, but I do recent years have had to be conscripted recommend Peter Hasting's book entitled for such operations indicates the thin veneer "New Guinea-Problems and Prospects", of Right-wing support in this country." which the Parliamentary Library has obtained The mandate given to my Government by at my request. It provides up-to-date back­ my fellow Queenslanders of 7 December last ground essential to informative debate on indicated their distaste for that once great the Queensland border issue, which almost party, which my late grandfather helped to certainly will become a major issue during forge, that is now domina·ted and controlled the life of this Parliament. by those of the extreme Left. My background in the area was my three I see this speech not as an attempt to years as a soldier with the Pacific Islands show the members of this House how well Regiment and associated long-range patrols I have been able to adapt to my new in the Sepik and Fly Rivers and along the environment but rather firstly to implement border, mapping crossing places with West a two-way dialogue with the 14,000 Queens­ Irian. What does "Irian" mean? It only landers who live, work and play in the means "the hot country". I am therefore Everton electorate. I say to them that I talking about the western part of the hot have a moral obligation as their democratic­ country. I was also involved with boat ally elected representative to do the best patrols along the Queensland border in the I can for them. I am pleased that I have Boigu and Saibai Island areas. been elected to the five parliamentary com­ Presently there is considerable feeling with­ mittees of education, transport, police, lands in Papua New Guinea that there should be and Aboriginal affairs. There is much that no independence until its Constitution is needs to be done in these areas in Everton. properly written and accepted. This delay in independence has given time for problem On the other hand, I point out to the areas to develop. The main problem as I people of Everton that they, in their turn, see it is Miss Abaijah and her Papuan Besena have an obligation to me. As the first Movement. This "Papua for the Papuans" Liberal ever to be elected from the area, Party is very well organised and contains I depend on them to let me know their cells in most towns and villages throughout views, not only as many are doing now, Papua. The organisation is certainly becom­ but throughout the entire three years. The ing a force to be reckoned with and has Everton Electoral Office at 5 Sizer Street, recently won support from the Port Moresby Everton Park, belongs to aH taxpayers of City Council. Papuan dissidents plan a the electorate. It is not a party political unilateral declaration of independence for office. There are no political party signs on next Sunday, 16 March 1975. the front door as was the case prior to my Australia has undertaken to largely fund election. As far as I am concerned, people the Papuan New Guinea Defence Force come to the Everton Electoral Office as beyond the date of full sovereignty, pre­ fellow human beings. I have the obligation sumably to help give Australia some leverage to do the best I can for each and every in future defence arrangements. It is pro­ one of them regardless of party or whom posed also to have Australians seconded to they may or may not vote for in subsequent all three branches of the joint Papua New elections. It is an obligation that I intend Guinea Defence Force. Australians will to honour. have a degree of control, therefore, par­ As a recently elected member of this ticularly through the air transport wing on House, Mr. Deputy Speaker, I intend also which the army depends for its movements. to take the opportunity to speak from Our Federal Labor Government has indi­ experience and tell honourable members what cated that after independence Australian an outsider-whilst I am still in that category assistance will continue to be made available -thinks. I intend to comment on Papua only to a Government of a united Papua New Guinea, education, law and order and New Guinea and not to any separatist move­ my own attitudes generally. ment or even any de facto separatist Govern­ I am not an expert on Papua New Guinea, ment. For this reason I believe the "Papua although I fancy that anyone who stated for the Paouans" Movement will make a that he was a Papuan New Guinea expert major sho~ of force before independence, could be considered in terms of "X", the not after-and that means soon! A further 288 Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply

point is that it would be very difficult for service aircraft, Sir Reginald Ansett's fleet the Federal Government to resist demands and T.A.A. I understand there are conting­ for military assistance that the Papua New ency plans for this, as long as it does not Guinea Defence Force is bound to make happen on week-ends or public holidays. In when confronted with the serious challenge my opinion it is most likely to be required of a secessionist or revolutionary movement. on a Friday night after the hotels close, which is why so many expatriates aware of Australian military intervention after their lack of security have already left the independence would seem possible as a result country. Under existing arrangements, I of- fear for the minority groups. My view is (a) Secession by- that secessionism will be accelerated by the (1) Papua, as already mentioned; formal withdrawal of Australian authority. (2) Bougainville; The decrree to which Australia becomes (3) New Britain and the Tolai people involved"' will depend on the political view of of the Gazelle Peninsula. the strategic significance of Papua New (b) Indonesian expansion by­ Guinea to Australia. (1) Border violations; Military intervention by Australia could (2) Infiltration; probably result from- (a) Pressure by po:verful ~co!lomic (3) Overt agression against East Irian interests such as C.R.A. m Bougamv1lle or (the east side of the "hot country"). Exoil in the Torres Strait-Queensland (c) Atrocities against the European or border area. Asiatic population either before or just (b) An outdated defence strategy with after independence in Papua New its deeply held conviction by Australians Guinea. that Papua New Guinea is f_l key domino (d) Border disturbances along the in forward defence, a spnng-board for Queensland border on Queensland action in South-East Asia and a convenient islands such as Boigu and Saibai-and trip-wire and last line in defence in the this is where we in this House are event of a southward thrust by China, affected. These could include- J anan or Indonesia . Cl) Mass migrations of Papuans from .(c) Politicians with experience in World the mainland in fear of the New Guinean War II but who have not adjusted to majority. technological advance in weapon delivery (2) Outbreak of disease amongst systems and who ~ay b~ . reinforced by humans or animals as a result of lower an ill-informed public opmwn. standards of public health which may For those of us who took part in military occur after independence. I understand operations in Asia in !he 196~'s, the .lesson last year foot and mouth disease moved was the futility and mdeed 1mmorallty of east to the island of Bali. (It is of military intervention as a means of stabilising interest that the furthest movement of a neo-colonial relationship with politically and Hinduism east is to Bali, also-another economically unstable neighbours. Particularly story that we could perhaps discuss is this the case when it is realised that we had another day.) The suns rays kill the to conscript our own men for the purpose. virus and prevent transmission of the Prior to Papua New Guinea's gaining inde­ disease through the air in the tropics. pendence, Queensland would be best advised, Foot and mouth disease is transmitted I believe, to withdraw her northern border from animal to animal in this area. to lOoS latitude and make arrangements to Australia has been protected to date by resettle those of the 1,500 Torres Strait isolation; but, once the deer and wal­ Islanders involved who care to move. Social labies in the Bensback-Morehead River service arrangements, hopefully, could be areas of West Papua contract the disease, made with the Papua New Guinea Govern­ we conld have problems along our exist­ ment for those who care to remain. Papua ing Queensland border, and indeed New Guinea no doubt would appreciate this throughout Australia. foreign capital. There is already an Islanders' (3) Arguments over fishing or oil resettlement scheme at Bamaga on Cape exploration rights. York. If we don't resettle them, who is (4) Attacks by Indonesians or Papua going to protect them and with what? Surely New Guineans on Torres Strait Islanders. to God we have sacrificed enough men of Australia's capacity to attempt anything more Australia in the swamps of Asia. in Papua New Guinea at the moment than My last point in re~ation to Papua N~w the rescue of our nationals is very limited. Guinea is its trade-umon movement, wh1ch Presently Australia could put only an under­ is undoubtedly going to have a powerful strength task force into the field and, on say in the future. It is unfo!tunate t~at its own, would be incapable of protracted it has the example of Austraha so eas1ly operations in Papua New Guinea without and readily at hand to follow. Already re-introducing conscription. Probably the it has some groups, even university students, best we could do would be a mass evacuation flexing their muscles and striking for higher of our nationals, as in the recent Darwin wages. It will require a very fine balance operation, involving our one and only air­ to appease both union members and private craft carrier, our few dozen helicopters and enterprise as to what is a fair wage for Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply 289 a fair day's work. It is to be hoped that "whizz kids" in our society. This "demo­ union bosses will not price the worker out cratisation of education" is reducing all of employment as they have done already students and schools, whatever their abilities, in Australia. to the one predetermined level of achieve­ In education, as in everything else, a little ment. knowledge is often dangerous. My basic Another irritant in our present system of points are: Firstly, that a teacher's role secondary education in Queensland is the should, I believe, go beyond helping students situation under which students are graded by to acquire knowledge. The main purpose of criteria of excellence which depend upon our schools is to educate students so they their teacher's own summation. In effect, the can live successfully and happily in the teacher determines what will be taught, and democratic society that they are expected how it will be done. He sets the textbooks, to shape and maintain. Secondly, that we and grades the results. He is therefore at cannot separate the learning experience from once judge, jury and executioner. Obvious the formation of character. The highest dangers result from this, but by far the purposes of a teacher's calling are achieved worst is the possible alienation of the tradi­ not by what he says, nor yet by what he tional teacher-pupil relationship. Another does, but by what he is. cause of concern with the Radford scheme is the frequent decline in students' work It is a matter of great concern to me under the progressive assessment system, that the increasing secularisation of educa­ either because they have achieved their num­ tion in this State of ours has produced ber of points or because they have no hope. what one may term an anti-religious bias. Where religious instruction now takes place Finally, with regard to education, children at all, it is often treated as a mere appendage of today are living in a time of technological of no consequence. This is not to deny revolution. They are constantly bombarded the value-the necessity!-of the progress by pervasive and sophisticated mass media. of secular knowledge, yet an educational This is all the more so now that television system devoted to technical excellence with­ is in colour. Improved standards of physio­ out an adequate moral code can lead, and logical health now mean that typical young has already led, in our lifetime, to a situation people experience an accelerated bodily where products of that system are able to growth and achieve earlier sexual maturation hold in high esteem the scientific magnificence than in previous decades. If we accept that of a gas chamber. If we lose sight of people are now mature enough to vote, drink, those principles which imbue concern for bet and drive at 18, it seems reasonable that others and fail to instil them in the young, those who seek to leave school at 14 should then one of the fundamental props of our be allowed to do so, provided parents and society will decay, and this is happening headmaster consider it advisable. Presently now. in our schools we are holding an army of non-achievers in the 14-15 age bracket who I question the wisdom of importing the are acquiring few abilities other than the North American culture into our future tendency to resist authority. These children society per medium of young Canadian and are both inflationary in terms of cost effect­ American teachers on secondment. I question ivesness with regard to the wastages in allo­ the monopoly American publications have cation of teachers and resources and dis­ on the shelves of our teacher-training lib­ ruptive in terms of their effect on the actual raries. I believe we need as talented and as students. Not all need, or want, to be widely selected a staff at our teacher-training trained for academic pursuits. If the 18- colleges as possible. Some staff members year-old of today is capable of voting, then should, and must, be Asian, some Central the 15-year-old of today is equal to the 18- European, and all should be widely travelled year-old of previous years, and should be and experienced. Not all need to have had treated as such. long years in classrooms. We, as the poli­ tical leaders of our society, need to support What is the headline in today's newsp

I shall look generally at the problem of of saccharine, another artificial sweetener, are the things that today's society adds to the now booming, but laboratory tests give reason food that we eat. to fear that it, also, may cause tumors. It is estimated that there are over 2,500 I refer to what I said earlier, namely, food additives (1,610 artificial flourings, 34 that the tests which have been carried out artificial colourings, 3 3 preservatives, 111 are few and are based on consumption at emulsifiers, 24 bleaching and maturing agents, the normal rate. I also emphasise that many 60 buffers, acids and alkalies, 39 stabilisers people in the community, particularly the and thickeners, 28 antioxidents, 45 seques­ young, are prone to excesses. There is a trants, three artificial sweeteners and 117 tendency to create a disease situation from synthetic nutritive supplements to replace what all sorts of subclinical conditions, which are processing takes out of the food that we almost certainly occurring as a result of it. eat), less than half of which have been thoroughly tested for their effects on human Safrole, the artificial flavouring in root beings. Marvin Legator, chief bio--chemist beer, was banned when it was proven to be at the U.S.A. Food and Drug Administration a cancer-inducing agent. M.S.G. was found (F.D.A.) warns, "We never know for sure to be a source of brain tumors in mice. whether additives are safe or not." He also Artificial soft-drink flavourings, brominated said- vegetable oils (B.V.O.) formed by stabilising "Long-terrn usage of additives can in no artificial flavourings in vegetable oils with way be rated with safety. We have so a process using bromine, have been found many cases of common disease like mental by the Canadian Food and Drug Directorate retardation and cancer, for which we can't -the official agency there-to cause the account through epidemiological studies, for following damage to rats: liver, heart, kidney which we can't find a cause and effect." and spleen damage, growth retardation, impaired food utilisation, anaemia, thyroid Geneticists, Nobel laureate Dr. Joshua Leder­ hyperplasia, and arrested testicular develop­ berg at Stanford and Bruce Ames at the ment. F.D.A. banned the use of B.V.O. in University of California are concerned about 1970-Sweden totally banned it in 1968- the effects synthetic food additives might but has since capitulated because the Flavour be having on our genes. Mutations may rake Extracts Manufacturers Association-it is a generations to show up, when it might be very strong lobbyist throughout the world­ too late to do anything about correcting complained that it was not satisfied with the them. Canadian experiments and would carry out its own. In the meantime the argument drags Many additives have been found to be definitely harmful, many are suspect, and the on, and consumers are still drinking the brominated vegetable oils. rest, in my view, are therefore open to question. F.D.A. has found it necessary to Sodium nitrite and nitrate have been found remove cenain additives from its G.R.A.S. to cause cancer and gene mutations. These (generally recognised as safe) list when labora­ chemicals are used as an artificial colour tory experiments have proven them to be fixative in meat (they prevent the haemo­ detrimental to human health. globin in blood turning brown) and a pre­ I shall now examine some of the detrimental servative for smoked fish. If only people effects of some additives. Cyclamate, an realised the dangers of nitrites, they would artificial sweetener, was known to be danger­ demand safe, brown meat in preference to ous as far back as 1950, but because of that which is artificially coloured. the strong influence and lobbying my manu­ The antioxidants BHA and BHT have been facturers and chemical firms wanting to retain found to cause tumours and liver enlarge­ its use, it is only recently that it has been ment in rats. Breakfast cereals, packaged banned in America. Our authorities still sliced bread and packaged fatty foods con· permit it to be used in Australia. It seems tain these additives. Britain has now that an additive has definitely to be proved restricted their use and completely banned harmful before it is banned rather than them from food for babies and young that it has to be proved safe before it children; but, because some of the tests have can be used. In my view, that is the wrong not been conclusive, the F.D.A. has taken approach. the passive way out, rather than stand up to Cyclamates were found to cause tumors the big manufacturers, and permits anti­ in rats' lungs, kidneys, skin, uterus and oxidants to remain in use. They have not bladder. The U.S. soft-drink manufacturers been proved to be positively harmful. bowed to public concern and ceased to use Neither have they been proved to be posi­ cyclamates to sweeten their drinks. It was tively harmless. It is the consumers in this the adverse publicity that forced them to country about whom I am most interested. do this, certainly not any high ideals about Mr. Banson: Can you stand up to them? public health. In fact, so as not to incur any financial losses in the policy and recipe Mr. AHERN: I can stand up to them. I change, the supplies of drinks on hand con­ am just wondering about the honourable taining cyclamates were dumped on foreign member for Port Curtis. Can he stand up to --and presumably ignorant-markets. Sales all these things that he is obviously eating? Address in Reply (13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply 293

Preservatives, sodium benzoate (one of the " 'This disconcerting situation is aggra­ most commonly used preservatives in this vated by the observation that many addi­ country) and benzoic acid, which are used tional chemicals, some of which are incor­ in margarine, fish, confections, jams, jellies, porated into consumer goods, including and soft drinks, have been suspect for years. foodstuffs, elicit cancers in experimental The F.A.O./W.H.O. committee on food animals when introduced in proper additives reports that in experiments benzoate amounts and under suitable conditions. caused death in rats after convulsions, Although at present no evidence is avail­ hyperexcitability, urinary incontinence and weight loss. Benzoic acid reduced survival able that they have done so in man, they rate and possibly contributed to cancer. As must be suspected. . . . a result of these reports, the State of Wis­ " 'These observations and considerations consin banned their use completely, but once indicate that an uncontrolled introduction more the F.D.A. adopted a don't-rock-the­ and an indiscriminate use of chemical food boat attitude and did nothing. Honourable additives create or may create cancer members may have the thought that car­ hazards to the human population.' " cinogens are ingested in only small amounts with the result that the situation is not When this type of scientific information harmful. However, a tremendous amount of and opinion is being dispersed by these information is available which indicates that people throughout the world, it is high time even in small amounts these compounds can­ we took more than a defensive and soft­ not be trusted. I shall now quote from a line attitude towards these matters. I am cancer expert, Dr. W. C. Hueper, retired certain that we must take a harder look chief of the environmental cancer section of at this general problem, stand up to the the National Cancer Institute of the U.S.A. situation and take action along the lines I He doubts if there is any such thing as have suggested. a safe dose of a carcinogenic chemical added Many synthetic colourings have been to food. He declared- banned because they are cancer-inducing and "There is no scientifically vaHd and those still in use are suspect. "Artificial practical method available for determining colours are very suspicious", warns Dr. a safe dose of carcinogens for humans. Lederberg, who says their molecular struc­ In fact, science has failed so far to estab­ tures look like potent carcinogens. F.D.A. laboratory tests show that skin tumours lish a safe dose for any of the many and ulcers form on rats. Kaiser hospitals recognised environmental carcinogens, in California have had numerous patients although knowledge of such a dose would with artificial-colour-caused asthmatic and be of the most practical importance to other allergic reactions. Without any question industry and public health agencies." at all, clinical cases have been definitely A safe dose depends on how good the proven. body's defen~ive mechanisms are working. Other dyes are causing direct concern. This no doubt would vary widely and would FD&C Red No. 2, which causes cancer be directly connected to diet. Dr. Heuper in mice, was banned, but is still in use stated years ago, "We p.ave to consider . the because the maraschino cherry lobbyists con­ fact that materials which may be carcmo­ vinced the F.D.A. that on-one would want genic are ingested for our entire lifetime." to eat more than one or two such cherries He concluded, "I suppose that it would be at a time. It is rather frightening when the a wise precautionary measure no~ to add any story is heard, because it all adds up. chemicals to our food supply which produced cancer in either man or in experiJ?entl?-1 I am in possession of some correspondence animals." That is what we are domg m this from Lady Cilento, who would be known country in relation to a great number of our to several honourable members. When told processed foods-and more and more as the of the problem confronting the passion-fruit years go by. industry, she had this to say, and I am sure she would not mind my quoting it- According to "The Plain Truth" maga­ "The other concern is for the health of zine- children and those who are using passion­ "This advice has not been absolutely fruit products. It has now been shown by followed. Is there any connection between a number of doctors in America and this fact and the soaring numbers of cancer Dr. Finegold of the Kaiser Foundation cases in modern technological societies? in San Francisco that the additives and preservatives, particularly those which con­ "Dr. Hueper declared, in Congressional tain salicylate and the dyes, particularly hearings in 1957, 'It is thus a well estab­ the Yellow 5, which would certainly be lished fact that an appreciable and grow­ in synthetic passion-fruit products, are most ing number of chemicals, of which a few deleterious to the health of children and are known to enter the human food sup­ are often the cause of overactivity, lack ply, are capable of causing and ~~ cause of concentration and slow learning and cancer in man under proper conditiOns of also of the allergies to which so many exposure. children are prone. 294 Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply

"The National Health Foundation of In the Food and Drug Administration tests America and its counterpart in Australia­ so far conducted on these, half caused National Health Federation-is most con­ retarded growth in rats, increased mortality cerned about these things and has quite rate, degenerated heart muscle and decayed a lot of specific information about these liver tissue. Kaiser hospitals have also synthetic fruit flavourings." treated humans for allergies caused by arti­ This is the situation in Australia today. ficial flavourings. Such artificial flavourings There is a lot of concern but not enough are used extensively throughout Queensland action on the whole question. It is a problem in almost all carbonated beverages, and cer­ that requires urgent action, I submit, along tainly will be in Passiona products if Cottees the lines I have suggested. get their way, and unless this Legislature takes certain action. These were in all the Conditioners and bleaches such as hydro­ drinks that I mentioned back in 1970, and gen, benzoyl and acetone peroxides, chlorine Queenslanders have been drinking all this dioxide, nitrogen oxide and nitroxyl chloride junk for the last four years. This is not may have mutagenic effects. good enough. Whilst this is happening, An Honourable Member interjected. horticultural industries are in trouble because their good, natural products, well proven Mr. AHERN: I am deliberately spelling out to be of value to man, are being replaced the complexity of the csmpletely artificial by these ersatz products. substances now being ingested by our human Methylcellulose, an all-purpose thickener bodies. I am trying to make honourable used in imitation jams, jellies, beverages, members understand the absolute plethora desserts, toppings, and low-calorie diet foods, of completely unnatural matters that are causes arterial lesions, hardening and thicken­ now being ingested by our bodies, and at ing of the arteries, and a high incidence of an increasing level. heart attacks in rabbits. Propylene glycol, We are wiping out whole industries and which retains the moisture in ice-cream, replacing natural nutrients with dye candies, toppings and icings, baked goods, Yellow 5 which would appear to be a shredded coconut, and meat, has been found carcinogen-a cancer-producing agent. We by food and cosmetic toxicology to cause are closing down industries based on wonder­ limb malformation in chicken embryos. ful natural foodstuffs in South-east Queens­ Modified food starch used to thicken land and replacing them with what? Possibly, gravies and pie fillings may complicate gas­ and almost certainly in my view of the tro-intestinal troubles and be harmful to the facts I have presented, with a health hazard. very old and young, warns F.A.O. Have It is not good enough. any tests been carried out on the very old It is up to this Legislature. If we do and the very young? Are they adequate? not take this action nobody in this country Have they been sufficiently long term? Of will unless it is the Federal authorities, who course not! Most of the additives would are always trying to take things over. It probably be passed out through the body is the responsibility of the State Government in waste matter; but the use of emulsifiers in to act. I hope I am alarming the House food causes them to be assimilated by the with the complexity of the products that are body more readily. This is the interaction now being ingested by the average human factor that I was talking about. body, even in our own Parliamentary Laboratory tests so far undertaken have Refreshment Rooms. been conducted on animals of a monogastric If bleach changes the colour of flour, nature, like human beings. This is the type it will certainly produce other chemical of scientific testing that it has been pos­ alterations, according to Dr. Lederberg. sible to do over the years, because the Chlorine reacts adversely with DNA in micro­ results of tests on monogastric animals are organisms, therefore possibly in human cells almost certainly reproduced in the results also. With that type of evidence, the DNA of tests on human beings. molecule being the basis of all human life, I now deal with the most classic case is there not cause for concern when a lead­ of them all-bread, the broken staff of life. ing scientist in the Food and Drug Adminis­ Most processed foods have a number of tration of the United States expresses such additives included, and usually much of the a scientific view? Is there not cause for natural nutritional content is removed or alarm? I think there is. destroyed during processing. Bread made All these additives are in flour used in from refined flour is a classic example of bread-making. Potassium bromate, an this. Bread was, in ancient times, regarded ingredient of many flours, has caused poison­ as a staple food. The end product was ing outbreaks in South Africa. Potassium indeed nutritious. Sadly, that is not the and ammonium persulphates, used as flour case today. As time went by, some strengtheners, have been proven to cause unenlightened soul decided that white or dermatitis in bakers. Dangerous nitrate also "pure" flour would be a more desirable pro­ forms in the flour products. duct. It was more costly to produce, so only wealthy classes could afford it, and President Nixon's nutritional adviser, Dr. to eat wholemeal bread became a sign of Jean Mayer of Howard University, is greatly poverty. To obtain this white flour, the concerned over the use of artificial flavours. outer layers of the grain-the bran and Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply 295 the germ-were removed by sifting. It is calcium propionate, sodium diacetate, bra­ from these parts that the main nourish­ mates, persulphates, acid calcium phosphate, ment of the grain is obtained. The remain­ ammonium chloride, fungal amylases, bac­ ing 87 per cent of the grain-the inner terial proteases, are added to disguise the section called the endosperm-is the source age of the bread. All of these are added of the while flour and is almost pure starch, to make one unhealthy loaf of bread. the only nutritive value of which is an over­ I have placed quite a lot of technical abundance of fattening calories. information before honourable members, but Mr. Mooce: So the animals became it should now be clear that it is easy to healthy and the people died. substantiate that a tremendous number of completely unnatural substances-some of Mr. AHERN: That is the idea. There them tested; some of them untested-are is no doubt that the animals were much placed in processed food as a result of better fed than the human beings. improved technology. They are causing The bran and germ contain Vitamins general concern in the community, and I Bl, B2, B3, B6, A, D and E, think that some action should be taken to folic acid, pantothenic acid, chromium, overcome the problem. chlorine, manganese, selenium, zinc, On the other hand, there has been devel­ iron, cobalt, calcium, sodium, potas- oped in Australia, since the days of Captain sium, magnesium, and phosphorus. These Cook, a primary industry that has created a elements are all important to healthy tissue great variety of good natural products that building and body functioning and their lack do not require any nonsensical synthesising causes ill effects, for example, heart attack, of compounds totally alien to the natural and diabetic patients are generally deficient system, and nature certainly has a patent in chromium. When experimental animals on these formulations. Without any question, were deprived of this element, the inner walls these things should not be thrown on the of their blood vessels became thick with fatty scrap-heap in the interests of yellow dye. deposits which clogged the arteries, suggest­ What is this doing to the health of the ing that this could possibly be one of the nation? There is certainly cause for con­ factors relating to heart attacks. cern. All it is doing, I suggest, is making the position of the processer and the big So far, I have discussed the removal of manufacturer more competitive. He can nutrients from the flour; but to enable it make more money out of it. He can afford to be made into bread, many additives are to advertise it more as a health product. now thrown in for good measure. The flour It must be a great paradox to honourable is artificially aged by the use of chemicals. members to know that what are advertised Nitrogen trichloride was once used, but as health products are the very ones I have caused some eye disorders and fits in dogs. been referring to. The manufacturers of those Chlorine dioxide is now used and bleaches, products can afford to spend money in advert­ ages, and preserves the flour; it also destroys ising those so-called health products. In some of the remaining nutriment. The flour fact they are the very opposite to health has to be conditioned by use of calcium products. stearyl-2-lactylate and sodium stearyl fum­ erate for easier handling in machine pro­ Nature has a certain patent which has been duction. Softeners and emulsifiers such as developed over many years. It is something lecithin, palyoxyethylene monostearate, we should foster. We should be asking stearyl tartrate, or partial glycerol esters are people to eat plenty of natural foods. We added. have plenty of them. We have an abundance of them throughout South-east Queensland. Mr. Frawley interjected. People are employed in their production. We know the agronomy of those commodities. Mr. AHERN: I know that the honour­ They provide decentralisation. Those people able member would not fully understand what I am talking about, but I do want him are happy and living a good form of life. Surely this is the way nature intended us to understand the complexity of the com­ pletely artificial products that are finding to be, healthy and strong. It is a good their way into his stomach. He sees himself society. This is what we should do. as a thrower of the javelin. I suggest that It remains for us to take certain action. many of the problems to which I am refer­ What I ask is that this Parliament set a ring could be impeding his performance. standard. It seems to me that the best way of going about it is to create a pure foods Bakers add chemical stale-inhibitors includ­ council as the means to the end. ing mono and di-glycerides, di-acetytartaric Mr. Hanson: What about banning insec­ acid esters of mono and di-glycerides, so ticides? that no matter how long the bread actually sits on the grocery shelf or how far it has Mr. AHERN: Perhaps that is another to travel, it always looks fresh. Ironically, issue. If insecticides are going into food it is it is the reduction of the protein content something that the pure foods council could that speeds staling, according to Dr. Stig look at. What I am asking is that the R. Erlander and Leatrice C. Erlander. Queensland Parliament set up a watch-dog on Mould and rope inhi':litors and preservatives, which consumers and consumers' rights would 296 Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply be directly represented. Matters could be that are carried on in my area. In referred to that body, particularly advertise­ addition, tourism is important, as are light ments. The manufacturers of the products se~ondary ~ndustries, which at present are to which I have been referring will be the ahgned mamly to the construction industry. first to be found guilty of misleading adver­ tising. Their foodstuffs are highly processed . The . developmen~ ~nd encouragement of and low in all of the good, natural products mdustnal estates Withm planned zoning pro­ of the land. Their foodstuffs are the ones cedures will provide further employment and they can afford to promote more. They are prosperity and at the same time the means promoted on television to young people as for families to live and work in their loved being the health foods of the nation. That secure and familiar habitat. They will b~ is exactly what they are not. That is what abl~ to live in health, happiness and pros­ this council could look at. penty, removed from the pollution and unhealthy ways of city life. Mr. Moore: Misleading advertising. Yes, the potential is there, right in my Mr. AHERN: There is just no question electorate of Cooroora. To bring the about it. The council could have independent potential to fruition requires careful planning studies carried out, if necessary. There are and research as well as the closest independent industrial chemists in Queensland co-operation between citizen and govern­ who do that type of work. The council ment. We face the challenge of showing could submit an annual report to Parliament. the world how good and just democratic I am sure the council would agree that the government really works, with free enter­ plethora of fine, natural foods that we have prise of ideas and the peaceful and honour­ worked to create in this State- over many able expression of differences, with the goal years ought to be preserved for the use o~ common interest and determination, and of future generations. Certainly it is a wtth the endeavour to work together con­ subject of great public concern today. I know structively. Man and his elected government of no issue today that causes parents greater can work together for the well-being and person.al_ worry than whether the food they security of the people. are givmg to young people is nutritious. Planning of both present and future needs Often it is not. has to be done to lay the foundations for I am afraid that our food and drug future generations. Cooroora can be com­ r~gul~tions have not kept pace with the pared with a beautiful chrysalis· it is situatiOn; 'Ye have looked too defensively relatively untouched and unspoil~d, yet at the :ntu~twn and said, "Let us prove that capable of wonderful growth. We are able somethmg IS wrong with this product before to study and to learn from the monumental we ban it" rather than ask the manufacturers mistakes that have been made in areas to prove it is actually safe. A wealth of developed earlier, thereby avoiding the mon­ evidence has been produced to the House strosities of uncontrolled and pollutant indus­ today in this respect. The answer is not in tries, of garish architecture and of abuse of any one independent action or an amendment nature's wonderland. to one food and drug regulation. The answer It is of utmost importance that the already is that we nail our colours to the mast. fine network of primary and secondary Let us set a standard and appoint a pure schools in Cooroora be further improved ~oo;Is cou~cil or some like statutory organ­ and consolidated. This can be achieved by Isatio~ which can be a standing watch-dog the careful and judicious establishment of and, tf necessary, take action in the interests more kindergartens and more pre-schools in of. the consumers of Queensland and the a vigorous and united community. Nambour, pnmary producers of the State. with a population of 7,000, is still without (Time expired.) a pre-school, but we are working hard in that direction. . Mr. SIMPSON (Cooroora) (5.30 p.m.): It It is also our aim to achieve Govern­ gtves me great pleasure to support the ment involvement in the establishment of motion so ably moved and seconded by a technical college, an agricultural college the honourable member for Mourilyan and and a university in our electorate. Last the honourable member for Salisbury. but not least, the encouragement and develop­ As the member for Cooroora I am ment of further medical facilities and the privileged to represent what must' be the establishment of improved teaching hospitals most beautiful part of Australia, if not the is another of our goals. We are also trying world. In Cooroora we have the meeting to create a better awareness of the of mountains, rivers and sea, of forest and apprenticeship system allied to local industry. plain, and of country and urban living. All The fact that many of the electorate's this is within a very short distance of wonderful young people are forced to leave Brisbane. their homes to seek education and employ­ The potential is there for a wide variety ment elsewhere causes grief to their parents. of industry, both primary and secondary. The children go to places where the environ­ Market gardening, grazing, fruit-growing, ment is not as pleasant as in Cooroora and dairying, fishing, cane-growing and forestry where the educational gain is offset by are only a few of the primary industries certain disadvantages. Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply 297

Mr. MELLOY: Mr. Deputy Speaker, I tragically broke. The farmers are caught rise to a point of order. I draw your between pressure groups. Partly through attention to the state of the House. lack of public understanding, partly through (Quorum formed.) jealous attacks by those who believe that working, saving and property ownership are Mr. SIMPSON: Many parents are grieved some sort of sin, the farmers of Australia that their children have to go away to are in a parlous position. school. Family life is precious to my electors and it is the quality of this life, above all, It has always been the aim of certain that sets Cooroora already far above the so­ political forces to push the farmer down. called developed world. This family basis is One force believes in keeping him down essential to the education and well-being of to supply food on the cheap, regardless of a community. fairness and justice, and the other force In my area we are privileged to have would keep the farmer down in order to surfing, yachting, water-skiing, fishing, canoe­ provide a cheap supply of raw materials ing, bush-walking, rock-hounding, mountain for the great factories and industrial com­ climbing, trail-riding, arts and crafts, plexes of what have now become the multi­ theatrical societies and numerous sporting national corporations of processers and manu­ clubs for team and individual sports, which facturers. So the farmer is caught between are there in plenty. With our increasing the two. Ironically, his very rngged indivi­ population, more of these facilities are needed. duality and his independence have so far Those that do exist deserve every encourage­ prevented that very thing which would give ment and support. It is far cheaper to him protection-the formation of a strong encourage good. healthy young citizens than farmer's national union and lobby. it is to pay out huge sums for crime pre­ vention and community security. It is also Lasting happiness does not come from imperative to broaden existing facilities for gifts from Government. True happiness comes adult education in order to retrain people from knowing that there is a future to in later life to meet the changing circum­ strive for and a wonderful place to raise stances and use their leisure time profitably. children to standards that will not be under­ mined and continually lowered. Happiness The magnificent pioneers who first estab­ does not come from the kind of freedom lished the settlements that grew from farms represented by standards of films foc cinema into villages and towns deserve remembrance and television, articles designed to shock, and enshrinement. They battled strange and and continual presentation of that which often frightening circumstances alone and far is unhealthy and objectionable, if in fact that from their motherland to create the develop­ means looseness and no control. We have ment and comparative ease of life that we seen those very things before in nations, now enjoy. Many of their names live on, and this so-called freedom has brought down their families enriching and carrying on their civilisations through immorality, looseness traditions of work and constructive citizen­ and lack of control. ship. It is important that the histories and We can only be happy in an area knowing triumphs, the sadness and joys of the early full well that these standards and our security pioneers and the pioneering days be not will be looked after today and tomorrow, forgotten. They should be cherished and that this country will be defended, that this the stories told and retold to the young country will be properly laid out with the people of today. We are further enriched very necessary services of rail, road, air by the culture and life of many who have and other technological communications. The come more recently from other parts of the extent to which a nation can support these world to our part of Queensland. services will depend directly on its degree of productivity and enterprise. Rising populations all over the world and increasing demands for primary and second­ Only through free enterprise can we have ary products should create a situation of maximum production, and thereby maximum demand in which those who supply these revenue, without killing incentive. I am things are encouraged to study, develop and opposed to the centralist, socialist Labor produce, within their family habitat, with Party policy-a policy of Government their generations of old skills or expertise and ownership of land, houses, production, dis­ particular dedication within the family farm tribution and all finance-a policy which or the family industry, those things that the kills incentive and causes unemployment. world is needing and demanding. Surely Lately under the Federal Labour Government with increasing demands there should be a we have seen a pouring out of moneys, or commensurate increase in security and pros­ promises of money, to give the impression perity in the areas where commodities are that it is very benevolent and that this grown, manufactured and supplied. It is socialist Labor Government is the ideal one one of the ironies of life that those who for the people. The Government collects produce food (the greatest, and most import­ money only from people who do business in ant commodity), the nation's farmers, are the market-place-from farmers who produce working longer hours and receiving lower food, materials and fibres, from products returns than any other section in the com­ that are exported and from minerals and munity. In fact, the nation's farmers are the fruits of other endeavours that are sold. 298 Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply

But Government itself does not make fathers. They must also have an under­ money. We are being handed a yardstick standing of their fellow man and neighbour which, I feel, is endangering the future of in the community and have respect for Australia. Government is becoming too others. expensive, requiring too high a tax and Other honourable members have already taking incentive from Australians. We have mentioned the need to take a hard look at to see that there is a minimum of govern­ saving the lives of school-children and the ment in this country. Because of its nature, need to take another look at school buses it is not productive and should be kept to and traffic crossings near schools. Speed on its efficient minimum. the road can be reduced by building in I feel that today, through the power of speed humps without necessarily adding to the media and not the media itself, there the staff to control it. is a division of the people. There is too There is also the need to reduce the road much setting apart of groups in the com­ toll and preserve the lives of those who will munity. There are those who for their be the drivers of tomorrow. This should own reasons would like to separate city be taught in schools. I feel radically from country, set one man against another, that there should be no age limit to the set one group against another and often obtaining of a driver's licence; rather it simply to write a good story in a magazine should be based strictly on the ability to or to attract another viewer to the screen. drive-a very strict evaluation of the person's I believe it is high hime that our educa­ ability both to handle the vehicle physically tionists took a hard look at what our educa­ and to handle the situation mentally, whether tion should be doing and what it should be it be control in an emergency or simply achieving in the end result, which is surely the general attitude to others on the road. to bring harmony in the community-har­ Related to education and behaviour there mony in the country-rather than division is a need to take another look at the question and hatred. of violence in our community. It is high time It should, for instance, bring an under­ legislators in this country realised what effect standing of the plight of country dwellers, violence shown through the media and films of those less fortunate than themselves, of has on the community, more particularly those who carry out an essential service, of those of unstable mind. If causes violence their part in the community, and their right and crime in our community. I realise we to a voice and respect in the community. must provide a safety margin between allow­ Today in primary industry we have many ing the individual the right of access to who are underprivileged and poverty stricken any material and discerning for himself what They will not fall into the category of is good and what is bad and the possibility those who come for dole or wish to change that that right might in fact be bad for the their way of life. They are there, and they community as a whole as others less mature are deserving of a standard of living equal will become excited by the material, the to that of others in the community. In result being a higher crime rate and a the main it is a recognition that their lowering of our community life standards. product is worthy of a percentage of the I feel very strongly that violence should community's pay packet and not a steadily not be shown in a moving, dramatic form decreasing amount. on television, or the motion-picture screen. It could be described by voice or by the There is a need to educate people to written word, and photographs could be used recognise that the presentation of goods to in the Press to show the authenticity of what the public should include a clear indication was reported. >In the past, television has that natural products are natural products shown violent incidents live to a very and that synthetics are synthetics. The wide audience, uncontrolled by age or other previous speaker (the honourable member for means of determining suitability, and, shortly Landsborough) gave an indication of what after, another similar incident has occurred. synthetics can do and the danger they present. It is highly likely that the idea came from He was referring to the passion-fruit industry, the previous showing of a similar violent act. which is threatened at this time by the I am not advocating the stifling of the inclusion of a synthetic additive of unknown media-l think they should be permitted to worth, which could deprive many people on cover whatever happens in this country and the land of their livelihood. other parts of the world-but I believe that Let us ban misleading labelling, advertising violence should be presented in a form that and commentary from our country and replace breaks the hypnotic effect that it has on rhem with clear factual statements. Education those who cannot control themselves. should be headed towards more specifically I feel that good government can bring equipping young people to fit into the com­ lasting happiness to the people only if we munity tomorrow not only from the work as citizens, and members of Parliament, point of view-I am sure that this is being realise that there must be a change in the attended to as part of the curriculum­ attitude of the individual. He must become but also from the point of view of becoming more aware of the rights and privileges of stable human beings in the community, good his feJJow men, and their needs in times of husbands and wives "end good mothers and hardship and stress. If there is a change to Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply 299 a greater awareness of the needs of our In the last few days honourable members neighbours, this would reflect good govern­ have heard references by the Federal Min­ ment. We would not then, I believe, find ister for Transport (Mr. Jones) to Queens­ an ever-increasing desire by the public for land roads. He is the man holding the Governments to provide more and more purse strings; therefore, he is responsible for amenities and more and more social sup­ preventing Queensland from having better ports. Instead, the people would be motivated roads. People on the Sunshine Coast have to seek things other than those that are been crying out for a four-lane highway from material, and to look to those things that Brisbane to be extended quickly to Nambour. bring happiness in the world. Quite apart from safety reasons, such a highway is necessary for reasons of economy. At a Rotary conference almost 12 months The cost of road transport per mile is very ago, I had the pleasure of meeting a native high for existing industries; it also is discour­ of South Africa who was trying very hard to aging people from establishing new indus­ raise the standard of living in his country, tries on the Sunshine Coast. and to obtain facilities that we have in t:his country such as hospitals, schools, reasonable Local roads are in a disgraceful condition. roads, mines and industries. His people had It is difficult for vehicles to travel over the very few of these amenities, but they had Kin Kin-Pomona Road, and the Pomona­ plenty of fresh air, a simple and primitive Boreen Point Road is little better. The life, and they were happy and contented. Boreen Point-Tewantin Road is in poor con­ Yet here in Australian cities people who have dition, and the Noosa-Eumundi-Dooran Road all of these amenities want to get out into is dangerous and of very poor quality. The the country and, in some secluded place Y andina-Coolum Road is also breaking up away from the rat-race, find a way of life because insufficient funds are coming from that this man already enjoyed in South the Federal sphere through the State Gov­ Mrica. rin other words, a collection of ernment to local authorities. The Mapleton­ material things does not necessarily ,I:Jf'ing Kenilworth Road, which is in a high-rainfall happiness. area, is subject to deterioration as a result of landslides and flooding of the rivers. The I should like to bring to the attention of Kenilworth-Imbil Road is also in poor con­ the House, and the people of Queensland, dition. All these roads are important to the need to make a clear claim to fishing people living in these areas and trying to rights in waters to the continental shelf, and carry on the particular industry in which beyond to a reasonable limit, for the gainful they are engaged, and I suggest that the employment of Australian fishermen. Other Federal Minister for Transport is letting countries are likely to take over the rich Queensland down by not supplying the fisher,ies just off the Queensland coast if State with finance in proportion to the dam­ this is not done. There is a fishing potential age caused to roads by an increasing awaiting further development adjacent to my volume of traffic, vehicle loadings, rainfall, electorate of Cooroora. There is a need and so on. Other States that have lower to improve the river entrance at Noosa for rainfall do not have to contend with some the benefit of the fishing industry, and also of the factors I have mentioned. sporting and amateur fishermen. I could not let this occasion pass, as the 'In my electorate, tourism is a very import­ member for Cooroora, without mentioning ant industry deserving of more Government that in the 65 years that that electorate has encouragement. I am sure that with very been represented in this Assembly it has had Httle effort by the Government tourism could only two representative before me, Harry provide sufficient revenue to more than Walker and David Low, both of whom are recoup whatever expenditure may be neces­ now deceased. I congratulate them on the sary. However, the development of tourism wonderful job they did for the electorate. places a tremendous burden on local author­ They both achieved much, and they are both ities. They are quite capable of providing very much missed. essential services in my electorate, but they I also thank those who assisted in the cam­ are finding every day that their finances are paign to have me elected as the repre­ inadequate. There is a crying need !for a sentative for Cooroora in this Assembly. My set percentage of the money in the national campaign chairman, Jack Kennedy, and his coffers to be provided, through the States, to wonderful campaign committee did a splendid help local authorities in this situation. If it job. I also thank my wife, Norma, my son is not forthcoming, the future looks hope­ Bruce, my daughter Helen, my son Jock and less. my daughter Fiona for the family effort they National parks are essential for any com­ made to assist me in the campaign. With­ munity that is hung up with concentrated liv­ out their help I could not have been success­ ing in cities and crowded . places. The ful. I place a great deal of importance on cheapest therapy that one can give people family life, which I believe is under test and living in such a community is to allow them challenge in Australia today. to go into national parks and commune with "L h= endeavoureu; ,vl\~~ Jc,nlc)+" Speaker, nature. I believe that these par'Ks S"nould be to sumr'trise within a fairly short time the carefully planned to achH~.,,e that end, net many f~ts of life and industry within f!!Y simt:Jly ·on a tn:wnti,c:H basis. electorat of Cooroora. It is blessed w1th 300 Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply

great potential for the happy, healthy welding Belmont I see neglect on the part of Govern­ of industry, recreation and community devel­ ments, of the community and of the indiv­ opment in harmony with the rich endowments idual. It is indeed a very diverse electorate bestowed by nature. encompassing the very rich and the very poor, so, indeed, my criticism is relative. On behalf of the electors and residents of Cooroora, I ask His Excellency the Governor There is an easy tendency to avoid, forget and neglect the voiceless and oppressed to convey to Her Majesty the loyalty and groups within our society, but it is the duty affection of her subjects and their concern for of government and its representatives to the upholding of the valued standards that listen and speak on their behalf, to give hear­ she sets. I add my support to the motion ing to their problems, voice to their silence, before the House. hope to their despair, justice to their injustices [Sitting suspended from 6 to 7.15 p.m.] and reality to their dreams. Indeed, gross governmental neglect at all levels cries out Mr. BYRNE (Belmont) (7.15 p.m.): I loudly in the very essence of a society. my sincere thanks to the people of Delinquen~y, vandalism, crime, broken Belrnont electorate for their support homes, family neglect, social ostracism, and confidence in me in the recent election, apathy, hatred and despair-all must have and affirm my allegiance and that of my a foundation. They all must have a begin­ electors to the Crown. I offer the electors ning. of Belmont my personal assistance in their I sought pre-selection for Belmont because social and communal difficulties, and extend of this neglect, and my hope that change an invitation to them in this regard so that could be wrought. I sought the confi­ we may co-operate and together build a dence of the electors of Belmont because I community within Belmont that will provide believed change could be forthcoming. the climate for personal growth and ful· A depressed environment is self-perpetuat­ filment, and satisfy the needs of familial ing; a depressed society is self-destructive. and individual interests. It shall be my People for whom the material side of life endeavour in the years that follow to seek has been fraught with misfortune often can­ to represent the interests of Belmont and not rise from their misfortune to change of Queensland, not as an anti-Labor politician their society. There are those who try and but as a non-Labor one. I endeavour to succeed; there are those who try and do seek justice whatever the personal costs not succeed; there are those who do not involved; to seek truth in spite of opposition; try; and there are those who cannot try. to be honest in my expression, true to myself Towards this latter group the Government and, above all, bear responsibly the trust of owes its greatest responsibility, not to give the community. them hand-outs but to create the climate and As the youngest member ever in the the environment for human endeavour. Queensland Parliament perhaps my youth To this end I believe this Government is eloquent in my idealism. It is my hope possesses at this time its greatest responsi­ that it will not be destroyed, that cynicism bility in three fields. [ see those fields as will not prevail, and that my approach to housing, education and police. The major Parliament and Government will be positive stress that I put in these areas is in inequity and not simply a naive negatism. Indeed, that exists. In housing and education it is my comments may often be found irksome, inequity of maintenance. It is important and some toes may be bruised. But I that this inequity be resolved. have long believed it is only through the But government rests on different levels, dialectics of conflict that change has come, and because of the situation in this elector­ and change which is beneficial and reforma­ ate, •and indeed in many electorates in tive. My belief in a reality beyond us is Queensland, criticism can be levelled at my social, moral and legal conscience. To various councils. In this case I cite the BriS... it alone do I forbear justice and truth, and bane City Council. It cannot escape harsh that I state at the outset. criticism here either. It has a responsibility in the environment for the presentation and Today we create the society of tomorrow. preservation of parks and recreation facilities. The Government, the community and the In this regard it has been sadly lacking. individual are the three areas of responsibility in the society. When these three fail to It is my desire to see change and improve­ operate and co-operate the society loses; the ment in Belmont, and I quote some of the future of our children is overshadowed by more important aspects in which the people money, power, greed or self-interest. It of Belmont would like to see change come shall be my intention to look at our society, about. In parks and recreation facilities, its values and its principles, and speak of my they would like to see a park reserve made hope for the future in the present. of the Pine Mountain reserve, which would enable a border environmental concept to be Wordsworth onC"'~ ..I"dairt;'""J. ne 'cikli<: father created for the recreation of the residents. of the man." That perhaps is tb then:e Tfiey wvoold .Hke to see the Bulimba Creek of my speech in that our future , ests m recreation reserve i\inally come to fruition our governmental decisions of th( present under ~e guidance of !.lit: ...>truwdl. They as they affect the children of tc1Y· In would like to see reserves developea' in Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply 301

Margate Street, Buckley Street and D'Arcy unrest, discontent and distrust that exists in Road. These places were set aside many our society. If we ignore those symptoms, years ago for reserves, and the people wol!ld this Government-and every Government of like to see them developed, not left aside the West-shall find itself falling, as Govern­ and as so many of the people have been. ments have done in the past. As capitalism becomes more corrupt, the society will not would like to see main­ withstand corruption and it will fall. The so that the schools pre­ same can be said of extreme socialism. Wihere sent at least the appearance of decency. They would like to see the schools painted people seek money as an end, society falls. externally and new furniture installed to Where people seek power as an end, society overcome the that exists between falls. They are the two extremes that we new schools and schools. They would find and these extremes are becoming more like to see and other facilities marked and the people are being forgotten some of which are more and more. years old. all, they see that schools in the same area have Yes, there is a conflict; the dialectic is modern furniture and modern facilities. simple: it is a conflict of capital and power. If we as a Government, if Parliaments It is hope to see a high school throughout this country, do not assume the developed the corner of Creek Road and middle road between the two of them­ Fursden Road, on land that was set aside assume a democratic structure and assure the for but remains undeveloped. rights of the individual-then we and every­ I would to see pre-schools established one else in Parliaments throughout Australia in Mayfield and Seven Hills State Schools. deserve to fall-and our society with us. As to Today, I remind you, Mr. Acting Speaker, CowJ!lission must be high on the that we create the society of tomorrow. list of priorities. If the Gov­ ernment does not give it top priority, it De Tocqueville once said- fails grossly. I shall elaborate on that "The entire man is, so to speak, to be further. seen in the cradle of the child. The growth of nations presents something Perhaps it is possible that in the pur­ analagous to this; they a11 bear some chase of Housing Commission homes the marks of their origin, and the circum­ Government may assist by providing loans, stances which accompanied their birth and at interest rates similar to those charged by contributed to their rise, affect the whole the Housing Commission, to enable pur­ term of their being." chasers to carry out repairs and enhance their homes so that their families can grow There rests a statement for the judgment up in a better environment-not so that of our own consciences. How many of us the environment becomes depressed, so the in tlhis Parliament, how many people in any community becomes depressed and, in turn, Parliament in this country, put as a priority the families become depressed. before them in legislation the future of this High on the list of priorities there should country, the future of the children of our also be the prevention of crime, vandalism country? How many of us find ourselves and delinquency. The Government should putting capital or power before us? The end do all it can to improve the environment. is spoken of eloquently by history. We need It should also endeavour to create a con­ to assume our responsibilities within the cept of community within the Belmont society, and we not only need to assume environment. them; we need to accept them and we need to operate under them. Churchill once said- "We must beware of trying to build a I mentioned in relation to the electorate society where no'body counts for anything of Belmont that there was neglect. I also go except a politician or an official, a society on to say that an ad hoc basis of govern­ where enterprise gains no reward and ment in this State also shows a gross negle<:;:t. thrift no privilege." The two areas of major concern in Queens­ land at the present time rest. in essence, at They are relevant words. They show up the the base, in housing and land s'}ttlement. diversity between harsh and corrupt They are the two major priorities. ~t is from capitalism and extreme socialism-where them that the solidarity of family llf~ stems; people are no longer considered as indi­ it is from that solidarity of faruly life that viduals, where people are relegated to a good and wholesome sock Y evolves--a secondary positions, where people do not society where crime is no' prevalent, a receive the just fruits of their reward, where society where welfare hand_,uts. are not an people are discriminated against and essential, and a society wh:;b ~H. grow and democracy fails. progress. Yet we see herr lJ,n md1ctment of Our country is divided: there is apathy, this Government. But I., do not heap this there is turbulence, there is discontent and criticism upon this JOVernment only. there is gross distrust of Governments. Only Indeed it falls upon ever Government in this we in a Government, only we in Parliaments, country. It falls upon the Commonwealth are the people who are able to change that Government and it falL upon councils. They 302 Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply

refuse to accept their position that a Gov­ keep a society with houses that are main­ ernment must not only administer finance :but tained at a level of dignity, in an environ­ it must also make effective policy decisions ment that maintains dignity, in a community that affect the whole community. that maintains human dignity, and creates In the 20 years to 1973 a comparison families with human dignity? of the positions of the Queensland Budgets I offer no criticism here of the various will clarify the situation. When a Budget Ministers involved, but I do hope that in is drawn up in Queensland and when the the future as this Parliament-this Govern­ departments make their various submissions, ment-creates the society of the future it it appears that the prime point is this: how takes into account these factors, it apportions much was spent last year? Once that is its finances with a realisation that housing decided that becomes virtually the base is indeed a most important function and figure f~r the following year. If the income that money should be well spent in that is to be somewhat larger than for the previous area and, most importantly, it spends not year, how do we then distribute the rest? just to provide the roof but to maintain If a policy decision rests in that area, then the standard of dignity and maintenance that it will take a great deal of force and power people deserve. to overcome this archaic method of finance administration rather than governmental On health, unfortunately, political pres­ sures have forced the Government into what policy-making. l would consider a foolish decision. The The two areas to which I draw closest people of Brisbane do need further health attention are housing and land settlement. facilities but why it is necessary to create Two further areas are police and social another bureaucratic complex such as the welfare. In housing, at a time when one one proposed at Mt. Gravatt is beyond me. would think that more money should be Look where it is positioned-outside the spent by Governments to assist the community grounds of the university. 'What sort of to grow, the amount of the Budget set parking facilities will we have? What sort aside for housing has been halved. The of individuality will the people who go amount of finance set aside for land settle­ there experience? Nothing but a perpetuation ment has been more than halved. In such of the same sort of bureaucratic structure a situation and climate as that, I ask: how as already exists at the massive public hos­ can people who find themselves in troubled pitals. economic situations be more enabled to Why not an innovative idea;-hosi(ital bring up families in a safer and more clinics with perhaps some 30 beds m vanous stable environment? I contend that it is not places centred throughout the metropolitan possible. and non-metropolitan areas? The expense Indeed we see this extended. Because we involved in these single-storey buildings is have not' had the finance essential in these not great. They enable a much greater degree two areas, we now see the fruits of our of participation by individual doctors and mismanagement. It has become necessary to do not require a bureaucratic structure that increase the expenditure of the percentage does not take into account the individual, budget on crime prevention and crime cor­ a structure that provides a service only to rection. Because we have not spent the the community and not to the individual. finance in the first place in the areas of In relation to education, once again there priority and importance, we are now is an enormous bureaucracy which is now having to correct our errors. Social welfare bearing its fruit in the discontent seen in has to be increased. Had our society been schools; discontent that youth express not far better off communally, had moneys been only in the community but in other. edu.ca­ apportioned in a far better manner and had tional institutions as well. If a SituatiOn there been policy decisions rather than admin­ exists there is a cause. We as a Govern­ istrative decisions made in respect of our ment' must ask ourselves: what is that cause? Budget, perhaps we would be in a better Having asked ourselves that an~ ~:>ituation. found the right answer, perhaps we see 1t .B'1t there is hope for the future. There goes back to the very structure, the very is change in this Government, there is change essence of liberalism-the concept of the in this Parliament and there is a new under­ individ~al having importance and priority and standing of the values that rest in this State. maintaining that importance and priority in However, I shall here choose several areas governmental decisions. of goverm1ental administration and express Perhaps the concept of regionally or com­ what I see ·,s a base criticism and need for munally organised schools would be or~e change in thc'>e areas. worth thinking about-one where there IS Firstly, I n~ntioned that the conflict was more community participation. As our one of admini~ration versus policy-making. society becomes more educated, there is more In the Treasury we see administrative rather room for it. There is greater capacity for than policy decis')ns. Indeed, that goes back other people withi~ . the comf!l~nity to par­ to the Cabinet. In housing. we have seen ticipate and for fam1hes to part1c1pate. Schools the concept of sheer rather than the concept are meant to be community complexes that of a home in a community. Is it more belong to the community, and they should important to PrD'de a roof than it is to use them. They should use them in school Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply 303

hours and outside of school hours. That I mentioned earlier in the quotation from is essential. Once again maintenance and Churchill, that we ~ust beware of trying the inequity that exists between the new and to build a society in which nobody counts the old must be a priority of this Govern­ for anything except a politician or an ment; to raise equity in the levels of not only official. They are the privileged ones in housing but also education. our society. But by "official" I do not mean simply a person with an official position; I turn now to police and law and order. In this particular area we must review our I mean people who are privileged in whatever understandings and review our concepts. As walk of life they find themselves. Whether mentioned earlier, we have a corrective form they be economically, educationally, socially, of justice and that form of justice that exists or in any other way privileged, they are in our society is corrective because the right officials within society, and indeed they form decisions were not made in the past in a minority within it. Because they have such relation to the community, its housing, its privileges, they must also accept a responsi­ education and its environmental position. So bility, and it must be fulfilled. If society the principle of law and order must not be continues in its present path, with the priv­ essentially corrective but rather preventive to ileged remaining aloof from the rest of the ensure that vandalism, delinquency and crime people, society will one day speak, and as they develop are prevented rather than the voice with which it speaks will not be corrected after they occur. kind. The second part of the quotation to which In our transport system we have another I referred spoke of a society in which enter­ bureaucratic structure that is cumulative prise gains no reward, and thrift no privilege. rather than innovative. Areas of change and Indeed, there is a difficulty within our society, areas of need for improvement-these are and that is to find a middle road between areas that this Government must accept. the two extreme&. But it is essential that a In welfare, action once again should not person receives merit for his work; that he be corrective of the ills of the past; rather receives reward for his activities; and that it should be productive of the individuals he is given drive and incentive to achieve of the future. and to develop into the whole person. In business, there is a priority unfortun­ Enterprise must gain a reward. ately where big business is the business that People must not be discriminated against, succeeds; where small businesses eventually irrespective of the level on which they find find themselves inundated, overcome, or themselves, and a man of thrift must find that monopolised. They are the businesses he has some privilege. His thrift should not within our society that have their strongest be whittled away; it should not be forgotten, ties to the past; that have their strongest ties but remembered. And where it is remem­ to the community. And they are the busi­ bered, it must be real. A man must not just nesses that we must encourage. be told that he has something; he must The approach of the Government to have it. I repeat that today we create the environmental and urban matters has, in society of tomorrow. the past, been very much on an ad hoc There are three essentials to growth­ basis. It is time that there was planning; food, shelter and climate. That is very that there was community development; and basic, very simplistic, but very real. In this that there was family development under­ situation, food rests in a concept of the stood in that concept. Basically, it comes input-what goes into it; shelter speaks of, down to a conflict between the privileged "What protective mechanisms are there, what and the voiceless. It is time that the Govern­ safeguards?"; and the climate presents the ment stood up for the voiceless; that it suitable environment. It is in that situation spoke for them; that it heard them; and that the child must grow into the man; that it enabled them to have their problems it is in that situation that a young society solved. must grow into a nation. So it is the Recently in this House there was a dis­ bounden duty of those three areas in society cussion on an increase in the number of -the Government, the community, and the Ministers. Indeed, this is a modern idea. individual-to co-operate to ensure that the At last we have within the Government input, the protection that the society may Ministers who will be able to cencentrate on offer and the cultivated environment enable portfolios that are directly concerned with the full growth, the whole growth, of the important modern and contemporary mat­ child. ters in the community. It is now the respon­ I wish to elaborate a little further on sibility of those Ministers to carry out their the role of the Parliament,. and perhaps to duties, and it is the responsibility of the propose some concepts and some ideas that Government, standing behind the Ministers, could benefit its better running. I speak and the Parliament, standing over the Minis· firstly in relation to what is termed in to ensure that they fulfil the respons.i- this "Question Time". At present we that have been given and have ludicrous situation that there are From the new structure of the questions on notice and without the hopes of the in a modern notice, and an hour to an environment may be hour ea,:h read answers to 304 Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply questions asked on notice. I suggest that its many islands, and vast developing satel­ that time could be used better that members lite areas of Eight Mile Plains, Springwood, would have more time in ~hich to seek Rochedale, and Slacks Creek. further answers to questions affecting them, Mr. K. J. Hooper interjected. the State, their electorates and individual electors, if answers to questions on notice Mr. DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr. Miller): were tabled. That is one principle. Order! Persistent interjections will not be There are other areas within the Parliament tolerated. I ask all honourable members to in which changes and improvements could co-operate. be made. Indeed, there is the concept of Mr. GOLEBY: The electorate of Redlands parliamentary committees. They also are is the second largest numerically in the State, an area of importance which, in order to having a voting population of almost 24,000. make a Parliament more democratic, needs It is a very diversified electorate and includes to be investigated, needs to be looked into. part of the city of Brisbane, the whole of So, Mr. Deputy Speaker, I come back to the Redland Shire with its many bay islands, my primary point-that we must create a and the northern section of the Albert Shire. society today which is a society for the I do not wish to give the impression that future. We must look at our present situation, the rura1 industry has gone. Far be it we must assess it, we must think what from that, as the rural industry, although policy incentives can be put into it, and perhaps a little diminished in recent years, we must act upon them. still plays a vital role as the largest industry In conclusion, I say that if this Government, in the electorate. and, indeed, other Governments throughout There are two distinct area!! of com­ the country, do not ensure that they take into munity interrelation in the electorate. I account the problems that exist, if they do refer to the closely settled areas along the not realise the apathy and the distrust of coastline and the satellite areas in the them that exists in society, if they do not northern end of the Albert Shire. They are realise that present structures of money and two distinct communities with little relation­ power are not the ends .that must be aimed ship one to the other, but there are 13,500 for but, rather, the rights and the privileges electors within the main section of the of the community, they will fall-and they electorate-the Redland Shiro-7 ,500 in the will fall in a very short period of time, for, Albert Shire, and the remainder (approx­ as yet, no alternative has been presented to imately 2,500) in the city of Brisbane. us. Mr. Moore: You will be there for ever representing them. Mr. GOLEBY (Redlands) (7 .49 p.m.): First, Jet me say what an honour and a privilege Mr. GOLDY: Of course I wilL jt is to support the motion so ably moved With the rapid expansion and development by the honourable member for Mouri!yan envisaged in the electorate, it is expected and so capably seconded by tbe honourable that within the next three years it will con­ member for Salisbury. tain approximately 36,000 voters. The hon­ Mr. K. J. Hooper: Tell us about passion­ ourable member for Pine Rivers understands, fruit. as I do, the complexities and the problems of such a fast-growing electorate. Even at Mr. GOLEBY: The hon

islands near the jetties. Many low areas Police protection also is required on these have been subdivided. It appears that from islands. At present they are served only from 5 to 10 per cent of the allotments are the Cleveland Police Station. When a prob­ either under water at high tide, or lying in lem arises, a police officer has to travel to swamps on the islands. I should like to know Redland Bay, charter a boat and go to the how any firm of surveyors could theoretically island to investigate the cause of the com­ survey such land into residential blocks. How plaint. Anybody who knows anything about could their ethical standards allow them law enforcement will quickly realise that to engage in such blatant subdivision, know­ this situation is far from good. The ing full well that much of this land lies only way a police officer can operate permanently under water? Since the take­ effectively is to have at his disposal a boat over of the islands by the Redland Shire so that he may regularly visit the islands Council-the Government should know it and be quickly at the scene of a complaint. was at their request-they have become a A boat is essential for inter-island service; tremendous financial burden on the shire. it is the only way a police officer can get I admit that certain money was made avail­ around. able by the Government to assist in restruct­ The only method of access to the main­ uring and in the development of essential land from these islands is by a co-operatively amenities; but the amount received was owned ferry or a water taxi. However, grossly inadequate to provide any lasting landing facilities at Redland Bay are very benefits. Since the take-over two years ago poor, even dangerous. The new jetty was inflation has diminished considerably the erected only a few years ago, but its design value of the money granted. The cost of the is totally unsuitable for exposed waters. With resumptions necessary to provide the future the increase in the island population, pas­ necessary parks and recreation areas on the senger traffic is increasing, and adequate islands is overwhelming for the local author­ safe-berthing facilities are required urgently. ity's finances. Most of the council's money I ask the Government to implement the plan from the Government grant has been used suggested by the Redland Shire Council to to acquire gravel areas. It must be borne dredge Weinem Creek so that vessels can in mind that there are very few gravel load and unload their passengers without reserves on these islands and that it is risk to life or limb. essential for any local authority faced with the mammoth tas!c of road development in I have dealt at length with the problems the future to acqmre these areas immediately associated with the bay islands, but I have be~ore residential development takes plac~ done so with one object in mind-to remind adjacent to the quarry sites. The only form the Government that the problems I have of road constryction done by the developers outlined tonight were not brought about by was the c!eanng of trees and the shaping the inhabitants of the islands or by the of some kmd of pathway-without drainage Redland Shire Council. They stem from -to give access to the many thousands of the shortsightedness and ineffectiveness of residential blocks. this Government in allowing the islands to be subdivided. The islands did not lie Health facilities are needed on these within the boundaries of any local authority islands. Many of them were settled by and the statutes of the State did not elderly people before the islands came under prohibit the wanton subdivision of the lands. the control of an authority. The people When a former member for Logan-the were attracted to the islands because there present chairman of the Redland Shire Coun­ ~e;e n? rates to pay, which meant cheap cil, Councillor Wood-some years ago pointed !Ivmg m pleasant climatic conditions. I out to this Government the problems that m~st say that the nearest doctor is eight would arise in these islands from the sub­ miles away across what are sometimes division that was taking place, his words treacherous waters. I appeal to the Minister were not heeded. However, the necessary to establish a health clinic, or what is perhaps legislation has now been introduced and better known as an outpatient clinic on these all islands along the Queensland coast are islands, where the people may receive medical under the control of one local authority or attention. I draw the attention of the House another. The Government realised its mistake to the fact that in the early 1960's the late too late when it introduced that legislation, and the bay islands have paid the penalty Dr. Noble, the then Minister for Health, for the rest of Queensland. What happened established a similar clinic on Stradbroke to them can never happen again, but the Island. It has treated many thousands of Redland Shire is being forced to take over cases and, on many occasions, has been res­ those islands and all the problems associated ponsible for saving life. Many arguments with them. It is now faced with tremendous have been advanced against the establish­ financial burdens and it will be for many ment of one of these centres, but I assure generations to come. the Minister that such a facility is urgently I now refer to one of the most thickly needed to save the inhabitants of the islands populated areas of my electorate, bordering the hazardous trip across the bay in rough the city of Brisbane. I refer to the satellite weather. development on the northern end of the Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975} Address in Reply 307

Albert Shire. This area is settled pre­ look at the present situation. I trust he dominantly by young people. I understand will see fit to have a police station erected that a recent survey revealed that the average in the very near future. adult age of the population of the Springwood, With such a large population, many facili­ Eight Mile Plains and Rochedale areas is ties for young people are urgently required. 35 years-ample evidence of how young The Albert Shire Council has recently the population is. acquired some 90 acres of land to be Many facilities that one associates with developed for recreation and sporting pur­ young people are required. Firstly I refer poses. The council is to be commended to the need for adequate educational facilities. on its forward step. This young community The Government has done its best to meet has limited finances to assist in such develop­ the expanding growth rate of the area with ment and reliance will be placed on both new schools; some have been established. State and Federal finances to assist with the I refer particularly to Springwood. development of these recreation areas. Unfortunately, the rapid residential develop­ Transport has always been a problem for ment is outstripping the provision of accom­ large centres of population. The areas that modation at that school. It will be necessary I have mentioned are no exception. I ask to acquire more land in the future, and the that, when the new transport study takes erection of additional classrooms for the place and the electrification of our suburban coming ye~,r is certainly required. rail system is undertaken, close consideration The area of which I speak has the greatest be given to the areas of Springwood, Eight congregation of population within my elector­ Mile Plains and Rochedale, along with the ate. Although, as I mentioned earlier, the large residential areas in the Redland Shire. Redlands electorate is the second largest It must be remembered that the Redland numerically in the State, it has only one Shire was serviced by railway until 1961, high school-to service 50,000 people. Spring­ when it was closed by this Government. I wood has no secondary school facilities. feel that the closure of this line was short­ sightedness to say the least, and the present Mr. K. J. Hooper: What a shocking indict­ population developmental figures of the area ment of the Government! clearly substantiate that. I appeal to the Government, when undertaking any exten­ Mr. GOLEBY: I can assure the honourable sions to the existing rail system, to restore member that that situation will not remain the railway line in the light of the residential for long. expansion in the area. The only high school in the electorate is at Mr. Moore: It should happen, too. Cleveland, though land at Springwood has been pm :based by the department for Mr. GOLEBY: It will happen. It must be another. A recent survey that I made in remembered that most of the residents of conjunction '' ith the Education Department the area commute daily to the city for revealed thz.t over 400 students from the employment. It has been proved beyond Springwood-Rochedale area can be anticipated doubt that a fast, efficient rail service is the to requi:·e ·ecomlary education next year. At best n'.e:ms of transporting large numbers of present high school students in that area people. travel in at least five different directions At the be,?inning of my speech I mentioned to attend schools outside the electorate to briefly the rural industries, which are still receive their secondary education. the largest industries within the electorate. While I am on the subject of high schools Although there are many smaller diversified -a similar situation exists in the Capalaba industrTal developments, the rural area of the and Gnmd:lle areas where a similar number Rcdlands electorate has become more con­ of students are forced to attend five or six centrated over recent years. Although high schools. About six years ago land was perhaps the number of farmers has decreased, purchased at Capalaba for a high school and til·~ amalgamation of many farms has made I appeal to the Minister to have one con­ possible greater production from a given structed immediately, as that would consider­ mea. The acquisition of specialised machin­ ably alleviate overcrowding at the Cleveland ery and the use of improved varieties have High S~hool. As I mentioned earlier, it is the led to further increases in production. only high school in my electorate. Although probably the total area under Manv problems are associated with the horticulture has reduced, production still many re;;rdential developments in my elec­ remains at a very high level. Many of the torate. Tnese are becoming apparent in marginal soils have been introduced into the Springwood and Eight Mile Plains the horticultural industry. This has been areas. I refer to the urgent need for made possible by the use of the by-products police protection in the area, which lies on of the very large poultry industry within the the boundary between two police districts. Redlands electorate. As it is a rapidly developing residential area, Associated with the development of the it is apparent that a police station, fully farming industry and the use of the latest staffed, is urgently needed. I have already technology, an important role has been had discussions with the Minister along these played by the Ormiston Horticulture Research lines and I urge him to have a very close Station. Many of the new varieties I have 308 Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply ment!oned _were propagated almost exclusively authority has only one option open to it, and at this statiOn. Many of them are being used that is to pass these costs on to the rate­ throughout Australia. I pay tribute to the payers. I feel that if considerable finance is otncers. who have been involved for many not forthcoming from State and Federal years m the work at this station. to the Governments alike, local government as we Government for its practical assistance in this work, and to the C.O.D., the growers' own know it today will collapse under the present organisation, which has provided funds for financial structure. many of these vital projects. No one knows more thoroughly the The Redlands crimson strawberry is one problems of the people than the members of the chief varieties grown commercially of local authorities. As they live close to in Australia. All of the varieties of passion­ the people, they know their problems and fruit grown commercially had their origin their needs. Unfortunately, through lack of at this station. Through the processes of finance, in so many cases they are powerless elimination and cross-breeding, the scientists to act. I firmly believe that a prescribed working at the Ormiston Horticulture percentage of taxation money should be Research Station have been able to produce returned directly to the States for use by a passion-fruit variety that is disease resistant local authorities so that they will have while at the same time giving increased pro­ adequate finance and be able to solve to duction. Only yesterday I mentioned in the some degree the problem presented by the House the problems associated with this huge interest and redemption payments that industry. I again appeal to the Government face them all. Prevailing interest rates make tonight to come to the assistance of these it almost impossible for local authorities to growers in preparing a case for the Tariff provide the services necessary to meet the Board to ban imports from overseas coun­ growing demands of a developing community. tries such as Sri Lanka, Brazil and Kenya, I believe that State Governments can assist which are cheap-labour countries that this local authorities in a practical manner. In country with its high-cost labour cannot closely settled shires, many amenities are compete with. The processers of this country needed. In most cases the Government must close their doors if these imports per­ provides them, but it is left to local authori­ sist. I call upon the Government to take ties to provide water and sewerage, road the necessary action to assist these growers. widening, parking areas, and so on, to meet the requirements of State institutions, such While talking about the horticultural as schools, hospitals and pre-school centres. industry, I must mention in passing the cut­ flower industry, which provides a very large I hope that, when legislation is being proportion of the income of the rural section brought down in the House, provision will of the electorate of Redlands. be made by means of amendments dealing Earlier in my speech I referred briefly with town planning for the Crown, like to the poultry industry, which is a very ordinary business instrumentalities, to provide large operation in Redlands. The latest such amenities, thus taking the burden off figures supplied to me reveal that approxi­ local authorities. The Local Government mately 50 per cent of the broiler industry is Act needs amendment in many places. I in the electorate. This industry has expanded refer particularly to the provisions pertaining rapidly in the last decade, but it, too, is to residential developmental conditions. going through difficult times as a result of Local authorities today have to exercise their the slump in the beef industry. The two powers under town-planning and re-zoning products are aligned. Meat prices have laws, because the Act does not go far enough fallen dramatically, and the down-turn in the in local government administration in these beef industry has flowed on to the poultry days of modern development. I believe that industry. Poultry producers in my electorate it should be mandatory for developers of are facing extreme difficulty at this time. In la,rge estates to provide 15 per cent of the some cases, output has been reduced from 30 developed land for parks and recreation per cent to 50 per cent. The industry purposes. It should not be left to shire generally is based upon concentrated produc­ councils to barter and bargain to have tion and quick turnover. With similar pro­ adequate provision made for these facilities. duction problems to those experienced in the beef industry, poultry produce,rs are facing a Let me make it quite clear that the State financial crisis. Government does give considerable assistance I should like to devote the remainder of and financial help to local au'horities in my speech to local government, a field with some fields. I refer firstly to the installation which I am very familiar after being a local of new water schemes and sewerage schemes, government representative in my shire for for which subsidies of 50 per cent and 40 per almost 15 years. Surely the representation cent respectively are paid by the Govern­ of local government in this Parliament by ment. Without the subsidy, local authorities those experienced in it has never been could not provide these necessities of greater. Local authorities everywhere are modern-day living. facing problems in many fields, the major one, of course, being finance, which is shared Mr. K. J. Hooper: Aren't you in favour by all. The escalation in costs over the last of direct funding of shire councils by the two years has been insurmountable. A local Australian Government? Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply 309

Mr. GOLEBY: Nobody knows the posi­ chose me to represent them in this Parlia­ tion better than the local people themselves. ment. This fast-growing electorate needs a I am sure that the State Government has a man with local knowledge to handle effec­ greater knowledge of local authority needs tively the many problems that arise in it. than the Federal Government has. Let it give the money to State Governments; they I thank Ministers in this Parliament for will hand it out to the shires. The honour­ the assistance they have given me in the able member should not make any mistake short time I have been here. I look forward about that. to the challenging times ahead and to giving Local authorities also receive subsidy from positive representation to the Redlands elec­ the State Government on many permanent torate for many years to come. works of a capital nature. They are grateful for the assistance given by the Government :Mr. YOUNG (Baroona) (8.24 p.m.): As in these fields; but I believe that they are this is the first opportunity I have had to entitled to a greater share of assistance from speak in the House, I wish, through you, the Federal Government. I hope the hon­ Mr. Deputy Speaker, to offer my congratula­ ourable member for Archerfield notes that. tions to the Speaker on his election to that high and honourable office. It is a position I point out that, under the present system, that we in Queensland treat with a great the Federal Government gives some assist­ deal of respect. Even though Federal ance for the provision of sewerage, but it A.L.P. members showed their comolete con­ still falls far short of the subsidy received tempt for the authority of the ·chair by from State Governments. Let me give the blatantly disregarding their Speaker's ruling House an example. Federal Government in the House of Representatives, I am con­ assistance by way of grants for sewer·age fident that such a thing will never happen in installations and developmental costs in that Queensland as long as a reliable Govern­ field amount to approximately 30 per cent ment, such as we have had in this State for of the capital cost. The remainder comes some time, continues in office. by way of a loan. If a local authority accepts finance from that source, as it I associate the citizens of Baroona with has to if it is to obtain adequate finance my expression of loyalty to the throne, and for all its schemes, it deprives itself of 10 I thank His Excellency the Governor, Sir per cent of the total cost. If it were able to Colin Hannah, for his services to the State. get funds from the State Government, the I trust that he will remain in that office as subsidy in the field of sewerage would be he is a dedicated Australian, and we are 40 per cent. So that 10 per cent leeway, indeed fortunate to have him as Her which represents many thousands of dollars in Majesty's representative in this great State. a large scheme, has to be borne over the I congratulate my colleagues who moved entire scheme by the ratepayers, usually for and seconded the motion for the adoption of a period of about 30 or 40 years. The addi­ the Address in Reply. tional 10 per cent has a considerable bearing on the final pedestal cost. I wish to direct my remarks mainly to •In borrowing funds on the present high­ the importance of the individual, a topic interest market, local authorities making which is extremely important in this day sewerage installations are faced with an addi­ and age as we see less and less emphasis tional capital cost that reflects very largely on the individual and more and more in one direction. In all sewerage schemes, the emphasis on the system. This is indicated final cost of interest and redemption must be by the present centralists in Canberra who, if met by the ratepayers. they are successful, will be referring to people in Queensland merely as numbers, with little Finally, Mr. Deputy Speaker, I refer to or no concern for them and definitely with the urgent need for a four-lane highway no thought of them as people. When indivi­ from Capalaba to Brisbane, using Old Cleve­ duality is lost so also is the pride, and land Road. The upgrading of this road was the integrity, of the community. We must promised by the Government during the ensure that this does not happen in Queens­ terms of office of former members repre­ land. This great State has been built on senting the Redlands electorate. It is one of the hard work of diligent men and women the major arterial roads leading into the who, over the last century, have built Queens­ city and carries a continuous stream of land into the prosperous State it is today. traffic at most times during the day. With Any endeavour from Canberra to squash the fast development along the coastline, it the "Let's get on with the job" attitude is very necessary that provision be made we see daily in Queensland must be repulsed immediately for a four-lane highway from and continually rejected. Canberra must be Capalaba to Brisbane. told that Queensland cannot be bought, I pay tribute to the fine band of supporters threatened, bullied or humiliated into sub­ who assisted me throughout the recent elec­ mission by Canberra. We are individuals tion campaign. My campaign committee, my and will continue to be so, but we are campaign director and secretary and my equally determined to be Australian when family gave me their support and loyalty. the cause is a legitimate national one and Last, but not least, I must mention the not just the fulfilment of some whim of loyalty of the electors of Redlands, who the Federal A.L.P. socialist Government. 310 Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply

In Queensland we continually see evidence Brisbane City Council uses them for the that the Federal socialists in Canberra are disposal of its waste materials. Nearby trying to reduce the status of Australians residents now look in bewilderment and generally by taking away from us our pride apprehension at these creeks, for they do in a job well done, and replacing it with not know when the creeks will rise again ever-increasing hand-outs for displaced and claim their land or their homes. workers. Australians want jobs, not hand­ outs from the Federal Government. Never Some people live on the flood plain in before in our nation has it been so hard the expectation that one day the Brisbane for the small businessman or subcontractor City Council will carry out this much-needed to make ends meet. It appears that Can­ work. Others live there because they do not berra is trying to force local businessmen out possess the means to enable them to move. of existence. This is an area where individual In many cases these people have had to seek rights must be upheld. We must never lose medical assistance to enable them to sleep, sight of the importance to this Government because it was while they were sleeping that of every citizen in Queensland. As members the creeks last rose, claiming their properties of the free-enterprise parties, we must con­ and endangering their lives. tinually ensure that every person has the right to enter into any legitimate business We as the Parliament of Queensland must of any size. We must ensure that the rights not lose sight of the fact that these people of the local business community are not lost. living on the flood plains throughout Queens­ The smaller local businesses in the suburbs land face a very special and individual are the life-blood of the free-enterprise problem. Last year the Brisbane City system. VIe must ensure that their rights are Council was given authority by this Parlia­ not overlooked or forgotten. Without the ment to help the people of Brisbane, and we spirit of the small businessman, production must do our utmost to see that the necessary in Queensland would suffer greatly. \'lork is carried out. We cannot place a value on human life. The socialist aims of the Whitlam adminis­ tration are for complete control-complete The greatest injustice that has ever been control over production, distribution and the perpetrated against any section of the com­ exchange of Australian wealth. The Federal munity in recent times is the Brisbane City socialist Government advocates complete Council's latest proposal aimed directly at State ownership and, most importantly, it people associated with caravan parks. This insists upon complete control over its matter has been discussed previously in this politicians. Chamber. Firstly, the council proposed I stand here tonight as the member repre­ placing a $20,000 bond on the proprietor of senting Baroona. The people in that electorate a caravan park. This is another attempt by know that I can freely represent them because the A.L.P. to reduce the driving force behind I am not subjected to hard-and-fast party a free-enterprise system. But the real problem control, which the A.L.P. demands and is the council's total, typical disregard for expects from its elected members in this personal feelings, in this instance of the many Hc;use. My party respects the wishes of the people who presently reside in caravan parks electorate and does not tie the hands of in Brisbane. By forcing them to move every its elected representatives. Therefore the six weeks the council is aiming directly at people in the electorate of Baroona-the the very old and the very young. people who elected me to this place-know, Elderly people live in caravan parks and can have confidence in the fact, that I because of the company and also because of truly represent them. How can the A.L.P. the low cost. The Brisbane City Council politicians truly represent their constituents would turn these elderly pensioners out into when they are bound hard and fast to the street and impose upon them high towing CQucus and trade union control? On 7 charges for the removal of their caravans to December Queenslanders said, "It's time. other parks. But of course this is typical of Let's go arid get on with the job of governing the A.L.P., which attacks defenceless sections Queensland in line with true democratic of the community that do not have at their ideals." disposal the means to speak out for Never is any individual group in any com­ themselves. munity more overlooked than those who Other speakers have drawn attention to the reside on the flood plains of metropolitan problems in the housing industry. Many creeks. These people face property damage young married couples reside in caravan parks with almost every downpour. They have because of the unavailability of suitable been given the greatest run-around ever by homes. This situation was brought about the Brisbane City Council, which appears to by the collapse of the building industry, as show very little interest, if any, in their confidence in that industry waned under particular problem. The people on the flood Federal socialist rule. Young people are plains live there in the hope that the local now struggling to pay off caravans so that creeks will be widened and dredged to their they can eventually sell them and use the former width and depth so that the rainwaters proceeds as deposits on their homes. Instead will be able to get away quickly. of encouraging these people, the council, in Local people used to swim in these creeks, typical fashion, adds to their financial burden but they can no longer do so because the by forcing them to move every six weeks. Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply 311

Another problem is that a large number people are honest. I know of many people of citizens in Brisbane will be deprived of who, when filling in a form that includes their right to vote by moving every six the question, "Have you ever appeared in weeks. That will mean that they will not be court?", always answer, "Yes", remembering eligible to register on either the State or an appearance in a children's court many the Federal electoral rolls. years earlier. For such a paltry reason, There M"e many aspects of the Brisbane many people in Queensland have been City Council's proposals that call for close refused entry to the Public Service, the scrutiny. The real victims are the youth of armed services, the Police Force and the Brisbane. The burdens imposed upon the prisons service. Even an A.L.P. State mem­ parents are nothing compared with those ber of the Victorian Parliament lost his seat borne @y the children, who strive to keep because of a children's court conviction. A pace in the 70's with changing patterns in sentence in the Children's Court blots a education. If they are forced to change child's character for life. That is a hard, their schools every six weeks they will find it cold fact of life. Any step that we as a almost impossible to do so. Government take to allow the children of this State to make at least one mistake So I say that these proposals should be without permanently blotting their copybook totally rejected by us as members of a will be applauded by all Queenslanders. Government that cares for the people-in this instance, the people of Brisbane. We The Children's Court has a detrimental cannot pussyfoot around with these unjust effect on children generally. It is far better requirements. In the name of true democracy to have a police officer initially investigate we must not. We will not accept them. an offence, establish whether or not it was If we do so, our credibility will be in perpetrated and then have an opportunity of jeopardy. Caravan parks are at present counselling, further supervising, or referral, helping to fill a vacuum created by the slump as the case may be. Any move to replace in the building industry. Most of the blame these dedicated, truly interested officers by for this slump must rest on the Federal social workers must be rejected. Civilians Government. I realise that the State has just do not have the appropriate power­ had its own problems with housing-! am and in some cases the respect-to enable the first to admit that-but the answer does them to investigate an offence or a crime not lie in the Brisbane City Council's attack initially. These police officers already refer on tenants of caravan parks throughout children to social workers in appropriate Brisbane. Apparently the A.L.P. council is cases. I am sure all honourable members totally unaware of the number of unionists, will agree that this is the right and proper seasonal workers and semi-permanent workers way to handle such cases. I take this oppor­ who will be affected by being forced to move tunity to reaffirm my support of the retention residence every six weeks. and strengthening of the bureau in its present form, as a matter of urgency, by this The only argument in favour of the pro­ Parliament. posal, apparently, is from the health point of view. If the council needs any advice Many speakers in the Address-in-Reply on how to overcome health problems debate have spoken about the percentage I suggest that the Lord Mayor should have that the major political parties in Queensland a quick talk to our Minister for Health, received of the votes at the last election. who, I am sure, will be only too pleased The Labor Party claimed that because it to make reasonable suggestions to him as received 36 per cent of the vote it is entitled to what he can do to overcome health prob­ to more than the 11 seats it presently holds. lems in caravan parks. A study of the percentages received by the Liberal Party and the National Party reveals Another topic that has been aired this that the Liberal Party received approximately session is the Juvenile Aid Bureau. No 44 per cent of the votes in all the seats member of any Government party can always it contested while the National Party received be in accord with all the proposals or sug­ approximately 55 per cent of the vote in the gestions of the Government. I am no excep­ seats it contested. Following the rationale tion. It will be deplorable if the Juvenile of Labor Party supporters, that would mean Aid Bureau, which has helped thousands of that the coalition partners would have won Queenslanders each year, is altered in any 99 per cent of the seats they contested­ way. Any attempt to remove the police from and I am sure that even the Opposition with their vital, necessary role as detectors of its presently reduced numbers would not o~ences, councillors in minor matters, super­ agree to that. It must be appreciated that VIsory officers and referral officers to other if a student gets 36 per cent in an examina­ more-qualified agencies, both State and non­ tion he fails. If the A.L.P. received only State, will be to the detriment of Queens­ 36 per cent of the vote at the last election, land. Other honourable members have spoken the hard cold fact of the matter is that it strongly in favour of the bureau as, I failed. Indeed, it is fortunate to have its believe, all reasonable thinking men must do. 11 seats in this Assembly. People argue that a Children's Court con­ Mr. K. J. Hoopcr interjected. viction for a criminal matter has no effect in later life. That is totally untrue. I am Mr. YOUNG: If the honourable member sure all honourable members agree that most opposite listened, he might learn something 312 Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply after all these years in the Parliament. It is Pat Hanlon's brother-in-law, who are biding obvious that anybody can justify anything their time until he makes that fatal mistake. by figures or percentages. When he does, he will slip back into I turn my comments now to the Leader oblivion. of the Opposition, who in this Chamber It is impossible to split the coalition team, continually tells the people of Queensland which is the strongest it has ever been. As how great we Liberals are-I am sure each members of that team, we are dedicated to one of us in the Liberal Party would agree ensure that the rights and privileges of the with him on that-and how eager he was individual are not lost under party policies. to support Sir Gordon Chalk as Premier. To the National and Liberal team, individuals Imagine having socialists supporting a free­ are the most important part of our existence. enterprise system. Even his own faithful 10 If we help to ease the burden of only a must have found that hard to swallow. vVas few, we will have succeeded. No-one is the wedge that the Opposition hoped to unimportant to us. We hold each member drive between the coalition partners worth of our electors in equal regard. It is a pity sacrificing life-long principles for? Appar­ the Opposition do not do likewise and stop ently the Leader of the Opposition thought grandstanding and playing politics in this so. His is a stop-at-nothing attitude to get arena. Joh, whatever the merits or faults of the scheme. These desperate endeavours by the Mr. DEAN (Sandgate) (8.47 p.m.): The Opposition do nothing to endear it to the debate on the motion for the adoption of public in general. the Address in Reply gives every member I have a few words of advice for the very wide scope. Unfortunately one becomes Leader of the Opposition. It is impossible confused about which of the various important for a wedge driven by a socialist force to matters concerning our wonderful State of penetrate the solid, confident coalition team Queensland-matters that cannot be raised that we have in Queensland-a team that is at other times during the session-should giving the people genuine, responsible Gov­ be dealt with. Legislation restricts a member ernment. to the Bill before the Assembly. However, this debate gives one the refreshing experience A short time ago I mentioned the faithful of being able to wander a little and to 10 of the Leader of the Opposition; but I enlarge on many pet ideas that cannot be wonder whether he is completely sure that amplified or developed at other times during they are faithful. Need I point out that it the session. was not the Government that had three leaders and two deputy leaders in the last First of all, I join with my constituents 12 months? Possibly it is the position of in reaffirming our loyalty to Her Majesty the honourable member for Lytton as Leader and His Excellency. The only time I do of the Opposition that is very unsure in this is at the beginning of a Parliament. It this House. I feel sure that he could better becomes rather tedious and unnecessary to spend his time by endeavouring to fend off keep reaffirming in parrot-like fashion the challenges to his leadership, as it is known fact that one is loyal to the Throne or the that he received only 60 per cent support system under which one lives. I think that among the A.L.P. 11, while both Sir Gordon affirmation at the beginning of a new Parlia­ Chalk and the Premier received the unanim­ ment should be regarded as covering the full ous support of the Government parties. If three years of the Parliament. I have adopted the A.L.P. continues to have three leaders that principle since 1960. a year, each member of the Opposition can hold that position at least once in this Parlia­ I express my appreciation to the electors ment. The greatest threat to the Leader of of Sandgate for again electing me to this the Opposition is from within his own ranks. position. It is a great privilege and honour The honourable members who sit on the to serve one's State and it does not come edges of their seats like the honourable the way of many. There is an old saying that member for Port Curtis, are just waiting for many are called but few are chosen. A the Leader of the Opposition to fall so that representative of the people of the State of they can pounce. Queensland should feel grateful, honoured and privileged. If many of the new members I stand here representing Baroona, an find time during their term of office to look electorate which saw at first hand the way through the records of this Parliament, they the Trades Hall, under the thumb of Mr. Jack will realise that over the years not very Egerton, deprived the A.L.P. of one of its many have served the State of Queensland greatest men, Mr. Pat Hanlon. Pat was well as parliamentary representatives. It is a respected by all, it appears, except the privilege to be chosen to hold that very powerful Trades Hall mob. I suggest that important position. Mr. Egerton and the Leader of the Opposition were out to give Pat the chop. Is it any I speak tonight with a certain amount of wonder that Pat Hanlon retired? His retire­ sadness. Many familiar faces are missing. ment was a great loss not only to the A.L.P. They include many old friends whom I knew but also to this Parliament. for many years outside this place and got to know better following their election. I So I warn the Leader of the Opposition. am not going to mention all of them; I There are those among his ranks, particularly do not think it necessary to do so. I was, Address in Reply (13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply 313 however, particularly reminded of two of will be raised from time to time on appro­ them whilst listening to the debate during priate occasions. I take the opportunity the last few days. One, whose father was now of congratulating Mr. Speaker, not just also a great friend of mine, is the former because I have known him well over the member for Baroona, Mr. Pat Hanlon. I years but because he has so far conducted knew his father very well. For many years himself as a very fair Speaker. before I had any notion of entering public I think all honourable members will agree life I worked in party circles, and in my that he has been very fair; I have no early formative political years I had the doubt that he will continue to be fair. Of privilege of knowing the late Ned Hanlon course, he had extensive experience in the very well. I think it should be placed on local authority field. Many other honour­ record that he was one of the statesmen able members have had the privilege of ser­ of Queensland, and one of its greatest ving in local government, and I am sure Premiers. Beyond doubt we are today still that their experience has been-it certainly reaping the benefit of legislation put through has been my experience-that local govern­ this House during the premiership of the late ment gives one an understanding of people Ned Hanlon. and an ability to keep one's feelings within His son Pat was a man of different charac­ proper bounds. I congratulate the honour­ ter, but a very wonderful personality when able member for Redcliffe on attaining the one came to know him. He had a dif­ high and honourable office of Speaker of ferent type of approach to many things. this Assembly. He had the advantage of higher education, I also pay a compliment to my leader, which most members have not had. the honourable member for Lytton (Mr. Mr. Lowes interjected. Burns), whom I knew for many years before I became a member of this Assembly. I Mr. DEAN: I say to the new member first became aware of his ability in other who has made a foolish and inane inter­ places. He was the General Secretary jection that as time goes by he will learn of the Queensland Central Executive of the that, irrespective of the side of the House Australian Labor Party, and I know the part on which a member sits, there are certain he played in that position during very diffi­ rules that are recognised. I hope that he cult years. As I listened to his speech as will learn not only common sense but also Leader of the Opposition recently, my mind respect. Despite the party-political system went back to the many occasions on which in which I believe, and in which he must I was in his presence in another place, and also believe otherwise he would not be here, I thought, "Here we have a leader who will he should, if he has any principle in him, make his mark in this State and take his show some respect irrespective of whether place beside other great leaders that the a person to whom reference is being made is Labor Party has had in the past." dead or alive. Reference has already been made to Mr. Lowes: You respect the electors. changes that have taken place. The honour­ able member for Lytton did not enter this Mr. DEAN: Of course. If you respect Chamber as a newcomer to public life. He yourself, you respect the electors. But enough came here with a great amount of valuable of that. experience gained in many spheres and at I should like to congratulate the two lady all levels of industrial life outside Parlia­ members. I think they made very fine con­ ment. He had wide experience in the trade­ tributions in their maiden speeches. One union movement, and I challenge anyone thing that impressed me very much wa!S who appeared before him when he was Gen­ that they acted as lady members, and as eral Secretary of the Q.C.E. to say that he ladies. I did not expect them to be foolish did not receive fair treatment and every in their speeches, and I was not disappointed. consideration from him and ultimately have As I listened to them, I thought of Mrs. his case placed fairly and squarely before Jordan who over the years played her part the highest authority of the party in Queens­ in this House very well. At all times she land, that is, the Queensland Central Execu­ conducted herself as a lady. She entered tive, on which I served for five or six years into debates and at times was very critical, many years ago. but it was always constructive criticism. I I am not saying this to curry favour feel sure that the present lady members with the Leader of the Opposition, because will do the same. I congratulate them he knows my feelings and my loyalty and on their behaviour, and on their maiden has no doubts in that regard. I reiterate speeches. that his name will stand beside those of great It is only right and proper that I should Labor leaders in Queensland over the years, make brief reference to Mr. Speaker. I feel and I believe it is only a matter of time that I should devote some of my time to before he is Premier of the State. this subject. Over the years I have brought Before dealing with some of my pet sub­ forward many subjects during the Address­ jects, I wish to refer to a question that in-Reply debates, and I suppose it is unneces­ was asked on my behalf in the House this sary for me to repeat now many of the morning. When I returned to the Chamber things that are vital in my electorate. They and read the answer given by the Minister 12 314 Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply for Local Government, I was very disap­ Somebody must have been leading me up pointed, because I expected a little more the garden path. I have been assured that information than I received. complaints have been received. He further replied- My question related to a health hazard "The Planning Officer of the Gold Coast that now exists on the Gold Coast. As you City Council has made frequent visits to know, Mr. Deputy Speaker, the area men­ the site without encountering a dust tioned by me-Hollywell-is not in my nuisance." electorate, but I know the Gold Coast very well indeed and have known it all my life. There must be something wrong with him. I did not ask the question with any idea of He must be blind or drunk when he goes embarrassing the members representing the there. That is a stupid answer. The Minis­ Gold Coast area. They are new members, ter further replied- and I am sure I will have their support in "The names of the Directors of Lae my efforts to overcome the problems and Enterprises may be obtained from the hardship now being experienced by the resi­ Commissioner for Corporate Affairs, dents of Hollywell as a result of the activities Anzac Square Government Buildings, of a certain developer. Adelaide Street." Should I have to go trotting down to the In the question that I asked I mentioned Lae office of the Commissioner of Corporate Enterprises, and I shall restate the question Affairs to find out? Why could not the now so that honourable members will have a Minister tell me who they are? Are we not clear picture of what I am speaking about. entitled to be told here who they are? I am doing this deliberately in the hope of provoking some interest and trying to get Mr. Ahern: No. the Minister to take action in conjunction Mr. DEAN: Why? with the Gold Coast City Council. Mr. Ahern: Unless you clearly state the Mr. Burns: I am told that people have to reason why you need it I don't think you turn the headlights of their cars on when they should get it. It is not allowed in other drive into the area in daylight. Parliaments. Mr. DEAN: That is correct, and I men­ Mr. DEAN: I am sure that if I did a little tioned that in the question that I asked research I would find many precedents. the Minister. It was- The Minister further replied- "(1) Is he aware of the grave danger "The Clean Air Act is directed towards to health and property created by a fine, industry, and land development does not black dust from a development project at come within the scope of the Regula­ H?llywell by a company named Lae Enter­ tions." pnses and that motor vehicles have to That means that the health of the people drive with headlights full on as early as does not mean anything. 10 a.m. because of poor visibility? Mr. Burns: The Clean Air Act does not (2) Will he ascertain the names of the mean anything. directors of Lae Enterprises who are responsible for the development of the Mr. DEAN: Evidently not. I am certainly 75-acre Shearwater Estate at Hollywell? not satisfied with that answer. I am very disappointed in it. I am not going to let it (3) Will he invoke the Clean Air Act rest at that. I am going to persevere even by forcing this company to comply with if I become a bore on the matter. Some­ the regulations and to complete the thing must be done. I again appeal to hon­ development as a matter of urgency so ourable members in that area to take the that residents and parents with children matter up. It means more to their political are not subjected to this continual threat existence than to mine. Of course, it affects to their health and well-being?" me in another way. I am sorry the Minister Was the Minister's reply a fair answer to is not here tonight. I am very disappointed a sensible question? He replied- in his answer to my question. "I am not aware of a danger to health Enormous damage has been done down and property at Hollywell because of there. Not only have the exteriors of homes black dust." been damaged, but furnishings have suffered, too. When a certain wind is blowing it is The Minister lives within a stone's throw of impossible for residents to keep windows the area, figuratively speaking. There is and doors open without having their homes something wrong with that part of his filled with fine black dust. It is not like the answer. I am not blaming the Minister; I coarse dust we get around Brisbane. It is as know he must have received that advice fine as flour and jet black. One lady showed from somebody. But through his own me a $1,000 carpet that had been ruined. It common sense and sense of responsibility as could not be properly cleaned. That lady a Minister surely he could have given me a had been in a brand new home for only a better answer than that. He continued- few months. "The Division of Air Pollution Control Mr. Lowes: Does the wind come from the has not received any complaints." east? Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply 315

Mr. DEAN: Whether it comes from the presence is made known all along the high­ east or the west the damage is caused. It way. Drivers with a very poor sense of law is not fair to people who pay such high rates enforcement warn oncoming drivers of the on the Gold Coast that they should be sub­ location of the radar trap with the result jected to this nuisance. I lay full respon­ that speeding motorists slow down and are sibility for this on the Gold Coast City not apprehended. Council, because it failed to lay down proper I urge an increase in the number of conditions for this development. police Q-cars on the road. We should let Instead of allowing the developer to tear the police officers travel with the traffic and down the natural protection afforded by catch offenders in that way. I am sure that mangroves and other vegetation, it should by operating in this way they would catch have insisted that the area be developed in more offenders and, at the same time, educate proper and orderly fashion. But now the public. I do not believe in imposing development has ceased in one section of the penalties on people on every possible area. It is not difficult to see why the occasion, but I do believe that serious con­ development has been brought to a halt. I sideration should be given to discontinuing had been told certain things, and when I the use of radar and bringing back more went and looked for myself I realised that patrols on the road, at the same time ensur­ what I had been told was correct. Develop­ ing that we enforce very rigidly the laws ment has been brought to a halt so that the that we pass in this place. company can proceed with another project, I believe that too much leniency is extended the erection of a hotel, close to the estate. to offenders. The other day we listened to The developer is more interested in erecting a speech by an honourable member on the a grog house than in completing its other judiciary and court procedures. I know development project. that we cannot agree with his extreme views, No-one is against the development; the but many of us must feel that our courts complaint is that work has been proceeding are not taking the serious approach to road for months. The developer is under no safety that they should. And wrongdoers obligation to complete the work as soon as keep coming before them. After repeated possible. transgressions a driver's licence should be cancelled for life instead of being suspended Nearby residents have good grounds for for only a certain time. That type of claiming compensation, not only from the action should be taken more frequently. developers but also from the Gold Coast I am quite satisfied that many offending City Council. After all, like Parliament, the drivers are incapable of driving properly council is elected to look after the rights of and should not be allowed to drive a vehicle citizens. The citizen is entitled to look to on the highway. In other words they are the council for protection and for decent temperamentally unsuited. I have said on living conditions. other occasions that some kind of test should I repeat that at certain times of the day be devised for them. I have been challenged motorists are forced to turn on their head­ on this-and rightly so, because we should lights when driving along the nearby streets. be challenged at times-and asked who would I ask the members who represent that area carry this very serious responsibility of to prevail upon the developers to complete declaring a driver temperamentally unsuited the project so that the entire area can be to driving a motor vehicle. We must grassed. It is useless to lay lawn in small entrust the duty to someone. We should be portions as blocks are sold. As I say, the able to trust psychiatrists or some other panel protective barrier against the natural elements of men. The time will come when this has been destroyed. has to be done. I am satisfied that some people should not have a licence. I turn now to the very important matter of road safety. The Government is lacking Mr. K. W. Hooper: That is done in some in the enforcement of the Traffic Regulations. parts of Canada. From time to time we see police officers Mr. DEAN: It is done in parts of Sweden, using radar equipment to apprehend speeding as well. It is in the best interests of every­ motorists. There are, of course, hundreds one that people who are temperamentally of law-abiding motorists, but I am sure that unfit to drive a motor vehicle should not be the Minister for Transport will agree with allowed to do so. me that those who are bad motorists are really bad. Many times I have driven in I want to be fair about this. I am not fear of stupid motorists on the road. in any way implying that young people are always to blame. There are many excellent I was about to refer to the use of radar young drivers on our highways. The trouole traps. I suggest that they have outlived their seems to lie in the middle-age group. I usefulness. At one time they played a very do not know whether there is any truth important part in the enforcement of the in the saying that there is a silly age or traffic regulations, but now, notwithstanding an insane age, when people approach middle the fact that police officers manning the age, or a certain stage in life, but people machines do their job most efficiently, the in their late 30's or 40's seem to be more radar traps are virtually useless, because irresponsible than the young people with within minutes of their being set up their long hair on whom we cast reflections. I 316 Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply cast no reflection on anyone's appearance, have you had your licence?" She said, "Three but many people are prone to blame young weeks." She told me the driving school she drivers. I repeat that it is not always had gone to, though I will not mention its the young driver who is to blame. name. She should never have had a licence. Our courts, and many people as well, Honourable members know my physical con­ sheet the blame home to irresponsible dition, but if I could not have got a lift drivers, many of whom raise the popular home by some other means I would have excuse of intoxication. That is the weakest started to walk. I thanked her when I got excuse in the world. If alcohol makes people out, breathed a sigh of relief and was satisfied lose their sense of proportion and respon­ that my time was not up. But I would sibility, they should not touch it. No-one not like to take the risk again. All jokes makes them go into a hotel to drink. They aside, she was the worst driver I have ever can only blame their own weak will and shared a car with. As I said, the average outlook on alcohol. The mere admission lady driver, in my experience, is very good; that irresponsibility is brought about by but I almost stopped breathing on that alcohol should automatically mean that a occasion. I would not even open my mouth, penalty must be extremely heavy-much because I did not want to distract her heavier than it would be for a man who attention in any way. I thought she needed does not drink alcoholic beverages. Another every faculty she had to keep that car on familiar excuse is that a car gets out of the road. control. What a stupid thing to say! It This is a serious matter. Some people is the driver who is out of control, not the complain that they find it extremely hard car. The law is very weak on this aspect to get a licence. To a certain extent, that of a car getting out of control, crashing is a good thing. I do not know what standard into a telegraph pole or plunging into a is applied by our testing officers. Do we creek. But the driver never seems to be set a uniform standard or is the decision blamed for it. The only time a car could whether an applicant should have a driving be out of control-and this would be on licence just left to the whim of an individual? very rare occasions-would be through a lapse caused by the driver's sickness or illness. Mr. Frawley: Do you think women make However, it would be a very rare occasion the best drivers? that a car would leave the road for any other reason than the driver's neglect. There are Mr. DEAN: I repeat that the women whose recorded cases of people having died through driving I have experienced have been better sudden illness, but it is rare for a person than a lot of men I know-and far better to become ill so suddenly that he has no than I am. I have driven cars for many prior warning that would allow him to pull years. I suppose I have been very fortunate over to the side of the road. not to have been involved in an accident. l stress, as I have stressed on many However, I cannot understand how a woman occasions, that this Government should such as the one I have spoken of could enforce the laws that we have passed in have been issued with a licence. this Parliament and placed on the Statute Mr. K. W. Hooper: You will be pleased Book. When will the Government have the to know that testing procedures are presently courage to use the law, and use it as we under serious consideration. intended it to be used against the drinking­ driver and the negligent driver? I have Mr. DEAN: I am pleased to hear that. newspaper cuttings by the dozen that I could I do not want to make it extremely hard quote, but it is quite unnecessary as they for the person who may be quick on the are all on record. The most serious aspect pick-up or whose reflexes are very good of this menace is that it is presently on and who can gain a licence quicker than the increase. It is not getting any better. somebody else, but it should be given on Cars and motor-cycles are becoming more merit. A licence should be given on mental powerful, but it seems that those who are qualifications and reflexes. purchasing them are doing so very easily. From time to time we read in the Press They have the money with which to buy about serious accidents. I often wonder them and they obtain a licence too easily. whether many of the fatal accidents result I think the test for a driving licence should from inexperienced driving or plain negli­ be such that people would consider it to gence. I read in the "Telegraph" today that there is a high incidence of drink­ be really worth having. Licences should be much more difficult to 6btain than they driving in country areas and that it is on presently are. Only last week I was driven the increase. I cannot advance any theory by a lady driver. Most lady drivers with on that. Perhaps those who come from the whom I have driven have been very good North and West may be able to give the reason. Possibly drivers drop their guard and careful drivers, but this one frightened when on the open road, think no-one else the wits out of me because of the risks is on the road and take undue risks. she took. It is hard to believe that anybody could be so bad. It took me many moments Where an accident involving a fatality or to recover from the trip. She actually went a serious injury takes place, serious con­ through a red light! I have never done sideration should be given to the reissuing that in my life. I asked her, "How long of " cancelled licence. It should not be Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975} Address in Reply 317 reissued for quite a long time and certainly such as mine there is a heavy concentration not until the driver can prove he is entitled of population and the responsibilities falling to carry this very important document. on essential services are becoming greater This should be done in the interests not only every day. That is why I want the medical of that individual but also other users of and dental clinics updated. For aged and the road. infirm people who live in seaside areas such As I said, there are many matters I as Sandgate, Redcliffe and Wynnum, it is a could deal with; but there are some con­ real hardship to have to travel to the large cerning my electorate that I feel impelled hospitals or dental clinics in the city. I to mention again. I appeal to the House have received some information about the and particularly to the new Minister for clinic, and I have been told that tenders will Health to investigate conditions at the "Even­ be called for a section of it. I appeal for an tide" home at Sandgate. As I have said early calling of tenders, because if only part previously, the treatment down there is of the clinic can be in operation it will at beyond reproach. It would be impossible to least afford some relief till the whole complex get better staff anywhere else in the world. can be completed. It is very necessary in They are honest, dedicated people who are an area of dense population such as devoted to their very difficult task. Sandgate. (Time expired.) The conditions under which they work leave a lot to be desired. To start with, Mr. FRAWLEY (Murrumba) (9.27 p.m.): the place is too large. There are too many It gives me a great deal of pleasure to take inmates for the staff to look after properly. part in this debate. At the outset, I invite But the staff do the best they can and the interjections from both sides, Ministers result is very good under the circumstances. included, and I shal' do my best to handle them. I have already spoken to the new Minister for Health on the telephone about visiting First of all, I should like to congratulate "Eventide". He has promised he will look the Premier and the Deputy Premier on the at it and I believe he will. I am repeating great part that they played in leading the this so that it will go on record. I hope coalition parties to victory at the last elec­ the Government will give serious considera­ tion. There is no doubt that we have two tion to the construction of a new complex leaders who will go down in political history to house not the present 1,000 inmates, as great men of politics in Queensland. but a reasonable number, such as 600 to I should also like to congratulate Mr. 700. A comparable complex exists at Speaker on attaining his high and honour­ Wynnum. It also is doing an excellent able office. We had an example of his job. I would be very happy if the inmates ability in the closing days of the Fortieth at Sandgate enjoyed the same facilities. Parliament. I have known him since the 1950's, when he was Mayor of Redcliffe I now want to refer to the police facilities when it first became a city. He became in my electorate. There are about 25 the member for Redcliffe when it was taken officers on the staff, including policewomen out of the Murrumba electorate in 1960. He who are doing an excellent job. However, has already demonstrated that he will be a they have no separate facilities. They have very fair and impartial Speaker. to use the same facilities as the men. I feel sure that the two Ministers in the Chamber I should like to reaffirm my allegiance, at the moment would know the old building and that of the people of Murrumba, to in which these officers are working under Her Majesty the Queen. I am a loyalist very difficult conditions. I admit that we and a believer in State rights, and I have have a modern court-house. no hesitation in standing up and announcing my allegiance to the Queen. The amount of work done in the area I should also like to congratulate Sir is enormous. Most of the time is taken Colin and Lady Hannah on the part that up in dealing with petty r atters. Much they have played in Queensland since . Sir of their work involves traffic duties and Colin became Governor. On the occasrons paperwork which take up a good deal of on which he has visited my electorate to time. The facilities at the Sandgate Police perform his vice-regal duties, he has always Station would be among the poorest in the conducted himself as a worthy representative State. I can say that because I have travel­ of Her Majesty. I should certainly hate to led the State extensively. I know Queens­ see the office of State Governor abolished. land very well and I have visited many of That, of course, is part of the A.L.P. the police districts which have very fine police platform. stations and good conditions. As I have I should also like to congratulate all those done previously, I ask that the Government people of Murrumba who voted for me, give consideration, in the forthcoming Budget, as well as those who did not because, after to an allocation of money for this purpose. all, I represent all the people. I will not Finally, I refer to the medical and elaborate on the outstanding victory that the dental clinics at Sandgate. There is a large National Party had in Murrumba, because population in this area. Whilst I know that I know that it was not directly attributable many country members represent very large to me and the good representation that I electorates in terms of area, in electorates have given over the past 2t years. We all 318 Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply know that. The National Party was victori­ lib and I am master in my own home. ous because the people in my electorate, (Laughter.) I hope my wife does not read as well as those elsewhere throughout the this speech. State realised the dangers that faced them if th~y elected an A.L.P. Government. With Mr. DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr. W. D. a Federal A.L.P. Government and the A.L.P. Hewitt:) Order! I suggest that the honourable in power in the State, before we knew it we member abandon his flights of fantasy and would all have been in chains. come back to his speech. Mr. Ahern: Quite frankly, I think the Mr. FRAWLEY: I bow to your wishes, Labor Party will go out altogether shortly. Mr. Deputy Speaker. Mr. FRAWLEY: At least I thought they The 41st Parliament of Queensland is would have had a twelfth man. It is pretty unique for several reasons. First, it is the tough that they have only 11 men. I have only Parliament in the history of the State in heard that they will get a twelfth man in which there have been so few Opposition the near future. Normally A.L.P. members members; in addition, it is the first Parlia­ do not interject on me because they know ment to which two women members have that if they do I will belt hell out of them. been elected. In 1929 Mrs. Irene Longman They have had a demonstration of that over became the first woman member of Parlia­ the last 2t years, and probably they are not ment, and she actually moved the motion game to take me on again. Even though I for the adoption of the Address in Reply am a fairly new member, I am just as tough in that year. She represented the Nationalist as all of them put together. Party, which I believe was the forerunner Mr. Hales: Didn't you bring any notes? of the Liberal Party. In 1966 Mrs. Jordan was elected as the A.L.P. member for Mr. FRAWLEY: Actually I did not bring Ipswich West, and as the honourable mem­ many notes tonight, so I welcome ber for Sandgate said, she conducted herself interjections. as a lady should. In my time as a memb~r I should like to place on record my thanks of this Assembly, Mrs. Jordan always d1d to those who assisted me in the election. I her duty. do not usually do this, but I place on record my thanks for the assistance given to me by I congratulate the two ladies who have members of the National Party who manned been elected to the Government benches and the 33 polling booths in the Murrumba elec­ who have now made history by moving and torate. seconding the motion for the. ad?ption of the Address in Reply. Mrs. Kippm, the Nat­ I also specially thank the Liberal Party ional Party member for Mourilyan, moved for its assistance. If ever there was a true the motion and I congratulate her on her coalition effort, it was in Murrumba. The speech. M~s. Kyburz, the Liber~l member Liberal Party really got behind me, as the for Salisbury seconded the motiOn, and I joint National-Liberal candidate for Mm­ also congrat~late her. I was impressed, as rumba, and I have no hesitation in endor­ was the honourable member for Sandgate, sing the comment by the honourable mem­ by the fact that these two ladies did not ber for Baroona that this is truly a coalition express only a woman's point of view. They Government. are the representatives of their electorates, My personal thanks go to Mrs. Margaret and they represent both men and women. I Hodges, the wife of the Federal member for am quite certain they will ~ake v~luable Petrie, who spent a great deal of time on contributions to the work of this Parliament. the Clontarf polling booth on my behalf. I appreciated her assistance very much. The 41st Parliament is unique also becau~e It is good when a man's family assists him for the first time an Aborigine, Mr. En.c in an election campaign, and I thank my Deeral-he is not in the Chambe~ this family for their efforts on my behalf. evening-has been elected to the Parliament Usually I do not do so, but my family has of Queensland. He represents the Cook elec­ stuck by me since 1967, when I was first torate and he had to overcome about 150 elected an alderman of the Redcliffe City years 'of racial prejudice to b~come a mem­ Council, and I think that at some time a ber of this Assembly. He IS a very fine man should be prepared to express the feel­ Queenslander and a credit to ~is elector~te. ings he has for his family .. After aJI. blo?d His election takes away any tamt of rapsm is thicker than water, and If a mans family that may have attached to th~ NatiOnal sticks to him there is always a fair chance Party over the years .. Al!hol!gh It. has been he will make good in life. accused of being racist m Its attit_ude, the National Party now has as one. of Its mem­ A man in public life also owes a debt of bers in this Chamber Mr. Enc Deeral, a gratitude to his wife. It is not just t~e man man of whom we are all proud. who is successful; the woman behmd ~he man really counts. I go on record as s~ymg A Government Member: There is one in that I owe my wife a great debt of gratltude the Northern Territory, too. for the way in which she has stuck to me over the years. I have not been an easy Mr. FRAWLEY: I am speaking only abm:t person to live with-I am a_ware. of that-;­ the Queensland Parliament. I believe m because I certainly do not believe m women s Queensland first and other places afterwards. Address in Reply (13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply 319

As other honourable members who have But the Trades Hall cracked the whip. The preceded me in this debate have said, the big whip was cracked up at the hall and intervention of Whitlam in the campaign was it was decreed that a Left-winger had to one of the main reasons for the defeat of be leader. What better choice than the the A.L.P. in Queensland. When will he honourable member for Lytton-from the learn that when he takes on Joh Bjelke­ Trades Hail point of view, anyhow! He is Petersen he is taking on one of the greatest a prominent Left-winger who is well versed political leaders of all time. Every encounter in all the filthy tactics employed by the that the Prime Minister has had with the A.L.P. He is used to hatching plots in the Premier has seen Whitlam the loser. The back room of the Trades Hall. When the latest defeat must have been the most honourable member for Lytton found himself humiliating of all for him. Perhaps he will in the limelight as the shadow Minister for learn now to keep his big nose out of Health, he chickened out when he found Queensland's affairs. the going too tough, saying that his home Mr. Doumany: He will never learn. had been robbed by his political enemies. I asked a question of either the Minister Mr. FRAWLEY: The political gods must for Justice or the Minister in charge of certainly have been "dirty" on us to saddle police whether in fact members of the Liberal us with a blundering great oaf such as Gough or National Parties had really robbed the Whitlam as Prime Minister of Australia. member's home. Of course I received an Imagine a Prime Minister who could run answer in the negative. Now we are going down the economy to near depression level to see how the honourable gentleman performs at home and then make his country a as Leader of the Opposition. Already he laughing-~tock abroad when he took a Murray has been mouthing his instructions from the Grey bull over to China, with the Leader Trades Hall, like the honourable member for of the Opposition in the aircraft, ostensibly Archerfield, who is another Trades Hall going along as a representative, but I heard parrot. he was there to change the diapers on the The cheeky request of the Leader of the bull. It is rather debatable who was the Opposition for the use of the Government biggest bull in the aircraft, the honourable aircraft to inspect bushfire damage was just member for Lytton or the Murray Grey. another political gambit. His whingeing about Whitlam the wanderer ignored even his the four new Ministers was the greatest own oartv's advice not to flit around Eurooe politicking I have ever seen. while- Australia staggered under econo~ic He talked about jobs for the boys when blow after economic blow. Even 12,000 referring to the four new Ministers. One of miles from home Gough Whitlam could not them is in charge of the House tonight, resist hurling insults like "abominable" and the honourable member for Burdekin. He "monstrous" at the Australian car industry will be a credit to the Government as a for laying off workers at a time when that Minister, as he has already shown by the industry was brought to its knees by the way he handled his first deputation today. Federal Government's mismanagement. When The Leader of the Opposition talks about the Darwin tragedy blew Gough home pre­ jobs for the boys. Since the A.L.P. came maturely, we might well have regarded his into power in Canberra, a number of leading return as another disaster. But we have a Communists and Left-wingers have been lot to be thankful for. The members of the appointed to various Government advisory A.LP. here may be a pretty drab lot, but boards and agencies. There was the recent they are still a mile ahead of their Federal appointment of Mr. Pat Clancy, the president counterparts. of the pro-Moscow Socialist Party. He was The second reason for the overwhelming put on the newly-created Australian Popula­ defeat of the A.L.P. was the stupid trendy tion and Immigration Council. The A.L.P. policies adopted at the Cairns convention. Government has created a multitude of It wanted abortion on demand; it wanted boards. It has even created a board to this and that. It wanted to condone homo­ determine whether the sun comes up or not. sexuality and lesbianism. The people of Clancy was a senior Communist official of Queensland showed in no uncertain manner the Building Workers' Industrial Union, and that they certainly did not agree with any a member of the three-man committee which of these policies. The A.L.P. Opposition recommended to the Minister for Labour has steadily dwindled until there are only that the Government set up the National the Lone Ranger and Tonto. I leave honour­ Employment Training Scheme. He was one able members to judge which one is Tonto. of the brains behind that. He is also a With almost the complete wipe-out of the member of the Australian Opera Board. Left-wingers and Communists in the parlia­ What the hell would he know about opera? mentary wing of the A.L.P., one would have He would think the Desert Song was some­ thought that a Right-winger-someone like thing sung out in the Simpson Desert. the honourable member for Port Curtis­ Another member of the Communist Party, would have been elected leader. I have a Ted Gnatenko, the Amalgamated Metal great admiration for the honourable member Workers' Union convener of shop stewards for Port Curtis. When he played front row in the G.M.H. plant in South Australia, was for Nudgee College he was not a bad bloke. given a new post by the A.LP. Government. 320 Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply

Another leading Communist official, Jack Jim Kennedy, an A.L.P. candidate, who pays Mundey, was appointed to the Advisory the salary of Mr. Tom Burns's extra assist­ Cities Commission Board. Norm Gallagher, ant out of his earnings from his tourist another well known Communist, is now a resort at Tangalooma. It is interesting to member of the Advisory Council of the note that on occasions the Leader of the Australian Code for Residential Construction. Opposition works as a barman at Tangalooma. It is almost impossible to remember all the boards that have been set up by the In fact he was in the presidential suite there Federal Labor Government. Next, there was when his house was robbed. There is also Max Ogden, who was employed by the Peter Wilenski, an ex-employee of Mr. A.M.W.U. and the Arts Council. There was Whitlam's and an A.L.P. candidate who was John Halfpenny, the assistant secretary to defeated on endorsement. He was appointed the A.M.W.U. and a member of the Federal head of the Federal Department of Labour Government's Advisory Committee on the and Immigration. Honourable members can Environment. There was also Paddy Troy, see how many men have been appointed one of the five members of the Western to jobs for the boys. And the Labor Party Australian Committee on Discrimination in cries about four new Queensland Cabinet Employment and Occupation. These Com­ Ministers! munist officials form a very influential force with direct access to Government departments. The Leader of the Opposition, on Tuesday, said that the Federal member for Petrie, Closer to home we see evidence of other Mr. John Hodges, was running around jobs for the boys. Frank Doyle, who was Deception Bay trying to claim credit for 17 months in the saddle and defeated by the $151,000 RED money that had been Kevin Cairns for the Federal electorate of allocated to a good group of people in Lilley, was appointed to a position in the Deception Bay. Incidentally, the area is Federal Department of Labour. Brendan in my electorate as well as in the Federal Hansen, the defeated A.L.P. member for electorate of Petrie. In reality, however, Wide Bay, besides receiving his parliamentary Mr. Hodges was trying to patch up dif­ pension of $10,000 has a full-time job with ferences between two committees engaged· in the Federal Department of Tourism. There is a little bit of in-fighting. The two com­ also Jack Egerton, now a director of Qantas mittees just cannot seem to agree, and Mr. and a member of several other Government Hodges was afraid that the money may have bodies. He is in receipt of generous allow­ been lost to Deception Bay. After all, ances. This is "one man one job" Egerton. $151,000 is a pretty large sum of money Bob Hawke, the Federal president of the to a little seaside resort like Deception Bay. A.L.P., has been appointed to the board of the Reserve Bank, and J. I. Armstrong­ I propose to read a telegram, a copy of he is not a relative of the honourable which I received today. It is addressed to member for Mulgrave; I carefully checked on John Hodges, and it reads- that-who is a defeated A.L.P. Senator and a "My department have advised me of former Lord Mayor of Sydney, was the developments concerning the RED appointed Australian High Commissioner to project submitted by the Deception Bay London. And the Labor Party squeals about Civic Centre Sports Trust. They have the Queensland's Government appointment also informed me that you are giving my of an Agent-General in London! Regional Director every assistance in resolving the matter rationally and I have already told the House about AI amicably. I am very grateful for your Grassby. He is in receipt of a salary of assistance. I have today sent the follow­ $25,000 and on an expense allowance of ing telegram to the Secretary of the Decep­ $1,200. He has the use of a Commonwealth tion Bay Civic Centre Sports Trust- car in any capital city and is paid $31 a day travelling allowance. Because he 'Further to my telegram approving "travels" seven days a week he receives your scheme application for assistance another $210 a wee!.::. He even charges $31 under the RED scheme I am informed when he goes to church, and I don't think that recent developments suggest that he puts it in the plate. As I have said further evaluation of your application before, he is not paid an entertainment allow­ is necessary. I have therefore requested ance, but now that he has lost Junie Morosi the Queensland State Committee to that is to be rectified. I am sure that the carry out this evaluation and will advise entertainment allowance paid to Jim Cairns you of the outcome as soon as possible.' will be cut down at the same time. Signed Clyde Cameron, Parliament House, Canberra." There is C. H. Webb, the defeated A.L.P. member who is now Administrator of That is an acknowledgment from Clyde Christmas Island. Christmas certainly came Cameron that the Federal member for Petrie, early for him! Then there is J. N. Nelson, Mr. John Hodges, is actually assisting in a former A.LP. member, who is Adminis­ having this money spent. I congratulate trator of the Northern Territory. We have Mr. Hodges, and I am glad that I have had seen the appointment of Lionel Murphy to an opportunity to set the record straight after the High Court. He was put there only the deliberate untruths told on Tuesday by to gerrymander the whole show. There is the Leader of the Opposition. Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Addressi n Reply 321

The A.L.P. has tried to attribute its defeat for others in the community. The Amalgam­ to a gerrymander. That claim is completely ated Metal Workers Union throughout Aus­ untrue, and is merely designed to confuse the tralia is controlled by Communists. There issue. Members of the A.L.P. squeal about are 33 Communists holding key positions in gerrymanders but forget that in 1949 the this union, seven of whom are in Queensland. rottenest gerrymander of all time was made They are: F. Thompson, the Townsville by a Labor Government. In the recent organiser; E. Wyper, in the Queensland office; election the A.L.P. contested all 82 seats; K. Hickey; G. Hennessey; David Lofthouse, the Liberal Party contested 53 and the the Queensland local delegate of the National Party 48. The average vote A.M.W.U., who is on the State Council of obtained per seat in the seats contested, the Communist Party; E. Crisp, who is a was Liberals 5,432, National Party, 5,335 Queensland official of the Communist Party, and the A.LP. 4,137. Labor's cry of gerry­ and F. Bishop, another Queensland official mander is all hog-wash. of the Communist Party. There are plenty The A.LP. believes that "profit" is a dirty of other under-cover Communists in this union, but the ones I have named are the word, but we should not forget that this well-known ones. These men are not work­ country has been built on the profit of ing for the benefit of the union; they are private enterprise and its endeavour. betraying the country and trying to destroy A Government Member: The A.L.P. has Australia's economy. For years officials of gone to private enterprise to try to get the A.M.W.U., led by Carmichael and Half­ money for its election campaign. penny, the Victorian secretary, have waged a vendetta against General Motors-Holden's Mr. FRAWLEY: It has tried to blackmail and other car manufacturers. private enterprise to get money for the election campaign. And it will do it, too. It is very interesting to note that Mr. Whitlam, on 2 June 1972, attended a con­ According to the A.L.P., "multi-nationals" ference of the A.M.W.U., where he received is a dirty term. When the A.LP. wants to a donation of $25,000 towards the Labor blame anyone for something, it blames the Party's 1972 election campaign. multi-nationals. The position of Labor in Queensland is no different from that of its It is not the multi-national companies that Federal counterpart. It bleats continually we have to worry about but multi unions. I about the multi-nationals and forgets all the believe that the Federal Government and all good things done by them. What does Labor the Communists who control the Federal think about the $100,000 given to the Darwin Government have cleverly contrived the col­ Relief Fund by Mount Isa Mines, which is lapse of this country. The Federal Gove~·n­ a multi-national company? At the same ment is not even interested in people owmng time Labor conveniently forgets about the their own homes. It is against private multi unions. Communist and Left-wing­ ownership of any kind. It would like to controlled unions are certainly trying to get see all houses owned by the State, and all the Federal Government to approve an people (especially young people) tenant~. amalgamation of unions under the guise of Under the 1973 housing agreement, expendi­ eliminating demarcation disputes. The real ture on welfare housing this year will increase motive behind this is centralisation of power. by a minimum of 7 per cent. This is at a The Australian Council of Trade Unions time when inflation is running at about 25 decided that unions should charge members per cent. one per cent of their average weekly earn­ The Federal Government is establishing ings. Incidentally, A.L.P. members in the Housing Corporation and it will use at Queensland are paying three per cent of their least half of the 7 per cent increase to set salaries to retain endorsement. it up. It will be another bureaucratic part Mr. !.ester: Is that right? of the Federal Government's plan to socialise this country. It tried to force the State Mr. FRAWLEY: Yes. Government to build Housing Commission Mr. Lester: Can they use that as a tax­ houses for rental only, but this Government ation deduction? objected strongly. However, the best agree­ ment that we could obtain was that we Mr. FRAWLEY: Unfortunately they do. build 70 per cent for rental and 30 per That is the shocking part of it. cent for sale. The Amalgamated Metal Workers Union The money offered by the Federal Govern­ of Australia has 180,000 members. Its annual ment to purchase cheap land in my elec­ income is $11,500,000, roughly one-quarter torate around Narangba had the usual social­ of what the Tasmanian Government receives istic strings attached to it. There was to in taxation. That amount will be greatly be no freehold land. It was all to be lease­ increased if the A.M.W.U. is allowed to con­ hold. In other words, people could never script other unions, and the centralisation of own their own land and their own homes. power and money under the control of the The land would be perpetual lease. The self-confessed Communists Halfpenny and present Federal Government has done nothing Carmichael will be enormous. They are about housing for the young people of committed to a foreign ideology and the Australia, yet the State Opposition supports principle that might is right, without regard its actions. 322 Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply

In 1972, when the Appeals and Special spent $6,000 of Teachers' Union money cam­ Reference Bill to enable the continuation of paigning against this Government by inserting appeals to the Privy Council was debated, advertisements such as the one I am holding we saw just what a give-away group this -"Please give us a fair go. Just because A.L.P. Opposition was. One of the most we are out of sight, don't put us out of dangerous men in the Federal A.L.P. is mind too". I received many letters and Dr. Jim Cairns, who in 1972 wrote in his telephone calls from teachers saying they book "The Quiet Revolution" that revolution entirely dissociated themselves from Mr. in an advanced capitalistic country can only Costello's statements. become a possibility if there is a serious Mr. Ahern: Do you think we should legis­ economic crisis. That is presently happening late to make political donations to unions in this country. Dr. Cairns and some of non-compulsory? his friends are pushing Australia towards disaster. Mr. FRAWLEY: I think that would be a The inflation being experienced in this very good idea. I think it is a shocking thing country is deliberate. It is not imported, when a union's money is dissipated on the as Dr. Cairns claims. What is happening insertion of ridiculous advertisements by a in Australia is a carefully connived collapse person who professes to be non-political. of the economy. The aim is socialism. The platform of the Labor Party is democratic The A.L.P. has a plan to gain control of socialisation of industry, production, distri­ the schools and use them as indoctrination bution and exchange. High inflation and centres by putting the party line in text­ unemployment, tight credit, high inter-est books. It intends to present homosexuality rates and industrial disruption are all part and promiscuity as normal and healthy­ of the plot. This Opposition supports that and, of course, eliminate all laws governing plot. obscenity. It intends to eliminate prayer and religious instruction in schools and 'We have heard a lot of criticism about the belittle all forms of national culture. It State education system both before and after intends to discourage teaching of most the election on 7 December. Most of the history, and place more emphasis on Russian trouble was caused by the mouthings of the history. It intends to create the impression Queensland Teachers' Union president (Mr. that violence is a legitimate aspect of national Costello), who is nothing more than a stooge tradition an~ that students should rise up for the A.L.P. He uses his position to spread and use umted force to solve economic A.LP. propaganda. Likewise, a Mr. J. pol!tical a~~ social problems. To change ~ Hungerford, the secretary of the Petrie nat10n po!ItJcally and socially, a start must e.xecutive of the A.L.P., has attacked condi­ be made with the children and of course the tJOns at the Bray Park and Strathpine State education system is to be used by the A.L.P. Schools in the electorate of my fr-iend the to further its aims. honourable member for Pine Rivers. It is interesting to note that when the . Al~eady the Communist Party of Australia A.L.P. held Pine Rivers in the last Parlia­ IS bemg helped by the Australian Union of ment not a word was said about this; but S~ud~nts. at the ..Sydney University in freely now there is a capable member for the elec­ d1stnbutmg manjuana. Another organisation torate-the Liberal member for Pine Rivers whose aim is to destroy discipline in schools (Mr. Bob Akers), a man who will be a is the one I mentioned in a question this credit to this Parliament and who will do a ~eek-Dr. D'Urso's Council for Democracy fine job for Pine Rivers-they have already m Schools. I have no hesitation in saying commenced a campaign against him. But that one of his stooges was the former mem­ isn't this typical of all the dirty, filthy, rotten ber for Barron River-not the present mem­ tactics employed by the A.L.P.? They are ber who would drop-kick D'Urso out the not concerned about schools or school­ door if he ever poked his nose into the children. They are just using them for electorate of Barron River. political propaganda. It is Dr. D'Urso and the Council for The allegations about the Bray Park and Democracy in Schools who are causing a lot Strathpine State Schools were nothing but of this trouble in schools. They have gone blown-up charges. In fact, the principal of around mouthing their theories about the school refuted the statements made by democracy in schools and telling the students this social worker, Mr. Hungerford, about what they should and should not do. This its accommodation conditions. Mr. has given these young people the belief that Hungerford described the first-day situation they can decide just what they will do and at the Strathpine school as a disgrace. He won't do; that they can throw everything referred to infants having to be shunted into out of the door. demountables, pupils accommodated under Mr. Ahem: Isn't the Federal Government the school building and teachers without helping Dr. D'Urso and the Council for I ight, blackboards or other aids. If teacheos Democracy in Schools to do it? are any good. they can teach under any difficulties. I have no doubt about that. Mr. FRAWLEY: Yes. It has given them Most school-teachers are good, sincere a grant of $19,000 to set up some branch people who are not pro-Labor, as Mr. in Brisbane to further their rotten aims to Costello would have us believe. Mr. Costello destroy our schools. The Council for Address in Reply [13 MARCH 1975] Address in Reply 323

Democracy in Schools wants to transfer dis­ In his vicious attack Senator Keeffe cipline from the principal and teachers to the alleged malpractice in the administration of children. What a ludicrous situation! My prisons in Queensland. It is completely colleague he honourable member for Isis untrue. The senator also claimed that the would not put up with that. Premier had instituted legislation in Queens­ Mr. Powell: No way in the world. land to prevent members of the Snowy Mountains Engineering Corporation from Mr. FRAWLEY: I am sorry, Mr. Deputy operating here except at the clear direction Speaker. I digressed. of the State Government; this would prevent Sensitivity training is something to which any further work on the Burdekin Dam. I want to draw the Minister's attention. It Senator Keeffe also claimed that the Queens­ has to .be watched very closely. I have had land Government only opposes works north complamts from parents in my area that of Kingaroy. We all know that Senator Keeffe is an associate of Communists, and some o~ the asp~cts of this ~o:m of training now bemg used m some trammg colleges in his job is to knock the Queensland Govern­ Queensland leave much to be desired. Sen­ ment at every opportunity, especially the sitivity training encourages students to express Premier. He travels in deadly fear of the themselves and their points of view freely Premier. and without restraint and even allows The Government's reason for passing the obscenity-the removal of all inhibitions. Snowy Mountains Engineering Corporation This is nothing short of thought persuasion (Queensland) Act was to give the Queensland and heathenism and it is intended to change Government some control over what happens a person's behaviour and social relationship. in this State. I believe that that is reasonable. It was developed by Dr. L. Bradford of The Federal Government amended the Snowy the National Education Association of the Mountains Corporation Act in August 1973, l!:nited States in association with psycholo­ making it possible for that body to undertake gists and a behavioural scientist. I intend to work in Queensland on its own initiative keep a careful watch on this sensitivity without obtaining permission from the Queens­ training and I urge the Minister for Educa­ land Government. That would be a ridiculous tion, too, to watch it before it gets out of situation. h'!nd. Regardless of the consequences, I At 10 p.m., Will expose any facets of this sensitivity training which I consider are immoral or Mr. DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr. W. D. against normal human behaviour. And I Hewitt): Order! Under the provisions of will do it from the floor of this House. Standing Order No. 17 and the Sessional . This Government has been attacked many Order agreed to by the House on 5 March, times by Senator Keeffe, who is allegedly I propose to allow the honourable member the champion of the Aborigines. But when to complete his speech. a house next to Senator Keeffe's home was let to Aborigines, he squealed to the Minis­ Mr. FRAWLEY: Thank you, Mr. Deputy ter for Aboriginal Affairs and tried to get Speaker. Unfortunately, at 10 p.m. I threw them shifted. That shows what a champion most of my notes away, so I shall have to he is. He is the one who moved the motion start again. in Cairns to legalise homosexuality and Whilst I am on my feet, I should like when it was over he actually put his arms to speak about the section of road in Elizabeth around somebody and kissed him. Could Avenue, Clontarf, from the Clontarf State there be anything more sickening than kiss­ School to a street named Pikett Street on ing Senator Keeffe? which the speed limit has been changed A Government Member: Senator Georges. to 80 km/h. It used to be a 45 m.p.h. zone, which is about 72 km/h. When speeds under Mr. FRAWLEY: I'll pay that one. the metric system were introduced, it was Senator Georges has appointed the former changed to 80 km/h. member for Everton as his research officer. All they can research is how to sit down Recently there was a fatal accident at in the street. the corner of Elizabeth A venue and Duffield Road. There have been so many accidents, A Government Member: Jobs for the reported and unreported, on this road that boys? a person who lives there has erected a sign, Mr. FRAWLEY: Big jobs for the boys. "Motorists beware! You are now entering hell's corner." In 1973, I rose in this House A Government Member: He's a racist. and made one of my usual impassioned There's evidence of that. appeals to the Minister to reduce the speed limit in Elizabeth Avenue. It is ridicul­ Mr. FRAWLEY: Of course he's a racist. ous to have a speed limit of 60 Recently he attacked the Queensland km/h from the Hornibrook Highway Minister for Community and Welfare Ser­ to the Clontarf State School, then vices and Minister for Sports, whom I have 80 km/h till it reaches Pikett Street, and then known personally for 37 years. We were reverting to 60 km/h approaching the Kippa­ in the same class at school. He is a man Ring State School. After another three­ who is a credit to this Parliament. quarters of a mile, it reverts to 80 km/h. 324 Questions Upon Notice [18 MARCH 1975] Questions Upon Notice

I urge the Minister for Main Roads, the Minister for Transport, or whichever Minister has control of this matter, to reduce the speed limit on this road before I am killed. I travel on this road twice a day, and I could be one of the unfortunate ones to be hit at the corner of Duffield Road and Elizabeth Avenue, Clontarf. Mr. Hodges: The Minister for Main Roads. Mr. FRAWLEY: I thank the Minister. It would not be fitting if I resumed my seat without some further congratulations. I should like to congratulate all the new members who were elected to this House. They are a fine body of men and women. I have no hesitation in saying that, and nothing to gain by it. It is just the truth. I welcome them all, both Liberal and National Party members, and I say that I consider it a privilege to be in this House to serve with them. I hope that in the ensuing three years they can put up with some of my persistent interjections. The House adjourned at 10.4 p.m.