Queensland

Parliamentary Debates [Hansard]

Legislative Assembly

WEDNESDAY, 20 AUGUST 1941

Electronic reproduction of original hardcopy

4 Election of Speaker. [ASSEMBLY.] Governor's Opening Speech.

WEDNESDAY, 20 AUGUST, 1941.

PRESENTATION OF MR. SPEAKER. Mr. SPEAKER (Hon. E. J. Hanson, Buranda) took the chair at 9.45 a.m., and said: Under Standing Order No. 8 I shall now proceed to Government House, there to present myself to His Excellency the Governor as the member chosen to fill the high and honourable office of Speaker, and I invite such hon. members as care to do so to accompany me. Mr. SPEAKER then left the chair. The House resuming at three minutes to 12 o'clock, Mr. SPEAKER said: I have to report that I have this day presented myself to His Excellency the Governor at Government House, as the member chosen to fill the high and honourable office of Speaker of this House, and that His Excellency was pleased to congratulate me upon my election. Honourable Members: Hear, hear!

GOVERNOR'S OPENING SPEECH. At noon His Excellency the Governor came to Parliament House, was announced by the Sergeant-at-Arms, received by Mr. Speaker (Hon. E. J. Hanson) at the bar, and accompanied to the dais. Hon. members being seated, His Excellency read the following Opening Speech:-

''GENTLEMEN OF THE PARLIAMENT OF QUEENS­ LAND,- '' In these days of unparalleled danger to the British Commonwealth of Nations, and to free peoples everywhere, it is pleasing to be able to meet you at the opening of this, the first session of the twenty-ninth Parliament of Queensland. Governor'B Opening Speech. [20 AUGUST.) Governor'B Opening Speech. 5

''Parliament never has been opened in such session of Parliament the Public Safety Act serious circumstances. All those great ideals was placed on the statute-book. The passing for which Britain and Australia have fought of that Act was an acceptance by the State during so many years are imperilled. of its responsibility to the civil population ''The people of Britain to-day are suffering in the event of an extreme emergency arising much, but are meeting all discomforts and out of the war. dangers, with a spirit and courage indomitable ''Measures already have been taken, by the and unconquerable. promulgation of the National Security (Emer­ gency Supplies) Rules, to ensure that ade­ ''My advisers are determined to do all that quate supplies of essential commodities will lies in their power to maintain that same be available throughout the State in the event spirit and to give all practical assistance of any interruption to transport either by sea possible. Queensland already has shown her­ or land or through dislocation of trading self, in so many ways, determined to play facilities generally. her full part in defeating for all time the threat to our freedom. ''Workers in industry have uniformly played their part in the general welfare of "I have been able to visit many areas in the State and in aiding the war effort on the this great State during the past year, and I land and at sea. Industrial disputes have am grateful and proud of the effort, self­ indeed been few, and the machinery under sacrifice, and determination of all classes in the industrial conciliation and arbitration every part of Queensland. law of the State has speedily and effectively ''The people of Queensland are demon­ wrought satisfactory settlements between strating their unswerving loyalty to the employer and employee. British Empire in the present cl"isis by the ''According to the latest statistics, unem­ number of enlistments in the Navy, Army, ployment in the State has reached the low and Air Force, by their subscriptions to war figure of 3.9 per cent. The basic wage at loans and war-savings certificates, and their present, £4 9s. per W'eek, is the highest ever generous support of the various patriotic fixed in the State. funds. It is gratifying to record that Queens­ land was the first State to purchase its ''During the year the shipment and market­ allotted quota of war-savings certificates and ing of our primary produ,cts overseas have is still in the lead. Great praise is due to met with considerable success despite the the members of the numerous patriotic bodies serious shortage of ships and the dislocation who have worked so hard for the welfare of caused by the ·war. It is to be expected that the men of our fighting services and their these difficulties will increase with the pro­ de pen dents. longation of the "ar. "The financial year 1940-1941 closed with ''Early winter rains assured the mainten­ a surplus of £28,436-receipts amounting to ance of good conditions in farming districts, £21,539,749, and expenditure to £21,511,313. while the pastoral lands of the interior seldom This result is extremely gratifying, following have been so uniformly supplied with winter as it does on the surpluses of the two pre­ feed of such abundance. The preliminary ceding financial years. estimate of the number of sheep in the State at the beginning of 1941 is 24,000,000, com­ ''My advisers, however, recognise the pared with the actual record total of increasing difficulties caused by the struggle 24,190,931 a year earlier. It is estimated in which the British Commonwealth of Nations that cattle have increased by about 100,000 has been engaged for nearly two years. They to 6,300,000. are giving earnest and unremitting attention to the finances of the State, and trust that ''The foresight of my advisers in passing at the end of the present financial year they legislation to encourage the production of will be able, for the fourth consecutive period, power alcohol is revealed in the steps now to present a balanced Budget. being taken to expand the industry on national lines. ''My advisers report with satisfaction on the measures adopted for civil defence and ''All possible aid is being given to the security and air raids precaution. Members Commonwealth Government in the prosecu­ of the various branches and subcommittees tion of the war. Particular mention might under enthusiastic and competent wardens be made of the assistance rendered in the have freely given their services and time for completion of the inland strategical road, instruction in first-aid, fire-fighting, decon­ the preparation of the site for the munitions tamination, rescue, and demolition work. The factory near Brisbane, the establishment of local authorities, hospital and ambulance ser­ shipbuilding yards from which several vessels vices, and the fire brigades throughout the already have been launched, and the train­ State have willingly co-operated with the ing of munition workers in our Technical central authority in these operations. This College. The principle of planned co-ordina­ work is being carried out in close collaboration tion of public works observed in this State with the Commonwealth Government through has aided greatly the construction of defence the service departments and the Department works undertaken for the Commonwealth. of Defence Co-ordination. ''Housing difficulties in certain towns of ''A basic duty of the State is to provide the State consequent on the influx of muni­ for the welfare of its citizens and to be tion workers have been brought under the prepared for every emergency. In the last notice of the Commonwealth Government, and 6 Governor's Opening Speech. [ASSEMBLY.] Panel of Temporary Chairmen.

the services of the State Advances Corpora­ Workers' Compensation Acts Amenilment tion will be gladly made available to assist Bill. in overcoming the shortage. Income Tax Assessment Act Amendment ''The erection of the new University build­ Bill. ings at St. Lucia is progressing satisfactorily. ''I invite your earnest consideration to ''The opening of the new Dental Hospital these and all other matters that may be at Brisbane marked the completion of another brought before you. stage in the Government's plans for improved ''In conclusion, I join with my advisers social services. in rejoicing that the indomitable spirit which ''Education in a democracy is so important characterised the Anzacs and animates our that it calls for periodic revision if it is to brave sons and daughters in the present war keep abreast of progress. My advisers, for is characteristic of the people of this State some time past, have been considering a and of the Commonwealth as a whole. vVe, co-ordinated scheme of national education. as an integral part of the Empire, are passing To that end a measure will be introduced, through a severe testing-time, 'but I am having for its object a greater co-ordination confident that victory will soon crown the of the Education Department with the efforts of the nation and that the sacrifices University. It will embody certain principles which our people are making will be rewarded laid down at the recent successful Educa­ by the triumph of the cause of freedom and tion Convention. By this means it is hoped democracy. that a liberal and practical education will ''I pray that the blessings of Divine be offered to everyone. Providence may attend your labours.'' ''My advisers also have under consideration His Excellency then left the Chamber. proposals for employment-placing generally on the basis of the principles contained in :Yir. SPEAKER left the chair at 12.10 the Public Works Organisation and Co­ p.m., resuming it at 2 p.m. ordination Act, having in view the effect of war on industry ancl the necessity for the early planning of post-war problems. These COMMISSION TO AD:MINISTER OATlL pro blerns are engaging the serious attention Mr. SPEAKER: I have to inform the of my advisers, and plans are in course of House that His Excellency has been pleased preparation for improving settlement, housing to issue a commission under the public seal conditions, and living standards of the people of the State empowering me to administer the generaHy. oath or affirmation of allegiance to such members as may hereafter present themselves ''The public senice continues to render to be swom, which I now direct the Clerk to loyal and efficient service to the State. The services of a number of State officers have read to the House. been made available to the Commonwealth Commission thereupon read by the Clerk. fm important war duties. ''The Estimates for the cunent financial MEMBERS SWORN. year are in course of preparation and will be submitted to you as early as possible. MR. J. E. DUGGAN AND MR. J. V. HA YES. These Estimates will be found to have due Mr. John Edmund Duggan and Mr. Joh11 regard for the necessity for economy while Vincent Hayes, having taken the oath of at the same time providing for all the essen­ allegiance and subscribed the roll, took their tial requirements of the State seats as members for the electoral districts ''During the coming session you will be of Toowoomba and Nundah respectively. invited to give consideration to the following among other measures:- ELECTIONS TRIBUNAL. Emergency Supplies Bill. JUDGE FOR 1941. Group Sales Bill. ~Ir. SPEAKER announced the receipt of Commonwealth and State Income Taxes a letter from His Honour the Chief Justice Further Agreement Bill. intimating that His Honour Mr. Justice Seeds Act Amendment Bill. Mansfield would be the judge to preside at State Electricity Commission Act Amend­ the sittings of the Elections Tribunal for ment Bill. the year 1941. Justices Acts Amendment Bill. Education Co-ordination and Unh·ersity Bill. PANEL OF TEMPORARY CHAIRME~. Labour and Industrial Affairs and Labour Mr. SPEAKER: Pursuant to the require­ Exchanges Co-ordination Bill. ments of Standing Order No. 13, I hereby Public Curator Acts Amendment Bill. nominate the following members to form the Bills of Sale Acts Amendment Bill. panel of Temporary Chairmen for the prese11t Married Women's Property Acts Amend- session- ment Bill. Samuel John Brassington, member for the Stock Returns Acts Amendment Bill. electoral district of Fortitude Valley; Supreme Court Acts Amendment Bill. William Logan Dart, member for the Possessory I"iens Bill. electoral district of Wynnum; Death of Mr. Randolph Bedford. [20 AUGUST.] Death of Mr. Randolph Bedford. 7

Eric Paul Decker, member for the electoral the Parliament of Queensland in the loss district of Sandgate; they have sustained.'' Thomas Dunstan, member for the electoral The late Mr. Bedford, Mr. Speaker, was a dish·ict of Gym pie; member of the LegislatiYe Council from Ernest Joseph Riordan, member for the 12 October, 1917, to 21 February, 1918, and electoml district of Bowen. from 27 May, 1918, to 23 March, 1922. He was elected as member for the electoral dis­ trict of Warrego, succeeding the late Hon . •J. H. Coyne in October, 1923. That was in BY-ELECTIONS DURING RECESS. the t>Yenty-thirr1 Parliament, and except for MERT'HYR AND HERBERT. a short break in the twenty-eighth Parliament, lUr. SPEAKER: I desire to inform the when he resigned to contest the Maranoa seat House, for purposes of record, that at in the Federal Parliament, he represented that the by-elections for the electoral districts of electorate until his death in July, 1941. Merthyr and Herbert held on 9 N oYember That is, he represented the W arrego electoral last, William Matthew Moore, Esquire, and district in virtually six complete Parliaments. Stephen Theodore, Esquire, were returned as He >Yas re-elected to the present Parliament the duly chosen members for those districts unopposeu. Trspectively. These members were sworn in The late ~fr. Bedford >vas a well-known before me on 12 December, 1940, and signed figure throughout Australia for many years. the roll of members. He was a man of great mental attainments, I also have to inform the House of the and a man with wide human sympathy, and death, since his election to the present Parlia­ he was known and respected by a very wide ment, of Randolph Bedford, Esquire, member circle of friends and a great body of' people for the electoral district of Warrego. Mr. throughout the State and Commormealth. Bedford died on 7 July, 1941, and I have Those of us in this Parliament who knew received from the Registrar-General a certified him intimately had a keen appreciation of his copy of the registration of his death. A writ qualities, and regret his death very keenly. of election to fill this vacancy was issued by This Parliament has lost a very able member. His Excellency the Governor on 7 August, He carried out his duties to his electorate 1941. faithfully and well', and vvas esteemed by all his colleagues. I am sure that I vtOJice the views of everyone here when I say we all PAPER PRINTED DURING RECESS. regret his death, and the fact that he is no longer with us to take part in the proceedings ~Ir. SPEAKER: I have to report thae of this Parliament. the following paper was ordered to be printed and circulated during the recess:- Honourable :Members: Hear, hear! Report upon the Establishment and JUr. NICKLIN (Murrumba) (2.8 p.m.): Operations of the several Organisations I second the motion moved by the Premier, for the Civil Defence of Queensland. and join ·with him in extending sympathy and condolences to the relatives and friends of the late Mr. Bedford; he was a man who DEATH OF HoN. P. PEASE AND will be greatly missed by men of' all shades LIEUTENANT-COLONEL c. D. w. RANKIN. of political opinions. He was a big man in every way, and a man of wide experi­ REPLIES TO MorriONS OF CoNDOLENCE. ence, particularly in mining anu literary Mr. SPEAKER.: I have to inform the circles. He hnd an intimate knowledge of House that I have received letters from the the outback of this great country of ours, widows of the late Hon. P. Pease and Lieu­ its people, and its problems. His writings on tenant-Colonel C. D. \V. Rankin, conveying that part of our country, together with his thanks for the motions of condolence passed rar1io talks, will go clown as classics. by the House during the last session of Although he was severe with the rapier in PaTliament. controversy and in debate, I have never known him to be personally venomous to anyone. In fact, I do not think he had an enemy in DEATH OF MR. RANDOLPH BEDFORD. this House, and very often the victim of his MoTION oF CoNDOLENCE. verbal thrusts enjoyed them as much as did any onlooker. His patriotic poem, ''Voices The PREl\HER (Hon. W. Forgan Smith, of the Brave,'' published this year, gives a Mackay) (2.5 p.m.), by leave, without notice: true and fervent indication of his love of I move- this country of' ours. I think it is one of ' ' 1. That this House desires to place on the most inspiring patriotic poems we have record its sense of the loss this State has had during the course of this war. The late sustained by the death of Randolph Bed­ Randolph Bedford was a good Australian, and ford, Esquire, member for the electoral his presence will be missed in this House. district of Wan·ego. With other hon. members on this side of '' 2. That Mr. Speaker be requested to the House I join with the greatest sincerity convey to the widow and family of the in seconding the motion moved by the Premier. deceased gentleman an expression of the Motion agreed to, hon. members standing sympathy and sorrow of the members of in silence. 8 Death of Former Members. [ASSEMBLY.] Death of Former Members.

DEATH OF RICHARD ROWLAND BOW, Commonwealth and the problems dealt with l

Proclamation, dated 27 February, 1941, Order in Council under the Aboriginals under the Public Works Land Resump­ Preservation and Protection Act of 19:J9. tion Acts, 1906 to 1938, and the State Regulations under the Backward Persons Development and Public Works Organisa­ Act of 1938 relating to the Dalby 'rrain­ tion Acts, 1938 to 1940. ing Farm. Regulation, dated 17 April, 1941, under Order in Council, dated 6 May, 1941, the Abattoirs Agreement Ratification amending the Rules of Procedure and Meat Industq Acts, 1930 to 1932. under the Brisbane City Council Busi­ Regulations under the Insurance Acts, ness and Procedure Act of 1939. 1916 to 1940. Ordinances under the City of Brisba11e Regulation under the Motor Vehicles Insm­ Acts, 1924 to 1940. ance Acts, 1936 to 1940. Regulations under the Health Acts, 1937 Regulation under the Navigation Acts, to 1939. 1876 to 1939. Proclamations under the Health Acts, 1937 Regulation under the Workers' Compensa­ to 1939. tion Acts, 1916 to 1939. R.egulations under the Local Government Order in Council under the Bureau of Acts, 1936 to 1940. Industry ActH, 1932 to 1934. Regulations under the Medical Act of 1939. Order in Council under the Bureau of Order in Council under the Medical Acts, Industry Acts, 1932 to 1935. 1939 to 1940. Order in Council under the Industries Regulations under the Nurses and Mas­ Assistance Acts, 1929 to 1933. seurs Registration Acts, 1928 to 1940. Order in Council under the Succession and Regulations under the Motor Spirit Probate Duties Act of 1904. Vendors Acts, 1933 to 1934. Regulations under the following Acts:­ By-laws Nos. 404 to 411 under section 13± The Diseases in Poultry Acts, 1923 to of the Railways Acts, 1914 to 1934. 1940. Regulations under the State Transport Act The Diseases in Stock Acts, 1915 to of 1938. 1940. Orders 'in Council under­ The Drought Relief to Primary Pro­ ducers Act of 1940. The Coroners Act of 1930. The Fertilisers Act of 1935. The Elections Acts, 1915 to 1940. The Fruit and Vegetables Acts, J 927 to The Lessees' Relief Acts, 1931 to 1932. 1939. The Mortgagors Relief Acts, 1931 to The Fruit Marketing OrgaJlisation Acts, 1932. 1923 to 1940. The Purchasers of Homes R.elief Acts, The Primary Producers' Organisation 1930 to 1932. and Marketing Acts, 1926 to 1939. The Financial Emergency Act of 1931, The Second-hand Fruit Cases Act of the Financial Emergency Relief Exten­ 1940. sion Act of 1932, and the Law of The Sugar Experiment Statioc1s Acts, Distress and Other Acts Amendment 1900 to 1938. Act of 1934. The Veterinary Surgeons Act of 1936. The Financial Emergency Act of 1931, The Wheat Pools Acts, 1920 to 1930. the Financial Emergency Relief Exten­ Orders in Council under- sion Act of 1932, and the Contracts of Sale of Land Act of 1933. The Agricultural R€quirements Control The Jury Act of 1929. and Conservation Act of 1939. The Magistrates Courts Act of 1921. The BaJlana Industry Protection Acts, 1929 to 1937. The Supreme Court Act of 1921. The Burdekin River Trust Act of 1940. Regulations under- The Fauna Protection Act of 1937. The Coroners Act of 1930. The Fruit Marketing Organisation Acts, The Elections Acts, 1915 to 1940. 1923 to 1940. The Friendly Societies Acts, 1913 to The Milk Supply Act of 1938. 1940. The Peanut Industry Protection and The Trust Accounts Acts, 1923 to 1925. Preservation Act of 1939. The Wages Attachment Acts, 1936 to The Primary Producers' Organisation 1940, and the Justices Acts, 1886 to and Marketing Acts, 1926 to 1939. 1932. Proclamu tions under- r:ules under- The Diseases in Plants Acts, 1929 to The National Security (Fair Rents) 1937. Regulations made under the National The Sugar Experiment Stations Acts, Security Act, 1939. 1900 to 1938. Statements of various Insurance Com­ Orders in Council under the Income (State panies under the Life Assurance Development) Tax Acts, 1938 to 1939. Companies Act of 1901. Rules of Court under the Industrial Con­ Fifty-sixth Annual Report of the Union ciliation aJld Arbitration Act of 1932. Trustee Company of Australia Ltd. Address in Reply. [20 AuGUST.] Address in Reply. ll

LEADERSHIP OF OPPOSITION. continued loyalty and affection towards lUr. NICKLIN (Murrumba) (2.49 p.m.), the Throne and Person of Our Most by leave: I wish to inform the House that Gracious Sovereign, and to tender our at a meeting of the Country-National Party thanks to Your Excellency for the Speech held on 21 May last, I was appointed Leader with which you have been pleased to open of the Opposition as from and including 16 the present session. July, in place of Mr. E. B. Maher, \Yho did 'The various measures to which Your not offer himself for the position. Excellency has referred, and all other matters that may be brought before us, 'l'he PREMIER (Hon. W. Forgan Smith, will receive our most careful consideration, 1\Iackay) (2.5 p.m.): Mr. Speaker, I desire and it shall be our earnest endeavour so to congratulate the hon. member for to deal with them that our labours may Murrumba on his elevation to the position tend to the advancement and prosperity of Leader of the Opposition. ·The hon. of the State.' '' gentleman was elected to Parliament first in 1932, since when he has made very rapid At the opening of my remarks I should like progress. He has taken part in most of the to offer you, Mr. Speaker, my congratulations major debates since his election, and has upon your unanimous re-election to the office shown a ready facility for debate and an of Speaker of this Assembly. I could hear earnest desire to become thOToughly the true voice of Labour speaking when I acquainted with the meaning of measures heard my old friend the hon. member for brought before Parliament. Logan preface his remarks by mentioning your many good qualities and your qualifi­ The office of Leader of the Opposition is cations for the position. You were re-elected a very important one. Criticism of the to that office because you are a true son of measures t.hat c:ome before the House is the Labour movement. valuable and helpful, and I wish the hon. member for Murrumba every success in Government ]}Iem!Jers: Hear, hear! the position he now occupies. I shall ]}Ir. DEVRIES: And because of that fac\ assist him as much as possible in his work I believe you will uphold the dignity of your and I trust that he will be long spared to office. earry out the duties of his office. (Laughter.) I express pleasure at the honour conferred upon the people of Gregory-the electorate MINISTElRIAL STATEMENT. I have been honoured to represent in this Assembly-by my nomination to move the REAPPOINTMENT OF MINISTRY. Address in Reply to the Governor's Opening The PREMIER (Hon. W. Forgan Smith, Speech delivered this morning. Mackay): I lay upon the table of the I come to this august assembly to speak House a copy of a ''Government Gazette'' for the people in the outback parts of the Extraordinary issued on 26 April last con­ State who carry their burden of \YOrk and taining a notification of the reappointment responsibility gallantly ancl with little of the Ministry following the general elec­ complaint. They suffer the inconveniences tion held on 29 March, 1941. they have to bear from time to time, but they strongly resent injustice. As I take my place in this Assembly my mind goes back over the GOVERNOR'S OPENING SPEECH. space of time to the grand old sons of Labour lUr. SPEAI{ER: I have to report that \rho previously gra.ced these benches. They His Excellency the Governor this day spoke for the self-same type of people for deliveTed to Parliament an Opening Speech which Labour speaks to-clay-the common of which, for greater accuracy, I have folk. As time goes on, I hope that I shall be obtained a copy. I presume hon. members able to emulate those grand old men, to ·will take this Speech as read~ further their ideals and dreams that to-day Honourable JUembers: Hear, hear! have become realities and are providing the people with social amenities that were not available in their time. ADDRESS IN REPLY. The people of Queensland have indeed 0PENI::-rG DAY. shown wise judgment in again returning Labour to power. (Hear, hear!) It is obvious JUr. DEVRIES (Gregory) (2.57 p.m.), that they have entire confidence in the Labour who was received with Government cheers, movement, sincerely believing that it will said: I move- guide their destinies along proper channels '' That the following Address be pTe­ during the ensuing Parliament. That confi­ sented to the Governor in reply to the dence is founded very largely on the trust Speech delivered by His 'Excellenc~'y in that the people have in our Premier, which opening this the first session of the twenty­ springs largely from the fact that he has ninth Parliament of Queensland : -- alv.-ays given wise counsel a,nd been thoroughly honest in safeguarding the rights c:\1ay it please Your Excellency,- of the people. Indeed, a higher public place ' We, His Majesty's loyal and dutiful awaits the Premier, and I hope that in the suh_iects, the members of the Legislature very near future it will be filled by him. He of Queensland, in Parliament assembled, has the qualifications, not only of a highly desire to assure Your Excellency of our competent parliamentarian, but also of a 12 Address in Reply. [ASSEMBLY.] Address in Reply.

statesman. Hon. members need not take my believes in full and plenty for all, and with say-so for that; all the public records give that end in view it fights. evidence of its truth It is true also, Mr. Speaker, that during In coming to this Parliament I leave behind the times we are passing through the Govern­ me many years of active work as an industrial ment will be compelled to husband their officer for a Labour organisation that is a finances. That is to say, they must exercise big part of the Labour movement, which is care to balance their Budgets, but I do not indeed the only movement on God's earth believe that they will balance their Budgets that creates hope and aspiration in the hearts at the expense of their people. In other and soul of mankind. words, they would not pursue a policy of balanced Budgets in the midst of unemploy­ Government Members: Hear, hear! ment. That is the policy of the opponents of Mr. DEVRIES: As I glance round Labour; they believe in taking all and giving hon. members on this side of the Chamber nothing. I can see many who belonged to that organi­ The Government are faced with very sation, which has given much in the interests difficult times. Labour's sons are engaged of the people that it serves. I take my place with the fighting forces on the field of battle, in this Chamber withi the avowed purpose of but we must realise that any post-war plan­ endeavouring to follow in the footsteps of ning must take into consideration the transfer the grand old men of Labour, and I am of those fighting forces back into civilian going to try to emulate them in the goodness life by creating useful employment. During and beauty for which they fought. After the war that raged from 1914 to 1918 there all, the Labour movement is the essence of was indecent haste on the part of people goodness and beauty. representing high finance to get back to Opposition Members: Oh, dear! profit-making. I believe that will not happen again. We have heard much of the new Mr. DEVRIES: Hon. members opposite social order, but I submit that Labour, being do not know the meaning of the phrase the only party that is representative of the ''goodness and beauty.'' The electors of people, is the only party competent to decide Gregory, in sending me here as their parlia­ how the new social order shall be controlled. mentary representative, have shown plainly their resentment of the unkind statements It is pleasing to note the reference by His and, indeed, the false statements that were Excellency to the part the workers have made by opponents of the Labour movement. played in the history of Queensland. It is true that Queensland possesses the finest Those who styled industrial unionists half­ industrial and conciliation machinery in the wits did not go far; the electors of Gregory Commonwealth; in fact, I go further, and did not take such an advocate seriously; in say it represents the greatest piece of legis­ short, they considered that person to be not lation in the world. No State in the Common­ merely a half-wit, but a no-wit at all. wealth is able to deal more efficiently than It is pleasing to observe in the speech of Queensland with industrial disputes that His Excellency that he has made an extensive occur from time to time. I speak with some tour of the State of Queensland. I am also experience, because 15 of my 23 years of happy to know that His Excellency recently resid<>nce in the West ·Of Queensland were travelled through certain parts of the occupied in carrying out the duties of a Gregory electorate. It is, therefore, safe to union official-a class to whom our opponents assume that the Governor himself is cognisant refer to as "half-wits" who go round the of the trials and tribulations that confront country creating trouble and preventing the the people living in the outback of Queens­ employer from doing what he would like to land. Unfortunately, I was absent from my do. We believe that as time goes on our electorate when it was visited by His industrial legislation will be improved. We Excellency. It was a time when heavy rain look forward to the day when disputes will was falling and he must be well acquainted no longer occur, and when peace and good with many of the discomforts the people of will towards men will prevail; but until then the western part of Queensland endure during we must safeguard our people by legislation. very heavy rains. I am sure, Mr. Speaker, Those who are opposed to industrial con­ that the experience gained by the Governor ciliation and arbitration should give credit to during his travels through Western Queens­ the State of Queensland-and particularly to land will be the means of widening the the Labour Government of Queensland-for knowledge of the requirements of the people bringing down such beneficent legislation as in that area. I have referred to. It is true that the It is also true, Mr. Speaker, that Labour Government have been aided by the industrial is doing everything possible to aid the war workers. Prom time to time, too, little differ­ effort, too. Labour does not cause these wars, ences occur, but although as a party we speak with one voice, there is plenty of room in but it is nevertheless true that Labour has to fight them. What more, then, can Labour our part)' in which to straighten out all those do than-as it is doing at the present time­ differences. give its very sons, their lives and flesh and It is regrettable that the Commonwealth blood, in the defence of freedom and liberty. authorities have not seen fit to use the The policy of Labour is not like the policy of resources of Queensland more fully in war its opponents, who believe in riches for the production. I refer particularly to power few and poverty for the many. Labour alcohol. Prom time to time the Queensland Address in Reply. [20 AUGUST.] Address in Reply. 13

Government have sponsored the production of Every possible consideration has been given power alcohol in Queensland and it is a matter to air-raid precautions, but the Secretary f'or for reg-ret that they have not received the Health and Home Affairs, who controls this help from the Commonwealth Government to work, is faced with great difficulties, and which they were entitled. Nevertheless, I in the past has been subjected to much unjust believe that as a result of representations by criticism. After all, the thing that counts this Government the Commonwealth Govern­ is the preservation of the lives of our people. ment will, in the near future, give a greater We who remain at home are just as impor­ measure of consideration to the production of tant as the fighting forces in the front line, power alcohol in Queensland. for the destruction of the back line leads to the ultimate defeat of the front line. It is The bulk of war production is becoming our belief that in the event of invasion it centralised, which is a bad thing for the is the Government's duty ancl right to protect country. It is no use saying we need not fear the civilian population, and that is all that invasion. There is a possibility of invasion the Public Safety Act seeks to do. and that possibility is a cogent reason why production should be decentralised. The policy pursued by this Government has led to the general prosperity throughout the We in Queensland are not enjoying our State. For three consecutive years there fair proportion of the money expended on have been surpluses in the State finances, and the war effort. On the other hand, Queensland any increase in revenue has not been clue to is giving every possible aid to the Common­ increased taxation, as has been suggested by wealth. For instance, the Railway Depart­ our opponents-but to the fact that more ment is undertaking a certain amount of people are at work than at any previous defence work at the milway workshops at stage in our history. The greater amount of Ipswich, at which the greater part of the employment has meant increased earnings in defence work in Queensland is being done. all phases of productivity, and this in turn Accommodation for the manufacture of preci­ has brought about increased revenue. sion tools and gauges to be used at the Rocklea munition factory is in the course of The Australian Labour Party takes the view erection, and will be ready for occupation that as this war will be won by the common about the end of August. Rockhampton is people, those common people must have the also busily engaged on defence work. The right to work at honest toil, and I am confi­ department has undertaken the construction dent that records will give the lie direct to of additional siding accommodation and other any suggestion that the Labour Government facilities for defence purposes, such as the are not pulling their weight in the effort to insertion of crossing loops to facilitate rail­ win this war. way movements in a time of emergency. The I desire to thank the various Ministers defence programme undertaken by the for the cordial and sympath\ltic considera­ Commonwealth Government in the northern tion they have given to my representations portion of the State, which was done under since I have been elected to this Parliament. the supervision of the State Government-! It is encouraging to one who supports our refer to the inland defence road-has been Labour Government to know that whenever completed, and every credit is due to Queens­ he presents a case for the people of his land for the help it gave. electorate he receives the utmost courtesy and The Government of Queensland are also consideration. I have already had ample concerned with the supply of foodstuffs for evidence of it. our people in the event of interruption to In conclusion, I hope and trust that when transport. Steps have been taken to ensure this Parliament reassembles in 1942 the dark that the wants of the people are safeguarded. clouds of war will have vanished and that we The Government have also actively and shall be able to walk once again in the extensively concerned themselves with ship­ bright sunshine, being able to say that we building. On the completion of the Story have won not only the war but also the Bridge the labour engaged was transferred peace. Had we won the peace as well as the to the shipbuilding industry, and from time war at the end of 1918 we should not have to time the Government have indicated that been faced with the present turmoil and they are willing to make sites available to destruction. contractors if the expansion of this industry Honourable Members: Hear, hear! warrants it. To this end, in fact, suitable sites have been surveyed. J'Ir. TURNER (Kelvin Grove) (3.25 p.m.): I rise to second the motion for the adoption The possibility of constructing \Yooden of the Address in R.eply, so ably moved by the ships has received the attention of the Govern­ hon. member for Gregory. At the outset, I ment. The local shipbuilders have indicated should like to congratulate him upon the their willingness and ability to proceed with able manner in which he moved that motion. the construction of this class of ship immedi­ I think we all shall agree that he has set ately orders are received. The Government a solid foundation for a very successful have stated that if the capacity of existing political career; his services will be valuable shipbuilding yards is exceeded they will give not only to the State but also to the Govern­ immediate assistance in providing additional ment. accommodation. These are proofs that the I consider it a privilege to second the motion Government of Queensland have given every before the Assembly. The Government have possible assistance to the war effort. honoured the electors of Kelvin Grove Address in Reply. [ASSEMBLY.] Address in Reply. electomte in this respect, and I am confident had the privilege of attending a union con­ that the people of Kelvin Grove will show ference in the South and I was amazed to their appreciation of tl!e fact iYhenever an learn that although a branch of my organi­ opportunity offers. sation down there which was subject to the jurisdiction of the Federal Court of Concilia­ Like the hon. member for Gregory I desire tion and Arbitration had made application to offer you, Mr. Speaker, my congratula­ for a variation of its award in August, tions on your re-election to the office of 1939, it was not until 28 July, 1941, that Speaker of this Assembly. Like tile hon. the matter was listed for hearing. I recall member for Logan I have known you a con­ that about J 0 years ago my organisation siderable number of years and was closely applied to the Queensland Industrial Court associated with you in the industrial move­ for a variation of the award relating to oil ment before you were elected a member stores and that the employers in the industry of Parliament. I can honestly say that if immediately applied to the Federal Court your conduct and actions in this Chamber are for an order restraining the State Court from anything like what they were when you were hearing the case. Nothing further was done connected with the industrial movement, by the employers for three years. Their sole no-one in Queensland need have any fear purpose was to move the Federal Court so about how you will control the conduct of as to prevent the State Court from function­ this House. I was associated with you in ing as it was intended to function, and so many industrial battles; at all times you my branch in Queensland was prevented from were "illing to make sacrifices in the obtaining an improvement in the wages and interests of those you represented-financial conditions of the workers in that industry. and other sacrifices-but more often financial. I can say without fear that there is no other I know that you made a great sacrifice when industry in the State or the Commonwealth you took up a position as an official in the that is better able financially to grant industrial movement of Queensland; I know improved conditions to its workers than the that you made sacrifices throughout your oil industry. Its profits over the years con­ industrial life-in fact, your whole life was elusively prove my statement. one of sacrifice. I was one of those who were happy io learn that the people were I was delighted when the Labour Govern­ to reward you for your activities in the indus­ ment in this State passed legislation com­ trial field by electing you a member of pelling oil companies to blend a percentage this Assembly. I have nothing but the of power alcohol with petrol with the object greatest admiration for you and feel con­ of reducing the amount of money that was fident that you will carry out your duties sent overseas every year to pay for motor w'ith credit to yourself and reflect dignity spirit produced in America and oth'er overseas on the position you hold. oil-bearing countries. I can say from prac­ tical knowledge that that action \Yas a blessing I should also like to congratulate the not only to Queensland but to the Common­ Premier upon the success he achieved at the wealth as a whole. Indeed, the people asso­ last general elections in having the Govern­ ciated with the motor industry, men of ment returned to office once again. The considerable experience, express the view Premier, in his wisdom, made no promises that the blended spirit is the best that can to the electors of Queensland because he be used in any internal-combustion engine. knew that with the changing circumstances I know that the Government are insisting and the conditio11s operating it would be that the blended spirit be used in Govern­ unwise to make promises from an election ment cars, and I know, too, that the oil com­ platform that he might be unable through panies are insisting that it be used not only no fault of his own to fulfil. Knowing our in their trucks but also in the cars that are hon. leader as we do, we know that he does used by travellers in scouring the country not make a promise that in his own soliciting orders for their products. heart he believes he cannot fulfil. On this During my trip to the South I bought a occasion the Premier created a political copy of the paper, ''The Border News,'' at record, ons that has never been equalled in Albmy, and I was pleased to read that the political history. It was the first occasion on wheatgrowers in that district were urging iYhich the same Government on their appeal the whea tgrowers to unite in an endeavour to the people of the State won back seats to compel the Federal GoYernment and the they had lost on a previous occasion. Such New South \Vales and Victorian Governments a thing has happened under different leaders, to follow the example of the Queensland but this is the first time in political history Government in insisting upon the use of a that seats have been lost and won back under blended motor spirit. The Federal Govern­ the same leadership. It is, no doubt, a ment were proposing to use the surplus wheat wonderful achievement. With all due respect crop for the distil! a tion of power alcohol to the previous representatives, I can say and so the wheatgrowers in the Southern without a blush that those electorates >Ycre districts were urging the farmers to organise neYer better represented than they are to-day. with the object of having a power-alcohol :factory established at Albury. This would Goyernment lliembers: Hear, hear! enable them to reduce transport costs to a lUr. TURNER: As a representative of an minimum because the wheat that would be industrial organisation extending over 17 required for alcohol would be treated near years I share the views expressed by the at hand. hon. member for Gregory concerning our I considered that a compliment to the industrial arbitration system. Recently I State of Queensland, and the Government of Address in Reply. [20 AUGUST.] Address in Reply 15

Queensland in particular. It is quite evident the Minister himself was amazed at the that the wheatgrowers in the Southern States success of that display, which gave the people have appreciated the legislation enacted in of Queensland some idea of what has been this State to enable power alcohol to be done. Although the organisation has been a extracted from our sugar molasses, inasmuch silent one the work has been carried out most as they are agitating for their Governments effectively and efficiently. to take similar action with respect to the surplus wheat crop. If similar legislation had :From my experience, I know we have been been enacted throughout the Commonwealth criticised, because of the detailed nature of when this Government took action, our stocks information we solicited. When we asked the of petrol to-day would be considerably greater people for detailed information that would than they are, and we should be further be of assistance to the Government in the removed from danger in that respect. event of an attack by an enemy invader, such as the number and type of vehicles owned or I observe from the Speech by His Excel­ any other equipment likely to be needed, the lency that the Government intend to bring people thought we had gone mad, but I think down a co-ordinated scheme of national educa­ Saturday night's display must have given tion. As one who has been very active in them a realistic idea of what to expect should school-committee \York-at the moment I am this country be invaded. The people who chairman of the school committee in my area missed seeing that display missed something -I do not hesitate to say that my electorate worth \Yhile; and judging fTOm the remarks possesses one of the finest State school build­ of the Minister when addressing the people ings in the southern hemisphere. It was one after that display I feel confident he was of the first schools constructed as a result of absolutely staggered at the success of his the rehabilitation policy adopted by this own efforts. I offer him my sincere con­ Government when they took office in 1932. I gratulations. It has been no easy task to am happy to say that through the greater build up an organisation that was so efficient facilities made available to the children of this as to give the display that we saw last State those attending the Ithaca Creek State Saturday night. School have had their share of success in the I know it is the ambition of the Minister scholarship examination. From 95 to 98 per that the same effective organisation should cent. of the children attending that school are operate in all the principal coastal towns, workers' children. Since the privilege of particularly in the North, because they are winning State scholarships was extended to nearer to our immediate enemy than vYe are. the whole community, instead of being con­ Should there be an attempted invasion-of fined to selected classes, the Ithaca Creek course, with the hon. member for Gregory, I School has succeeded in obtaining between sincerely hope that day will never come-I 50 and 60 scholarships each year. For the feel confident the organisation in our coast extension of that privilege I voice my appre­ towns will give an effective account of them­ ciation to the Government on behalf of the selves. workers. I trust, when the 2\finister and his department announce the amendments to be In conclusion, I also hope with the hon. introduced into our educational enactments, member for Gregory that when this war is it will be found that vocational scholarships won \Ye shall win the peace with it; but I am will have the same value as academic scholar­ very much afraid that if the present condi­ ships. Many children attending our State tions continue that will not happen. A young schools are not academically minded, but are man in my own electorate who has a wife and mechanically minded. Although some have three children served his country at Port been unable to reach the present standards of the scholarship examinations, they have Moresby for some time and was discharged as gone a considerable distance in the industrial unfit on account of a germ in the foot that field and have become not only valuable rendered him unfit for active military service. citizens, but also of great assistance to I say emphatically that this man should be industry. I hope, therefore, that the accepted for home service. Could not his ser­ Minister will see to it that the vocational vices be utilised in some of the canteens or at scholarships will have the same value as the' the officers' mess where able-bodied young men academic scholarships. are employed g Should the military authorities not show some appreciation of the services There is not much more that I can say. this man has rendered to his country~ I My colleague, the hon. member for Gregory, think it is a crying shame that men who have covered much of the ground it is necessary to served this country to the best of their ability traverse on an occasion such as this, but I should be treated in such a manner that should like to supplement his remarks on the they should have to come to members of A.R.P. work. As chief warden in my locality, Parliament, as this man came to me, and I desire to pay a compliment to and con­ ask what can be done for them in regard to gratulate the Secretary for Health and Home employment. If that state of affairs is going Affairs on the success his efforts have to continue, the winning of the war will not be of as great benefit to us as it should be. achie,·ed. He has not allowed himself to be The winning of the peace, too, is of great intimidated or embarrassed. From time to importance to us. As I have frequently heard time he has been charged with doing nothing our worthy Premier state, what is won and worth while, but I think last Saturday night's taken away to-day by might will be taken display at the Exhibition grounds was a away by might another day. We do not want complete answer to his critics. I think even that to happen. 16 Questions. [ASSEMBLY.] Questions.

With the ho:n. member for Gregory, I sincerely hope that in winning this terrible war we win the peace that should go with it. Honourable Members: Hear, hear! Debate, on motion of Mr. Nicklin, adjourned.

SPECIAL ADJOURNMENT. The PREMIER (Hon. W. Forgan Smith, Mackay) : I move- '' That the House, at its rising, do adjourn until 10 o'clock a.m. to-morrow.'' Motion agreed to. The House adjourned at 3.48 p.m.