Queensland

Parliamentary Debates [Hansard]

Legislative Assembly

THURSDAY, 21 AUGUST 1969

Electronic reproduction of original hardcopy

124 Questions [ASSEMBLY] Questions

THURSDAY, 21 AUGUST, 1969 (2) Is he aware that Mr. D. J. Killen, barrister and M.P., claimed that his client had been in custody for more than five months? Mr. SPEAKER (Hon. D. E. Nicholson, Murrumba) read prayers and took the chair (3) According to the system of justice at 11 a.m. in Queensland why is such a delay tolerated or excused? QUESTIONS (4) Are more Judges required to man the District Courts in Queensland? INSTALLATION OF SEWERAGE, CANNON (5) Has his attention also been drawn HILL STATE SCHOOL to Judge McCracken's statement that in Mr. Tucker for Mr. Houston, pursuant to Longreach last May he found a man had notice, asked The Minister for Works,- been in custody for six months and three days awaiting sentence and that the period ( 1) When is it proposed to replace the of incarceration was longer than any earth closets at the Cannon Hill State Judge would have given him for the School with sewerage installations? offence to which he was prepared to plead (2) What stage has the design of toilet guilty? blocks reached, pending such installation? (6) Did he also note the Acting Judge's comment to the effect-"There is some­ Answers:- thing wrong with the administration when (1) "As soon as possible after the this sort of thing can happen"? Brisbane City Council declares the area (7) What does he intend to do to sewered." obviate this intolerable situation? (2) "Planning of new toilet blocks will (8) Is he prepared to compensate this proceed when the Council's declaration is unfortunate prisoner at Longreach who made." was forced by the Crown to languish in the Longreach gaol because of the Government's alleged maladministration PETROL SUPPLY FOR CO-OPERATIVE of the criminal law? SoCIETIES Mr. Tucker for Mr. Houston, pursuant to Answers:- notice, asked The Minister for Justice,- (1 and 2) "I have read the report in When speaking on the Co-operative and The Courier-Mail of August 8 last of Other ~ocieties Bill on December 7, proceedings of the previous day in respect 1968, d1d he state that he had at least of the adjournment to the next Sittings of two measures he could implement that will allay the anxieties of co-operative the District Court of five charges of steal­ societies buying for cash whose source of ing against the accused person. A further supply is cut off? If so, what action has he two charges of stealing were similarly taken to assist the Queensland Associated adjourned. The accused was represented by Cattlemen's Co-operative Ltd., whose Mr. Killen of Counsel and his client had source of supply of petrol through the been in custody for between five and six Queensland Associated Motorists Co-opera­ months at the time." tive Ltd. has been cut off? (3) "The accused was first tried on July Answer:- 14 on a charge of stealing. There was a disagreement by the jury. Altogether, he "My information is that the supplies of has been committed for trial on eight the Societies referred to were cut off as charges and also on a charge of breaking, they were selling below the price followed entering and stealing for which he was on the fixing of the price in South Australia. tried on August 7. The proceedings in the The representative of the Queensland Associated Cattlemen's Co-operative has lower court were conducted by the police. been advised to inquire as to whether this The police, of course, come under the is a breach of the 'Trade Practices Act'." administration of my colleague the Honour­ able the Minister for Works. It would appear, however, that during the period in PERIODS SPENT IN CUSTODY BY ACCUSED question there were remands of the various PERSONS cases from time to time due to difficulties Mr. Davies for Mr. Bennett, pursuant to experienced in securing the attendance of notice, asked The Minister for Justice,- necessary witnesses and the appearances of legal representatives on behalf of the ( 1) Has his attention been drawn to the strong criticism of Acting Judge accused. All adjournments were made with McCracken in the District Court on the consent of the accused. I do not pro­ Thursday, August 7, 1969, of cases where pose to disclose full details concerning these accused persons spent long periods in gaol matters as the great majority of these cases between arrest and trial? are still sub judice. As the Honourable Questions [21 AUGUST] Questions 125

Member appreciates, there is a great multi­ PROHIBITION OF BINGO plicity of charges. There are also outstand­ Mr. Melloy, pursuant to notice, asked The ing seven charges of stealing not heard in Minister for Works,- the lower court and one charge of assault­ ( 1) Is he aware of the dens of iniquity ing a member of the Police Force in the and gambling hells which flourish through­ execution of his duty, which, in accordance out Queensland, in which women and with the practice, will not be heard until children are involved in the game of all the charges to be tried on indictment bingo? have been terminated." (2) Will he take the necessary actiTownsville. The accused failed to appear. do attract subsidy? His recognizance and surety were estreated and a warrant was issued for his arrest. Answer:- During this period, the complainant had " I lay upon the table a list of rates of been a patient in the Townsville Hospital subsidies to Local Authorities under the receiving treatment for a fractured right State's Approved Subsidy Scheme, and femur and a fractured right tibia. The leave it to your discretion, Mr. Speaker, warrant was executed and after the accused whether such voluminous information had been in custody for eight days the should be included in 'Hansard'." preliminary hearing of the case against him Paper.-Whereupon Mr. Chalk laid upon was heard on December 5, 1968. He the Table of the House the paper pleaded guilty and was committed for referred to. sentence to the first Sittings of the District Court to be held at Longreach in 1969. He COMPENSATION FOR LAND RESUMPTIONS did not apply for bail. There is provision FOR DAM PURPOSES, LOGAN ELECTORATE in section 113 (4) of the "Justices Acts" Mr. Baldwin, pursuant to notice, asked for him to be committed to a place other The Minister for Local Government,- than Longreach with his consent in writing. However, at the date of committal the list Will he urge the Government to pay out of District Court Sittings for the ensuing at once full compensation to farmers hold­ ing land in use in the proposed dam site year had not been published. Before mak­ areas in the Logan Electorate, with the ing a committal, the justices must be satis­ right to continue to use their land, if they field as regards the length of time which desire, until it is required for the dams? will elapse before a court of competent jurisdiction next sits at the place to which Answer:- a defendant would, in the absence of the "Work is in the preliminary stage. As subsection be committed, which would be yet there is no definite proposal to build Longreach. This information was not the dam. Until some design basis is available. However, the accused was in formulated it is not possible to indicate custody at Her Majesty's Prison, Stuart, the land ~ffected. Compensation is not Townsville, where he would have been payable until the land is taken." informed of his rights and he took no action which he could easily have done to SEWERAGE INSTALLATION LICENCES FOR have been sentenced at an earlier date." PLUMBERS, NORTH QUEENSLAND (6 and 7) "See Answer to (5)." Mr. F. P. Moore, pursuant to notice, asked The Minister for Local Government,- ( 8) "There has been no maladministra­ ( 1) Is he aware that qualified plumbers tion of the criminal law and the prisoner in North Queensland are not able to obtain is not entitled to compensation because he licences for sewerage installation unless had his remedy and failed to take it." they leave their place of abode? 126 Questions [ASSEMBLY] Questions

(2) Is it possible for the Government 2 of this Act (supply tobacco to person to arrange for schools of instruction and under 16 years) is $20; and for a practical examinations for these men in breach of section 3 of the Act (person their respective areas? under 16 years smoking in a public place, etc.), the maximum penalty for the first ( 3) What provision has been made for offence is fifty cents and for the second qualified plumbers in Far North Queens­ or any subsequent offence $1." land to hold licences for sewerage installation?

Answers:- CONTROL OF TORRES STRAIT ISLANDS (!) "No, I am not aware. Any person Mr. V. E. Jones, pursuant to notice, asked who has satisfactorily completed his trade The Minister for Lands,- apprenticeship in plumbing and passed As there has recently been some specu­ each year's examination is eligible under lation in the Torres Strait area relative the "Sewerage, Water Supply and Gas­ to the future of the Islands of Saibai, fitting Acts" for the issue of a plumber's licence which would entitle him to carry Dauan and Boigu and as apprehensions out sewerage plumbing work anywhere in are felt by the residents regarding their Queensland. A person who has the neces­ future, particularly the prospects of sary qualifications should make applica­ transfer to Papuan administration, what is tion to the secretary, Plumbers, Drainers the Government's attitude to these Islands and Gasfitters Examination and Licensing and their inhabitants? Board, care of Department of Local Government, enclosing particulars of his Answer:- qualifications and the prescribed licence fee, whereupon action will be taken to "The Government considers that, as issue a licence to him." these Islands are within the boundaries of the State of Queensland, they are part (2) "This is a Question that should be of Queensland and the inhabitants are addressed to my colleague, the Minister Queenslanders. I am aware that some for Education and Cultural Activities." such apprehensions are felt by the residents and during a recent visit to the Torres ( 3) "See Answer to ( 1 ) . " Strait I generally enquired and in partic­ ular of the democratically elected Coun­ cillors, their views on their future and JUVENILE SMOKING SUPPRESSION ACT whether they regarded themselves as Queenslanders or would wish to . be Mr. B:romley, pursuant to notice, asked The embraced by the Papuan/New Gumea Minister for Works,- Administration. Unanimously it was quite firmly indicated they believed them­ ( 1) Is the Act known as "The Juvenile selves to be Queenslanders and would Smoking Suppression Act of 1905" still in strenuously oppose any suggestion that force? If so, why is it not available they should be transferred to any other at the Government Printing Office for administration. The Government con­ school principals, shopkeepers and other siders that the approximately 900 people interested parties or persons to purchase? inhabiting these Islands are linked to Queensland by economic forces, religion, (2) Is it an offence under the Act social services and politics, rather than to for shopkeepers to sell or supply tobacco the neighbouring Papuan shore. Indeed, in any form to any person under the with almost half of the original Saibai age of 16 years? If so, (a) is the Act Island population now resident on Cape policed, (b) when and on what grounds York Peninsula and many others from the was the latest prosecution, (c) was the three Islands living on the mainland of prosecution successful and how much was Australia for education work opportunity, the fine and (d) what are the penalties etc., the whole of ' their outlook _is for breaches of the Act? orientated to Queensland and to Australia and therefore the Government can, with Answers:- confidence, assure the inhabitants that it (!) ""The Juvenile Smoking Suppres­ will support their opposition to any change sion Act of 1905" is still in force. As in status." there has been no public demand for this Act it has not been reprinted in pamphlet form." MAINTENANCE WORK, OLD CLEVELAND RoAD (2) "Yes. (a) Yes. (b) On January 27, 1956, a youth, aged 15 years, appeared Mr. Newton, pursuant to notice, asked The at the Children's Court, Brisbane, charged Minister for Mines,- with having smoked a cigarette in a public ( 1) Will any section of the two miles place. (c) The defendant child was in Old Cleveland Road now receiving admonished and discharged. (d) The attention by the Main Roads Department maximum penalty for a breach of section be resealed or widened? Questions [21 AUGUST] Questions 127

(2) What is the nature of other main­ PROSECUTIONS FOR DEFECTS IN tenance work to be carried out over the CoMMERCIAL VEHICLES two-mile section apart from clearing and replacing timber culverts? Mr. Sherrington, pursuant to notice, asked The Minister for Works,- (3) What is the estimated cost of the work to be carried out by the Department ( 1) Are prosecutions launched against over this section? both the owner and the driver of a motor vehicle which has been intercepted and Answers:- found to have insufficient tyre tread? ( I) "Not under present operations but (2) If so, does this apply to the owners it is anticipated resealing of the section and drivers of commercial vehicles? will be commenced about the middle of 1970. Widening of the western end as (3) Is the owner and driver of a com­ far as Belmont is in the preliminary mercial vehicle liable for prosecution for planning stage but no firm date has been driving a vehicle that has mechanical set for this work." defects other than faulty tyres? (2) "Shoulders are being widened to Answers:­ provide increased traffic safety :md this involves extension of culverts and some (1) "Yes." clearing of timber." (2) "Yes." (3) "The maintenance work at present (3) "Yes." being carried out is estimated to cost $14,500." INSTALLATION OF SHIPS' GARBAGE INCINERATORS AT PORTS CLASSROOM AccoMMODATION, MT. Mr. Sherrington, pursuant to notice, asked GRAVATT Sourn STATE ScHOOL The Minister for Local Government,- Mr. Newton, pursuant to notice, asked The Has construction commenced on Minister for Works,- incinerators on wharves for the purpose As increased enrolment is expected at of the disposal of waste from ships? If Mt. Gravatt South School for the 1969 not, what is the reason for the delay? school year, have any plans and specifica­ tions been drawn up for additional class­ Answer:- room accommodation at this school? If "Contracts have been let for the instal­ not, what alternative recommendations lation of incinerators at the Ports of have been made to overcome the shortage Brisbane, Gladstone, Townsville, Cairns of classroom accommodation for the start and Thursday Island. The contract date of the 1969 school year? for completion of the installation of incinerators at those ports is March 20, Answer:- 1970. The Commonwealth Government "No doubt the Question refers to the has requested that the design of the 1970 school year. Present classroom incinerators to be installed at the Ports accommodation at Mt. Gravatt South of Urangan, Bundaberg, Rockhampton, State School should be sufficient for the Mackay, Bowen, Lucinda, Mourilyan and enrolment anticipated for the commence­ Weipa, be re-examined with a view to ment of the 1970 school year. However, reduction of the sizes of the incinerators plans are being prepared for the construc­ to be installed at those ports. The Com­ tion of two permanent classrooms to monwealth's request is now under replace existing temporary classrooms." consideration."

EASEMENT, WONDALL HEIGHTS STATE PROTECTION OF AUSTRALIAN BUSTARD SCHOOL Mr. Sherrington, pursuant to notice, asked Mr. Newton, pursuant to notice, asked The The Minister for Primary Industries,- Minister for Works,- In view of the recent Press statement When will work commence on the form­ that although the Australian Bustard was ing and fencing of the easement from the a protected species it was still being shot, Island View Estate to the Wondall Heights what action does he intend to take as a State School? deterrent against further decimation of their numbers? Answer:- "The work on the clearing of the ease­ Answer:- ment to the Wondall Heights State School "In every instance where evidence of will be commenced at an early date and interference with the Australian Bustard is quotations for the erection of necessary obtained, sufficient to sustain a prosecu­ fencing will be invited when the clearing tion under "The Fauna Conservation Act is completed." of 1952," appropriate action will be taken. 128 Questions [ASSEMBLY] Questions

My Press statement of August last, was Answers:­ designed to advise people who may not (1) "Yes." previously have known, or who may have forgotten, that the bustard was in fact (2) "The Honourable Member may a protected bird, and to request the be assured that there is an adequate police co-operation of the public in protecting it. coverage of city streets both by foot and In this respect, factual evidence should be mobile police, during the hours referred given in the first instance to a police officer, to on any given night." honora~y protector or fauna officer. Every police officer as well as all Inspectors and (3) "There is power under the Advisory Officers of the Department of "Children's Services Act" for a police Primary Industries and certain officers of officer to take into custody, for the purpose the Departments of Lands and Forestry of applying to a children's court for an are ex officio Fauna Officers." order that a child within the meaning of that Act be committed to the care and control of the Director of the Department of Children's Services." FUMIGATION OF STORED GRAIN Mr. Coify, pursuant to notice, asked The ( 4) "Not by the Police Department." Minister for Primary Industries,- Because of the continuing necessity to safeguard stored grain from the ravages STATE ELECTORAL RoLLS of wcevils- Mr. Melloy, pursuant to notice, asked The (1) Is it true that seed and grain which Minister for Justice,- have been treated with certain prescribed Further to my Question of Tuesday, toxic chemicals can no longer be used in August 19, in reference to enrolment of stock foods or sold for feeding to stock? electors, will he detail the course of action (2) If so what are these prescribed in the deletion of an elector's name by chemicals? objection, in particular, (a) who lodges the objection, (b) what action precedes Answers:- the lodgment of the objection, (c) are physical roll checks carried out, (d) are (1) "Yes." these checks carried out by officers of the State Electoral Office and (e) are police (2) "The prescribed chemicals are­ checks still made? Benzene hexachloride ( BHC), dichloro­ diphenyttrichloroethane (DDT), dieldrin, endosulfan, endrin, hexachlorobenzene Answer:- (HCB), mercury (Hg)." "(a) Any person may lodge an objec­ tion to a name on the roll. The method of objection is set out in detail in section 31 of the "Elections Acts." This pro­ IMPOSITION OF CURFEW ON YOUNG cedure is followed when the State GIRLS Electoral Registrar lodges objections. Mr. M2lloy, pursuant tu notice, asked The (b) The person objecting is required to Minister for Works,- have evidence that the name of the elector (!) Has his attention been drawn to should no longer be retained on the roll. statements in the Brisbane Press over the For the duty of each electoral registrar past three weeks that young girls aged in this regard see section 31 (3) of the from 11 to 15 years are attending discos "Elections Acts." (c) House-to-house roll and other places of that nature and are checks are carried out in the year pre­ roaming the streets of Brisbane until after ceding a general election. The most recent midnight? one was completed late in 1968 for the whole of the State. (d) Officers of the (2) How many police officers are State Electoral Office are fully engaged in patrolling the city streets at any one time compilation of the rolls and are not avail­ between the hours of 11 p.m. and able for house-to-house checking. (e) 2.30 a.m.? Yes. The roll check made last year was (3) What powers have police in dealing carried out by police in all areas of the with young girls under 15 years who, State with the exception of the metro­ although not patently breaking any law politan area and the provincial cities. By are considered to be jeopardising their arrangement with the Commonwealth own safety? Government, the major cities were can­ vassed by the Commonwealth Review (4) Has the question of the imposition Officers and the results made available to of curfews being placed on girls of these both Commonwealth and State electoral ages been considered? authorities." Questions [21 AUGUST] Questions 129

AcCIDENTS AND RADAR TRAPS, SANDGATE (2) What will be the cost per ton at RoAD each point of supply? Mr. Melloy, pursuant to notice, asked The (3) What will be the rail freight Minister for Works,- charges from each point of supply to the ( 1) How many accidents were reported proposed site at Gladstone? on Sandgate Road between Hamilton Road and Virginia State School in each of the Answers:- years ended June 30, 1967, 1968 and ( 1) "A power station at Gladstone is 1969? in a favoured position to draw coal from (2) How many radar traps were located a number of sources whichever can supply on Sandgate Road between Hamilton it to the powerhouse at the lowest cost. Road and Virginia State School in the At present Blackwater appears to be that three months ended Sunday, August 17? source, but this could well change in the future as further developments in coal (3) How many bookings for exceeding mining in Central Queensland occur." the speed limit were made during the same period? (2 and 3) "This information is con­ fidential but the Honourable Member is Answers:- assured that coal can be delivered to the (1) "Year ended 30th June, 1967, 24; powerhouse bunkers at a favourable cost year ended 30th June, 1968, 22; and per million British Thermal Units." year ended 30th June, 1969, 33." (2) "12." DIRECTOR AND SUPERVISORS OF ART AND (3) "65." Musrc Mr. Bromley, pursuant to notice, asked The Minister for Education,- SPILLAGE FROM COMMERCIAL VEHICLES With regard to the applications for a Mr. Aikens, pursuant to notice, asked The Director and Supervisors of Art and Minister for Transport,- Music for his Department, (a) were the Does legislation exist to prevent motor applications called and, if so, when, (b) vehicles from travelling at speed along how many persons applied, (c) who were the streets, loaded with sand, ashes, gravel, they and what qualifications did they crushed stone and similar cargoes, in such possess, (d) who are the appointees, if a manner as to submit other road users, any, (e) what are their duties and (f) pedestrians and even properties en route, where are they presently performing their to being smothered by portions of the duties? load blown off by the generated wind and, if so, what positive steps are being taken Answer:- to enforce the Jaw? "(a) Applications for appointment to the positions of Supervisor of Art and Answer:- Supervisor of Music were invited in "It is a breach of Regulation 77 (d) of November, 1968. (b) There were six the Traffic Regulations for any person to applicants for the position of Supervisor drive any vehicle on any road the loading of Art and ten for the position of upon which is not so arranged, contained, Supervisor of Music. (c) For the better fastened or covered that neither the load functioning of the Public Service, this nor any part of it will fall or otherwise information is treated as confidential. (d), escape from such vehicle. The Honourable (e) and (f) No appointments have yet Member should refer the second part of been made." his Question to the appropriate Minister."

PROTECTION OF FISHING INDUSTRY CoAL SOURCE FOR PROPOSED POWER Mr. Bromley, pursuant to notice, asked The STATION, GLADSTONE Minister for Primary Industries,- Mr. O'Donnell, pursuant to notice, asked ( 1) Is he aware that the important The Minister for Mines,- fishing industry is suffering through lack With reference to his Press statement of Government interest and assistance? in the Rockhampton Morning Bulletin of August 8, 1969, on the proposed power (2) What action has been and is being station for Gladstone in which he stated taken to protect Queensland's fishing indus­ that investigations were carried out by try in the last twelve months? specialist planning staff over a period of (3) (a) What is the reason for the three years and were very detailed and kerosene taste which still prevails in certain thorough- fish and results in heavy dumping and ( 1) From what source or sources will (b) is any research presently being under­ coal be drawn to supply the proposed taken to alleviate this problem and, if so, power station? what is the nature of this research? 5 130 Questions [ASSEMBLY] Questions

Answers:- Mr. BROMLEY: I rise to a point of (1 and 2) "There has been no lack of order. I object to the Treasurer's suggesting interest on the part of the Government in that I am lazy. the Queensland fishing industry. This is Mr. Chalk: You didn't turn them up. being amply demonstrated, to take two examples, by its development of fishing Mr. BROMLEY: I know what answer I research facilities in co-operation with was given on the last occasion, but there C.S.I.R.O. and its promotion of the Aus­ may have been some more figures since tralian Fisheries Council which now then. I ask ·that that statement be with­ functions as a States-Commonwealth liaison drawn. forum for the assistance and protection of the industry." Mr. SPEAKER: Order! The hon. member for Norman has taken offence at the words (3) "(a) The cause of the kerosene-like used by the Treasurer and asks that they be taint in fish is unknown. (b) Yes, and the withdrawn. Fish Board has employed the C.S.I.R.O., Division of Food Preservation to examine Mr. CHALK: If the hon. member asks the problem. This examination is for a withdrawal, I will withdraw, but I do continuing." suggest, from the things that happened, that he was lazy yesterday. REVENUE AND UNCLAIMED DIVIDENDS, Mr. BROMLEY: I ask for an unqualified TOTALISATOR ADMINISTRATION BOARD withdrawal. Mr. Bromley, pursuant to notice, asked The Mr. SPEAKER: Order! The Treasurer Treasurer,- has withdrawn the remark and the matter is (!) What has been (a) the hold and finished. (b) the Government's share, excluding unclaimed dividends, in each year since Mr. BROMLEY: Then he brought out the commencement of operations of the something else. I want a fair go, Mr. T.A.B. to the present date? Speaker. I want to be protected, the same as Government members are protected. I (2) (a) What is the total amount of am entitled to that. unclaimed winnings from the T.A.B. since its inception and (b) what is the largest Mr. SPEAKER: Order! The point of single unclaimed amount? order was taken and the Treasurer withdrew the remark. ( 3) In view of the fact that I and others have consistently advocated the Mr. BROMLEY: Then he got nasty. establishment of a Ministry of Sport, which has just as consistently been denied by Mr. SPEAKER: Order! The hon. the Government, will he arrange for those member's point of order was taken, and youngsters representing Queensland each there will be no further discussion. year in interstate school sports to be financially assisted towards their expenses Mr. BROMLEY: He still got nasty. for the trips, by allocating moneys from unclaimed winnings? Mr. SPEAKER: Order! Mr. BROMLEY: I ask that the remark Answers:- implying that I am lazy be not included in (!) "I refer the Honourable Member to "Hansard". the annual reports of the Totalisator Administration Board of Queensland Mr. SPEAKER: Order! which have been tabled in this House. Figures for the financial year 1968-69 will be included in the next annual report." LOCAL AUTHORITY LOANS AND SUBSIDIES (2) "For the financial year 1968-69 the Mr. Marginson, pursuant to notice, asked amount was $207,000. Twelve months The Treasurer,- ago I gave the Honourable Member the figures for earlier years. Apparently he What are (a) the loan-raising approvals was too tired to turn them up or look for and (b) the subsidy approvals for the them. The largest single amount was financial year 1969-70 for the following $1,500." local authorities-Toowoomba City Council, Rockhampton City Council, (3) "Unclaimed dividends are paid to Townsville City Council and Gold Coast the Consolidated Revenue Fund and form City Council? part of the State's general revenue. It has always been my practice to accord func­ tions such as education, the treatment and Answer:- care of the sick, aged and infirm, and "I lay upon the table the information other social service activities a much sought by the Honourable Member, and higher priority in allocation of State leave it to your discretion Mr. Speaker finances than the form of spending now whether such voluminous information suggested by the Honourable Member." should be included in Hansard." Questions [21 AuGusT] Questions 131

Paper.-Whereupon Mr. Chalk laid upon the 1968 Health Ministers' Conference but the Table of the House a paper con­ a final agreement regarding uniform control taining information referred to. measures could not be reached." Mr. Davies: It should be in "Hansard". Commonwealth "Hansard" would do it. MINISTERIAL VISIT TO CAPE YORK PENINSULA AND TORRES STRAIT Mr. SPEAKER: Order! There are some JSL' ''DS items, such as graphs and tables, which we find it impossible to print in "Hansard". I Mr. B. Wood, pursuant to notice, asked ask the hon. member for Maryborough to be The Minister for Lands,- a little tolerant and appreciate the impossi­ What was the purpose of the visit by bility of having certain documents included him and the Director, Department of in "Hansard". Aboriginal and Island Affairs, to Cape York Peninsula and Torres Strait Island Reserves prior to the election? NEW BU!,iDAMBA STATE HIGH SCHOOL Answer:- Mr. Marginson, pursuant to notice, asked The Minister for Education,- " As the Honourable Member would have observed when he accompanied me on one ( 1) Will the proposed new State High occasion, such visits are in discharge of my School at Bundamba be completed and responsibilities as Minister in Charge of ready for use for the commencement of Aboriginal and Island Affairs and, of the school year of 1970? course, the Director as Administrative (2) What is the estimated enrolment Head of the Department accompanied for 1970 at the school in (a) Grade 8, (b) me." Grade 9, (c) Grade 10, (d) Grade 11 and (e) Grade 12? OPPORTUNITY SCHOOL SURVEYS Answers:- Mr. B. Wood, pursuant to notice, asked ( 1) "The first stage in the development The Minister for Education,- of the State High School at Bundamba will With regard to surveys to ascertain the be completed and ready for use by the number of children who would be eligible commencement of the 1970 school year. for opportunity schooling,- This will provide accommodation for all (1) Since January, 1967, what requests Grade 8 students seeking enrolment." from all sources and from which areas (2) "In accordance with Departmental has his Department received for surveys policy, the school will open in 1970 with to be carried out? only Grade 8 students, and an additional (2) What surveys have been carried out grade will be added each year until the since January, 1967, and with what result complete secondary curriculum from Grade and what surveys are planned for the 8 to Grade 12 is provided for. The future? anticipated enrolment of Grade 8 at the Bundamba State High School in 1970 is Answers:- 145." (!) "Since January, 1967, requests for opportunity school surveys have come NEWSPAPERS AND BOOKS TO PRISONERS from: Warwick, Gladstone, Chinchilla, Atherton Tableland, Lockyer, Kingaroy, Mr. Marginson, pursuant to notice, asked Dalby, Ravenshoe, Mt. Garnet, Ingham, The Minister for Justice,- Biloela, Beenleigh, Charters Towers, Are prisoners at Boggo Road and Wacol Beaudesert, Inala, Mt. Isa." Prisons allowed to receive newspapers or (2) "(a) The surveys carried out and paper-back books? If not, why not? the results are as listed:-Warwick-Two classes to be established when accommoda­ Answer:- tion is available; Gladstone-Action is "No." being taken to establish an opportunity school; Chinchilla-Insufficient numbers to warrant the establishment of classes; Ather­ STANDARD OF HEARING AIDS ton Tableland-Two classes were opend at Mr. B. Wood, pursuant to notice, asked Atherton in January, 1969; Beenleigh­ The Minister for Health,- Insufficient numbers for the establishment of classes; Charters Towers-Two classes Does his Department exercise any control to be established when accommodation is over (a) the standard of hearing aids sold available; Beaudesert-Two classes were in Queensland and (b) the qualifications opened at Beaudesert in January, 1969; of persons who supply and fit them? Inala-New opportunity school opened in August, 1968; and Mt. Isa-Two classes Answer:- established in August, 1967. (b) During ( a) and (b) "No. The standard of the remainder of 1969 opportunity school hearing aids and qualifications of persons surveys will be carried out at: Ingham, who supply and fit them were discussed at Biloela, Kingaroy and the Gold Coast." 132 Questions [ASSEMBLY] Questions

BoAT HARBOUR, BUNDABERG DISTRICT Answers:- Mr. Jensen, pursuant to notice, asked The ( 1) "The new school at Victoria Park Minister for Local Government,- will be a separate infants' school." ( 1) Has the Department of Harbours (2) "Provision has been made in the and Marine studied the proposals for a Loan Works Programme for the commence­ boat harbour at either Bargara or Burnett ment of this building in the current financial Heads? If so, which seaside resort is year. It will not be ready for occupation more favourable? at the beginning of 1970, and no definite (2) Will the Department give considera­ date of completion can be given." tion to an early start on a boat harbour for the Bundaberg district?

Answers:- T.A.B. AGE:-.IC!ES ( 1) "Yes. In response to representations Mr. P. Wood, pursuant to notice, asked made by the Honourable Member for The Treasurer,- Burnett the Department of Harbours and Marine has prepared a preliminary report ( 1) How many T.A.B. agencies ilre now on the establishment of a boat harbour in operating in (a) Brisbane and (b) other the Bundaberg district. Factors of cost places? and natural physical advantages render Burnett Heads the more favourable site." (2) On what basis are agencies opened? (2) "The Department is awaiting infor­ (3) Can he, at his discretion, control mation to be supplied by the Woongarra or direct the opening of new agencies? Shire Council on the present and future ( 4) Has the T.A.B. sought to open likely usages of such a boat harbour. This agencies for which he has declined to information is essential to establish, in the give approval and, if so, what were the first place, the immediate need for such a locations of any proposed agencies? proposal, and if sufficient need is estab­ ushed, the development planning." Answers:- (!) "74 in the Brisbane Metropolitan LIAISON OFFICER FOR PARENTS AND area and 194 elsewhere." CITIZENs' AssociATIONs (2) "The determination is made by the Mr. Jensen, pursuant to notice, asked The Totalisator Administration Board according Minister for Education,- to demand, distance from existing agencies Has his Department a particular officer and other relevant factors." from whom secretaries of school parents and citizens' associations can obtain ( 3) "The information sought by the information? If so, what is his name Honourable Member is available to him and, if not, will he give consideration in the relevant provisions of the Racing to the appointment of such an officer? and Betting Acts." (4) "No." Answer:- "No. All correspondence from Parents and Citizens' Associations should be addressed to the Department. On receipt TOOWOOMBA TRANSPORTATION SURVEY it is marked out to the relevant officer for Mr. P. Wood, pursuant to notice, asked consideration. It is not intended to appoint one officer who would attempt to deal with The Minister for Mines,- the many specialized functions carried out ( 1) What works have been undertaken within the Department. Existing arrange­ towards the implementation of the Too­ ments have proved satisfactory." woomba transportation survey since its completion in February, 1966? (2) Will Stage One be completed by the NEW BUILDINGS, VICTORIA PARK STATE date set in the survey for stage develop­ ScHooL, MACKAY ment? If not, what is the anticipated date Mr. Casey, pursuant to notice, asked The of completion? Minister for Education,- (3) What costs have been met by ( 1) Will the proposed new school (a) his Department and (b) the Too­ buildings to be built near the Victoria woomba City Council? Park School become a separate infants' school or will they remain under the ( 4) Have there been, or will there be complete control of the existing school? revisions or alterations to the recommenda­ tions of the survey? If so, what are they? (2) When does he anticipate that these buildings will become available to his (5) When will work commence on Stage Department? Two? Questions [21 AuGusT] Questions 133

Answers:- LICENSING OF FIREARMS ( 1 and 3) "The major work involved Mr. Hanson, pursuant to notice, asked The is the extension of the Warrego Highway Minister for Works,- in Bridge Street to Tor Street and at present construction is in progress by Main ( 1) Has he or his Departmental officers received requests from the Central Coast Roads Department on the section Graziers' Association or any similar body from the Warrego Highway to in this State calling for the licensing of all Greenwattle Street. The section from firearms? Greenwattle Street to Tor Street is under design and will be joint Toowoomba (2) As a number of graziers in the City Council and Main Roads Department central district have had several head of responsibility. Other works involving cattle gunned down and killed by irrespon­ traffic improvement to intersections is partly sibles using heavy calibre rifles and spot­ Main Roads and partly Toowoomba City lights, has any investigation been made into Council responsibility. Dissection of res­ allegations submitted to the Departm.:!nt by ponsibility was agreed to by the joint the Central Coast Graziers' Association? Policy Committee of Toowoomba City (3) What right has a land-owner to Council and Main Roads Department." order away from his pro]: erty boundary people who stand in the adjacent roadway (2) "It is anticipated that most of the firing bullets at cattle and stock? work included in Stage One will be com­ pleted by the date set down in the Study." Answers:­ ( 4) "No significant alterations have been (!) "Yes." approved as yet but there was always the likelihood of amendments because of poss­ (2) "Police Department records fail to ible changes in the plan of development indicate that complaints have been mad·:: and the Study is under constant review by by members of the Central Coast Graziers' Toowoomba City Council and Main Roads Association that cattle have been gunned Department." down and killed by irresponsi!oles using heavy calibre rifles and spotlights." (5) "Planning is in hand for Stage Two but no firm date for commencement (3) "A land-owner has a right to order of work can be set at this stage." away from his property boun0ary people who stand in the adjacent roadway firing bullets at cattle and stock. However, if the land-owner is of the opinion that an PHYSICAL TRAINING EQUIPMENT AND offence is being committed by such person, FACILITIES, BRISBANE AND W ACOL I suggest he communicate immediately PRISONS with the police in the locality concerned Mr. P. Wood, pursuant to notice, asked when appropriate action will be taken in The Minister for Justice,- relation to that complaint." What exercise facilities and physical training equipment are available and what physical exercises are prisoners' permitted, DELAYS IN TREATMENT FOR PUBLIC PATIENTS, IPSWICH GENERAL at (a) Boggo Road Prison and (b) Wacol Prison? HosPITAL Mrs. Jordan, pursuant to notice, asked The Answer:- Minister for Health,- ( 1) Is he aware that there is a waiting 'The shockingly medieval type prison time of about five to seven months for in Annerley Road (formerly Boggo Road) people requiring operations at the Ipswich inherited from the A.L.P. in 1957 has General Hospital in the public wards, and no exercise facilities other than the limited that, in contrast, if a person goes to a exercise yards but action is in train to private doctor he can undergo the operation provide them. On the other hand Wacol required after a lapse of orlly one week, in Prison built by this Government is pro­ vided with first-class sporting fields and the intermediate ward? bowling greens. There is no physical train­ (2) As this adversely affects people in ing equipment available at Brisbane Prison the lower income groups who cannot while there are all types of sporting gear afford the fees required for intermediate available at Wacol Prison. Physical exer­ wards or the time off work in the long cises at Brisbane Prison are confined to waiting period, will he take steps to the exercise yards while at Wacol Prison alleviate the situation? there is a wide range of sporting activity. This comparison of facilities and activities ( 3) As the waiting time for people at Boggo Road (Brisbane Prison) and requiring dentures or denture repairs or Wacol Prison is the most severe criticism alterations at the Ipswich General Hospital that could be made of this type of Govern­ is about twelve months, will he also ment activity during over forty years of endeavour to see that this situation is A.L.P. administration." improved as quickly as possible? 134 Questions [ASSEMBLY] Questions

Answers:- I am advised that the Ipswich Fire Brigade ( 1 and 2) "Ipswich Hospitals Board Board considered the present chief officer officers have advised that the waiting time the most satisfactory applicant because for non-urgent elective surgery for public of his long association with the Board patients is no more than three months. during which he had the required prac­ Urgent surgery is given an immediate tical experience." priority. Priority is also given to those (3) "An inspection of the Ipswich Fire people who are unable to work on account Brigade Board by the Fire Services of a condition needing surgery even Inspectorate of the State Fire Services though it is of a non-urgent nature." Council is presently proceeding." (3) "I am informed there is a ten to twelve months waiting list. However, this does not apply to people who are HousiNG CoMMISSION RENTAL HousEs, ailing or ill and have doctor's certificates. IPSWICH AREA These people receive immediate attention. Mrs. Jordan, pursuant to notice, asked The Patients requiring adjustments or "altera­ Minister for Works,- tions" are taken as they present them­ selves-there is no waiting time. Any With regard to Housing Commission patient requesting relining of a denture rental houses in the Ipswich area- who has not been an Ipswich Dental (1) How many (a) are available for Clinic patient is placed on a waiting list. Defence personnel, (b) were built in the With respect to repairs of dentures, these financial years 1966-67, 1967-68 and are received one day and returned to the 1968-69 respectively and (c) are planned patient the following day. When a for the financial year 1969-70? patient has had teeth extracted, an appointment for dentures is given within (2) How many (a) are available for three to four months, this being the nor­ the civilian public and in what suburbs mal period for healing of the tissues. Any are they located, (b) were erected in extension of the dental service at Ipswich the financial years 1966-67, 1967-68 and will be considered in the light of the 1968-69 respectively and (c) me planned overall dental needs of the State and the for the financial year 1969-70? availability of dentists to staff existing Dental Clinics and any proposed new Answers:- Clinics." (1) "(a) 459 at Ipswich including Amberley; (b) 1966-67, 2; 1967-68, 16; 1968-69, 6; (c) 361 have been requested IPSWICH FIRE BRIGADE by the Commonwealth and a request for a further 112 is anticipated." Mrs. Jordan, pursuant to notice, asked The Minister for Labour and Tourism,- (2) "(a) Of 449 houses constructed for civilian use 102 are now rental and located ( 1) Is he aware that there is a great at Brassall, East Ipswich, Raceview, Leich­ deal of unrest and dissatisfaction among hardt and Ipswich; (b) 1966-67, 12 erected firemen at the Ipswich Fire Brigade and including 3 rental; 1967-68, 7 erected that there is objection to being instructed including 3 rental; 1968-69, 11 erected to do fire-drills at the week-end instead of, including 4 rental; (c) 13 including 2 home or as well as, on week days? ownership. Of the balance of 11 those not (2) What qualifications are required for sold will be rented. The programme is appointment of a chief fire officer and has subject to review on completion of develop­ the Ipswich chief the necessary ment of land now in course of acquisition." qualifications?

( 3) Will he investigate the situation CLASSROOMS, HARRISTOWN STATE HIGH prevailing at Ipswich with a view to pre­ SCHOOL venting an extension of what appears to Mr. Bousen, pursuant to notice, asked The be or could become a dangerous situation Minister for Works,- as far as Ipswich is concerned? ( 1) What is the number of temporary classrooms in operation at the Harristown Answers:- State High School? ( 1) "The State Fire Services Council (2) How long have these been in informs me these problems are industrial operation? matters presently before the State Indus­ trial Commission." (3) Are two rooms of the Assembly Hall used daily as classrooms? (2) "Concerning qualifications for the ( 4) When can this school expect to appointment of Fire Brigade Chief Officers I am informed applications for vacant have sufficient permanent classrooms positions are called by the respective available? Boards and applicants are considered on the basis of their practical fire-fighting Answers:- experience and educational qualifications. (1) "Four (4)." Questions (21 AUGUST] Questions 135

(2) "Since 1961." EMPLOYMENT OF LOCAL TRUCK OWNER­ DRIVERS ON MAIN RoADS WORK (3) "It should not be necessary for part of the Assembly Hall to be used for Mr. F. P. Moore, pursuant to notice, asked normal classroom requirements." The Minister for Mines,- Is it the practice of the Main Roads ( 4) "Consideration is not being given to Department to employ local truck owner­ the replacement of temporary classrooms at drivers on main roads constructions in this School at present as future enrolments various areas? If so, why are owner­ are expected to decrease." drivers brought from other areas by fore­ men "mates" and local owner-drivers left without work? HOUSING FOR RAILWAY EMPLOYEES IN Answer:- COUNTRY AREAS "The Main Roads Department uses Mr. Bousen, pursuant to notice, asked The several methods of truck cartage in its Minister for Transport,- Day Labour operations throughout the ( 1) Has the Government given any State including the employment of owner­ consideration to dealing with the housing drivers and cartage by contract following situation for lower-paid railway employees advertised tenders. Where owner-drivers in outback areas? are required in any area, attention is given to the employment of local owners, but (2) If so, will he agree to altering the consideration has to be given to the basis of computing the rental of railway economical functioning of Day Labour houses to allow employees who are among gangs, and this is greatly assisted by main­ the lower-paid group, such as fettlers, a taining intact efficient small groups of proven workmen including truck owners by reasonable chance of securing a railway ensuring them some degree of continuity house at a reasonable rental? If not, why of engagement. Most construction projects not? require the use of trucks fitted with special equipment such as water tanks, pumps and Answer:- the like, and fittings used for bitumen spray work, and foreman frequently arrange (1 and 2) "The rentals of railway houses to transfer owners with such special skills are generally much lower than comparable or equipment to these works." accommodation. Rentals are as low as $3.99 per fortnight for married accommoda­ tion. If I were to agree to the Honourable COMMONWEALTH DAIRY INDUSTRY Member's suggestion it would only result REHABILITATION SCHEME in an increase in rentals. I do not intend Mr. Wallis-Smith, pursuant to notice, asked to accede to the Honourable Member's The Minister for Primary Industries,- request." In view of the delay in finalising details so that the Commonwealth Government's proposed farm amalgamation scheme can REPORT ON OFF-SHORE OIL DRILLING be implemented- PRACTICES (!) Is he aware that a number of Mr. F. P. Moore, pursuant to notice, asked farmers who could benefit from this The Minister for Mines,- scheme are leaving the industry and ( 1) Will he table the report of the accepting whatever offer is made for their senior petroleum engineer of the Mines farm, which is often well below their real Department on off-shore drilling practices value? and the prevention of the escape of (2) Has the Government been requested petroleum from wells drilled offshore. by the Q.D.O. to hear their submissions and discuss the terms of the scheme? If (2) Was this report considered and so, what was the result of this or any other accepted by the whole Cabinet after the discussion and when is is likely that the engineer's trip to England and the United scheme can be implemented? States? Answers:- Answers:- ( 1) "The Honourable the Premier has stated on a number of occasions that the ( 1) "Due to extremely heavy commit­ Commonwealth Government's amalgama­ ments, including examination of proposals tion scheme will be implemented as soon to drill in Repulse Bay and gathering as the financial details are finalised on a information for Parliament, the Engineer basis acceptable to the States." has not yet completed his report." (2) "The Government has been con­ (2) "He has conferred with me repeat­ stantly in touch with the Q.D.O. The views edly and his views were given deep con­ of the Q.D.O. and the State Government sideration. Cabinet has been kept have been passed on to the Commonwealth informed." Government. See Answer to ( l) ." 136 Questions [ASSEMBLY] Questions

RE-FORMING OF ROAD TO KURANDA Answer:- RAILWAY STATION "On receipt of an application from the Mr. Wallis-Smith, pursuant to notice, asked prison authorities my Department will The Minister for Transport,- give sympathetic consideration to the waiving of junior examination fees. It is ( 1) In view of the inability of cars and understood that the University will give buses to use the road through railway similar consideration to a request for the property at Kuranda due to its narrow waiving of senior fees." and rough state and the fact that large numbers of tourists and visitors call to view the Kuranda railway station, will ESTABLISHMENT OF BUREAU OF REGIONAL he have the work of widening and re-form­ DEVELOPMENT ing this road completed as soon as Mr. Wright, pursuant to notice, asked The possible? Minister for Industrial Development,- (2) Will he also consider sealing this In view of the suggestion of the Vernon road in the near future? Committee of Economic Enquiry that the selection of a limited number of centres for Answer:- accelerated growth would increase the effectiveness of decentralisation- (1 and 2) "To develop the land for the turning of tourist road vehicles would ( 1) Have such centres been selected in require extensive earthworks and Queensland? drainage, in addition to re-arrangement of (2) If so, what are the names of these footwalks. Funds are not available for selected centres? works of this nature." (3) If not, does he intend to select such centres and, if so, when?

APPOINTMENT OF DEPUTY FIRE CHIEF, ( 4) What is the progress of the plan to ATHERTON establish a Bureau of Regional Develop­ ment? Mr. WalHs-Smith, pursuant to notice, asked The Minister for Labour and Tourism,- (5) Will the already-established Regional Promotion Bureau be incorporated in the Has 1pproval been given for the proposed Bureau and, if so, will they be appointrr. ent of a Deputy Fire Chief at fully financed by State funds? Atherton ' If so, when w; ll the Board be notifkd so that applic: tions can be Answer:- called for the position? (1 to 5) "The establishment of the Answers:- Bureau of Regional Development and matters incidental thereto come within the "No. The matter is still receiving province of the Honourable the Premier, consideration." to whom the Honourable Member should direct his Question."

EXTENSION OF VISITING PERIOD, BRISBANE PRISON ESTABLISHMENT OF HOME FOR AGED Mr. Wright, pursuant to notice, asked The PERSONS, CHARLEVILLE Minister for Justice,- Mr. Aiken, pursuant to notice, asked The In view of the new and extensive Minister for Health,- visiting facilities which have been planned Because there are no aged persons' homes and implemented by the prison administra­ established anywhere in the West of tion at Boggo Road, will the visiting Queensland and often old people who ~ave period of twenty minutes at present per­ spent all their lives in the West are reqmred mitted be increased? If not, why not? to be completely transplanted from their environments, will he give urgent con­ Answer:- sideration to building such a home at "No." Charleville? Answer:- JUNIOR AND SENIOR EXAMINATION FEES "Vnder the Aged Persons' Homes Act, FOR PRISONERS the Commonwealth Government will sub­ sidise construction costs of approved Mr. Wright, pursuant to notice, asked The homes erected by charitable organisations Minister for Education,- or local authorities on a $2 to $1 basis. Will he consider waiving the required The total cost of furnishings, within stipu­ examination fees for all prisoners who lated limits, for such aged persons' homes desire to sit for Junior or Senior subjects, is met by the State Government. Funds as the average prisoner's earnings are such expended by a State Government towards that it takes approximately one month to the costs of establishing an aged persons' earn the necessary fee for one subject? home do not attract Commonwealth Questions [21 AUGUST] Questions 137

subsidy. The attention of local community Answer:- organisations or local authorities interested ( 1 to 3) "As the Honourable Member's in this field could be drawn to these question relates to Governmental activities encouraging subsidies." as a whole, I regret I am not, as Minister for Industrial Development, in a position to supply the desired information." SHORTAGE OF NURSES IN WESTERN AREAS

Mr. Aiken, pursuant to notice, asked The TOONDAH HARBOUR PROJECT, CLEVELAND Minister for Health,- Mr. Baldwin, pursuant to notice, asked Is he fully aware of the acute shortage The Minister for Local Government,- of nursing staff in most western towns and, if so, what steps have been taken by him (!) How much money (a) has been to have this matter remedied? spent by the State Government on the Toondah Harbour project, Cleveland, to Answer:- date and (b) will be required to complete Stage I? " I am aware that from time to time shortage of nursing staff occurs in western (2) What land has been or will have towns, as it does in all hospitals. This is to be acquired on and near the foreshores not peculiar only to Queensland, but is of the area under development for Stage world-wide. Recruitment of staff for I? individual hospitals is the responsibility (3) Was the land resumed or repur­ of the respective hospitals boards. My chased and from whom at what cost? Department assists whenever possible with staff recruitment at times of acute ( 4) What will be the cost of reclaiming shortages." the tidal flats necessary for completion of Stage I? (5) Who is carrying out the work of ROAD WORK AND WATER RETICULATION reclamation, levelling and dredging and THOZETS ROAD HOUSING ESTATE ' what will be paid to each person or Mr. Thad•eray, pursuant to notice asked group carrying out this work? The Minister for Vv'orks,- ' (6) Did any person, company or other Has. any agre~ment with the Rockhamp­ group apply for Government aid to ton City Council and the Housing Com­ develop any of the land, or for the mission been reached for road work reclamation of any of the area concerned channelling and kerbing and water reticu~ in Stage I of the harbour development? lation at the proposed Thozets Road hous­ If so, who applied, when did they apply, ing estate? If so, when will work com­ what amount or amounts did they apply mence and what is the approximate date for and what reasons, if any, were given when allotments will be available? to any who were refused assistance? (7) Has any person, company or other Answer:- group concerned in carrying out work "Yes. The work has commenced and it on the development of this harbour or is anticipated that allotments will become in the purchase and operation of any available from mid-October." kind or kinds of ferry service from the harbour, been given any Government assist­ ance, financial or otherwise and, if so, GoVERNMENT ADVERTISING AND PUBLIC who was given such assistance and what RELATIONS WORK was its nature and value? Mr. Raldwin, pursuant to notice, asked The Minister for lndustrial Development,- Answers:- ( 1) What was the cost of Government "No State Government funds have been promotional activities for each of the years spent on development at Toondah Harbour, 1966-67, 1967-68, and 1968-69 for (a) Cleveland, and furthermore there has been radio, (b) television, (c) press, (d) bill­ no State Government approval of any plan board and roadside hoardings and (e) to develop a boat harbour in this area. advertising to promote various Govern­ In reply to the Honourable Member's ment undertakings? questions (1) (a) and (b) to ( 5) and ( 7), I should point out, that, on January (2) How many public relations officers 28, 1969, the Port Authority for Brisbane, were employed by the Government in each the Corporation of the Treasurer, entered of those years, and what was the total into an agreement with Stradbroke Ferries of salaries paid to such officers in each Pty. Ltd. to dredge a channel 120 feet year? wide and 6 feet deep at low water into ( 3) What was the cost of engaging the foreshores at Cleveland at a point public relations firms by the Government commonly known as Toondah Harbour. in each year and what are the names The agreement also provides for the dredg­ of the firms and the amounts paid to ing of a swing basin and the pumping of each? the spoil to reclamation on a site being 138 Questions [ASSEMBLY] Questions

developed by Stradbroke Ferries. The total VISITS TO INMATES, BRISBANE PRISON cost of the work is expected to be $58,250, Mr. Baldwin, pursuant to notice, asked comprising $2,500 for bundwalls built by The Minister for Justice,- Stradbroke Ferries and $55,750 for dredg­ ing and reclamation by Central Dredging (1) How many visits are (a) recidivists Pty. Ltd. Tenders were invited for the and (b) first offenders at Bog go Road work. Expenditure of approximately Prison entitled to each month? $32,000 has been incurred to date. The (2) How many letters are those in (a) land being reclaimed is Crown land over and (b) entitled to write each month? which a special lease has been offered to Stradbroke Ferries. Under the agreement (3) If a prisoner receives a visitor with Stradbroke Ferries, the Corporation during the relevant period is he entitled of the Treasurer undertook to meet three­ to write a letter during the same period? sevenths of the cost of the work or If not, why not? $20,000 whichever was the greater. Strad­ broke Ferries undertook to meet the balance of the cost now estimated at Answers:- $38,250. In return for this contribution (1) "(a) Recidivists are permitted by the company received the following Regulation to receive a visit each month benefits:-1. No harbour dues will be pay­ from relatives up to five in a group, and able by the company for the use of the two-monthly from friends at Brisbane channel for a period of 10 years; 2. Prison; (b) First offenders are permitted Other barges or bulk loading ferry services to receive weekly visits from relatives and using the channel will be charged a har­ fortnightly from friends. Prisoners at bour due by the Corporation, including Wacol all receive visits at least fortnightly an advance payment which will place for an extended period and on State Farms Stradbroke Ferries at no competitive dis­ for one hour weekly, irrespective of advantage; 3. The Corporation will con­ classification." sult with Stradbroke Ferries before declar­ ing a harbour due. No arrangements (2) "Prisoners who do not receive with respect to this development or the visits may write letters at the same use of the channel have been made with frequency of visits." any other party." (3) "A prisoner who receives visits is (6) "On September 7, 1964, Mr. N. not entitled to write social letters during Malmstedt requested a Government subsidy the relative period. However no restric­ towards the construction of a commercial tions are placed on genuine business letters barge ramp and the dredging of a channel and the Superintendent on request, grants 60 feet wide and 6 feet deep at low permission. Additional special social water into the foreshores in this vicinity. letters are granted by the Superintendent Mr. Malmstedt's estimate of the cost of on request providing the prisoner has an the work was $38,800 and subsidy was adequate reason for vequesting this sought as the channel would be of public privilege." value. On October 12, 1964, Mr. Malm­ stedt was advised that no contribution could be made towards the cost of this ALLOCATION OF SCIENCE BLOCKS, STATE work. Crown approval to proceed with HIGH SCHOOLS this work was granted in February, 1961, Mr. Davis, pursuant to notice, asked The but to date, the channel has not been Minister for Education,- commenced. On March 6, 1969, James, Drake and Walker, solicitors, applied on With reference to the allocation of behalf of Mr. N. F. Malmstedt for a science blocks at State high schools special consideration by way of relief or from finance from the Commonwealth exemption from any harbour dues charged Government,- by the Corporation in the event that (!) What is the number and location Mr. Malmstedt commenced a ferry service using the dredged channel now under con­ of science blocks in each of the financial struction. The reason advanced for the years since the implementation of the concession was that Mr. Malmstedt had scheme? reclaimed approximately 5 acres in this (2) What is the value of the buildings vicinity which could be connected with the channel under construction. Messrs. and equipment provided in each case? James, Drake and Walker were advised (3) What schools will be provided with on March 25, 1969, that the reclamation science blocks by the end of the present of a site in this vicinity did not constitute triennium? grounds for any exemption from harbour dues for the use of the channel by com­ ( 4) What is the estimated cost of build­ mercial barges." ings and equipment in (3)? Questions [21 AuGusT] Questions 139

(5) What is the value of equipment provincial city high schools; (ii) Towns­ supplied to schools not mentioned in (I)? ville Seminar-All State High Schools north of Gympie were asked to nominate a teacher to attend." Answer:- (5) "In improving the utilisation of " In the time available it has not been existing library services and in assisting possible to collate the detailed informa­ at local one-day seminars in various tion required. I request the Honourable centres." Member to repeat his question for answer on Tuesday next." ( 6) "In the current triennium it is hoped that Commonwealth libraries will be established in all high schools with an enrolment of 1,100." ATTENDANCES AT TEACHER-LIBRARIAN SEMINARS Mr. Davis, pursuant to notice, asked The LAND REQUIREMENTS FOR GOONYELLA Minister for Education,- AND HAY POINT PROJECTS With reference to the courses for teacher­ Mr. Davis, pursuant to notice, asked The librarians held in Sydney from January 6 Minister for Mines,- to 24, 1969, and in Townsville in May- ( 1) Is the Government aware of the ( 1) What was the number of teacher­ various areas of land that will be required or involved in the Goonyella and Hay Point librarians from Queensland who attended the special courses? projects? (2) What are the details of these areas (2) How many were from (a) State of land? high schools and (b) non-Government schools? (3) Who are the owners, lessees or tenants of these land areas? (3) What assistance, if any, was given to teachers to attend the courses? ( 4) When and how did they acquire their land? ( 4) How were the teachers from State high schools selected to attend the courses? (5) How much of their various land holdings will be involved in the two pro­ (5) How has the knowledge gained by jects? the teachers been utilised to assist other teachers not able to attend the courses? ( 6) Will the Government, or the com­ pany concerned, undertake the resumptions (6) At which State high schools is it or acquisitions? planned to erect Commonwealth libraries in the present triennium? Answer:- Answers:- "So far, the Utah Development Com­ pany has not taken any area to lease. ( 1) "(i) Sydney Seminar-14; (ii) The company's Authority to Prospect Townsville Seminar-Approximately 55." covers a vast area and I do not intend to ascertain the names of all the land­ (2) "(i) Sydney Seminar-11 from holders in the area of the Authority. The State High Schools and 3 from Non-Gov­ exact route of the railway line traverses ernment Schools; (ii) Townsville Seminar many properties, both on the coast, in -45 from State High Schools and 10 the freehold areas of the farms and in the from Non-Government Schools." grazing leasehold areas. So far the sur­ (3) "(i) Sydney Seminar-Teachers vey for the railway line has not been from State High Schools received $10 completed." per day. (Of this $2 per day was pro­ vided by the Commonwealth); (ii) Towns­ ville Seminar-Rail passes, free accom­ modation for country teachers plus a LOAN BORROWING AND REPAYMENTS, Commonwealth allowance of $2 per day TowNsviLLE-MT. IsA RAIL\VAY for out-of-pocket expenses." PROJECT Mr. Tucker, pursuant to notice, asked The ( 4) "(i) Sydney Seminar-The Com­ Treasurer,- monwealth Department of Education and Science set a quota of 11 from State High ( 1) How much did Queensland finally Schools. Six (6) were chosen from the borrow from the Commonwealth for the Brisbane area and five (5) from large Townsville-Mt. Isa railway project? 140 Questions [ASSEMBLY] Questions

(2) What repayments have been made Answer:- to the Commonwealth and what part of (1 and 2) "Planning of additional class­ this is interest on the loan? room accommodation at Heatley State High (3) When did repayments begin? School is in hand. On completion of plans and estimate of cost, Executive Council ( 4) How much will Queensland approval will be sought for the work in­ ultimately repay to the Commonwealth volved. Construction will commence as and wh:1t percentage will be interest? early as possible thereafter to provide the additional accommodation for the 1970 Answer:- School Year." ( 1 to 4) "The information is readily available to the Honourable Member in ESTABLISHMENT OF INSTITUTE OF the annual reports of the Auditor-General TECHNOLOGY, NORTH QUEENSLAND upon the Public Accounts of the State." Mr. R. Jones, pursuant to notice, asked The Minister for Education,-

PERr,fANE:-IT EMPLOYMENT OF MARRIED (1) Is it proposed to establish an \VOMEN TEACHERS, TOWNSVILLE AREA Institute of Technology in North Queensland? Mr. Tucker, pursuant to notice, asked The Minister for Education,- (2) If so, has a location been deter­ ( 1 ) When were married women teachers mined and has Cairns received due con­ in the Townsville area requested to indi­ sideration as a site prospect? cate whether they wished to join the ( 3) If not, will he arrange for a survey permanent teaching staff? and the early approval of such a project? (2) What is the present situation and when may teachers who replied in the Answers:- affirmative expect some definite statement ( 1 and 2) "There are no plans, at on this matter? present, to establish such an institute in North Queensland." Answers:- ( 3 ) "The Commonwealth Government ( 1 ) "The amendments of the Public has approved developments in advanced Service Regulations concerning the em­ education for the Triennium, 1970-72. ployment of married women and continua­ Additional projects cannot be undertaken tion of employment of female teachers during this period." upon marriage were printed in the May, 1969, issue of the Education Office Gazette. Application forms were also issued to OrL ExPLORATION, GREAT BARRIER REEF schools." WATERS (2) "Applications for continuation in (a) Mr. R. Jones, pursuant to notice, permanent employment after marriage asked The Minister for Mines,- submitted by single female teachers have What has happened to the six leases in received consideration progressively. The the Great Barrier Reef area which, as he first issue of approvals of permanent status stated during the recent election campaign, of married female teachers will date as were locked in a safe in his Department? from August 25, 1969." Answer:-

ADDITIONAL CLASSROOMS, HEATLEY "I assume that the Question refers to the STATE HIGH SCHOOL 41 applications received for the 14 areas offshore that were advertised in October, i\'lr. Tucker, pursuant to notice, asked The 1968, as being open for application under Minister for Works,- the Joint Commonwealth-State Petroleum ( 1 ) As all present classrooms are now (Submerged Lands) Acts. No final decision in use and as a great number of children has yet been made." have already indicated that they will be attending Heatley High School in 1970, what steps have been taken to ensure that (b) Mr. R. Jones, pursuant to notice, asked these new arrivals will be properly The Minister for Mines,- accommodated next year? Further to my Question of August 20 (2) When will work begin on the concerning leases, permits or authorities necessary additions? held in regard to oil exploration on or Form of Question [21 AUGUST] Address in Reply 141

near the Great Barrier Reef, what finan­ SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDERS cial commitments have these companies TEMPORARY CONSTITUTION OF COMMITTEES entered into in regard to oil exploration OF SUPPLY AND WAYS AND MEANS activities? APPROPRIATION BILL No. 1 Answer:- Hon. J. BJELKE-PETERSEN (Barambah "The greater part of the Great Barrier -Premier): I move- Reef is subject to Joint Commonwealth­ "That so much of the Standing Orders State legislation enacted under the agree­ be suspended as would otherwise prevent ment of October 16, 1967, between the the constitution of Committees of Supply Commonwealth and the State. An Explora­ and Ways and Means, the receiving of tion Permit for petroleum is issued under the Commonwealth Act as well as the State Resolutions on the same day as they shall Act, and it is necessary to consult the have passed in those Committees, and the Commonwealth Government before making passing of an Appropriation Bill through public the information requested." all its stages in one day." Motion agreed to. DEFERMENT OF ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS ADDRESS IN REPLY Mr. SPEAKER: In view of the number RESUMPTION OF DEBATE of answers that have been deferred, I must Debate resumed from 19 August (see p. ask hon. members to be a little tolerant. 81) on Mr. Hungerford's motion for the There are so many questions and we are adoption of the Address in Reply. short of staff. This, unfortunately, has led to the working of overtime, sometimes till Mr. HINZE (South Coast) (12.37 p.m.): 11 o'clock a:t night, to check the questions In making my contribution to the Address in and put them in their correct order. The Reply in this, the first session of the 39th time is fast approaching when, if a question Parliament of this State, on behalf of the is not in order, it will be returned to the South Coast electorate I, in all humility, member who gives notice of it to put it in reaffirm our loyalty to Her Majesty Queen its correct form. The work of correcting Elizabeth Il. Of course, the South Coast is questions is getting too much for vhe staff now the largest country electorate in the to handle, but I ask hon. members to please State in numbers, with, I believe, 20,000 bear with us for the time being. Some of people on the roll and qualified to vote at the questions cannot be sent to the various this stage. I am therefore very proud of departments until the following morning. having the opportunity, on behalf of the wonderful Gold Coast area, of expressing our loyalty to the Crown, more particularly DEATH OF MR. A. COBURN because next year the Royal ,couple will be travelling throughout Australia, particularly Mr. SPEAKER: Honourable members, I Queensland, during the celebrations com­ regret to announce that I have just received memorating Captain Cook's voyage of advice that the former hon. member for discovery. It must have been somewhere Burdekin, Mr. Arthur Coburn, passed away near Point Danger, in my electorate, that this morning. I suggest that hon. members Queensland's coastline was first noticed by rise for a brief period as a mark of respect. Captain Cook. He named Point Danger when he almost ran aground on a reef there, Whereupon hon. members stood in silence. and looked across and saw the peak that he named Mount Warning. PAPERS Having mentioned those few matters of The following papers were laid on the historical interest, I express the hope, on table:- behalf of my colleague Mr. Cec. Carey and myself, that it might be possible when the Regulations under- Royal couple visit Queensland next year The Coal Industry (Control) Acts, 1948 for them to visit the Gold Coast area. to 1965. The Education Act of 1964. I should like to congratulate the Admini­ strator of the Government, Mr. Justice Sheehy, on the way he conducted the opening ceremony of this Parliament. It is very FORM OF QUESTION pleasing to think that, after a lifetime of Mr. F. P. MOORE (Mourilyan) having service to this State it fell to Mr. Justice given notice of a question- Sheehy's lot on this occasion to open the Parliament. We were all pleased that he Mr. SPEAKER: Order! The question is had this opportunity, although it is regrett­ completely out of order. I advise the hon. able that his appointment as Administrator member to have a private talk with me on came about through the illness of the Chief the subject of questions in my office. Justice. 142 Address in Reply [ASSEMBLY] Address in Reply

I should like to congratulate you, Mr. I agree with the hon. members who have Speaker, upon your reappointment to the said that a period of eight months is far too very important position of Speaker of this long for Parliament to be in recess. It is House. I think I would be correct in saying noticeable that the Federal Parliament is still that, provided you complete this term, you sitting and that a Federal election will be will set a new record term as Speaker of held in only a few weeks' time. However, the Queensland Parliament. On behalf of with the responsible coalition Government that we have in this State I feel sure that the all other members of the Government­ days of Parliamentary recesses of eight and I am sure I speak for members of the months are behind us. I do not think that Opposition, too-l express the wish that the people of Queensland want a long recess. you will be afforded the opportunity of There is absolutely no need for it, and I hope breaking the present long-standing record. that we do not again see the State of Queens­ It is customary to extend congratulations to land left without a sitting Parliament for the mover and seconder of the motion for the such a long period of time. adoption of the Address in Reply. I con­ A lengthy recess does not give hon. mem­ gratulate the hon. member for Balonne, Mr. bers the opportunity of directing questions to Harold Hungerford. He was Chairman of the Ministers. Since the beginning of this session Waggamba Shire, and his long experience in we have seen the result of the recent long local government in Western Queensland recess: on the first day, 89 questions were extends over approximately 20 years. No-one asked; on the second day, SO questions were would know more about the requirements of asked; and on the third day, 65 questions were Western Queensland than he knows. I con­ asked. I think Jack Stanaway and Val gratulate him on winning his seat and on the Ffrench must be running out of questions way that he moved the motion for the adop­ now because the number was down a bit tion of the Address in Reply. today. I should also like to congratulate the hon. Mr. Sherrington: You are biting the hand member for Wavell, Dr. Crawford, who that fed you on the preferential votes. seconded the motion. Mr. HINZE: Fair enough. But wait a An Opposition Member: Do you go along moment; it was a reciprocal arrangement. with him? Other members have commented on the state of Parliament House and the conditions Mr. HINZE: Whether he Is right or at the Lodge. It is not necessary for me wrong- to confirm any of their comments, but I An Opposition Member: Wise or unwise. agree with most of the statements that have been made. Hon. members are entitled to Mr. HINZE: Or wise or unwise, as Jack proper office accommodation, and members Duggan said, after he gets a few of the spots who travel long distances from their homes, knocked off him members of the Opposition and who sleep at The Lodge, should have will find that he will be a valuable member modern accommodation. The Lodge is akin of the Government because he has indicated to Cherbourg in that there is segregation that he is prepared to say what he thinks. there. I do not know why, but I could not I do not know whether he is right or wrong; take my wife into The Lodge. only time will prove that. But at least he is Mr. Thackeray: You want accommodation a specialist in the medical profession and like that at the Parkroyal? obviously must know what he is talking about. Mr. HINZE: We should have accommoda­ I should like to congratulate the Premier tion similar to that. Nothing is too good on the way that he led the coalition parties for the workers. to success in the recent State election. The Premier had to take up the reins of leader­ Mr. SPEAKER: Order! I do not want the ship in unfortunate circumstances, but he Address in Reply debate to become a private proved his worth and came through with conversation between the member who is flying colours. There is no doubt that he speaking and a few members on my left. I will be recognised as a most capable Premier should like the whole House to hear what of this State. the hon. member is saying, and I should also like the hon. member to address the Rather strangely, perhaps, I should like to Chair. I also ask hon. members on my left congratulate the Leader of the Opposition to behave a little better. also. In all sincerity and honesty I say that he has improved considerably in his position Mr. HINZE: I will comment very briefly as Leader of the Opposition. I hope that he on some of the comments made by the will be spared for a long time in good health Leader of the Opposition in this debate. so that he may remain as Leader of the He said that Queenslanders should participate Opposition. My remarks apply also to his in the development of our mineral resources. deputy leader. The Leader of the Opposition I think everybody in Queensland agrees with applies himself assiduously to the work of the that sentiment. I advocate the establishment Australian Labour Party. He is doing a good of a Government-sponsored Queensland job, so I hope that he is permitted to remain mining trust, although I do not suggest that in that position. it should be Government-guaranteed. The Address in Reply [21 AUGUST] Address in Reply 143

small investor wishing to participate in devel­ There is no doubt about where we stand. oping Queensland's mineral wealth wants to The Minister for Mines has tried repeatedly know that his investment will be sound. It to make public the intentions of the Depart­ may be said that unit trusts are available ment of Mines. He has said that the Govern­ for the small investor, but I am thinking ment does not intend to repudiate any con­ of an authority similar to the S.E.A. that tract, and has indicated to those responsible would be sponsored by the Government. In that every precaution must be taken in negotiating with overseas companies for the drilling for oil on the Great Barrier Reef. employment of capital to develop industries, particularly our mining industry, Ministers Mr. Sherrington interjected. would know that this fund was available. Mr. HINZE: I think the hon. member At present, about $800,000,000 is deposited said that that does not apply in my area in Commonwealth Savings Banks in Queens­ because the Great Barrier Reef is not land and about $800,000,000 in the private adjacent to it. Let me point out that every banks' savings accounts. That means that Country Party member who stood in that about $1,600 million is lying in the banks area increased his majority. Nobody can in Queensland. If even 1 per cent. of that say that that is not true or that the Great money was made available to a mining trust, Barrier Reef was not an issue. Every the Treasurer, or whoever was negotiating Country Party member who stood-take, for with the overseas companies, would have at example, Mirani, Whitsunday and Mulgrave his disposal about $16,000,000 to ensure -increased his majority, and the farther participation by the small investor who wants away people are from the Barrier Reef, the security and something to show that he is more they accept the possibility of blow-outs investing in the mining wealth and develop­ and damage to the Barrier Reef. ment of the State. In advancing that proposal, The people arguing against this drilling I should like some consideration given to know very well that the risk involved is it at a later date. infinitesimal. Opposition members know as Much has been said about the Great well as I do that it is a political hobby­ Barrier Reef. If my memory serves me horse. I have a good deal of respect for the correctly, when the legislation dealing with hon. member for Salisbury as a conserva­ off-shore drilling went through the House tionist, but we must be practical and realise last year the hon. member for Salisbury that the reef is some distance under water. examined the Bill clause by clause. We knew Let me now deal with some election at that time that drilling for oil on the figures. We often hear that the Country Barrier Reef was to proceed, and when­ Party is governing with a minority vote. ever the Premier was on the public plat­ Consider the following figures:- form during the election campaign he indicated that it was not the intention of the Government to repudiate a contract. Percentage Party Seats Won of Valid There can be no doubt about where the Vote Government stood on this subject; our attitude has been consistent throughout. Country Party 26 58·97 Liberal Party . . . . 19 55·3 Mr. Sherrington interjected. Australian Labour Party . . 31 58·04 Mr. HINZE: Do not let us play to the gallery. Percentage Mr. SPEAKER: Order! Party Seats of Valid Contested Vote Mr. HINZE: We should not jump on a hobby-horse and play to the gallery. Let us Country Party 39 49·7 be factual and sensible about this. Instead Liberal Party . . . . 44 40 of looking continually at the negative side Australian Labour Party . . 77 45 and saying that there will be a blow-out­ obviously some people hope that there will be-let us say that we may find oil on It is possible to do anything with figures, the Barrier Reef without any blow-out. Let but, being practical about it, on the figures in us think of the benefits that could accrue the first table the Country Party received in Queensland. 58.97 per cent. of the votes and the A.L.P. received 58.04 per cent. Opposition members Mr. Sherrington: What benefits? continually refer to the A.L.P. receiving 45 per cent. of the votes. However, using the Mr. HINZE: We are gaining benefits now number of seats contested as the basis, the from the finding of oil in Queensland. Country Party received 49.7 per cent. of the Mr. Sherrington: What benefits have the votes. consumers got from natural gas? Government Members: Hear, hear! . Mr. HINZE: It must be appreciated that Mr. HINZE: This means that in contesting If mineral wealth or oil is found, it must new electorates the Country Party, with its benefit the State generally. modern organisation, can rely on maintaining 144 Address in Reply [ASSEMBLY] Address in Reply an average of about 49.7 per cent., and can "To me, Parliament at its best, repre­ even afford to drop nearly 5 per cent. sents the finest institutional system yet before it need worry about Labour. Make devised by man, for the just and orderly no mistake: the Country Party is a popular conduct of the affairs of the community of party, and the people appreciate it. It has no which he forms part." factions. It is rapidly modernising. Hon. His Excellency went on to refer to some members should note that its representation of the matters of policy to which the Gov­ extends from the electorates represented by ernment will give consideration during this term of office. He referred to widening of Wally Rae and Bill Lonergan, in the Far the Dairy Pasture Subsidy Scheme; payment West, to the electorate represented by Roy of textbook allowances to students at Armstrong in the North, to the fabulous teachers' colleges; extension of rural elec­ metropolitan Gold Coast. tricity; and other very important matters. Mr. DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr. Hooper): One thing to which His Excellency said the Government will give consideration is the Order! The hon. member should not refer setting up of a regional planning authority. to other hon. members by name. The sooner that is done, the better it will be. In my electorate, to get anything done Mr. HINZE: Very well. Let us not be it is necessary to go from one Government cynical about gerrymandering. department to another, and delays and red Mr. P. Wood: Is the Country Party tape hinder the obtaining of decisions. I interested in metropolitan electorates? spoke about this matter some time ago, and I now hope that it will be possible to set up a regional planning authority on which Mr. HINZE: We will see. Let us study there will be town planners, engineers, town the Australian Labour Party's record from clerks, and possibly representatives of this 1949 to 1957. Where was the "one vote, House. one value" principle in those years of A.L.P. Government in Queensland? Let us look at I now wish to deal with censorship, which the figures. In 1950, when the A.L.P. was is, I believe, a matter of great importance to in power, there were 4,701 qualified to vote the State of Queensland. I refer to what is in Barcoo; 4,928 in Belyando; and 14 113 becoming increasingly known as our per­ in Mt. Gravatt. ' missive society, or, perhaps more appropri­ ately, our sickening society. In doing so, Mr. Sherrington: What about Salisbury at I wish to quote some extracts from last the present time? Sunday's edition of "Sunday Truth". There is nothing special, of course, about last Mr. HINZE: It is nearly as large as Sunday's issue; each "Sunday Truth" is much South Coast. At the election of 7 March, the same as the others. However, I wish to 1953, when the State was still under A.L.P. refer to page 1 on which is the heading, control, there were 4,790 on the roll and "Girl, 16, Flees With Jailbird." She is part qualified to vote in Barcoo; 4,842 in Bel­ of a Gold Coast family, which is the important thing so far as I and my colleague yando; and 20,823 in Mt. Gravatt. from Albert are concerned, and the news­ Mr. Aikens: Tell us now about the shirt­ paper published a poignant picture of her tail agreement with the A.L.P. mother and father. Mr. HINZE: We have three years in [SittinR suspended from 1 to 2.15 p.m.] which to hear all about that. You address Mr. HINZE: Before the recess for lunch, Mr. Deputy Speaker. I was developing my argument relative to the continual attack upon law and order in Mr. DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr. Hooper): this State, particularly upon censorship, and Order! referring to extracts from "Sunday Truth" of last Sunday. As I said, one sees similar Mr. HINZE: At the election of May, articles each week-end in "Sunday Truth"; 1956, still under an A.L.P. Government, they did not appear only in this edition. there were on the roll and qualified to vote 5,159 in Barcoo and 26,307 in Mt. Gravatt. On page 6, under the heading "Cop This I wish to make brief reference to the with Mac Lachlan", this appeared- Opening Speech of His Excellency the " ... Queensland's Collector for Cus­ Administrator. I think that what he said toms, Mr. D. Reid, called for a 60 per then is worth repeating. He said- cent. increase in his prevention and detection staff. "For me this opening of Parliament is a special event. It is the first time I have "Mr. Reid said he needed to have 40 had the honour; holding as I do at present more inspectors before the State's coastal the high office of Administrator of the ports were fully policed. Government of Queensland. " 'Evidence is mounting that attempts "I would not like to Jet the occasion are being made to create a sizeable drug pass, without briefly paying a personal market in this country', he pointed out. tnbute to the Parliamentary Institution, 'It is our job to stem the flow before it the bulwark of democracy. reaches that state here'." Address in Reply (21 AUGUST] Address in Reply 145

Turning over a couple of pages, one saw overseas, particularly the United Kingdom, the heading "Drugs and sex-Piccadilly now. Denmark and Sweden, to which I referred History becomes Vice", and the article earlier. read- At this point, I wish to draw to the atten­ "Piccadilly Circus is rapidly winning tion of the House this comment by Mr. itself a world-wide reputation as the centre Justice Fullagar- of drugs and easy sex in London." "There is no special test for indecency I am quoting this in reply to the people who or obscenity in print. Most people would continually refer to the United Kingdom, have no difficulty in determining whether Denmark and Sweden, and say that we a particular statement made in public should "get with it". It continued- from a street corner or at a general gathering is indecent or obscene, but when "Young visitors, intent on having a good time in England, head straight for this the words appear in print there are not famous landmark-tipped off by friends wanting those who would argue that the written word has some spedal immunity who have already been there. or must be dealt with by some unique test. "Drugs are easily bought and sold­ "These forget that 'there is no more it's a pushers paradise despite the efforts benefit to the public from a of police." litera~y presentation of o~scenity, how~ver skil­ Another couple of pages further on appeared fully written, than tf the same thmgs we~e the heading "Crime is 'to double in the shouted by a drunken man in a publtc next 10 years'". This will be of interest to street, and it is difficult to saY that one hon. members. It was sub-headed "State is more artistic than the other'." now faces impasse", and the article said- I refer hon. members to the belligerent "Queensland Society is at the point where attitude of a group of ratbags attending the it would have to decide how it was going University of Queensland who are deter­ to grapple with the problem of crime, mined, apparently, to bring that gre~t according to noted Australian criminolo­ institute of learning into disrepute by thetr gist Mr. Paul Wilson. filthy expressions and complete disregard of "Mr. Wilson, a lecturer in Government anY semblance of law and order. at Queensland University, warned that I believe that the people of Queensland crime would double in the next decade. are fed up to the back teeth with this radi­ "He said that at present 50,000 criminal cal group and that they will demand that offenders went through Queensland courts this Sovereign Government of Quee?sland each year. This would increase to 100,000 should no longer stand idly ~y and 115nore in the next 10 years." the actions of these contemptible hoohgans. A few pages further on-this will be of Only last week we saw the spectacle of a interest to hon. members opposite; it was lecturer by the name of Dan O'Neil charged written by Haydn Sargent-appeared an with openly and defiantly breaking the laws article headed "Disease worry to young of this State-a fine example indeed. boys". It said- What must the parents of our young p~ople "The voice at the other end of the think? Is it any wonder that the pubhc of telephone was young, nervous and Queensland are concerned !3! t_he almost obviously self-conscious. 'I'm ringing powerless attitude of the umversity senat~? about that letter in "Sunday Truth"', he I state quite emphatically that so fa~ a~ thts said. ratbag radical group is concerned, It IS no "Trouble is, he was the fifth who had use ducking round corners or trying to sweep telephoned, so I still wasn't sure if he this problem under the carpet. A head-on was the writer. It turned out that he was. clash is imminent. If the Government of 'That letter was a letter from a 15-year- this State does not afford some protection old boy who suspected he had V.D." to the thousands of young people attending our universities, we will have to accept the Those extracts from "Sunday Truth" indicate scorn of the electorate. how serious the position is relative to moral I think I should now refer to the group standards in this State, and that is why I of people who constitute the Queensland draw the attention of hon. members to them Literature Board of Review. The chairman particularly. is Mr. J. P. Kelly, O.B.E., Bachelor of Arts, Not a day passes without our seeing an Solicitor, Chairman of the Mater Hospital attack on the Queensland Police Force­ Board. These are the people who, week by the only power that is able to enforce the week and day by day, are being attacked laws made in Parliament. We see attacks by those w:-to indicate that we in Queens­ on the censors by people whose main argu­ land are so far behind. One of the mem­ ment is that, being adult, they rebel at the bers is the Honourable Ben Matthews, a thought of being restricted in what they read retired judge and a highly respected gentle­ or write or what they may see or hear on man in this State. Surely be is a person the stage or at the motion picture theatres. well qualified to sit on a board such as They refer continually to other States and this. Another member is Mrs. Una the so-called "enlightened" attitude of these Mulholland, a prominent worker in women's States to sex films, etc., and also to the organisations. Another is Mr. Brian so-called "enlightened" attitude of countries Clouston, Bachelor of Commerce, publisher 146 Address in Reply [ASSEMBLY] Address in Reply and managing director of Jacaranda Press. have no appeal whatsoever, apart from a Then there is Mr. Robert S. Byrnes, M.B.E., few nude scenes and some garbled expres· Bachelor of Arts and, I understand, treasurer sions regarding sexual activity. And then, and general secretary of the Presbyterian of course, the appeal would only be tc Church of Queensland. The secretary is Mr. those who could be regarded as sexuall; Peter Jones, of the Justice Department. The deprived or homosexuals, lesbians, wife­ board meets fortnightly, except in January swappers or spivs. To those who suggest and the second half of December. that we should emulate the United Kingdom, I might add that the board was set up in I refer to the latest importation from that 1954 by a Labour Government. It has country, the "junkie" Mick Jagger. Of been in existence for 15 years and it has course, "old Mick" had to receive a sus­ stood the test of time, for, out of the pended sentence for drug-taking before he thousands of books reviewed, only about could leave the United Kingdom. In addi­ 100 have been rejected for distribution. tion, he brought with him his mistress, That is not a bad effort for a body of respon­ Marianne Faithfull, who had to have a sible people who are now constantly being stomach pump applied to her before she maligned by the sex worshippers. could recover from an overdose of drugs. People from the United Kingdom, Denmark Now let us look at the experts-those and Sweden are ones that we should be who continually attack the "old curiosity looking up to, and they advocate a freer State". I refer to Queensland, of course. society for Queensland. Perhaps the matter of censorship has been highlighted since the arrest of Mr. Staines, Imagine these freaks being brought to an actor in the stage play "Norm and Australia by the motion picture industry to Ahmed". He was comparatively unknown play the part of poor Ned Kelly! No doubt until he used the words-- the indomitable bushranger would turn in his grave at the thought of it. The point I am Mr. Hughes: What words did he use? trying to make is that, no matter what mag­ nificent achievements a country is capable of, Mr. HINZE: I have the bench charge if that country becomes morally bankrupt, as sheet, Mr. Deputy Speaker, and I should the United Kingdom is obviously becoming, like a direction from you as to whether you it is only a matter of time until the lesson think I shcmld mention the words. I might of the fall of Rome is repeated. say that I have discussed this matter with the hon. member for Ipswich West, a long­ Perhaps to those of us who are prepared time friend of mine in local government, to be referred to as "squares", or "cubes", or and she has no objection. I repeat, Mr. "wowsers", and who simply adore the "old Deputy Speaker, that I have here the bench curiosity State" for all its weaknesses, the charge sheet against Mr. Norman Staines statement emanating from the motion picture which indicates the words that were used that industry that far too great an emphasis is were regarded as objectionable. I am asking placed on sex in today's films can be regarded your opinion whether I should quote them as a breath of fresh air in an industry that or whether they should be included in is so important in moulding the opinion of our "Hansard". young people. Mr. DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr. Hooper): Mr. Bromley: I have been saying that for They will be included in "Hansard". years. Mr. HINZE: Bowing to your ruling, Mr. Mr. HINZE: I am saying now that it is Deputy Speaker, and seeing that there are about time the Parliament and the Govern­ some young people in the gallery, I will ment of this State stood up to the ratbags at ask that the bench charge sheet be included the university. I am quite sure that all hon. in "Hansard". members have been asked by their constituents to do something about these people at the EXTRACT FROM BENCH CHARGE SHEET university. The hon. member for Mt. Gravatt "CHARGE recently showed me a document that came from the university. I have a copy of it here, "That on the 19th day of April 1969 but I have no intention of quoting from it at Brisbane in the Magistrates Court Dis­ because it is too filthy. No other person could trict in the State of Queensland constituted possibly publish such a document in this by the Central Division of the Brisbane State, but somebody at the university is getting District appointed under 'The Decentraliza­ away with it. If that type of person cannot tion of Magistrates Courts Act of be handled by the university senate, the 1965' one Norman Aubrey Staines in a members of the senate should admit that fact public place to wit Twe.Jfth Night Theatre, and let the Government stop the printing of Wickham Street, Brisbane aforesaid used the filthy rubbish that emanates from the obscene language to wit the words University of Queensland. If the Government -- BOONGS." does not do that, it should give the game Mr. HINZE: I suggest that the simplest away. way for a third-rate actor to become In conclusion, I touch on another matter famous or infamous, as the case may be, in that concerns all members of the community. a third-rate show is to utter the words I refer to the carnage on the roads. I suppose referred to. Similarly, the stage play would that a greater number of people are killed Address in Reply [21 AUGUST] Address in Reply 147 on the roads in the Gold Coast area than in trade. That being so, the provisions of any other area of the State. Possibly it is due section 92 of the Commonwealth Constitu­ to the density of traffic in my electorate. As tion can affect the position in this respect." a parent, I am concerned about the fact that Hon. members will realise the problem I am on each occasion my children go out I do facing. It is essential to construct a bypass not know whether they will return home. running parallel with the present highway, about a mile inland. Funds must be made I am suggesting that it is beyond any available so that this work can be carried on Government or Government party to get to simultaneously with the work necessary to the root of this problem and that an all-party provide a four-lane highway to Coolangatta committee should be set up to consider it. by 1973. It is no use thinking that this matter is a political football. I suppose that most people visited the Show last week, and no doubt all who saw Mr. Sherrington: How many times have we the computer at work were impressed with called for all-party committees? it. In the Surfers Paradise area a computer is to be used in the Gold Coast traffic control Mr. HINZE: I am putting the suggestion scheme. This will be the first area in the forward. If the hon. member for Salisbury Southern Hemisphere to control traffic by a also asks for an all-party committee, we may computer. This is one way in which the get it. I point out that if the Government department is trying to overcome the problem recommends the introduction, for example, of but I suggest that the best way is to provide radar traps, it immediately gets opposition funds for an inland freeway. from members of the Opposition. Whether Another matter of prime importance in my the introduction of a measure like that is right electorate is the proposed Currumbin boat or wrong, members of the Opposition are harbour. I have pressed for this ever since opposed to it because it is political. The coming to Parliament. I know that a model same remarks apply to breathalysers. The is being tested at the university to determine sooner we get together and attack the prob­ the flood flow, and I have been told that lem, as a Parliament, the sooner the State the investigation will be completed in a will benefit. The State cannot afford to lose couple of months. I will then be urging the 500, 600 or 700 people each year on its Treasurer to allocate funds so that we may roads. I am not too proud to say that I should proceed with the planning of the Currumbin like to see the establishment of an all-party boat harbour. committee to tackle the problem of the carnage on the roads. (Time expired.) There remain a number of items that I Mr. NEWTON (Belmont) (2.33 p.m.): As want to refer to. I will have an opportunity this is the first session of the new Parliament in the Budget debate to go into them in following the general State election, 1 wish detail, but at this stage I indicate briefly the to extend to the electors of Belmont once matter of the highway to the Gold Coast. aaain my sincere appreciation for their vote When the rail service to the Gold Coast was of confidence in me and their recognition of discontinued, the Government promised that the work done in the electorate on their it would construct a four-lane highway to behalf during the past nine years. They have that area. I admit that considerable funds my assurance that their problems, and those have been spent on that road. We were affecting the Belmont electorate, will receive promised a four-lane highway to Coolangatta my full-time attention as in the past. They by 1970. That will not be accomplished are also assured of my continued close atten­ until 1973 unless increased allocations are tion to any legislation which is important to made. Queensland and its people. My area is the tourist capital of Australia, I thank my campaign director, Australian with 3,000,000 people visiting it yearly. Labour Party branch members, members of Tourism on the Gold Coast is a major affiliated unions, and other persons who Queensland industry, but interstate transports assisted me during the campaign. and semi-trailers passing through the Gold Coast pose a real problem. I have raised I congratulate the many new members on this matter from time to time, and I have this side of the House on their success in asked the Minister for Main Roads and his the election. Their contributions during this department what can be done to prevent session will let the people of Queensland heavy transports passing through Surfers know that they belong to a team that is Paradise which is a highly developed always looking after their interests. residential tourist area. When I sought the As Assistant State Campaign Director diversion of heavy vehicles during certain during the recent State election, I thank the hours at night to reduce the noise level, I people of Queensland for the great vote of received this answer- confidence placed in the Australian Labour "The Solicitor-General has pointed out Party and its policy as enunciated by our that a great number of these heavy vehicles Leader. The 45 per cent. vote cast for the passing through the Gold Coast area at Labour Party and its candidates, while not night-time would be engaged in interstate enough to enable us to form a Government, 148 Address in Reply [ASSEMBLY] Address in Reply under the present Tory set-up in this State, by the Government in the conversion to returned the Australian Labour Party as the natural gas cannot be accepted or tolerated by senior party in this Parliament. the consumers affected. The Government has remained silent since 15 May, 1969, and has, Mr. L~e: Rot! until now, allowed the South Brisbane Gas Mr. NEWTON: It is not rot at all. The and Light Co. Ltd. to rob the consumers. hon. member for Yeronga can juggle figures The Government should have insisted that the however he likes-we expect that of him­ company honour its assurances and promises but he cannot falsify percentages or votes to the consumers that natural gas had double cast. the heating content and that the price would be the same as that charged for coal gas, or As members of the senior party in this 30 per cent. less. If these assurances and Parliament, we will make our presence felt promises could not be carried out, the Govern­ and our voice heard on the many matters ment should indicate quite clearly to the that will come before this Parliament affecting South Brisbane Gas Co. that it will take the State ;,nd its people. over the franchise and see that the change It is my intention to deal with the change from coal gas to natural gas works out more from coal gas to natural gas and to indicate favourably to the consumers than it is at that the stand taken by the Opposition on present. If we were the Government, our behalf of the consumers of natural gas in approach would be that the conversion must this State, when the Gas Act Amendment work out in the interests of the consumers Bill of 1967 was before the House, was the and the State or the franchise would be taken correct stand. The Australian Labour Party over from the company. opposed the second reading of the Bill and its I now wish to deal with the position as it clauses when they were discussed in has affected the consumers. Committee. Up to the present, the conversion has been Mr. Lee: You would like to socialise it. a matter of trial and error, resulting in day­ Mr. NEWTON: Of course, there are light robbery and blackmail of the consumers always interjections from the Government who have been caught up in this conversion side of the House on what we would do without having any choice in the matter. about the socialisation of industry. We have When the conversion was discussed in this stated time and time again that if there was Chamber, the Government knew nothing of any industry that was not working in the the effect~ it would have on the consumers, interests of this State, or its people, we would and left them to the mercy of the South not hesitate to socialise it. So far we have Brisbane Gas and Light Company Limited never done that. I have said this here which, so far, has a monopoly in the metro­ before. At present we find ourselves caught politan are:J.. The Government was sold in a situation in which the consumers of down the drain on the heating content of natural gas have had no say. First of all, natural gas and the price to be charged. since the conversion to natural gas in April Statement after statement was made by the complaints have come to me of higher manager, secretary and other top-ranking accounts in Mansfield, Holland Park, Mt. officers of the company that the gas would Gravatt, Coorparoo, and Greenslopes, and have double the heating content of coal gas they show an average increase of 90 per and that its price would be the same as that cent. above the price of coal gas. for coal gas. or 30 per cent. lower. Other ,causes of complaint are the low Mr. Sherrington: The Minister told the heating content of natural gas and the way House that. in which the rating unit was changed to indi­ Mr. NEWTON: That is true. cate that the heating content had been doubled. After the Government was sold down the drain, and after the legislation was passed­ Honourable Members interjected. as I said, the Opposition opposed it-we find Mr. SPEAKER: Order! I should have that coal gas has double the heating content imagined that hon. members on my left ~t of natural gas and that the price of coal gas least would not interject when one of the1r is 100 per cent. lower than the price being members was speaking. charged for natural gas. The Government has allowed this price to be charged by a mono­ Mr. Sherrington: Break it down! Most poly, while coal-mines are being closed and of it is coming from the other side of coal-miners are being retrenched in this State. the Chamber. This Government has had much to say about Mr. Davies: Every man on the other side development, but it backs only the exploiter is speaking. of our mineral resources, as has happened with natural gas. Mr. SPEAKER: Order! I do not have to The policy of the A.L.P. Opposition is be prompted by the hon. member for Salis­ clear. We believe in the development of the bury or the hon. member for Maryborough. State and we also believe that the people of Mr. Sherrington: Be fair about it. There Queensland should share in and benefit from is more talking on the other side than on such development. The action taken so far this side. Address in Reply (21 AUGUST] Address in Reply 149

Mr. SPEAKER: Order! If the hon. mem­ Mr. NEWTON: I will have to swallow ber for Salisbury does not keep quiet whilst them? It is the hon. member who will have I am on my feet, I shall have to deal with to swallow his words. him. Consumers were advised by the South Bris­ Mr. Sheu:rington. You can deal with me, bane Gas and Light Co. Ltd. and the com­ but be clear in your conscience. pany doing the conversion that after that Mr. SPEAKER: Order! If the hon. mem­ period of 21 days they would have to pay ber is inviting me to deal with him, I do to have the faults rectified. But the thing so under Standing Order 123A and ask him that stinks to high heaven in the conversion to reti~e from the Chamber. is that the only indication the consumer would have that there were faults and leaks Mr. Sherrington: I will do that, too. would be when he received his account for Whereupon the hon. member for Salisbury the natural gas. In Mansfield, the first withdrew from the Chamber. account was issued 35 days after the con­ version, and I remind hon. members that Mr. SPEAKER: Order! I say to hon. mem­ the company doing the conversion was held bers on my right that when a member is on to only 21 days after the conversion to adjust his feet and speaking, I do not want cross­ faults. firing in the Chamber, and I do not want interjectio'ls. Pertinent interjections will be Mr. W. D. Hewitt: But they did adjust allowed, but there is too much cross-firing the accounts, did they not? and conversation in the Chamber when mem­ bers from either side are speaking. It will Mr. NEWTON: I will come to that, too. have w cease. I have plenty of time in which to tell the House how the accounts were adjusted. Mr. NEWTON: I now wish to deal with the points raised by the consumers. They The second accounts were issued after 21 complained o.f the low-heating content of days, and throughout the period of conver­ natural gas, and the way in which the rating sion they have been issued for differing unit was changed to indicate that it had periods, in an endeavour to confuse the con­ double the heating content of coal gas is sumers and prove that there is nothing wrong most interesting. In the case of coal gas, with natural gas, that it is just something it took 200.00 units per therm, or 200 cubic that has happened in the process of con­ feet of gas for a therm. The unit was version. Whether hon. members opposite lowered for natural gas to the present situa­ like it or not, housewives are not as silly tion th:lt 100.00 units were to constitute a as some people seem to think they are. therm, or 100 cubic feet for a therm. That They have to ensure that the pay packet indicates quite clearly in simple arithmetic brought home each week by the breadwinner that coal gas has double the heating content goes round. When someone says, "Your of natural gas at the present time. gas account is high because it is for 35 days, The next point raised is the calorific value 28 days, or 21 days", as the case may be, which J.llows the statutory unit to fluctuate. the housewife knows that, as a matter of What we have been told by the Government simple arithmetic, she has only to divide and orher people associated with the con­ it by seven to find the number of weeks version is not in fact the position, because that are involved. Housewives quickly woke every consumer who has contacted me has up to that. complained of the poor heating content of Mr. Lee: It will be cheaper in the long natural gas compared with that of coal gas. run. If it is a fact that coal gas has double the heating content, why was it abandoned? Mr. Houston: No, it will not. Mr. Lee: That is not true. Mr. Lee: Of course it will. Mr. NE'\-VTON: It is true. The hon. member would not know. Mr. NEWTON: It is interesting to note, too, that at the second-reading stage of the Mr. Lee: It is not true. Bill the Opposition endeavoured to extract Mr. NEWTON: The hon. member has not from the Government-it debated the point had experience in this field. As he always very strongly-certain assurances as to where does in this Chamber, he is butting in on the consumer would stand in conversion. something about which he does not know Every possible excuse has been used by the anything. The fact that coal gas has double South Brisbane Gas & Light Co. Ltd. It has the heating content of natural gas and was blamed the appliances; it has blamed the abandoned in favour of natural gas is some­ late reading of meters. It has had to look thing for which the Government must answer. for reasons why the conversion has not worked out satisfactorily. In some instances, The company doing the conversion was people have found it impossible even to held to only 21 days to rectify any faults get a hot shower since the conversion to or leaks after the conversion of the appliances natural gas has taken place, whereas they was carried out. were able to get a hot shower when coal Mr. Lee: You will have to swallow those gas was used. Consumers have not been words. given any choice in the matter. 150 Address in Reply [ASSEMBLY] Address in Reply

A number of people have complained amended and showed simply an amount. about faults occurring at the week-end and There was nothing at all to show how the have stated that, when they got in touch amount was arrived at. with the gas company or the company doing If hon. members opposite want to smile the conversion, they were advised that the about these things they should consider faults could not be rectified until Monday. themselves lucky they have not had the con­ In some cases this meant that the consumer sumers' protection council operating. This and his family were without gas over the matter would have given them headaches week-end. In other instances-a number of for six or eight months. other hon. members have received complaints Not many of the problems that have similar to this-faults were not rectified till arisen for consumers of this gas have been later in the following week. This is a solved. shocking state of affairs. Mr. Lee: You are saying that the gas is Another incident that has been bandied to blame? around parrot fashion happened at Holland Mr. NEWTON: Let me be quite honest. Park. In this case, too, the appliances were I am saying that we in this Parliament should immediately blamed. and the consumers never have been misled, nor should the con­ were told by the conversion personnel that sumers have been misled, before the con­ their appliances were not worth converting version took place. Most of the problems because they were too old. Why was this should never have arisen. The conversion not told to us when the Gas Act was amended is being carried out by trial and error. It in 1967? Why was it not told to the con­ is quite evident that nobody, other than sumers so that they would at least know some personnel of the Gas Examiner and where they were going? Engineer's Department, knows very much about it, and that includes the South Bris­ We had the shocking example of one con­ bane Gas Co. and the conversion company. sumer, a housewife, who had seven visits What is happening, of course, is that the from 10 men of the conversion company to conversion is being done by trial and error rectify an oven complaint. Finally, one of and the consumers are paying for it. This the three supervisors-an American-arrived is what I have been complaining about for on the scene and spent 2} hours checking the last four months. But have we heard the oven, only to find that the bypass had anything from the Government? Has any not been done during the course of conver­ action been taken bv the Government? No! sion. That is the sort of thing that is going There has been complete silence on this on all the time, and I shall give other matter. examples of it. The people who received the amended Consumers also complain that when their accounts mentioned by the hon. member for accounts and conversion problems were being Chatsworth were not even satisfied then. disputed, they were told to pay up or th~ They were not sure at that stage just where gas would be cut off. That is the treatment they stood, so they paid them under protest. they received because of this Government's This did not have any effect, because the actions. Amended accounts were received July and August accounts are creeping up at Mansfield. This point was raised bv the in the same way as the first accounts that hon. member for Chatsworth. These were issued in June. The consumers have amended accounts were delivered; the first taken steps themselves in an endeavour to ac~ounts were delivered on the Wednesday overcome the problem. They have switched pnor to the State general election. Con­ to electrical appliances such as hot-water sumers immediately contacted me. I had jugs and frypans, and have turned to the plenty to do at that stage as I had an latest washing powder, "Cold Power", to election to fight, but when my constituents avoid using the gas copper. Yet they are got in touch with me I acted immediately. still receiving high accounts for natural gas. I was swamped with complaints from house­ Mr. Hughes: I think you must admit that wives about the accounts they had received. these are only a very few cases among the They were 95 per cent. and even 100 per many conversions. cent. higher than those for coal gas. My only course was to make a statement throuah Mr. NEWTON: Let me make it quite clear the Press. This I did, warning people in that there would have been thousands of cases the metropolitan area about what was going reported if this had been known early in the on and stating that the ass11rances given to piece. I am referring to information that has this Parliament and the consumers were not being carried out, that is, that the price would been passed on to me since the deputation be the same as that for coal gas or 30 per met the Minister for Mines in July. cent. less. I pointed out also that natural A number of faults that occurred at gas did not have double the heating con­ Holland Park were attributed to the fact that tent of coal gas, as we were assured it when the appliances were converted a de­ would. What happened? On the Saturday sooting process was not carried out. Houses morning of the State general election, the in that area would contain gas appliances consumers received amended accounts. The that are nearly 20 years old. During the South Brisbane Gas Co. could not get them credit squeeze from 1952 to 1956 I worked out quickly enough. The accounts were on houses in that area, so that a number of Address in Reply [21 AUGUST] Address in Reply 151 the houses are less than 20 years old. The de-sooted it caught fire. The pipes from the South Brisbane Gas Co. stated that one of geyser did not go out through the roof but the reasons for the faults was the fact that only into the ceiling, and if this person had that process was not carried out. Why was not the presence of mind to put the fire out it not carried out when the conversion of the with a hose the house would have been appliances was done? burned down. I will leave the conversion aspect for the On the day that the deputation met the moment and deal with another shocking state Minister for Mines a woman who was wearing of affairs. A number of people were chosen a nylon dressing-gown lit her stove and found and given a fortnight's schooling and then made leading hands. They were then given that her dressing-gown had ignited. Fortu­ 10 unskilled people under their control and nately she was able to get the dressing-gown were sent out to make the conversions to away from her body. If she had not been natural gas. They were expected to convert able to do that she would have been badly 5t houses each day. burned. As the Minister has indicated, other instances of gas appliances blowing up have Mr. Lee: That is reasonable. occurred and have not been reported. Mr. NEWTON: Of course it is reasonable; I will now refer to some of the costs provided the conversion was carried out in involved so that hon. members may know the way that it should have been carried out. what is happening with the use of natural There is another matter. Prior to the gas. A pensioner who used 600 cubic feet conversion, and even since the conversion, if of coal gas, or 3.18 therms, received a bill anything goes wrong on the household side of $1.84 for a month. With natural gas, of the meter the consumer has to obtain the for 600 cubic feet, or 5.905 therms, the services of a licensed gas-fitter to rectify the cost was $3.27. Hon. members can work fault; yet unskilled people were allowed to out the difference for themselves. In June, go into the houses to make the conversions. for 600 cubic feet of natural gas, the therms Hon. members should see some of the things used rose to 6.45 and the cost rose to $3.49. that were done. I have two gas nipples here These facts relate to a pensioner who is and I would like to show hon. members the struggling to exist. size of the holes that have been bored in them. The people who made the conversion Another case relates to a housewife on could not consult any reference book, so they a moderate income. Over a period she were told to follow the old rule-of-thumb used about 1,600 cubic feet of coal gas method. One would think that they were a month, equal to 8.48 therms, and her gas converting the gas stoves to burn crude oil. account came to $4.32. With natural gas, Naturally all the converted gas nipples had using 1,600 cubic feet, or 16.11 therms, to be replaced with new ones with holes of the gas account was $7.42. The difference the size suited to such a powerful element as can be worked out arithmetically quite natural gas. simply. Another case concerns a woman who used In view of the number of complaints that 1,900 cubic feet of coal gas in May, with 11.46 I have made on behalf of the consumers of therms, at a cost of $5.96. With natural natural gas, I again indicate to the Govern­ gas she used 2,100 cubic feet-admittedly ment that it should set up a full public inquiry an increase of 200 cubic feet-with 22.57 into (a) the cost of conversion of household therms, at a cost of $11.44. Those cases appliances and the safety of those appliances; provide a clear example of what is happening. (b) the charges being made for natural gas; and (c) the fact that natural gas does not After the deputation met the Minister for possess double the heating content of coal Mines, and he on behalf of the Government gas, as this Parliament and the consumers was given a grand opportunity to tell the were assured it would have. I ask for that people, particularly the consumers, about their public inquiry because of what is occurring rights in relation to the conversion, and in this State. the fact that they had the right of appeal I mention the matter of blow-ups. This to him, it seems amazing to me that only matter, too, has been treated far too lightly. a small item appeared in the Press. The The majority of blow-ups have occurred Minister stated that he had met the deputa­ because of faults in ovens. It was found that tion, that the problems were expected, and a number of ovens had been converted to that many had already been investigated natural gas without even a thermometer being by the Government. He said that Mr. Noume used to ascertain their heating content. In and his staff would look after the com­ some cases the ovens blew up when the plaints raised by the deputation. The Minis­ housewives lit them. One woman had her ter said that the company had a policy of eyelashes burned and her hair singed. pausing after the conversion of an area before going to the next stage, which Only last Sunday night a consumer of allowed faults to be ironed out. It is a pity natural gas rang me at half past 10. He that no statement was made after the deputa­ told me that he had a gas geyser in the tion had seen the Minister. If the assurances bathroom and that because it had not been given by the Minister had appeared in the 152 Address in Reply [ASSEMBLY] Address in Reply

Press, many of the problems of conversion account from the company stating that if would have been solved. This is a summary the amount was not paid by 6 August, 1969, of what happened- her gas supply may be cut off. 1. The Minister agreed that all com­ But the matter was still in dispute, and plaints received by him or his depart­ there was this assurance from the Minister mental officers concerning faults and that the supply would not be cut off while accounts received from month to month the matter was in dispute. When this woman would be investigated fully by Mr. Noume was absent from her home on 14 August, and his staff. 1969, the gas supply was cut off. This left 'her and her family without gas for the 2. He stated that his departmental evening meal that day and for breakfast the officers would work full-time whenever next morning. I drew the Gas Engineer's necessary to see that the safety factor attention to this, and the gas was reconnected was fully carried out to protect consumers about 2.30 p.m. on 15 August, 1969. and that while accounts can be adjusted the position with life is an entirely dif­ Since then, a letter has been received from ferent one. the gas company apologising for the incon­ 3. He stated that he was in constant venience, and a further amended account has contact with Mr. Savage of the South been received deducting another $2.50 which, Brisbane Gas Company on all aspects together with the $1.43 deducted on the raised concerning the conversion. earlier account, and a discount of 88c, if the amount was paid before 2 September, 4. He stated that the account received 1969, left an amount of $6.54 owing. at Holland Park and raised with Mr. Noume would be amended. That is a clear example of the daylight robbery and blackmail I spoke about earlier. 5. He stated that complaints can be rung It is a clear case of victimisation. It will direct to Mr. Noume or your representative be interesting to hear the "Minister say, on -meaning, of course, the local State repre­ behalf of the Government, what he intends sentative. to do about this type of treatment of gas 6. He stated that complaints raised at consumers in this State. week-ends must be rectified by the conver­ In my opinion, the greatest racket of all sion company or the gas company. is revealed by what appeared in the 'Tele­ 7. He stated that no consumer would graph" yesterday and "The Courier-Mail" have his gas disconnected where a dispute this morning. The company, realising it had was involved concerning faults and to do something following the number of accounts received. complaints raised by me on behalf of con­ sumers not only in my electorate but also in 8. It was stated that there were not adjoining electorates, brought out a sufficient licensed gas fitters in the State formula under which the company will give to carry out the conversion. That is tariff cuts. A consumer using 600 cubic why other personnel were being schooled feet of coal gas, 3.18 therms, would pay and used. $1.84, whereas a consumer using 600 cubic 9. It was indicated that personnel are feet of natural gas, 5.90 therms, would pay continuously being schooled on faults found $3.27 without the tariff cut. Under the and rectified by Government gas engineers. new scheme, the charge is 58c per therm for the first five therms, and 40c per therm over 10. The thermal unit is not a statutory five therms, or $3.30 for six therms; and, unit for measuring natural gas. It was if the account is paid within 18 days, 10 per stated by the Government Gas Engineer cent. discount is allowed, and a consumer that it is a fluctuating unit measured by with an approved gas hot water system is the heating content at the gate house, allowed a 50c reduction. This would bring which can vary from month to month the account back to $2.52. according to the current calorific value of the gas. If the company can do this at this stage, the pensioner whose case I was discussing After the assurance from the Minister that earlier has been "touched" for 50c a month the gas supply to any consumer's house or $1.50 for three months, and the monthly would not be cut off while an account was account is still 68c higher th;m it was for in dispute, on 14 August, 1969, a consumer's coal gas. natural gas supply was disconnected because she disputed her June account for $11.35. Consider the position of a hou~ewife using Her previous coal gas account was $6.69. 1,600 cubic feet of gas. Her account for Her July account for $8.30 and her August coal gas would be $4.32, whereas ·her account account for $7.77 had been paid, but she for natural gas would be $7.42. However, disputed the June account. working on the new formula, the total cost would be $7.30, less 50c for hot water and She received an amended account showing 68c discount, which would bring the account that $1.43 had been deducted. However, back to $6.12, so that this consumer would knowing her rights, she wrote to the com­ have been "touched" for $1.30 a month or pany stating that she was still not satisfied $3.90 for three months. And the account and was still disputing the June account. for natural gas would still be $1.80 a month Finally, she received a further amended higher than that for coal gas. The whole Address in Reply [21 AuousT] Address in Reply 153 business of new tariffs is merely another There is from time to time among unionists cover-up job for the South Brisbane Gas great dissatisfaction with wages and condi­ and Light Co. Ltd. I warn the House that tions. This is to some extent brought about this company has the franchise not only for by the number of wage-fixing tribunals in suburbs on the south side of the Brisbane this country. We have the Federal Govern­ ment, with its Commonwealth Conciliation River but also for Toowoomba and Gatton. and Arbitration Commission, Public Service Mr. P. Wood: Do you think the same boards, and so on. We have the State, with situation will arise in Toowoomba? various State wage-fixing boards. The wage­ fixing bodies in this State are the State Indus­ Mr. NEWTON: I hope it does not after trial Commission, the Commonwealth Indus­ what I have said today. As mines are clos­ trial Commission, and the Public Service ing down, miners are being retrenched, and boards, now both State and Federal, all of coal gas has double the heating content of which are bringing down judgments affecting natural gas as well as being 100 per cent. the various employees in this State. cheaper, it is the Government's responsi­ The average worker considers himself to bility to see, if natural gas is to take the be an Australian rather than a Queenslander place of coal gas, that the conversion should or a member of any particular State when work in the interests of the commmers. it comes to rates of pay. This is one matter on which he considers himself to be an Mr. R. E. MOORE (Windsor) (3.11 p.m.): Australian, and, when he sees his counter­ I desire to associate myself with the message part in another State getting what he con­ of loyalty to the Crown and to Her Majesty siders is a better deal, he approaches his Queen Elizabeth. union, often as an individual, and com­ plains and asks why his wages or conditions I congratulate the mover and seconder of are not comparable with those of his opposite the motion for the adoption of the Address number in the other State. in Reply on their contributions to the debate. However, he does not have to look over I also offer my sincere congratulations to the border for anomalies. In quite a number you, Mr. Speaker, on your re-election, and of instances one finds, for example, the clerk associate myself with the remarks of all the working for private industry receiving one previous speakers who have congratulated wage and the clerk in Government employ you. receiving another wage, one obtaining his I also take this opportunity to thank, on rises from decisions of the court, the other behalf of the electors of Windsor, my pre­ from the particular commissioner or the decessor, Mr. P. R. Smith, who effectively Public Service Board, with the result that represented this electorate for 12 years and very great anomalies exist. who has now been elevated to the Law In the case of Government emp~oyees, Reform Commission. He is certain to make one finds various commissioners agreemg to his mark on law reform legislation which wage or salary rises by negotiation for one will come before this House from time to section, requiring only ratification by the time. During my calls on the electors of Commission, and the reaction to a request Windsor I was delighted to note their for a wage rise for another section of high regard for Mr. Smith. None had a employees is not agreement, as in the first bad word to say against him, and some asked instance, but a blunt reply that it is not in me if I could in my maiden speech men­ the commissioner's province to grant a rise tion their high regard for him and wish him for that section, that it is a job for the well on their behalf. Compliments from the Commission. The same Government employer man in the street, when received, must be agrees, on the one hand, to a certain wage well deserved. rise for one section and says, on the other hand, to the other section, "Go to the To the people in the electorate of Windsor Commission". I would like to pledge my loyalty, as I The Act is a conciliation and arbitration pledge it to any just cause which they want Act, and it should operate in that order­ me to espouse. Throughout my adult life first, conciliate; then, if no agreement or I have always had a soft spot for the man compromise can be reached, take it to the in the lower-income bracket, and I am con­ independent arbitrator, which in this State, scious of the difficulties of some of these under State awards, is the State Industrial people in raising and educating their families, Commission. with ever-increasing costs. I hope by my contributions in this House that I will be Now, to get down to the function of that able to make their lot a little easier. Commission-and, indeed, to the function of the Commonwealth Conciliation and Arb­ This can be done in many ways, one being itration Commission-to dispense real justice, the industrial field. This is a subject upon it should have two functions-as a court, and which I will now elaborate. What is required as an investigating body. The mere fact to bring about stability in industry and wage of a union's having a weak advocate should justice to the employee is a complete review not preclude it from getting wage justice. of the [ndustrial Conciliation and Arbitra­ The Commission should be enlarged and tion Acts, together with co-operation from have an investigating staff to investigate quite the unions in reaching agreement before impartially the worth of the employees seeking enactment. the rise. 154 Address in Reply [ASSEMBLY] Address in Reply

I have decided over the years that what a just wage for all based on a formula such really is needed is, for want of a better as I have proposed. Then, if one section name, a points index, or points system, based got a rise, every section would get a rise. on a formula of so many points for skill, As the gross national product increased, so many points for education necessary to percentagewise, every citizen would benefit. do the job, for brain fag, for the amount I know it is asking a Jot to get people to of continuing study that is necessary to keep agree to remain underdogs forever. Most up one's proficiency, with loadings for noxious workers basically believe in a fair go and fumes, dust, danger, and all the other things do not want more than their fair share for that make a job uncomfortable, added to the effort they expend, but they do want to the base rate as an extra loading. It can be allowed to earn more by a bonus for rightly be claimed that we have some of extra effort, or efficiency, or by overtime. these things in one form or another; but what the various wage tribunals will not do Many workers in the low-income groups is allow comparisons with unlike work. They are victims of circumstance. Some of it will not allow a union to present a case is their own doing and some because the to show how a certain section has been opportunity was not there. Some of it is left behind when compared with another sec­ because of lack of drive or ambition. Some tion with which it was at one time com­ of them woke up too late to the fact that parable, when in some cases the section opportunities they had for the grasping had left behind deserves more because its mem­ passed them by. But most of these are bers have had to do additional study worthy citizens with families to educate, to keep up with modern technology, for and they want better opportunities for their example, while their brother workers in children than they themselves had. another calling have gone from rise to rise To condense what I have said so far into with no additional study, simply because a few words, I want to see reform take place they have the luck or good fortune to be in the wage-fixing bodies in this State and in a calling the wage for which is fixed by in the nation, and I want to see unions act a commissioner or board or is tied to some responsibly to bring it about. I want also other section. The poor fellow in the other to see close liaison between employer and section has to go to the Commission for his employee and only one re-formed wage­ rise, and the Commission will not allow the fixing body to hand down judgments on all advocate for his section to say, "Let us wages and conditions based on a formula compare, for example, the clerical side with agreed upon by all three-the unions, the the technical side at a given date and then employers and the Industrial Conciliation compare it as it is today, to show the great and Arbitration Commission, or whatever wage variation that has taken place." body is set up to arbitrate. I fully realise that, for real wage justice This is as good a time as any to put on to come about, it needs not only the wage­ record my attitude to unions and unionists. fixing tribunals to be uniform in judgments I mentioned earlier that the Industrial Con­ based on qualifications, aptitude, skill, effic­ ciliation and Arbitration Act needs amend­ iency, etc.; it requires also the unions to get ment. I should like to see this happen and their heads together to help work out a to have included the other changes I have formula under which there will be a union mentioned. First let me say that unions are of unions. At present there is a union of here to stay and are an essential part of our individuals, all, or most, of them going their way of life. They are a safeguard for the own way; but the unions are not in agree­ rights of the individual in individual matters. ment as to the differential that is justified between wages. The fact that most unions are party political is to be regretted. I think they If we had a union of unions, we could would play a more effective part if they were eliminate this consistent jockeying by unions perhaps political but not supporting any for a little advantage over their fellow particular political party. They would play unionists, thus setting up a spiral of claim a more effective part if they used their know­ and counterclaim. To solve this problem, ledge, ability, training and good sense to I should like to see set up a body comprised obtain for their members the very best wages of unions, employers, and the wage-fixing and conditions that industry can justly afford, tribunals, to institute a formula or points negotiated on a more friendly basis than is index which could be reviewed every few achieved today. However, what I should years to see if amendment was necessary to like to see happen-that is, as long as retain wage justice and to stop ever-increas­ unionism is compulsory or there is preference ing price and wage spirals. to unionists-is compulsory secret ballots If we continue to have wages chasing costs with compulsory voting before any industrial and other wages we will perpetuate this stoppage or go-slow action takes place, and inflationary spiral by which the pensioner, compulsory ballots at fortnightly or some the man on a fixed income and the person other set intervals while a dispute exists. with money in the bank and not wisely As long as unionism is compulsory, or invested, will find their savings, pension or there is preference to unionists, union fees income eroded away as they are being eroded should not be more than one day's salary today, not to mention the adverse effect this per annum with facilities to contract out of has on our exports and balance of payments. levies if levies are applied. These safe­ There would be great advantages in having guards would not be necessary if there were Address in Reply [21 AUGUST] Address in Reply 155 no compulsion or preference, but they are When a strike is justly described as a "wild­ very necessary to allow justice to the cat" strike, the employer has his rights and employee who is a member of a union because can sack the workers if he so desires. But, of coercion or compulsion. Under our of course, that often creates chaos. present system, if such a person was not a From my close association over the years member his livelihood could be taken away with trade unionists I have found that, in the by others refusing to work with a non­ main, workers are reluctant to go on strike; unionist. As I said, I favour unionism. We firstly, because they have to justify the smaller cannot do without it but it, too, can become pay packet to their wives; secondly, because a monster and should not be allowed the the hire-purchase men are standing over freedom to be lord and master over its their families; and, in addition, because their compulsory members. children have to go without a number of the amenities of life. I have found very few Let us consider what would happen if there strikes that have occurred without cause. were no trade unions. It would not be long Exceptions are the political strikes, and they before certain employers made inroads into can be identified by the resolutions that are wages and conditions of the workers. How passed at the mass meetings of the unionists could we have wage justice, and how could who take part in those strikes. Where an anyone put his case to the "hard" boss? The individual trade union is involved, there is first fellow who did would be dismissed. It generally a good cause for a strike. More could be said that courts of appeal could be often than not there has been fermentation set up to hear that sort of case; but what over a lengthy period of time, with the worker would be able to afford counsel to employer taking little heed of the complaints of his workers. This situation is frequently represent him, and how many workers could fonnrl in Government and semi-government present their own cases in a satistactory employment, owing mainly to the impersonal manner? nature of the section head or commissioner. There is no doubt that unions are here to It is not found very much in private enter­ prise, where there is a closer liaison between stay, so I should like to see the rank-and-file employer and employee and employers ex­ members having a say in union affairs. The plain to their workers why they cannot agree rank-and-file member should have a say to certain demands that are made. However, especially in matters that concern him, such one finds that the larger the private employer as industrial disputes and the election of union becomes the more he emulates the top officers. It can be said that he has this right­ decision-making public servant. Quite often that he can attend his union meetings and he finds himself faced with a problem that, vote as he likes. But rules and regulations, owing to his apparent lack of appreciation and his lack of knowledge of union matters, of the true situation, is hard to solve. If he often prevent him from doing these things. had had his ear to the ground like the smaller Perhaps apathy on the part of the legislators employers, that sort of situation would not is the reason for the present state of affairs, arise. but apathy is no excuse. The legislators I come now to demarcation disputes. These should not be permitted to sit back and allow are a real problem and the hardest to handle the State and the nation to suffer. If the because those taking part are nearly always situation is to be improved, secret ballots 100 per cent. behind the stoppage. That is should be introduced for the election of because there is a very natural instinct in officers and for the resolving of matters every one of us, namely, self-preservation, during industrial disputes and stoppages. and that is what demarcation disputes really I now mention "wild-cat" strikes and a are-men trying to retain security, some by possible way of preventing them from occur­ diversification of the particular job, and ring. From time to time "wild-cat" strikes others by not allowing any inroads into what will occur, but generally strikes are held for they consider to be their province, all with a cause. I suppose that if men walk off the an eye to the future. This is quite difficult job in defiance of their union's direction there where some new process or technique or is not much that can be done about it. material is established. Every worker has the right to withhold his In the case of a new technique, the labour, and that right extends to any group employee usually engaged with similar of workers. Perhaps the unions can lessen material in another calling often says, "This the possibility of a "wild-cat" strike occurring is my job," and gets up in arms. He by imposing a penalty on those who take part approaches his union and a dispute takes in it. If the union was a voluntary organisa­ place. This will become less and less tion it could expel its members who take part prevalent as time passes and job opportunities in such a strike, and under compulsory trade increase, and as the unions and populace at unionism the unions can fine their members. large accept re-training schemes to overcome That state of affairs is acceptable if all the redundancy. That is why we as a Govern­ union office-bearers are elected by secret ment must establish re-training centres on a ballot and are doing their job efficiently. In full-time, full-pay basis, even if the course some instances the reason for the walk-off by is accelerated to some extent by cutting out the workers could well be sheeted home to the less important matter which is part and the inefficiency of the union office-bearers. parcel of most training courses. 156 Address in Reply [ASSEMBLY] Address in Reply

When one mentions this type of course to midnight. We have all this restrictive legis­ some of the unions whose industry will be lation with its associated penalties, but the affected, the motives of the Government are road toll continues to rise. suspect. They are worried mainly by dilution. This can be overcome by having a course of We have had in the past, and still have, sufficient duration, on an eight-hour-per-day radar traps. One used to be in Hamilton basis to completely cover the syllabus of the Road just at the bottom of a gully between apprentice or trainee in that calling. With a two short steep hills where there was no course covering twelve months of eight hours danger to anyone, and some poor unsus­ a day, the student will have had approximately pecting motorist would accidentally exceed 1,440 hours of training, which is more than the speed limit by 6 or 7 miles per hour and the amount many apprentices receive. The there, halfway up the next short steep hill, would be a policeman. He had no trouble implementation of a full-time re-training stopping the cars because, by the time they scheme costs money, but the lack of reached him, they were all doing under 35 re-training costs more money both by the whether they saw the radar trap or not. resultant wastage of the potential worker, Because of the steepness of the grade it was and by the industrial disputes that are nearly impossible to do more than 35 miles indirectly caused by it. But, of all things, per hour. it is necessary not only to do justice to the people concerned, but also to convince them Yet I have seen many motorists whom I that justice is being done. If we do that call innocent victims caught at that spot, and we will go a long way towards creating it appeared to the motorist that the trap was industrial peace and harmony. just a good revenue-earner. In fact, I have heard it said, "Well, they may have been The next subject I would like to refer to accidentally speeding there but they were in is the death toll on the roads and some of fact only receiving justice for the times that its causes. To my knowledge nobody has they did not get caught." There seems to me ever been killed by a stationary vehicle unless to be a degree of unfairness in the present perhaps he has been underneath it and the set-up. jack has slipped, or some similar thing has I should like to see every car in Queens­ occurred. But on the roads the speed of land, and in Australia for that matter, fitted the vehicle is the problem. Over the years, with a governor to govern wheel speed and under this Government and previous Govern­ not in any way affect the horsepower or ments, and under other State Governments, pick-up of the vehicle. we have seen legislation brought down to reduce road deaths. Some of the legislative This can be done simply off the speedo­ provisions would be effective if they were meter cable or the tail shaft on the fail-safe obeyed by the motorist, but only if the rules principle under which, if any~hing goes were obeyed to the letter. wrong, the governor disengages and the car reverts to manual operation. This can be But, human beings being what they are, done quite simply. Should a driver have his there is little chance of that happening, foot to the floor, relying on the governor penalties or no penalties. Extreme penalties to keep him at the desired speed, he would may have an effect, but I do not want them. have to release the accelerator before he It is necessary to think about it, and realise could take over again. If he did not, the that people do behave in a certain way. It is car would reduce speed and eventually stop. no good saying, "If only the people obeyed This is not difficult to design. I could design all the rules there would be no accidents." it, and I am sure it would not pose any We have to accept the fact that people are great problem to our engineers to devise an not going to obey all the rules, so it is neces­ even better governor than that which I have sary to get around that difficulty in another in mind. way, and make it harder for them to break I should like to see all cars, when driven the rules. in built-up areas, governed at 35 miles per hour and for the open road at 6D miles per We have been using penalties, severe or hour, the maximum speeds now permissible. less severe, to deter the erring motorist, and A simple governor would be one that could the motorist in turn says, "What are the be engaged by the motorist, with an indica­ chances of getting caught if I drive faster tion light on the car to show that it was than I should?" If the road is open, or engaged, and then anyone unlawfully there appear to be no radar traps or traffic switching it off could be detected easily and policemen, the fellow puts his foot down. On dealt with. I do not like penalties for some of the lonely straight stretches many accidental breaches of the Traffic Act, but drive at speeds up to 100 miles an hour. deliberate breaches are quite another matter, Some do 70, others 80, and some 85. and switching off a governor could be likened One hears them talking at various places to tampering with a taxi meter. where people congregate and, depending on My proposal may seem to be a little the person to whom they are talking, one revolutionary, but if we are honest about hears the truth about the speed at which decreasing the number of deaths on the some people drive motor-cars. Around the road, it will be seen to be the only way, suburbs one sees the motorist doing 45 or 50, because if we do not reduce the speed of especially at night, and more especially after the motor-car we will have to accept the Address in Reply [21 AUGUST] Address in Reply 157

road toll and stop adding further penalties it obvious that it is speed and nothing else which are not effective and only annoy and that causes deaths on the road. As I have frustrate the motorist. said, there are just as many drinking drivers, To the people who say that you need arrogant drivers, and careless drivers in speed to get yourself out of difficulties, I Queen Street and Adelaide Street as there say that you need speed to get yourselves are anywhere else, yet there are no fatal into difficulties. accidents because speed is not possible. If cars were governed at 35 in the built-up It is claimed that bad roads are a cause­ areas and a driver realised he was getting and so they are-but most accidents happen into difficulties, he could simply put his foot on good roads on straight stretches when on the brake and steady down or stop, and someone decides, as it is termed in present­ the other driver would do likewise because day jargon, to "have a burn". Where the it would be a natural reaction. If he knew farmer turns off the good road or highway there was no way of getting more speed it onto the bush track where he is unable would be natural for him to reduce speed, to speed, there are just no deaths. More and he can do this quicker than he can than likely the track would be tortuous, increase speed. And even if an accident full of stumps, holes, erosion and all the did occur, the rate of impact would be other hazards that are part and parcel of reduced considerably, and it is rate of impact a bush track, but, because speed is impossible, that does the damage. no deaths due to speed occur. As a matter of fact, the bush track was far more hazard­ I believe that what I am suggesting will ous in the days of the horse and sulky come about one day and I hope our Govern­ because, if the horse shied or bolted, as ment will be the leader in the field. We some did, and took to the scrub, an accident could have a far more elaborate form of could occur when the sulky or trap came governor than the manually-controlled type in contact with a tree. However, few such tha! I ~uggest. It could be controlled by a radio signal or short transmission from the accidents were fatal. Most of those fatalities roadway with a conductor emitting a signal occurred because the person became impaled which would shut down or open up the on a branch or, as there was no outside pro­ governor on the fail-safe principle. tection as there is with the modern car, hit his head on the limb of a tree. With You have seen, Mr. Speaker, radio-con­ the modern enclosed car fitted with safety trolled model aeroplanes carrying out many belts and operating at below the speed limits, manoeuvres and aerobatics which require two there should be few fatalities indeed. or three signals or combinations of them so if it can be done on a model aeroplan~ The average motorist believes that in a with all its attendant weight problems, it 35 miles per hour zone he must drive at can be done to open or close the throttle 35 miles per hour, whereas that is the of a car. maximum permissible speed. One finds that If we were far enough advanced in this if one drives at anything below the speed type of action the speed of cars could be limit the following motorist becomes governed at, say, 35, 45, 60 miles an hour, extremely impatient. It is my view that or any speed desired, depending upon the this, too, is another natural instinct that speed zone in which the car was being driven man has retained. When he relied upon by having different signals for different speeds: his own muscle power, his impatience was This State and country are sufficiently only of short duration; if he was impatient advanced technically to do this, but I wonder and hurried, he simply got leg weary and how long we are going to wait before we slowed down. But to get speed today we do get realisation that the real cause of the not need muscular power and the expenditure road toll is speed and nothing else. of energy; all we have to do is sit in It is true that drinking, mechanical failure, armchair comfort and depress the accelerator. carelessness, inattention, arrogance, impatience I therefore do not suppose that my suggested and many other factors contribute. But governor would cure impatience below the they only contribute, and, when one gets speed limit, but it certainly would above down to cases, there could be all of those the speed limit, because the motorist would things and no speed and there just would have no option but to comply. be no accidents. It can therefore be seen There is another factor in road safety that that in all road deaths there is one common should be considered. I refer to the number factor, and that is the velocity of the vehicle. of disused white lines that are allowed to We can look around us and see Queen remain on the road and are painted out only Street and Adelaide Street packed with cars to reappear and confuse the motorist. Around containing a good cross-section of the public the suburbs of Brisbane there are many with all the qualities, good and bad, that instances in which double lines, single lines the motorist has, and we can ask ourselves and traffic islands have been allowed to how many deaths there have been, excluding remain when they have been superseded. I those of pedestrians, in Queen and Adelaide have noticed that some have been removed Streets as a result of car accidents. From by an abrasive device that apparently is the research that I have done, there do not unsatisfactory. However, removed they should appear to have been any. That should make be, because they certainly cause confusion. 158 Address in Reply [ASSEMBLY] Address in Reply

Another change that must take place is in necessary, and the signs should then read the right-of-way rule. The Act states that one "Stop and give way". There are quite a must give way to the vehicle on the right if number of "Stop" signs in situtations where the occasion is such that a collision could there is clear vision, and the motorist who occur if both vehicles proceed, or words to fails to stop because there are no cars around that effect. What can, and quite often does, often finds himself pulled up by a policeman happen is that one sees a vehicle travelling for failing to stop and fined, with a subsequent along a road and another vehicle stopped at loss of points. a "Stop" sign on its right. In my book, that should allow the moving vehicle to proceed. But often one is confronted with a situation Mr. F. P. MOORE (Mourilyan) (3.49 p.m.): in which the fellow who has stopped acceler­ On the occasion of my maiden speech in this ates away at dangerous speed, and although Assembly, it is my pleasing duty to associate the driver of the first moving vehicle is myself, as have other hon. members, with the immediately placed in jeopardy, he is guilty Address in Reply to the Opening Speech of of an offence because he has not given way. the Administrator. I wish to express and I do not believe that this section of the Act convey on behalf of the people of Mourilyan needs great change, but it should spell out in continued loyalty and affection to the Throne clearer terms just what it really means and and the Person of Her Most Gracious state that the man on the right has no Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. absolute right of way, that it is incumbent I should also on this occasion like to upon him to show caution and, in fact, give extend congratulations to the mover and way if an accident is likely to occur if he seconder of the motion for the adoption of proceeds. the Address in Reply and to support those No doubt some emotional attitude of mind hon. members in thanking the Administrator is tied up with many car accidents. I have for his Opening Speech. seen drivers who have had a row with the Through you, Mr. Deputy Speaker, I boss, a row with an employee, or a family should like to thank Mr. Speaker, although argument, drive very erratically. I have seen I had a little trouble with him this morning, drivers who on some days are the absolute for his wonderful welcome to me to this personification of courtesy and on others the Assembly and for the guidance he gave me antithesis. On these irrational occasions they on taking my seat. I am sure that this speed, pass other cars at the wrong time, are important office is accorded dignity in the impatient, and so on. Most hon. members traditional manner by his occupancy of it. will have seen situations of a type similar to those that I have mentioned. The governed I should like to place on record my motor vehicle would not prevent the fellow appreciation of the electors of Mourilyan for at the "Stop" sign on one's right accelerating the confidence and trust they have placed to 35 miles an hour and ramming one's in me. I am quite conscious of my duty to vehicle, but it would, I submit, help prevent represent not only those who cast their vote the emotionally disturbed fellow from getting for me as the endorsed Australian Labour into serious trouble. Party candidate, and I trust and pray that I will do my utmost for the majority by Over the years there have been all sorts of diligent representation of all the 20,000-odd hand signals for drivers of motor-cars. We residents of the Mourilyan electorate. I used to have the "pat the dog" signal for am conscious of the honour accorded me slowing down and hand signals for stopping and fully aware of the duties and respon­ and turning. One hand signal that I would sibilities now imposed on me as the member like to see retained and encouraged is a hand for Mourilyan. signal in daylight for stopping. The present system of relying upon the stop light has its With regard to my election, I am indebted limitations, because in most instances the to the late Mr. Ted Owens who, with Mr. vehicle is already stopping when the light Jack Neilsen, my campaign director, helped appears and one receives no warning of inten­ me to establish myself as a suitable candidate tion. On the other hand, the hand signal to be elected to the position. I am extremely grateful to the campaign director, whose shows the intention and the driver following office I used as headquarters. I am indebted is prepared for the action and can begin to also to my electoral executive committee, prepare to brake his own vehicle. A.L.P. branches, the Young Labour Associa­ Another great advantage of the hand signal tion members and others who manned the in daylight is to the pedestrian at, say, a booths in the election, my Leader, Mr. Jack pedestrian crossing. He can then see that the Houston, M.L.A., my Deputy Leader, Mr. approaching vehicle intends to stop and he Perc. Tucker, my very good friend Ray can step off the pavement with less apprehen­ Jones, Mr. Bill Fulton, Jack Melloy and sion than he has under the present circum­ Senator Keeffe. Also, I am grateful to the stances. At present, pedestrians do not know trade unions who supported me, all of whom, the intention of the approaching driver almost in the true spirit and tradition of the A.L.P., until he stops. followed our motto, "Unity of labour is the hope of the world" and committed themselves In relation to "Stop" signs, I should like to to my assistance as voluntary helpers through­ see them replaced with "Give-way" signs other out the election campaign and on election than in the odd place where they may be day. Address in Reply [21 AUGUST] Address in Reply 159

This election gave me an absolute majority This morning I heard the hon. member for of 554 votes over my two opponents. If South Coast say that there is no evidence I may say so, that is a fair effort for an of damage to reefs in my electorate. If he unknown candidate at his first attempt. I wishes to peruse some articles that I have know that many members in this House would with me, published by the University of welcome such a result in their electorates, in California, he can cross the Chamber at particular the ones the Government won in any time and look at them. I have the the Far South. evidence from people who know. Santa Barbara represents a disaster area At this juncture, I should like to pay and has caused untold worry to the powers tribute to my predecessor, Mr. Peter Byrne, that be in California and also in the whole who, from what I can gather here, was a of the United States of America. In a recent well-respected person in Parliament and also issue of "The Courier-Mail" the area of in the electorate of Mourilyan. Peter has pollution caused by oil spillage was described conveyed to me the pitfalls in Parliament as extending for only 100 miles. According and spoken many words of wisdom from a to the report that I have, the area extends person who spent 20 years of his life in this for 500 miles on each side of the blow-out Assembly. I congratulate Peter on his won­ and oil is still spreading. derful effort and trust that he will have I have in my possession a copy of a a long and happy retirement. I will always letter sent by the Professor of Zoology at welcome advice from this excellent gentle­ the University of California to the Right man, and add that I doubt whether I can Honourable John Gorton, Prime Minister of emulate his efforts with a cue. Australia. Mr. Gorton has taken no action towards accepting his responsibility as leader I have the honour to represent the most of this great nation. picturesque electorate in Queensland, one Mr. Wallis-Smith: What was the pro­ with possibly the greatest potential for fessor's name? tourism in this State, an electorate with beaches that could not be surpassed anywhere Mr. F. P. MOORE: Professor Joseph H. in Australia and islands with no peers. Connell, Professor of Zoology at the Univer­ Mourilyan has access to the tourist areas sity of California, Santa Barbara. on the Atherton Tableland by means of the Palmerston Highway, which I am glad In addition, I have reliable information to say is being widened, and this adds to its fr.om the Zoology Department at that univer­ potential. We also have a harbour, Mourilyan sity that coral has been affected to a depth Harbour, which is one of the few natural of 100 feet. Can any hon. member visualise harbours in Australia. In these modern the Great Barrier Reef being reduced in times it has been discovered that the constant depth by 100 feet and what effect the dredging of harbours causes serious damage resultant wave action from the great South to the ecological cycle of plant and animal Pacific Ocean would have on our coast? life. Mention has been made of the "Crown As scientists have stated, eventually we of Thorns" starfish being a bigger threat to will be looking to the sea for food for the the reef than drilling. I believe that mention ever-increasing population on this planet. of the starfish is only a diversionary move Planning for the future must be undertaken designed to lead us from the main issue. and consideration given to greater use being There is no evidence that the "Crown of made by shipping companies of harbours like Thorns" starfish had reached plague propor­ Mourilyan Harbour. In 1957 Sir Francis tions off the Queensland coast, although Nicklin promised that a harbour board would there is evidence that its numbers have be set up for Mourilyan. He made that increased. To me this is only an ecological statement at Innisfail in a pre-election problem that nature will work out for itself. promise, and it was recorded in the local If man can help nature, then he should go "Evening Advocate". I urge this Govern­ ahead and help. ment to consider using Mourilyan Harbour Last week I was speaking with a Thursday to a greater extent, and I would be very Islander named William Friday and I asked pleased if it established Mourilyan Harbour him what he thought of this matter. He as one of the Federal marine bases, not only claims that for most of his life he has dived f?r it.s natural state but also for its strategic for beche-de-mer. I would suggest that if sttuatwn. a bounty was placed on the "Crown of Thorns" starfish a great number of Thursday These points lead me to say that where Islanders who presently live on the mainland dredging has been undertaken it has caused could rid us of the starfish. serious damage to the inner reef. The Great Barrier Reef must be preserved at all Mr. Chinchen: Over 80,000 squa.re miles? costs. It is a great attraction to tourists. Would any hon. member risk a return of Mr. F. P. MOORE: The hon. member many millions of dollars to Queensland for does not know the reef. We should :f ::: return of only a few million dollars from remember that the "Crown of Thorns" is a c"e liquid hydro-carbons that might lie echinodermata which possesses the property ,o·,, the earth's crust off the coast of of regeneration. tsland? Mr. Chinchen interjected. 160 Address in Reply [ASSEMBLY] Address in Reply

An Opposition Member: This is the hon. There is no doubt that people living in the member's maiden speech. Give him a country and, as I said, in North Queensland, chance. are being treated by this Government as second-rate citizens. After all the palaver Mr. F. P. MOORE: I will put up with during the last election campaign about the hon. member. decentralisation, there is no doubt that the Who is to say that the increase in num­ Country Party in particular gives only lip­ bers is not the result of man's own doing, service to this principle. It is about time possibly caused by people of the calibre of that the Queensland Government realised the hon. member? We know that the prawn the problems confronting the country people fishermen thought that they were destroying of North Queensland and subsidised the the starfish they dragged up by cutting regional board to alleviate the expenses of them up, but in fact they were increasing people who are trying to settle on the land. the numbers. as each part of the starfish cut up formed a new one. Hon. members We are told that this Government wants should all know that both the starfish and people to settle on the land, but people are corals are animals and are included in paying too much for land. We all know various food chains as sources of food. I that the people who are obtaining the feel sure that the balance of nature will blocks are moneyed people, or "blinds" for rectify this problem in time. the moneyed people. Even these people are finding it much harder, because if access I ask hon. members, in following sessions roads are required they are asked to con­ in this Hou&e, to consider seriously the con­ tribute to the cost of construction. sequences of the probable destruction of our reef. If it is destroyed, so will be the What chance has a young man with tons nearby holiday resorts on our islands and of natural ability on the land, firstly, of our beaches. and thus our areas in the obtaining a block and, secondly, of con­ North will be considerably reduced in the tributing to the incidentals? The local quality of their appeal to tourists. Any councils in North Queensland are not making decisions to be made should be debated ends meet to the extent that this Govern­ between two people, namely, the Ministers ment does not face up to its responsibilities for Tourism and Mines. I have not in this field. When it does, it favours greater heard the Minister for Tourism as yet, expenditure in the South and in the pro­ but if either of these Ministers has his port­ vincial cities. As we heard only a few days folio at heart exciting debating should occur. ago, subsidies to local government are being When facts are presented by either Minister, reduced even further. they should be substantiated with proof. The I should now like to deal with the schools pros and cons should be weighed and, with in my electorate. The Innisfail State High due respect to both Ministers. I am sure School has nowhere near enough accom­ the Minister for Tourism will, with con­ modation. I am told that two rooms will be fidence and the correct information, end on built, but this is not enough. On behalf top of the Minister for Mines. of the parents and citizens' associations in In the last decade the people in North the electorate I have made representations to Queensland, particularly in the electorate the departments, and I say "departments" of Mourilyan, have been denied the essential because the building of schools is the convenience of electricity. In one area in responsibility of the Department of Works. my electorate six farmers are so placed that I must say that the Department of Education electricity is in close proximity to either end does a wonderful job with the amount it of Stevenson's Road, on which they are obtains from the Government. But it must settled. These people have contributed $2,000 have more control over moneys allocated for towards the cost of the road and they are buildings. now asked by the Cairns Regional Electricity The Tully State High School has similar Board to contribute $1,580 to a loan for a problems. The general laboratory is used period of 15 years and, on top of that, pay by all grades. Senior classes in P.S.S.C. a guarantee of $130.50. One of the farmers physics courses, chemistry study courses, and has found that he does not want to abide B.S.S.C. biology courses require a possible by the conditions of development to which 36 periods a week practical, and in every he agreed. Although he has built something high school in this State there are only 37 resembling living quarters on his property, periods available. Two periods are used for he has not settled there. He has no inten­ sport and one is used for religious instruc­ tion of applying for electricity. Because of tion. This makes a total of 40 periods. this, the others have to pay his share of the scheme. The price to them will now be What happens in the junior schools, with $2,000, which they will have to borrow at only one period available for science practi­ an interest rate of over 7 per cent., although cal? The principal and the deputy principal they will receive only Si per cent. from the are forced to have senior and junior classes regional board. reduced in allocations. Equipment for all There are many other people in my elect­ high-school laboratories is available at Tully, orate who have electricity passing their but where can the Tully High School store properties, only 50 to 100 yards away, and it? There is only one answer to the prob­ who are asked to contribute about $600 in lem, namely, build at least two laboratories some cases and up to $1,050 in others. at this high school. Address in Reply (21 AUGUST] Address in Reply 161

The high school was opened in 1964. Since to quote the amount spent on education per then the children taking manual training or head of population in these two areas. In domestic science have had to travel from 1966 Queensland spent $25.07, whereas that school through the main part of Tully $41.68 was spent in the Northern Territory. township to the primary school for their In 1967 the comparable figures were $26.10 lessons. The problems arising from this for Queensland and $45.11 for the Northern separation are, firstly, loss of teaching time and, secondly, loss of discipline to a great Territory. extent. One would think that after nearly Expenditure per pupil was as follows:- six years the children of Tully should not have to suffer this inconvenience any longer. Queensland Northern Just prior to the May election, notice was I Territory given that fans would be supplied in all $ $ northern 5chools, but schools that had called 1966 I 153.87 202.33 tenders for the supply of fans, and had 1967 .. I 161.54 214.30 accepted them, have, by all accounts, lost any chance of subsidy on them. I have For the information of the House, those received complaints on this point from figures were obtained from the Common­ nearly every school in the electorate. If wealth Year Book for 1968, at page 527. that is how the Government honours its How can the Government account for those promises, the general public will wake up marked discrepancies? sooner or later. Let us now compare Queensland with a Making every post a winning post, the compact and more easily controlled State, Government, through the Department of such as Victoria. Whereas Queensland spends Works supervisor in each region, informed less than one-fifth of its taxation earnings all schools to expend as much as possible on education, Victoria spends one-third. For before 30 June. However, after the election, the sake of interest, I might mention that the schools were asked to curtail expendi­ the average income tax paid in Australia ture. All hon. members know that the is $204.07. Queensland contributes approxi­ people of Queensland look to this Parlia­ mately one-tenth of its taxation payments ment for sincere representation and, I for to education, which is a ridicuLously low one, expect supposedly intelligent beings to figure compared with the amounts spent in use common sense in their decisions. other countries with a comparable standard There are schools in my electorate which of living. I am also concerned at the are falling far short of others. The price race that is developing in Queensland Mourilyan State School and, to a lesser in the sale of textbooks for secondary educa­ degree, the Silkwood State School, are tion. Soaring prices are placing an increasing examples of this Government's neglect of burden on parents who are already straining education. The State primary schools in the family budgets so that their Innisfail are examples of "Get through with children will not be deprived of schooling what you have." For proper education there opportunities. must be suitable surroundings and facilities. The Government has also introduced new Whilst on this subject, I congratulate head syllabuses, which in my opinion will be of teachers for their patience with the Govern­ great benefit, but in many cases it is ment. I ask the Government first to impossible to implement them satisfactorily standardise schools before providing more because of inexcusable delays of three months facilities for those already well equipped. or more in the delivery of textbooks. We are led to believe that in this State Whether the fault lies with the department great progress has been made in education. or the publishers is immaterial; the Minister With an increasing population progress was for Education has an obligation to ensure inevitable, but the short-sightedness of efficiency and to watch the growing needs of Government policies has made this progress education. inadequate. Education is probably the most The matter of accommodation for public essential basic industry; some economists servants is also very contentious. I believe claim that no other industry can produce that any man or woman who is working a greater increase in the gross national for the Government should be supplied with product. suitable accommodation. If public servants I feel that the Government is reluctant are married, they should have houses to to invest in this industry; rather is it allowing move into if transferred to other areas. Two it to be an avenue for quick and easy striking examples of shocking accommodation profits. Queensland spends less per head on are the residences of the sergeant of police education than does any other State. With at Mourilyan and the head teacher at Queensland's tremendous area, one would Card well. expect the cost of maintaining an efficient During the last election campaign I visited service to be greater here than it is in any the residence of the sergeant of police at other State. The spread of population in the Mourilyan and, being associated with educa­ Northern Territory, which is controlled by tion, I visited also the residence of the head the Federal Government, is perhaps com­ teacher in Cardwell. The house in which the parable with that in Queensland. I wish sergeant of police at Mourilyan lives with his 6 162 Address in Reply [ASSEMBLY] Address in Reply wife and family is nothing but a tin shack, that he cannot obtain any relief from his lined to make it at least somewhat livable. bank. The effect of this is that any money he The house at Cardwell is nothing but the shell does get from the bank goes solely into of a once stately structure. One can put one's harvesting expenses and, thus, he has no finger through the timber, which has been money available to obtain fertiliser, etc., for attacked by white ants. Both of these build­ the planting of the 1970 crop. I know num­ ings are a disgrace and a reflection on our bers of new growers who have overdrafts as Australian way of life. A Government should large as that on farms with peaks of only at all costs maintain and paint its buildings 1,200 tons. They seem to be able to obtain periodically to keep their value. finance to that extent because they can be sold up, but farmers in the category of the one Depending on tenders is, as has been found, that I mentioned find that, although they are not very successful. I think that the various established, they are left to go to the wall. tradesmen should be situated permanently in the respective areas and that maintenance, etc., I believe that this Government has "conned" should be their responsibility. Large sums of the cane farmers into believing that they money must be lost to the Government would obtain financial assistance and thus because of lack of maintenance. obtained their votes under false pretences. The sugar industry has done more than The police stations at Innisfail and Tully enough for this State, but what has this have far exceeded their life-span, and I would State done for this industry? It is about say that if conditions such as these exist in time the Premier made some definite state­ other parts of Queensland, it is little wonder ment on what the Government intends doing that the Police Force finds difficulty in obtain­ about rendering financial help to necessitous ing recruits, as it is definite that they are growers. working and living in conditions that are At present the growers and millers in substandard. I implore the Government to my area are finding the delay in the early investigate these problems and consider recti­ part of this season's crushing to be very fying them as soon as possible. serious. The wet weather has already delayed My predecessor in the Mourilyan electorate, most mills for from five to seven weeks, Mr. Peter Byrne, spoke quite often in this and at the early stage of the season men Chamber about the sugar industry, on which left the area because no wages were coming a large number of the electors of Mourilyan in. Because of the continued wet, growers are dependent. I now follow him in this have found their cane flattened. This has field. caused serious losses to them and has also added to the problems of harvesting. With Let me state now that I consider the the southern areas of the Queensland sugar recent massive expansion of the sugar industry industry suffering seriously from drought and was undertaken wholly at the financial risk the northern areas affected by the consistent of the producers. Other than legislating for rain, it is about time the Queensland Gov­ the implementation of the expansion, the ernment took steps to ensure the future of Government did not do anything to assist the sugar industry in this State by a monetary financially that major development of the grant. industry. What has the Government done for American and Japanese interests? Are not Mr. WHARTON (Burnett) (4.21 p.m.): I our old and new sugar farmers worth back­ have very much pleasure in joining in the ing? They are Australian, mind you, even debate on the motion for the adoption of the though originally they mave have come from Address in Reply. I congratulate the Adminis­ other countries. trator Mr. Justice Sheehy on the manner A joint deputation from the Queensland in which he delivered his Opening Speech Cane Growers' Council and the Australian to Parliament. On behalf of the electors Sugar Producers' Association met the Premier of Burnett I am very pleased to reaffirm our at 3 p.m. on 31 March to discuss financial loyalty to Her Majesty the Queen. assistance for necessitous cane-growers. The An Opposition Member: Speak up. basis of the Q.C.G.C.'s approach was a request for funds for sustenance and working ex­ Mr. WHARTON: If hon. members opposite penses, and for funds to obtain full produc­ would listen they could hear me. I know tion, which could include replacement or the A.L.P. is "toey". They have been "toey" additional plant. The Premier agreed to ever since the election. recommend the formation of a consultative I congratulate the hon. member for committee to consider the situation, and the Balonne and the hon. member for Wavell news in the last couple of days has been on the manner in which they moved and quite good. The committee has been formed, seconded the motion, respectively, for the but up to this stage nothing has been granted adoption of the Address in Reply to the to the necessitous growers. Administrator's Opening Speech. It was a I have in my electorate many cane-farmers very good speech and I will later coment who urgently need assistance, as the banks on it. seem reluctant to give any aid. One farmer, The hon. member for Balonne made a with a peak of 5,600 tons, had an overdraft very good speech. However, I should like of $28,000 and outstanding accounts amount­ at the outset to pay tribute to the work done ing to $5,600 at the end of June. He finds by Ted Beardmore when he sat in this House Address in Reply [21 AUGUST] Address in Reply 163 as a member. He was a grand old man of The Country Party is very glad to have the West and I am glad to know that he Joh. Bjelke-Petersen as its leader. He is a has recovered from his serious accident. I new leader and he achieved much by lead­ hope he will experience many more enjoyable ing the Government to victory at the recent days with us in and around the House of election. I pay him a great tribute. He Parliament. has been assisted by his wife, and together they will go a long way in promoting the I congratulate the hon. member for Wavell interests of the Country Party and, in turn, on his speech. It did spark off a few our great State. comments, but I think we all agree that I also congratulate Neville Hewitt upon in any Government, just as in anything else, his elevation to Cabinet rank. I know that it is team work that counts, and if we get he will undertake his duties seriously and a bit of team work on this side of the will do his job well in furthering the develop­ House we will be here, as a good team, for ment of Queensland. a long, long time. I was greatly disturbed by the election I should like to say in passing that the campaign conducted by the Labour Party Chief Justice Sir William Mack is very against my leader. It seems that all the closely associated with my electorate. He was Labour Party wants to do is to make per­ born in Mount Perry. He now owns Wetheron sonal attacks upon this man, who is a great Station where my father worked as a lad leader. Why would the Opposition want to do that? There was no reason why the many years ago, so I feel that we can Opposition should introduce personalities. claim fairly close association with him. Mr. Bennett interjected. I should like to congratulate all hon. members, including the new members, on Mr. WHARTON: The Labour Party made their election. We occupy positions of high many personal attacks on our Leader that office, and I congratulate hon. members on were very unethical. We won on our policy; both sides of the House. A member can we did not try to undermine the Opposition choose the party that he represents, but the by making personal attacks. people choose the party that will represent Mr. Davies interjected. them in Government. That state of affairs should be allowed to continue. The freedom Mr. WHARTON: Whatever attacks we of the people should be preserved. They made were true. should have the right to elect their representa­ tives in Parliament. I was speaking about the Premier and the way in which the Opposition attacked him I thank the electors of my electorate for personally. That was most unethical. At their continued support. They returned me least Government members are ethical in to Parliament with an increased majority, so the things they say. We must be factual. I hope that during this session I will be able Opposition Members interjected. to achieve something for them as a reward for their support. Mr. SPEAKER: Order! I am finding it most difficult to listen to the interesting con­ I am a member of the Country Party, tribution by the hon. member. which is a middle-of-the-road party. It is different from other political parties in that Mr. WHARTON: Thank you, Mr. it is not too far to the Right and not too Speaker. I would like hon. members to far to the Left. It is a good party and one listen to these words of Sir Richard with a hard core of members who represent Livingstone which I relate to the qualities of the primary producers and those people who the Premier- depend on primary production. It can repre­ "Many things go to the making of sent this State better than any other party man, but essentially it is the training of can because it can attract to its ranks people three aspects of man; body, mind and who represent the great majority of persons character. And neither mind nor in this nation. The Country Party has the character can be made without a spiritual most to offer to the greatest number of element. That is just the element which people because it represents people in has grown weak, where it has not perished, primary industries and business. In addi­ in our education, and therefore in our tion, it can look after the workers, and it civilization, with disastrous results. Nothing does this. The Country Party knows best can be done till that element is restored." how to look after the workers. The Labour Party has forgotten about the workers and Mr. Bennett: Are you reading Aristotle? is trying to get the farmers to support it. Mr. WHARTON: No, I am quoting Sir That party knows that the Industrial Com­ mission will look after the workers and Richard Livingstone. The hon. member grant quarterly wage adjustments, so it is would be the only man who would know now trying to interest farmers in becoming Aristotle. members of the Australian Labour Party. I said that our party is ethical in its Of course, it is doing this mainly by innuendo statements but that remark does not apply and by making critical statements that are to the attitude of the A.L.P. I was very not true. disappointed in the trash and piffle advanced 164 Address in Reply [ASSEMBLY] Address in Reply

by the A.L.P. in its effort to win the elec­ way, and it is reported in "Hansard", but tion by any means. Even the Leader of the the Government has done something about Opposition the other day made a spectacle it. This Country-Liberal Government has of himself when making his speech. He done more for cane-farmers than any other thought that the A.L.P. was trying to get Government. Anyone who doubts that into orbit, but I consider that he only got should ask the sugar-cane growers. It is his head into the clouds. no good askin2 members of the A.L.P. Mr. Cory: He did not leave the tarmac. because they do not tell the truth. Mr. WHARTON: That is right, he did I shall now refer to irrigation. I have not leave the tarmac. said this once before, but apparently nobody heard me. Irrigation is so important that I have been most interested in the attitude we should have a Minister for Irrigation. of the A.L.P. and the number of Questions asked, 89 on one day, 81 the next, and so Mr. Bennett: Not another Minister! There on. Opposition members have been com­ is a Minister for Irrigation now. plaining about the long Parliamentary recess but obviously they have not been doing any Mr. WHARTON: I mean a Minister con­ research. They are doing it all now, which trolling only irrigation, because it is a most proves emphatically that they know nothing important feature in the development of at all. (Laughter.) this State. We are plagued with drought. There are two droughts in every seven years. Mr. Davies interjected. The prese;lt drought is a particularly devast­ ing one, and I believe that we should plan Mr. WHARTON: I will talk a little about and irrigate to mitigate the effects of future Isis. droughts. It is such an important matter Mr. Davies: And Bundaberg, too? that there should be a Minister appointed to control it and nothing else. Mr. WHARTON: Yes. The former member must have done a pretty good job Mr. Bromley: Don't you think the present because the new member has not asked a Minister is doin2 a good job? question about Bundaberg. He is worried Mr. WHARTON: Yes. I do. about things in my electorate, wanting to know this and that. He has not done any Mr. Bennett: Then why do you want to research; he does not know anything, and change him? he has not yet done anything for Bunda­ berg. He does not know what he should Mr. WHARTON: I do not want to change seek for Bundaberg because it is we!I looked him. I said that irrigation is such an after. important matter that it should be the sole responsibility of one Minister. I hope that Mr. Bennett: That is a cowardly attack in the reshuffle of portfolios this can be on a new member. done, so that one Minister can dedicate him­ self to this important field of endeavour. Mr. WHARTON: Whether he is a new This Government has done a good deal in member or not, he showed that he was an irrigation. I shall not say too much about old hand at electioneering. He did not say it because I will be dealing with irrigation anything factual. He was like the hon. mem­ at a later stage. ber for Isis. Labour spokesmen condemned the sugar industry and said that we would The Government spent $750,000 on the never get an international sugar agreement. survey of the Burnett-Kolan irrigation They said that the tourist industry was scheme. Top priority was given to this depressed. They spoke about the poor old scheme for Commonwealth financial assist­ farmer. But they did not say anything ance. I shall be going to Canberra with factual. And the hon. member for Bunda­ members of the irrigation committee later berg was very weii aided by the hon. member this month to see if we can influence the for Maryborough. National Development Commission to pres­ sure those in authority to provide funds for An Opposition Member interjected. this important scheme. We have gone so far and will not stop now. I hope that the Mr. WHARTON: The people of Isis will State will continue with the planning of the wake up one day, and that will be a good various weirs and dams encompassed by the day for the electorate. Nobody can get on scheme. If this is done, and if some finance by using distorted facts. He can for a start, is provided in future Budgets, the scheme but after a while people realise that what can be started and we can influence the he is saying is incorrect. They want some­ Federal Government to provide more finance thing factual and they give credit where to complete the work. credit is due. Mr. Bennett interjected. The hon. member for Mourilyan said that sugar-cane farmers have been given no Mr. WHARTON: We will speak to every­ drought relief. I give credit to the hon. body in due course and I am sure that some­ member's predecessor who always spoke thing will be achieved. The State cannot be factually. Drought relief has been accorded accused of doing nothing, because it has cane-farmers to the extent of $3,000. The planned this scheme. Opposition members hon. member for Mourilyan spoke in that might think that I am talking through my Address in Reply [21 AuGUST] Address in Reply 165

hat, but six sugar mills are concerned in Mr. Blake: During the election campaign this. Their production is down to nearly the Country Party said that there would be half. water in Isis in two years if the Country Party was elected, whereas Commissioner Haigh Mr. Bennett: What is the reason for that? said that it would be 12 years. Mr. WHARTON: That is the type of Mr. WHARTON: I am sure it was never question I expect from the hon. member and said that that would be done in two years. I think I would be wasting my time if I That is typical of the hon. member for Isis. answered it. This area is suffering seriously That is the type of statement that some hon. because of a lack of water. We have farms, members opposite make at election time. They farmers, businesses, a good city and a good are always trying to harangue the people and community, but no water. The present prob­ "get them in" by inferences and incorrect lem has been brought about by continuous statements. The hon. member for Mary­ drought which has affected not only the borough, too, had a good hand in this; he sugar industry but the city and all parts of educated them in this respect. I would not the electorate. We are having a pretty go back to Hervey Bay if I had said some of torrid time at present, just as other parts the things that he said there. How much richer are they since the hon. member for of the State are suffering, too. Isis was returned? They have not received Mr. Bennett: Is there any water in anything more. Barambah Creek? Mr. Houston: He has really got you Mr. WHARTON: Yes, a dribble, but there worried. You have done nothing but com­ is very little in the Burnett, from which most plain all afternoon. of the water for irrigation is drawn. For the Mr. WHARTON: The Leader of the hon. member's information, people using Opposition does say some silly things. The irrigation are now digging 20 to 30 feet in point I am making is that some members ot the sand and using diesel motors to pump the Labour Party win elections by misrepre­ water from one hole to another to get it to sentation and incorrect statements. where their electric equipment is situated so Mr. Davies: That is not appreciated by that the water can be used. The cost of this your colleagues. can well be appreciated. They have survived this year, but the future will be very difficult Mr. WHARTON: That is quite wrong. for them because orchards have suffered con­ Hon. members opposite make a lot of incor­ siderably from lack of water and are not in rect statements and try to get away with a good condition to withstand prolonged dry them. These things were said-they were in conditions. We must have rain, but we also the Press-and now hon. members opposite need an irrigation scheme, and I am pleased want to try to get something from the Government after trying to slice its throat. that the State has at least done something. I appreciate the Premier's action in seeking I now wish to move to another matter funds from the Commonwealth Government which concerns me, and that is finance for to try to advance this scheme. It is a little drought assistance. A symposium was held beyond the resources of the State. recently at Gayndah. Mr. Davies: What chance have you of Mr. Melloy: It doesn't matter; focget getting it? about it. Mr. WHARTON: The hon. member can Mr. WHARTON: A good chance if the say what he likes. I worry about the hon. member will only get "on side" and try drought and those who suffer as a result of to help. If he would only forget about all it. One hon. member opposite who inter­ the political "jazz" we would get on well. jected has a good hotel. I will bet there is He is merely playing politics. This spoilt no drought there. our chances of getting anything in Bundaberg, and in Isis, too. During the election cam­ As I said, a symposium was held recently paign our opponents said, "You won't get at Gayndah, and I shall read the findings to water for five years." That is the sort of hon. members because I believe they are thing we heard from Dr. Patterson, who important. They were- whilst I have a lot of respect for him, i~ ]. Long-term development loans are really a great "paper" man-we read a lot needed in order to stabilise the industry about him, but we never see him. All that to withstand drought and cheapen produc­ these people say is, "You won't get this" and, tion costs. "You won't get that". They are nothing but 2. A scheme similar to the I.W.S.C. "knockers" of the water scheme. Yet the Farm Water Supplies Act was needed to moment they are returned and anything is provide finance for fodder and fodder done, they say, "We got it for you". I do not storage facilities on exactly the same lines. come here to play politics. I am not like the 3. Wheat should be available at $1 a hon. members for Bundaberg and Isis. I am bushel. fighting for water for the people who deserve 4. Fodder storage should be tax it. exempted. 166 Address in Reply [ASSEMBLY] Address in Reply

5. Fodder storage should be subsidised Primary producers have to accept the in some way. same price, year in year out, for their products. There is a consumers' protection All those matters are important, but in my council-- book finance is most important in any aspect of farm work. Today one sees a blanket Mr. Houston: No, there is not. cover, with a lowering of overdraft limits Mr. WHARTON: It will come. I think and an increase in interest rates, and that is there should be a farmers' protection com­ not in the best interests of farmers. I mittee, too, and I believe that there should appreciate the Treasurer's reply to a question be an advocate representing farmers or that I asked in the House and the fact that primary producers who could put submis­ the Premier has taken the matter up with sions to that committee. We have a system the Commonwealth Government. When of adjustment of wages, which have some primary producers are struggling against the reflection on costs, yet we have no way effects of a drought, lower advances and of putting a case for the farmer because higher interest rates are very undesirable. the attitude of the Commission and Court is Another difficulty faced by primary pro­ to base wages on the capacity of industry ducers arises from the setting of a common to pay. price and the fact that they have to with­ Mr. Bennett: That is very fair. stand ever-increasing costs of production as a result of increases in wages and other Mr. WHARTON: It is not. charges. I am not blaming anybody in Mr. Bennett: Have you ever tried to put particular for this. The Industrial Commis­ a case before a court? sion has five members-- Mr. Davies: Why mention only wages. Mr. WHARTON: No, I have not and I would not get the hon. member to put l\.1r. WHARTON: I did not mention only one for me either. A wage granted on the wages, but wages have an influence on all capacity of industry to pay is all right for costs. the manufacturer or the retailer, because he can pass it on, but the farmer cannot and Mr. Davies: You mentioned it, and you that is the point I want to make today. hit the worker. Mr. Bromley: Why don't you go on strike? Mr. WHARTON: I have never heard so much nonsense. I would be the last person Mr. WHARTON: We have higher prin­ to hit the worker. ciples than that. I want to make the point finally that I think one of the most essential The Industrial Commission makes regular steps for primary producers is to appoint adjustments of salaries and wages, on appli­ an advocate to watch their interests. We cation, and they are made almost auto­ could have a primary producers' protection matically. As I said, the Commission has committee, too. That would be a very five members, some of whom represent the good thing, but I think we should have manufacturing section of the community, representation on the Industrial Commission some of whom represent the union section so that the interests of primary producers are of the community. I have no quarrel with safeguarded, as are those of other workers. that, but I point out that there is no-one on the Commission representing the primary Mr. MARGINSON (Ipswich East) (4.52 producers. p.m.): I welcome the opportunity to speak Mr. Davies: On the Industrial Commission? in the early stages of the session even though the hour is late, as I have a number of Mr. WHARTON: Yes. matters that I wish to submit to the House. They are matters that affect not only the Mr. Davies: Are you blaming the Indus­ city of Ipswich but, I believe, this State trial Commission? generally. Mr. WHARTON: The hon. member for At the outset, however, on behalf of the Maryborough knows the point that I am electors of the Ipswich East electorate, and making. I am saying that there are five for myself as well, let me express in this members of the Industrial Conciliation and Chamber our loyalty to the Sovereign, our Arbitration Commission, not one of whom Most Gracious Lady, Queen Elizabeth 11. We also express the hope that the many represents the farmers' interests or has come unnecessary conflicts between nations in the from the ranks of primary producers. world today will be brought to an immediate Mr. O'Donnell: You should insist on it. end, that the rights, customs and needs of all nations, no matter how small, no matter Mr. WHARTON: I am seeking justice. how large, irrespective of colour or creed, If an alteration of the Act is necessary, will be recognised and acknowledged, and I can make an application in this Assembly. that tolerance, patience and understanding In this debate I am speaking about only will be given a much higher priority so that a few items that are of great interest to peace may eventually come to all of our farmers. people. Address in Reply [21 AUGUST] Address in Reply 167

Naturally, I am deeply appreciative of my this Parliament. I was very disappointed election as a member of this Assembly and with it, firstly, with what it did contain and, I extend my thanks to the electors of the secondly, with the many things that it did Ipswich East electorate for the honour they not contain. To me, most of the things have accorded me and the overwhelming that it did contain were a repetition of sub­ confidence they have shown in me. jects about which we have heard and read Home-building in my electorate has, during time and time again for many years. Little the past few years, been at a very high or no attention was devoted to what I would tempo and this, coupled with the many consider to be important subjects. I have industries within my electorate, such as coal­ in mind price control, the cost of living, mining, railway workshops, woollen mills, hospitals and health, education, industrial hardboard factories, brick and pipe factories conditions, and even the Government's own and many others, makes one proud to be the representative of such an advancing elec­ industrial relationships. torate. To those people who assisted me There exists an ever-growing and widening and helped me to become a member of this aulf between those who have and those who Assembly, I want to say, "Thank you very have not. Over the years this Government much." I refer particularly to my campaign and the Federal Government have allowed director, Mr. Tom Easterbrook, the members that auJf to widen even further. I draw the of my campaign committee and the mem­ attention of hon. members to an article that bers of all my A.L.P. branches. I want appeared in "The Courier-Mail" of Monday, also to assure them that their work and assistance to me have been, and are, greatly 4 August, 1969, under the heading "Brisbane appreciated by me. leads poverty cities". The article reads- The electorate that I represent today has "Poverty was probably worse in Bris­ remained loyal to the Australian Labour bane than in any other Australian capital Party since the year 1915, a period of some city, a senior social worker with ~he ~el­ 54 years. During that time it was repre­ fare and counselling organisation L1fe Lme sented for many years by the late Honourable said yesterday. Frank Arthur Cooper and later by Mr. Jim "He was backed by a Queensland Uni­ Donald, who recently retired. Both of those versity lecturer's revelation tbat in ~ris­ gentlemen attained very high office during bane the proportion of people mamly their terms in Parliament. The former was dependent on social service benefits was a member of the Ministry of this State for a considerable time, and he later became 50 per cent. above the national . . . Premier of Queensland. Mr. Donald was average." a member of this Assembly for approximately The lecturer from the Queensland University 23 years, and for a period was Leader of is Dr. C. P. Harris, the senior lecturer in the Opposition. economics; the social worker is Mr. L. F. I cannot let this occasion pass without Hayes. paying a tribute to Mr. Donald for the Mr. Hayes said that research in Mel)J~:mr~e able manner in which he carried out his had found that one in every 16 fam1hes. m duties in this Parliament. I am sure that Melbourne was living below the poverty !me, he was well known to all hon. members and he defined the "poverty line" as a total and to his electors as a conscientious and family income of $35 a week. He then hard-working member. I am sure that all hon. members join with me in wishing him said- and Mrs. Donald a happy and healthy retire­ " I think our situation here is likely to ment. Our thanks go out to him for the be even worse than in any other capital valuable contribution that he made in the city. interests of the people of Queensland. "Queensland has the ... highest unem- I desire to express my thanks also to those ployment rates." people who have welcomed me here, both Mr. Harris, a university lecturer, said that inside and outside this Chamber. I am a survey showed that we also have a far very grateful for the assistance that has been larger proportion of lower-income people given to me by my Parliamentary colleagues than the other States of Australia. J:Ie th~n on this side of the Chamber, and I thank all said that about one person in eight m Bn~­ of them for their welcome. In addition, bane depended for the major part of h1s I thank the staff of Parliament House for income on some form of social service. bene­ the help and guidance that they have at all fits whilst the national figure is one m 12. times made available to me. Let me assure While conditions like those exist in Bris­ them that I do appreciate tbeir assistance. bane and in Queensland, we, as hon. n:e.m­ I regret to learn of the illness of the Clerk bers, should not pretend that we are hvmg of the Parliament, Mr. Johnson, and I express in an affluent society. the hope that he will soon be restored to I congratulate the mover, and the seconder good health. of the motion for the adoption of the I listened with great interest to the Opening Address in Reply on the manner in which Speeoh of the Administrator of the Govern­ they presented their respective vie'Ys. . I .do ment on the occasion of the opening of not desire that to be taken as an md1cat10n 168 Address in Reply [ASSEMBLY] Address in Reply that I agreed in toto with what they said. The does he not put the blame fairly and squarely comments of the hon. member for Wavell­ on the shoulders of his Government and his I am very sorry that he is not here-- Minister and not on the hospital administra­ tors, who can only carry out the policy, A Government Member: He is here; he is downstairs. instructions and demands issued to them by the Minister for Health through his depart­ Mr. Houston: That is not here. ment. Mr. MARGINSON: The comments of What is wanted in our hospital service the hon. member for Wavell about the today is the allocation of more finance. hospital system in Queensland were of par­ More finance should be allocated to the ticular interest to me. For the past 32 hospital service. The purchase of necessary years I have held the position of secretary items by hospital boards, in my experience­ of the Ipswich Hospitals Board. Conse­ and I know it is continuing-has to be quently, I feel that I, too, having some deferred because of lack of money. Urgent knowledge and experience of hospital admin­ building programmes are held over from one istration, can add something to this debate. year to another because of insufficient alloca­ I do not agree entirely with his submissions, tions of loan raisings. Decisions on requests but I do believe that he did not tell the by hospital boards are deliberately delayed whole story. He either deliberately avoided and approval for certain items or plans is some aspects of it or else they were not deliberately delayed so that the expenditure known to him. will not be incurred in a certain period, and Let us first acknowledge that we must in some cases they have been deferred so retain our free hospital service in this State. that expenditure will not be incurred in a Let us also resolve that we will not place certain financial year. any unnecessary financial burden on our hospital system that can be used as an The hon. member for Wavell also referred excuse by some, particularly those in the to the composition of hospital boards. He medical profession, for destroying the free advocated that they should comprise, in the hospital service. Let me strike this note of main, doctors, lawyers, accountants, etc. warning: there are in our midst a number There are many men and women in other of people who would like to see this system fields of activity who, as hospital board destroyed. members, have made, and are making, valu­ The hon. member referred to the ability able contributions to hospital administration. of hospital administrators. This is one of Boards with which I have been associated the matters on which I do not agree with have, on a number of occasions, had a him. He stated that almost a Gilbertian medical man as a member, though the hon. situation existed at the present time. I have member for Wavell is advocating it now. no doubt that he was referring to the sec­ We must not lose sight of the fact that it retaries of various hospitals boards and is established custom, and has been for many endeavouring to place the blame on the years, for the medical superintendent, the shoulders of those administrators. medical officer of a hospital, the matron and He suggested, I think, that persons with the secretary to attend all hospital board economics and commerce degrees from the committee meetings and all hospital board university, or people with accvuntancy quali­ meetings, where their advice and guidance fications, should be appointed to these are readily sought. In virtually all cases, positions. I assure him that there are many their recommendations have been accepted. people already holding these positions who have qualifications of this nature. Is he not However, I believe that the Minister aware, however, that his Government is the restricts, and has restricted over the past few only one in the Commonwealth that does years, the activities of hospital boards to such not recognise a university degree from the an extent that they have little or no authority New South Wales University within the whatever to carry out the tasks that were Institute of Hospital Administration of Aus­ originally entrusted to them. Almost every tralia? Surely he should have known that. decision arrived at by a hospital board today, The hon. member first pursued his course no matter how small or how large, must be of argument intent on blaming what he referred to the Department of Health for described as "outmoded" legislation. I felt approval, and this invariably results in long that in hiding behind this accusation of delays and record periods of procrastination. outmoded legislation, he was at that stage -though I think it has gone further now Some of the shortcomings of our present --endeavouring to avoid an open clash with hospital system are months of delay in the the Minister for Health. Surely he realises out-patients' department-there was a question that any change in this outmoded legislation on this subject only today-in having an must be made by his own Government and operation in a public ward, and in receiving his own Minister. His Government has had dental treatment. There was also a question 12 years in which to amend this alleged out­ on that matter today. These things could be moded legislation. overcome if the Government would provide If the hon. member is correct in his extra staff for hospitals and additional accom­ contention that the legislation is outmoded modation, which means, after all, more and belongs to the horse-and-buggy days, why finance. Address in Reply (21 AUGUST] Address in Reply

The hon. member for Wave]] advocated them. Additional pathology laboratory exten­ a ring of small hospitals in the outer suburbs sions and X-ray accommodation are also to relieve the pressure on larger hospitals. needed. That was A.L.P. policy at the last election. I turn now to some matters associated The hon. member also called for an inquiry with my electorate, Ipswich East. For some into various aspects of the hospitals system. time past the people of Ipswich have suf­ That also was part of A.L.P. policy in fered great inconvenience because of the relation to hospitals. action of the Minister for Transport rela­ He also referred to the honorary medical tive to the demolition of two railway bridges officer system in hospitals. For many years in the Ipswich area, one in High Street, there was throughout public hospitals an Ebbw Vale, and the other in Ellenborough honorary system. In fact, the Ipswich Base Street, in the electorate of the hon. member Hospital was the last hospital in a pro­ for Ipswich West. I shall deal first with the vincial city in Queensland to stop the honor­ High Street bridge. ary system. For that system was substituted That bridge was situated to the west of one of specialist medical services on a the Ebbw Vale railway station, close to the sessional basis. This gave both in-patients Ipswich-Brisbane Highway and on top of the and out-patients at the Ipswich Base Hospital hill. Mr. Speaker, just listen to what hap­ at that time the opportunity to consult pened. The Main Roads Department decided recognised specialists on the medical staff. to construct a four-lane highway parallel to the railway line and to reduce by 12 feet One point that the hon. member for Wave]] or more the height of the hill where the did not make-he may have a reason for bridge was. Plans for the new highway con­ not doing so-is that medical officers attached struction provided for a deceleration lane to public hospitals, whether full-time or off the new highway across what was to be part-time on a sessional basis, are the only a new bridge over the railway line. So it ones allowed to treat patients in the public was admitted that there was going to be a wards of general hospitals in Queensland. bridge at that location, and the deceleration This has been a great bone of contention lane was planned, constructed, and in fact with quite a number of people associated exists. The highway has been completed. with hospitals. I trust-! say this advisedly -that his motive in bringing this forward When the road works were begun, the is solely for the welfare of patients and Railway Department began to demolish the those who work in hospitals. If his motive bridge. At the same time, provision was is, in particular, the welfare of the patient, made in the loan programme of the Railway [ shall be one who will help wherever I Department for loan money to meet its can to have corrected the shortcomings of share of the cost of the new bridge. No hospitals in Queensland as they exist today. doubt the inference there was that the depart­ ment was going to build the bridge, because In conclusion on the subject of hospitals, it applied for loan moneys for that purpose. I say to the hon. member, "Do not hide Furthermore, the Ipswich City Council, behind the excuse of outmoded legislation, which had to pay a certain proportion of the and do not hide behind the excuse that the cost, applied for, and was granted by the fault lies with hospital administration." The Treasurer, approval to borrow loan money to responsibility for what shortcomings there are meet its share of the cost of the bridge. In lies fairly on the shoulders of Ministers and fact, it borrowed the money and had it wait­ the Government. ing for the new bridge. With particular reference to the hospital When the road works were nearly com­ at Ipswich, I should like to place on record pleted, the Ipswich City Council inquired of that five or six years ago the Minister for the Railway Department when the construc­ Health agreed to a building programme at tion of the new bridge would begin. It Ipswich, which was to be spaced over a was advised by the department, and later number of years. However, for the last two by the Minister, that it was not intended to years there has been little building activity replace the structure. The council was there. I hope that the Minister will use advised that, because no protests had been his endeavours to see that that building received against the demolition of the bridge, programme starts very soon. The hospital a bridge was not warranted. That is what is very much in need of a new kitchen the council was told, although, as I said and dining-room block. Additions and reno­ earlier, plans were made for a deceleration vations are required to the present maternity lane, the Railway Department applied for block. These things have been promised loan moneys for a bridge in its loan pro­ for many years. The hospital was opened gramme, and the council applied for, and in 1945, and there has not been one addition was granted, approval to raise a loan, and to the maternity block since then. in fact raised it. To put it mildly, that was the greatest confidence trick that has ever A new dental clinic is also most urgently been played upon the people of this State, required. I heard today that there was a and particularly upon the people of Ipswich, waiting period of up to 10 or 12 months by any department of the Crown. for treatment at the dental clinic. More staff is required, but at present additional Let us turn now to the Ellenborough staff would be of no use because there Street bridge in Ipswich. Before the bridge is no accommodation in which to place in Ellenborough Street was closed, 2,000 170 Address in Reply [ASSEMBLY] Address in Reply

vehicles a day crossed it. It was situated its ratepayers' money in the hope that it about 200 yards from the main section of might induce the Government to replace the city of Ipswich, and it connected the the bridge. As I say, the Ipswich City Council business centre of the city with the near made an offer to the Railway Department north-western suburbs. The Railway Depart­ to bear a half-share of the cost of replace­ ment closed the bridge to road traffic on ment of the bridge. However that offer 1 October, 1966. Since then there have been was rejected. many requests, deputations and negotiations, not only by the Ipswich City Council, but It is high time, I think, that the Minister also by the people of Ipswich, to have the for Transport realised that he has certain bridge reopened or replaced. It was recently obligations and responsibilities in connection demolished, and provision has been made with both of these bridges. Surely he appre­ for a temporary footway for pedestrians. ciates that the necessity for the bridges in the This bridge existed on this site, I under­ first place was brought about solely through stand, for over 80 years and was, as I the construction of his railway tracks have already indicated, used extensively. If through our area. The bridges would not a bridge was warranted at this site in 1890 otherwise have been necessary. I make an or thereabouts, surely it is required more appeal to the Minister-! suppose he wiil not today. listen to me now-to re-examine these two questions in the hope that at least the people A deputation waited upon the Minister for of Ipswich can be assured, through the hon. Transport at lpswich-he was kind enough member for Ipswich West and myself, that to visit there one day-and he made it at some future early date these bridges will quite clear to us-I was one of the deputa­ be replaced. As Deputy Mayor of the city, tion-that he was not interested in the city's I can assure him that I will see that the problems and that he wanted, as he put it, offer of the council to meet half the cost to spend his money on revenue-producing of a bridge will remain in force for a reason­ projects. He was not concerned about the able time awaiting his answer. problems of the people of Ipswich; he was not concerned about the inconvenience he Let me now make reference to another was causing to the people of Ipswich; and, matter of importance to my electorate and above all, he was not concerned about the to the city of Ipswich generally. At Gailes, traffic problems that his action had created which is on the boundary between the city in our main street by first the closure and of Ipswich and the city of Brisbane. a then the demolition of this bridge. I find weighbridge has been established, and road it most difficult to reconcile an attitude of transports that use the highway must be that kind with a person who preaches so checked at this weighbridge when entering much the gospel of road safety. or leaving the Brisbane area. Industry in the Ipswich area is being strangled by the Before there was any suggestion that this operations of the weighbridge and the ridicu­ bridge should be closed and demolished, the lous restrictions that are imposed on the Ipswich City Council engaged Wilbur Smith carriage of goods between Ipswich and and Associates to undertake a transportation Brisbane. study for the city of Ipswich. That was before we were given any indication that A Government-sponsored industrial e.state it was intended to close the brdge. This has been establised at Wacol, which is on the report indicated the necessity for a bridge Brisbane side of the weighbridge, and con­ at this point to provide for the present and sequently industry in that estate can trans­ future traffic flow. port goods to and from the port of Bris­ bane or anywhere else within the metro­ In May last, the Premier wrote to the politan area without having to comply with editor of the local newspaper, "The Queens­ the requirements of this weighbridge, whilst land Times", in reply to the editor's industry situated immediately to the west of representations to him. This is what the the weighbridge and in the area of the city Premier's letter said, as it appeared in the of Ioswich must meet these requirements. newspaper- Whe~ I remind hon. members that, with the "It was considered that any incon­ excep·tion of vehicles carrying coal and venience caused as a result of the closure sugar, road transports from Ipswich are free of the overbridge was of a minor nature of road tax, surely they must admit that only, and was not sufficient to warrant a gross anomaly exists if those transports the substantial expenditure necessary to have to pass through the weighbridge on construct a new bridge." every trip that they make. Ipswich trans­ This was a bridge that carried more than port operators are forced to wait up to 50 2.000 vehicles a day, a bridge that had been minutes for each truck to pass through the on the site for over 80 years with the traffic weighing area, and on many occasions that flow increasing week after week, and the period of time is longer than the actual Premier says that it is only a minor matter. running time involved in the journey that the trucks have to make. This delay means The Ipswich City Council in its efforts extra costs in transport, and those extra to have the bridge rebuilt, although not costs are passed on to the Ipswich-based legally bound to make any payment, then industries. It is contended that this weigh­ offered, in the interests of the people, to bridge is proving to be the biggest single make a payment of half the cost of the drawback to the establishment of further bridge. It was prepared to spend some of industries in Ipswich because prospective Address in Reply [26 AUGUST) Questions 171 industrialists closely examine transportation The Treasurer was blaming the coal-miners costs when considering sites at which to and the railway workers, yet there was a establish their industries. quarter of a million tons of coal on the wharves. Apparently he did not know Owing to the absurd axle-load regulations what was there because he had been gal­ and interpretations, goods that are carried livanting around other parts of the world. from Ipswich to the Brisbane wharves or My point is that the coal was there and other places in the metropolitan area often that shipping was not available to take away have to be carried on two vehicles, whereas the coal which the miners had sent there and similar loads from the Wacol Industrial the railway workers had taken there. Estate can be carried on one vehicle because that vehicle does not have to pass through Debate, on motion of Mr. W. D. Hewitt, the weighbridge. The situation will be t~diourned. aggravated further with the advent of con­ The House adjourned at 5.32 p.m. tainerisation because the transport driver will have no control whatever over the dis­ tribution of his load weight. If a transport driver takes delivery of a container he can­ not specify where the actual weight distribu­ tion within the container will be, and he could run foul of the regulations that apply to axle loads even if the over-all weight is below the maximum allowed. In the short time that I have left I must deal with another very important subject, and I hope to make a further reference to it later. In April of last year the Govern­ ment amended the legislation relative to the retired mine workers' pension. Prior to that amendment the mine workers' pension rates were increased whenever the Com­ monwealth Government increased the social service benefits, and they were increased by an equal amount. The amendment pegged the mine workers' pension rates, with the result that when the Commonwealth Gov­ ernment increased the social service rate in October of last year the mine workers' pension rate remained at its previous level. In fact, in many instances the miners' pen­ sions were actually reduced. In December of last year a miners' tribunal recommended to the Minister that social service increases be passed on to pensioners in the age group from 60 to 65 years and also to those pen­ sioners whose pensions had been reduced in their mine workers' pension rates. I have noted with considerable interest that it is proposed to amend this legislation, so I will reserve further comment on the matter until that occasion arises. Lastly, I want to refer to an article that appeared in the Press on Monday, 4 August, which reported that the Treasurer, on his return from overseas the previous week-end had said- "Mining strikes and rail delays had lowered the prestige of Queensland coal suppliers to Japan." Here is another unwarranted and unfair attack by a Minister on the coal-miners and railway workers. But what was the position in effect? The Treasurer read in "The Courier­ Mail" the foliowing day the following state­ ment which was made, I believe, by the chairman of the Gladstone Harbour Board- "Port authorities are concerned about a growing stock on Gladstone wharves of Central Queensland coal bound for Japan. The stock has reached 240,000 tons."