Senate
21 August 1979

31st Parliament · 1st Session

  1. Senate
  2. 31st Parliament
  3. 1979

The PRESIDENT (Senator the Hon. Sir Condor Laucke) took the chair at 2.30 p.m., and read prayers.

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CLERK OF THE SENATE

The PRESIDENT:

– I inform the Senate that, consequent upon the retirement of Mr James Rowland Odgers, C.B.E., Mr Roy Edward Bullock, O.B.E., was appointed Clerk of the Senate as from 9 August 1979.

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LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF NORFOLK ISLAND

The PRESIDENT:

– I inform the Senate that, on 10 August 1979, the Speaker of the House of Representatives and I attended the opening of the Legislative Assembly of Norfolk Island and, on behalf of the Commonwealth Parliament, a presentation of a clock and a sandglass was made to the Assembly.

I have now received the following letter from the President of the Legislative Assembly of Norfolk Island:

The President

Legislative Assembly

Norfolk Island

Dear Mr President,

On 10 August 1 979 the Speaker of the House of Representatives addressed the Legislative Assembly of Norfolk Island and, on behalf of the Commonwealth Parliament, made a presentation of a clock and a sandglass.

I wish to inform you formally of the following resolution agreed to by the Assembly:

We, the Members of the Legislative Assembly of Norfolk Island express our thanks to the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Parliament of the Commonwealth of Australia for the clock and sandglass which they have presented to the Assembly. Their interest in the development of Norfolk Island and the aspirations of its people has been evidenced by the presence here today of their Presiding Officers, and we accept this gift as a further earnest commitment to their continuing concern. ‘

Your sincerely,

E. BUFFETT

President

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PETITIONS

Mr Igor Ogurtsov

Senator MISSEN:
VICTORIA

– I present the following petition from 7 citizens of Australia:

To the Honourable the President and Members of the Senate in Parliament assembled. The petition of the undersigned citizens of Australia respectfully showeth:

That the Federal Government exert Diplomatic pressure on the Soviet Authorities to secure release from detention of a Soviet citizen Mr Igor Ogurtsov, a graduate of the University of Leningrad, who was sentenced to seven years gaol, eight years hard labour and five years internal exile- a total of twenty years, in accordance with Articles 64a and 72 of the US.S.R. Criminal Code.

Mr Ogurtsov, now aged 40, has already served eleven years of his sentence and is currently held in Concentration Camp No. VS 389.35-Permskaya Oblast, Stanitsa Vsehsviatskaya.

His health has deteriorated to the extent, that he is not expected to live long enough to see his release from detention.

Mr Ogurtsov ‘s only ‘crime’ is, that he is a Christian, and has participated in a discussion group on the future of a Christian-Democratic System in Russia.

And your petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray.

Petition received and read.

Alice Springs to Darwin Railway

Senator KILGARIFF:
NORTHERN TERRITORY

– I present the following petition from 359 citizens of Australia:

To the Honourable the President and Members of the Senate in Parliament assembled. The Petition of the undersigned respectfully showeth:

That in order to: facilitate the development of the North of Australia; provide an all-weather rapid land transport system from north to south and vice versa; facilitate better defence of Northern Australia; provide improved transport for primary and mining products to southern markets; boost tourism.

Your Petitioners most humbly pray that the Senate, in Parliament assembled, should:

Urge that the Federal Government give favourable consideration to proceeding forthwith with the completion of the construction of the North-South railway from Alice Springs to Darwin as a matter of priority.

And your petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray.

Petition received and read.

Indexation of Pensions

Senator GRIMES:
NEW SOUTH WALES

– I present the following petition from 30 citizens of Australia:

To the Honourable the President and Members of the Senate in Parliament assembled the petition of the undersigned citizens of Australia respectfully showeth:

That restoration of provisions of the Social Security Act that applied prior to the 1 978-79 Budget is of vital concern to offset the rising cost of goods and services.

The reason advanced by the Government for yearly payments ‘that the lower level of inflation made twice-yearly payments inappropriate’ is not valid.

Great injury will be caused to 920,000 aged, invalid, widows and supporting parents, who rely solely on the pension or whose income, other than the pension, is $6 or less per week. Once-a-year payments strike a cruel blow to their expectation and make a mockery of a solemn election pledge.

Accordingly, your petitioners call upon their legislators to:

Restore twice-yearly pension adjustments in the Autumn session.

Raise pensions and unemployment benefits above the poverty level to 30 per cent of average weekly earnings.

And your petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray.

Petition received and read.

Education Funding

Senator COLSTON:
QUEENSLAND

– I present the following petition from 48 citizens of Australia:

To the Honourable President and Members of the Senate in Parliament assembled. The petition of the undersigned citizens of Australia respectfully showeth:

That further cutbacks in Commonwealth funding to State Schools and transferral of funds to wealthy independent schools as required under the guidelines to the Schools Commission announced by the Minister for Education in early June are of vital concern in that they mitigate against the interests of the great majority of Australian Children in State Schools.

That Queensland State Schools have not reached the Resource Usage Targets set by the Schools Commission, and even at those financial levels will fall well short of actual provision standards envisaged by the Commission.

That Queensland’s effort in respect of Capital works is particularly of concern being less than half the per capita effort of other States.

Your petitioners therefore call on their legislators to ensure:

That Federal funding to State Schools is restored to at least 1974-75 levels;

the independence of the Schools Commission to recommend the allocation of funds to schools on the basis of need, unhindered by Government directive; and

that sufficient funds are provided to Queensland, appropriately tied, to ensure achievement of National standards in this State.

And your petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray.

Petition received and read.

Indexation of Pensions

Senator McLAREN:
SOUTH AUSTRALIA

– I present the following petition from 37 citizens of Australia:

To the Honourable the president and members of the Senate in Parliament assembled. The petition of the undersigned citizens of South Australia respectfully showeth:

That whereas the Fraser Government was elected in December 197S after promising that pensions would be adjusted instantly and automatically in relation to quarterly consumer price index figures;

And whereas that Government subsequently announced that pension adjustments should properly be made half yearly each May and November;

And whereas the Government has now legislated for pensions to be adjusted only once a year, and this constitutes a serious breach of generally accepted ethics of democratic government and also deprives many needy pensioners of increases that are essential to their subsistence.

The foregoing facts impel the undersigned petitioners to request the Australian Government to uphold the principle that the trustworthiness of Governments should at all times be above question, and to appeal to the Parliament to reintroduce twice yearly pension adjustments and that the amounts allowed for earnings by single and married pensioners be increased to a more comparable level to the high cost of living before it affects the pensions.

And your petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray.

Petition received and read.

Launceston Youth Shelter

Senator GRIMES:

– I present the following petition from 15 citizens of Australia:

To the Honourable the President and Members of the Senate assembled, we the undersigned citizens of Australia request that: A suitable youth shelter be provided for the homeless youth of Launceston.

We consider that this shelter should be established within the city of Launceston boundaries, as there is no crisis accommodation in Launceston for homeless boys.

We your humble petitioners therefore pray that this need be attended to as a priority need.

And your petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray.

Petition received and read.

Pensioner Benefits

Senator PRIMMER:
VICTORIA

– I present the following petition from 266 citizens of Australia:

To the Honourable the President and Members of the Senate in Parliament assembled. The humble petition of the undersigned citizens of Australia residing in the Electorate of Wannon respectfully showeth:

That the Government adhere to its commitment to take politics out of pension increases by giving automatic increases in line with price rises twice a year.

That the Government immediately grant free medical, hospital and pharmaceutical benefits to any person receiving a portion of the aged pension.

That the Government take steps to grant free medical, hospital and pharmaceutical benefits to all female citizens on reaching age sixty and all male citizens on reaching age sixty-five years.

And your petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray.

Petition received and read.

Indexation of Pensions

Senator MASON:
NEW SOUTH WALES

– I present the following petition from 1 63 citizens ofAustralia:

To the Honourable the President and Members of the Senate in Parliament assembled the petition of the undersigned citizens of Australia respectfully showeth:

That restoration of provisions of the Social Security Act that applied prior to the 1 978-79 Budget is of vital concern to offset the rising cost of goods and services.

The reason advanced by the Government for yearly payments “that the lower level of inflation made twice-yearly payments inappropriate”is not valid.

Great injury will be caused to 920,000 aged, invalid, widows and supporting parents, who rely solely on the pension or whose income, other than the pension, is $6 or less per week. Once-a-year payments strike a cruel blow to their expectation and make a mockery of a solemn election pledge.

Accordingly, your petitioners call upon their legislators to:

Restore twice-yearly pension adjustments in the Autumn session.

Raise pension and unemployed benefits above the poverty level to 30 per cent of average weekly earnings.

And your petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray.

Petition received.

The Clerk:

– Petitions have been lodged for presentation as follows:

Reserve Forces Decorations and Medals

To the Honourable the President and Members of the Senate in Parliament assembled. The humble petition of the undersigned members and ex members of the Citizens Forces of Australia respectfully showeth:

  1. On 14 February 1975, the then Australian Government deprived the Officers and men of the Australian Citizen, Naval, Military and Air Forces of the distinctive and historic Decorations and Medals for long service and good conduct, namely the Reserve Decoration, the Efficiency Decoration, the Air Efficiency Award, the Efficiency Medal and Long Service and Good Conduct Medals, awarded for long and meritorious voluntary service in the citizen forces.
  2. The proposed substitution of the National Medal for these Decorations and Medals varies the principle of selective recognition of efficient voluntary service in the citizen forces in that it recognises the period of service only and embraces also full time service as well in the defence forces as in the police, fire brigade and ambulance services.
  3. This deprivation caused and is continuing to cause serious discontent amongst personnel of the Citizens Forces who willingly and cheerfully give of their spare time outside their normal full time civilian careers, to serve Her Majesty and Australia.
  4. The Reserve Forces of Australia have been recognised by the present Government as a valuable- and costeffective component of the Defence Forces. Anomalously, whilst the Government is actually supporting recruiting for these Forces it has imposed and continued this deprivation which as foresaid has depressed the morale of the Citizen Forces.
  5. Her Majesty has not cancelled the said Decorations and Medals.

Your Honourable House take appropriate action to resume the award of the several distinctive Reserve Forces Decorations and Medals for Long Service and Good Conduct to members of the Royal Australian Naval Reserve. Army Reserve (CMF) and the RAAF Citizens Air Force.

And your petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray, by Senator Hamer.

Petition received.

Aboriginal Land Rights

To the Honourable the President and Honourable Senators in Parliament assembled. This petition of citizens of Australia respectfully showeth that:

  1. Australia’s Aboriginal and Islander peoples have not been compensated for the loss of their traditional land, social and cultural independence and self-respect
  2. Australia lags behind other nations with white majorities in providing a Treaty of Commitment to its indigenous people giving them: a defined proportion of national income for a defined period. freehold title to traditional land, waterways and seaboards. control over related resources and over the introduction of alcohol and other alien cultural influences in their regions.

Your petitioners therefore humbly pray that your honourable House will take urgent steps to concur with the wishes of a majority of the electors at every polling place in Australia at the 1967 referendum by resumption from the States of the major traditional Aboriginal land areas and reserves and former reserves as at 31 March 1978, to become federal Crown land pending prompt determination of freehold title for Land Trusts and eventually for defined community co-operatives.

And your petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray, by Senator Peter Baume.

Petition received.

Red Army Choir

To the Honourable the President, and Members of the Senate in Parliament assembled. The humble petition of the undersigned citizens of Australia respectfully showeth:

That we have heard the expressed intentions of one entrepreneur to bring the Red Army Choir to Australia, and declare, that regardless of its artistic merits or demerits, the Red Army Choir is a military propaganda, gloryfying the Soviet Regime which is still hostile to the democratic way of life. The Red Army is the symbol of the power that is keeping formerly free people under subjugation, and its presence enables blatant violation of Human Rights to be perpetrated.

Your petitioners humbly pray that just as entry into Australian ports is denied to Soviet warships, so too, will entry be denied to the Red Army Choir.

And your petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray, by Senator Lewis.

Petition received.

Indexation of Pensions

To the Honourable the President and Members of the Senate in Parliament assembled the petition of the undersigned citizens of Australia respectfully showeth:

That restoration of provisions of the Social Security Act that applied prior to the 1 978-79 Budget is of vital concern to offset the rising cost of goods and services.

The reason advanced by the Government for yearly payments ‘that the lower level of inflation made twice-yearly payments inappropriate ‘ is not valid.

Great injury will be caused to 920,000 aged, invalid, widows and supporting parents, who rely solely on the pension or whose income, other than the pension, is $6 or less per week. Once-a-year payments strike a cruel blow to their expectation and make a mockery of a solemn election pledge.

Accordingly, your petitioners call upon their legislators to:

  1. Restore twice-yearly pension adjustments in the Autumn session.
  2. Raise pensions and unemployed benefits above the poverty level to 30 per cent of average weekly earnings.

And your petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray. by Senators Peter Baume, Carrick, Guilfoyle, Jessop, Missen, Mulvihill, Puplick and Scott.

Petitions received.

Mr Igor Ogurtsov

To the Honourable the President and Members of the Senate in Parliament assembled. The Petition of the undersigned citizens of Australia respectfully showeth:

That the Federal Government exert Diplomatic pressure on the Soviet Authorities to secure release from detention of a Soviet citizen Mr Igor Ogurtsov, a Graduate of the University of Leningrad, who was sentenced to seven years gaol, eight years hard labour and five years internal exile- a total of twenty years, in accordance with Articles 64a and 72 of the USSR Criminal Code.

Mr Ogurtsov, now age 40, has already servedelevenyears of the sentence and is currently held in Concentration Camp No VS 389.35- Permskaya Oblast, Stanitsa Vsehsviatskaya.

His health has deteriorated to the extent, that he is not expected to live long enough to see his release from detention.

Mr Ogurtsov ‘s only ‘crime’ is, that he is a Christian, and has participated in a discussion group on the future of a Christian-Democratic System in Russia.

And your petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray, by Senator Jessop.

Petition received.

Metric System

To the Honourable the President and Members of the Senate in Parliament assembled. The Petition of the undersigned citizens of Australia respectfully showeth:

That the plan to obliterate the traditional weights and measures of this country does not have the support of the people;

That the change is causing and will continue to cause, widespread, serious and costly problems;

That the compulsory tactics being used to force the change are a violation of all democratic principles.

Your petitioners therefore pay:

That the Metric Conversion Act be repealed to ensure that the people are free to utilize whichever system they prefer and so enable the return to imperial weights and measures wherever the people so desire;

That weather reporting be as it was prior to the passing of the Metric Conversion Act;

That the Australian Government take urgent steps to cause the traditional mile units to be restored to our highways;

That the Australian Government request the State Governments to procure that the imperial and metric systems be taught together in schools.

And your petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray, by Senators Carrick, Durack and Guilfoyle.

Petitions received.

Senate Elections: Abolition of Compulsory Preferential Voting

To the Honourable the President and Members of the Senate in Parliament assembled. The humble petition of the undersigned citizens of Australia respectfully showeth:

That on the 10 December 1948, the General Assembly of the United Nations adopted and proclaimed the Universal Declaration of Human Rights which declares that, ‘Everyone is entitled to all the rights and freedoms set forth in the Declaration . . . (Article 2) that ‘Everyone has the right to take part in the government of his country, directly or through freely chosen representatives . . . The will of the people shall be the basis of the authority of government; this will shall be expressed in periodic and genuine elections which shall be by universal and equal suffrage and shall be held by secret vote or equivalent free voting procedures.’ (Article 21 (1) and (3).)

Elections for Senators meet all requirements except one. Senators are elected periodically, by secret ballot, with universal franchise, and the quota-preferential method of proportional representation ensures that the vote values within states are equal as nearly as can be.

However the provision of the Electoral Act that compels voters to show preferences for all candidates on the ballot paper interferes with the free expression of the will of the voters, and is unjust.

Australia, as a Member State of the United Nations, is pledged to achieve observance of Human Rights and Freedoms.

We, the undersigned citizens of Australia, therefore humbly pray that the Senate will fulfil the pledge of a Member State of the United Nations and take steps to remove the compulsion from the Electoral Act in order to allow freedom of expression for everyone who has the right to vote for Senators.

And your petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray, by Senators Mulvihill and Puplick.

Petitions received.

Optional Age 60 Retirement

To the Honourable, the President, and Members of the Senate in Parliament assembled. The petition of the undersigned respectfully showeth:

That due to technological change which has brought about large scale unemployment, we call upon the Government to introduce early optional retirement at age 60 with full pension benefits.

Your petitioners most humbly pray that the Senate in Parliament assembled should as a matter of urgency introduce early optional retirement at age 60 with full pension entitlements to relieve the large scale unemployment in Australia.

And your petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray. by Senator Jessop.

Petition received.

Soviet-born Australian Citizens

To the Honourable the President and members of the Senate in Parliament assembled. The humble petition of the undersigned citizens of the Commonwealth respectfully showeth: 1979 Soviet Citizenship Act, effective 1 July refuses to recognize Australian citizenship of all naturalised Australians, born in Soviet Union or countries occupied by Soviets since 1917. Soviet Union claims as it’s citizens these people, who sought refuge from Soviet terror in Australia. It claims also their children, born in Australia, and the childrens children.

While protesting against this outrageous Soviet claim we ask the Australian Senate to condemn this threat to Australian citizens and to prevail upon Australian Government to take action by International treaties to guarantee the safety of Australian citizens while travelling abroad.

And your petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray, by Senator Jessop.

Petition received.

Soviet-born Australian Citizens

To the Honourable the President and the Members of the Senate in Parliament assembled. The humble petition of the undersigned citizens of Australia respectfully showeth:

Australians of Lithuanian descent have become Australian citizens of their own free volition, without being coerced in any way.

The Citizenship Act of Soviet Union, effective from July 1979, in conjunction with the Soviet Act of 1940, proclaims that former citizens of Independent Lithuania are Soviet citizens even if they renounce Soviet Citizenship. Furthermore, the 1979 Soviet Citizenship Act claims as Soviet citizens, Australians born in Australia of parents of Lithuanian descent.

As Australia does not recognise de jure the illegal occupation of Lithuania, and since Australian citizens of Lithuanian origin have no desire to be treated as Soviet citizens particularly when travelling overseas we ask that Australian Government make a Statement that Australia does not recognise the legality of the Soviet Citizenship Act of 1979, and that it will care for the safety of Australian citizens abroad irrespective of the origin of such citizens.

And your petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray, by Senator Jessop.

Petition received.

Pre-school Education Funding

The Honourable the President and Members of the Senate in Parliament assembled. The humble petition of the undersigned citizens of Australia respectfully showeth:

  1. In S.A. Pre-School services are becoming increasingly inadequate.
  2. The development of adequate services has been curtailed by reduced Federal Budget allocations to Pre-Schools in the last two years.
  3. Projected cuts for 1979-80 will cause further deterioration of the quality of services offered.

Your petitioners therefore humbly pray that the Federal Government increase its allocation for Pre-School education immediately to enable the provision of adequate pre-school services in S.A.

And your petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray, by Senator Carrick.

Petition received.

Commonwealth Employees (Employment Provisions) Act

To the Honourable the President and Members of the Senate in Parliament assembled. The petition of the undersigned electors respectfully showeth:

That the Commonwealth Employees (Employment Provisions) Act 1977 should immediately be repealed because:

It provides unfettered power to Ministers to suspend, stand-down and dismiss Commonwealth Government employees and places them in a markedly disadvantageous position as compared with all other Australian workers.

Its use places Commonwealth Government employees in direct conflict with the Government as it circumvents the arbitration tribunals and denies appeal rights.

Its use will exacerbate industrial disputes and inflame industrial relations in the Commonwealth area of employment.

The International Labour Organisation has condemned the Provisions of the Act as being incompatible with the rights of organised labour in a free society.

And your petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray. by Senator Walsh.

Petition received.

Education Funding

To the Honourable President and Members of the Senate in Parliament assembled. The petition of the undersigned citizens of Australia respectfully showeth:

That further cutbacks in Commonwealth funding to State Schools and transferral of funds to wealthy independent schools as required under theguidelines to the Schools Commission announced by the Minister for Education in early June are of vital concern in that they mitigate against the interests of the great majority of Australian Children in State Schools.

That Queensland State Schools have not reached the Resource Usage Targets set by the Schools Commission, and even at those financial levels will fall well short of actual provision standards envisaged by the Commission.

That Queensland’s effort in respect of Capital works is particularly of concern being less than half the per capita effort of other States.

Your petitioners therefore call on their legislators to ensure:

  1. a ) That federal funding to Sate Schools is restored to at least 1974-75 levels;
  2. the independence of the Schools Commission to recommend the allocation of funds to schools on the basis of need, unhindered by Government directive; and
  3. that sufficient funds are provided to Queensland, appropriately tied, to ensure achievement of National standards in this State.

And your petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray, by Senator Jessop.

Petition received.

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REFERENCE TO SENATE STANDING COMMITTEE

Notice of Motion

Senator WALSH:
Western Australia

– I give notice that on the next day of sitting I shall move:

That the following matter be referred to the Standing Committee on Trade and Commerce:

All factors relevant to the supply of Avgas in Australia. QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

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QUESTION

REMARKS BY PRIME MINISTER

Senator WRIEDT:
TASMANIA

– My question is directed to the Minister representing the Prime Minister. In view of the Prime Minister’s statement in Perth on his return from Africa, can the Minister explain why both Mr Fraser and the Government need to smarten up?

Senator CARRICK:
Vice-President of the Executive Council · NEW SOUTH WALES · LP

– I can understand the hidden anxieties of the honourable senator who has put himself in jeopardy and peril in an island State. Therefore, he is very anxious. Let me simply say that the track record of governments of our philosophy and kidney is such that they have always smartened up, so much so that for 58 of the 78 years since Federation the people of Australia have had the eminent good sense to choose us, as they will again when next we go to the electors.

Senator WRIEDT:

-I wish to ask a supplementary question and I shall endeavour to direct the Minister’s attention the question I asked. To refresh his memory, did not Mr Fraser say in Perth: ‘We certainly raised expectations too high about our capacity and the economy’s capacity to reduce unemployment’?

Is that not an admission either that his Government has failed accurately to understand the economy and thus mistakenly has misled the Australian people, or that the Government has accurately read the economy and has deliberately misled the Australian people?

Senator CARRICK:

– As always in such misconstructions by the Leader of the Opposition, the answers are no and no. What is wrong with a government’s saying that it intends to do better than it has been doing? The only people who would fear that and who would think it wrong are members of the Opposition. The Government ‘s view will be proved in the months ahead to be quite right.

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QUESTION

AUSTRALIAN SOCCER FEDERATION

Senator PETER BAUME:
NEW SOUTH WALES

– I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Immigration and Ethnic Affairs: Is it true that the Australian Soccer Federation has put certain proposals to the Minister concerning visas for overseas footballers wishing to play in Australia? Is it also true that these proposals satisfy the requirements of both the Department of Immigration and Ethnic Affairs and soccer administrators in Australia? Can the Minister indicate whether these proposals present any difficulty which would be likely to hinder their immediate implementation?

Senator GUILFOYLE:
Minister for Social Security · NEW SOUTH WALES · LP

– I understand that discussions have taken place between the Department of Immigration and Ethnic Affairs and the Australian Soccer Federation to enable closer consideration to be given to the rules related to the entry of soccer players from overseas to engage under contract with clubs in Australia. The aspects of most concern to both parties have been the standard of players to be admitted, their transfer between clubs after arrival, possible limits to be imposed on the number of overseas players represented in any one team, and the maximum period of stay. There is agreement on the need to introduce specific guidelines which will ensure that all clubs observe the rules - laid down and that young Australian players of talent will not be denied access to the senior levels of the sport.

A significant factor in the review of the rules relating to the entry of overseas players has been the restriction which to date has operated against local players. The Australian Soccer Federation has advanced measures to control the numbers and standard of players to be admitted from overseas, allowing for the rules which operate in other soccer-playing countries. Currently these proposals are being examined by the Government and there should be no difficulty in their early implementation, should they be agreed to.

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QUESTION

INFLATION

Senator BUTTON:
VICTORIA

– I direct my question to Senator Carrick in his capacity as Minister representing the Prime Minister. I refer the Minister to statements repeated by Government Ministers over the last three years which have consistently maintained that increases in wages have been a central cause of inflation. I also refer the Minister to a statement reported in the Austraiian on Saturday and attributed to the Prime Minister which states:

Wages have been in a sense neutral in terms of their effect on inflation.

I ask: Is this latest view the Government’s view? Is it now the Prime Minister’s view? If so, has the Government any idea what this man will say next?

Senator CARRICK:
LP

– One thing is certain: History will record that the huge and talked-up increase in wages by the Whitlam Government- 35 per cent in one year, 75 per cent over 3 years- was the prime cause of the disastrous inflation which hit Australia. If Senator Button is asking, whether there has been a direct link between the increase in wages and inflation, the answer is yes; the Whitlam Government’s disastrous regime stands historically to prove it. That principle runs, and in no way is it a denial of what has been said.

Senator BUTTON:

-Clearly the Minister did not understand the original question, so I shall ask it again in a different form. As at the last national wage case under this Government, that is, in the last six months and in the life of this Government, Mr Street, Mr Fraser, and the Minister himself in this place each said that wage increases were a cause of inflation and that there should be no wage increases. I now ask: Was that position as stated by the Minister incorrect? If not, what has happened since to lead to this new view expressed by the Prime Minister at the weekend?

Senator CARRICK:

– There has been no misstatement and there is no paradox between the two. The two are thoroughly consistent.

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QUESTION

LORD HOWE ISLAND

Senator MISSEN:

– I draw the attention of the Minister for Science and the Environment to claims by the Nature Conservation Council of New South Wales that one of the world’s unique beauty spots, Lord Howe Island, is in danger of ruination by well-intentioned incompetents. Is the Minister aware of the claims reported in the Australian of 3 August 1979 that, unless the island is proclaimed a national park, several species of birds on the island may become extinct? Is the Minister aware also of the possibility that one day the island will feature on the World Heritage list, earmarked for preservation at all costs? To what extent does the Commonwealth Government regard this matter as part of its responsibility or the responsiblity of its instrumentalities? Does the Minister agree that immediate action must be taken to prevent any further destruction of the island ‘s habitat? If so, will he assure the Senate that strong pressure will be brought upon the New South Wales Government to have the island declared a national park, managed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service?

Senator WEBSTER:
Minister for Science and the Environment · VICTORIA · NCP/NP

-The honourable senator has raised a series of questions which it might be inappropriate to attempt to answer at Question Time. The Director of National Parks and Wildlife, Professor Ovington, has discussed with me on a number of occasions the importance of Norfolk Island and a proposition that at least certain areas might be declared a national park. I am unable to state what actual role the New South Wales Government or the New South Wales National Parks and Wildlife Service might play. However, within the Federal sphere there is a general recognition that Norfolk Island is a particularly important island.

Senator Missen:

– My question related to Lord Howe Island, Minister.

Senator WEBSTER:

– I am sorry; I thought you said Norfolk Island. I am unable to make any comment in relation to Lord Howe Island. That is a matter for the New South Wales Government. I will take the question on notice.

page 7

PENSIONS INDEXATION BILL 1979

Senator CHIPP:
VICTORIA

-I ask the Leader of the Government in the Senate a question concerning the private member’s Bill standing in my name on the Notice Paper, designed to restore the sixmonthly indexation of pensions, which effectively has been gagged twice by Government senators. Will the Government support a motion to suspend so much of Standing Orders as would prevent a debate and a vote by the Senate on that Bill, which at this stage I intend to move tomorrow?

Senator CARRICK:
LP

– First of all, my understanding is that the use of the word ‘gagged’ is a little exaggerated as arrangements were made with Senator Chipp within a time program to permit him the right to move, as all honourable senators have the right to move, that a private member’s Bill may be read a second time. In fact he enjoyed the same privilege as any private member has enjoyed with respect to a private member’s Bill at any time in this place. So we put aside the superlatives. I and the Government will give consideration to the matter.

page 8

QUESTION

INFANTRY WEAPONS

Senator MacGIBBON:
QUEENSLAND

– My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Defence. As the announcement appears imminent of the selection as the main artillery weapon of the Australian Army of the 155 millimetre gun, which will be of overseas design and possibly of overseas manufacture, will the Minister initiate the design and manufacture of a close-support infantry weapon to replace the 105 millimetre gun at present in service, which is at least 45 years old? By way of information, all the research and development activity in ordnance around the world is directed towards 155 millimetre and heavier calibres, for the obvious reason that they permit the development of precision -

KEEFFE, James:
QUEENSLAND · ALP

– I raise a point of order, Mr President.

The PRESIDENT:

– Order! You must not give information, Senator.

Senator Keeffe:

– Thank you, Mr President; that was my point of order.

Senator MacGIBBON:

– I apologise, Mr President. I draw the Minister’s attention to the fact that we do need a close-support weapon, as do other armies of the world. There is quite a world market for such a weapon.

Senator CARRICK:
LP

– As one who in other times as a member of the artillery has had some experience with 45 -year-old field pieces, I can speak with some feeling on such a subject.

Senator McAuliffe:

– Bang, bang!

Senator CARRICK:

-I think, Senator McAuliffe, that the definition of the artillery is: Two paces backward and you are on leave. The question is an important one. I will refer it to the Minister for Defence and ask him to give it consideration and to comment on it.

page 8

QUESTION

MEDIA INFORMATION UNIT

Senator PRIMMER:

– My question is directed to the Minister representing the Prime Minister. If the Prime Minister blames poor communications for the Government’s current position, what is the function and use of the Government’s media information unit, which employs at least six journalists on salaries of about $26,000 each? If that unit has not been effective, will the Government, in line with its views on inefficient civil servants, retire members of its media unit by management directive?

Senator CARRICK:
LP

– That question comes strangely from a member of a party which had a mass propaganda unit infinitely larger than anything this Government could dream up and which supports the Wran Labor Government, which spends millions of dollars a year on a mass communications unit. May I say simply that in the Whitlam case no amount of public relations could sell a bad product. The people of Australia gave no repeat order to the Whitlam Government, as they will not give one to the Wran Government. They give repeat orders to our side of politics because our products are right and are judged to be right, even though from time to time our public relations is not as good as that of the Opposition. It is the product that counts in the end, not slick words.

page 8

QUESTION

SUPPLY OF PETROLEUM PRODUCTS

Senator TEAGUE:
SOUTH AUSTRALIA

– I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for National Development. I note that, whilst the price of fuel is an important factor for Australian consumers, the supply of fuel is of greater priority. Can the Minister assure the Senate that petroleum products, especially aviation gas and diesel fuel for use in industry, will be in sufficient supply in the coming 12 months?

Senator DURACK:
Attorney-General · WESTERN AUSTRALIA · LP

- Senator Teague has raised a most vital question. I propose to refer it to the Minister for National Development and obtain an early answer from him.

Opposition senators interjecting-

The PRESIDENT:

– Order! We must be able to hear the Minister. I call the Minister.

Senator DURACK:

– I thought I had answered the question.

The PRESIDENT:

– I am sorry, I could not hear. I would be grateful if there were fewer interjections. It is very difficult to hear anywhere in the chamber when this persistent interjecting occurs.

page 9

QUESTION

TELEVISION LICENCE TRANSFERS

Senator EVANS:
VICTORIA

– I ask the Attorney-General: Was Mr Bruce Gyngell in contact with the Attorney-General’s Department before announcing the decision of the Australian Broadcasting Tribunal in regard to the television licence transfer applications made by Channel 10, Sydney, and WIN 4, Wollongong? What advice, if any, was given to Mr Gyngell by the Department as to how the Tribunal should decide these cases? In substance, was Mr Gyngell told, as has been suggested in a recent issue of the newsletter Inside Canberra, that if he refused the Murdoch application he would be on his own and would get no legal backing from the AttorneyGeneral ‘s Department?

Senator DURACK:
LP

-An officer of my Department was providing legal advice during the Australian Broadcasting Tribunal’s hearings. I understand that that has been done in relation to several inquiries. Certainly it was the case in relation to the inquiry to which Senator Evans has referred. My attention has been drawn to the allegation made in a news sheet- I think it was Inside Canberra- thai Mr Gyngell had been told by an officer of my Department that, as Senator Evans quoted, he would be on his own if there were a finding against the application for approval of the purchase of shares by News Ltd. I want to deny categorically that any such statement was made to Mr Gyngell or any member of the Tribunal by any officer of my Department.

The advice given to the Tribunal in relation to this or any other inquiry in which it is engaged is purely legal advice. It is not concerned with the substance of the matter before the Tribunal. The officer was there purely to give the Tribunal some help and guidance in relation to legal questions which arose. The honourable senator asked me to indicate what advice had been given to the Tribunal. In the first place, I am informed from discussions I have had with the officer concerned that the advice given was oral advice about the powers of the Tribunal in relation to the issues that arose in that inquiry. It is not the practice to disclose any legal advice given by my Department to any departments. Therefore, I do not propose to disclose the nature of the advice or to table any opinions that may be given by my Department in relation to other matters.

Senator EVANS:

– I direct a supplementary question to the Attorney-General. Will he say whether the advice given by his Department was in substance adopted and embodied by the Tribunal in the decisions referred to?

Senator DURACK:

– That question is really a device to get around the answer I have given. The Tribunal has already indicated the view it took of its legal powers. I do not propose to indicate what opinion it was that the Department gave.

page 9

QUESTION

NAMIBIA

Senator PUPLICK:
NEW SOUTH WALES

– My question is directed to the Leader of the Government in the Senate. Did the Prime Minister announce on 20 February the Australian Government’s willingness to provide personnel from the Australian armed forces to serve in a United Nations task force in Namibia? Since that date have there been major developments in Namibia which might affect Australia’s position? I instance the varying statements by the South West African People ‘s Organisation- SWAPO - about Australia ‘s participation; the opening of a South African based National Assembly in Namibia during May; South Africa’s announced plans for Namibian independence; certain activities by the United Nations General Assembly in May, including the appointment of another ambassador to deal with the matter; the Lusaka decisions relating to Zimbabwe; and the replacement of the liberal Administrator of Namibia, Mr Justice Martin Steyn, by the chairman of the archreactionary Broederbond of South Africa, Professor Girret Viljoen. Do any of these developments affect Australia’s commitment to send Service personnel to this area? Given the importance of such an overseas commitment, will the Minister bring this matter up for debate in the Senate and thus ensure that Parliament examines this issue before Australian lives are put at potential risk in southern Africa?

Senator CARRICK:
LP

– It is a matter of record, as Senator Puplick says, that in response to an international request the Australian Government indicated the nature of a work force that it might be willing to send under particular conditions to Namibia during the conduct of elections there. My understanding is that the Australian Government placed certain conditions upon its commitment. It needed to send persons to Namibia to study the situation there.

It is a matter of record that a number of events have happened there and in neighbouring countries in the interim. I do not know specifically what significant effect they have had. I will direct the question to the responsible Minister and ask him what the present situation is. My instinct is that the matter is listed for debate in the form of a ministerial statement. I will see what can be done to provide time for the debate. I think that it is important in the first place to outline the present situation as seen through the eyes of the Government. I will seek out the necessary information.

page 10

QUESTION

CHANNEL 10 SYDNEY: ACQUISITION OF SHARES

Senator RYAN:
ACT

– I ask a question of the Minister representing the Minister for Post and Telecommunications. Will the Minister confirm the report in the National Times for the week ending 25 August that a departmental minute circulated in the Postal and Telecommunications Department suggested that the Australian Broadcasting Tribunal’s decision on the acquisition of Channel 10 Sydney by News Ltd would not withstand legal challenge? Was the substance of that minute that the unconditional acquisition by News Ltd of shares in Channel 10 Sydney from Email Ltd and Colonial Sugar Refining Co. Ltd without prior approval of the Tribunal contravened sections 92f(5) and 92f(6) of the Broadcasting and Television Act?

Senator CHANEY:
Minister for Aboriginal Affairs · WESTERN AUSTRALIA · LP

– I will refer the honourable senator’s question to the Minister for Post and Telecommunications for reply.

page 10

QUESTION

AIRPORT RENT-A-CAR FRANCHISES

Senator ARCHER:
TASMANIA

– I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Transport: Are the conditions applicable to the operation of the airport rent-a-car franchises identical to those quoted at the time that applications were invited and tenders called? If not, do the current conditions, particularly those concerning the transferability of licences, allow any additional benefit or flexibility to either the successful or the unsuccessful tenderers?

Senator CHANEY:
LP

-The Minister for Transport has advised me that in preparing official authority documents for the successful tenderers some variations were made to the wording of the clauses which had appeared in the tender schedule. The variations were designed to express more clearly the conditions of the authority. They are not regarded as changing the conditions of the tender, but simply as expressing the conditions more explicitly in the form of a legal instrument.

The honourable senator’s question is probably referring to recent publicity surrounding a variation in the clause relating to transfer of the authorities. The tender document included wording to the effect that the authorities were not transferable. This was designed to ensure that the Commonwealth’s interests were protected and that transfers could not be effected without approval. In the authorities which have been issued this clause has been amplified to include the words ‘without the approval of the secretary’. Authorities issued under the provisions of the Airports (Business Concessions) Act 1959 have always been regarded as transferable assets. It is therefore common practice for such authorities to contain a condition prohibiting sale without the prior approval of the Commonwealth. The previous authority held by Avis Rent-a-Car System Pty Ltd contained such a provision, and clause 6 of the advertised conditions of the relevant tender was intended as a similar limitation on transfer.

page 10

QUESTION

RANGER URANIUM MINE

Senator COLEMAN:
WESTERN AUSTRALIA

– I address my question to the Minister representing the Minister for National Development. I refer to the recent announcement that the Government intends to sell its share in the Ranger uranium mine. Will the Minister indicate who will then be responsible for the monitoring of safe working conditions at Ranger and who will be responsible for the safe storage and transportation of the product of the mine?

Senator DURACK:
LP

– I will refer that question to the Minister for Trade and Resources.

page 10

QUESTION

REFUGEES

Senator DAVIDSON:
SOUTH AUSTRALIA

– My question, which is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Immigration and Ethnic Affairs, relates to the matter of refugees and to the national and international discussion that has taken place since our Parliament last met. In the light of international concern and in the light of Government comment and decision, I ask: Can the Minister indicate whether the Government proposes to present a statement to the Parliament? If a statement is to be presented, when is it likely to be presented?

Senator GUILFOYLE:
LP

– The most recent major Government statement on the IndoChinese refugee situation was made by the Minister for Immigration and Ethnic Affairs to the United Nations Conference on Refugees which was held in Geneva on 20 and 2 1 July. This was a major statement and canvassed the full range of issues including the central role of Vietnam in the refugee outflow from Indo-China. The question of any further statements on issue at this time will depend on developments, particularly those affecting the undertakings given by Vietnam at the Geneva meeting to restrict the disorderly outflow of refugees from Vietnam.

Honourable senators will be aware that the Minister announced at the Geneva meeting that Australia’s intake of Indo-Chinese refugees in 1979-80 would be increased from 10,500 to 14,000. This increase will mean that by June 1980 Australia will have accepted over 37,000 Indo-Chinese refugees. In the 1978-79 program year Australia contributed $8. 39m in support of Indo-Chinese refugee operations in South-East Asia, $6. 19m of which was a direct contribution to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. The other major matter was the decision that the Government would move to establish a refugee advisory body. Arrangements to establish the council and its terms of reference and consideration of who might serve on it are under active consideration. These details will be announced in due course. Beyond that, I am unable to state when the Minister may make any definitive statement on this matter.

page 11

QUESTION

SPORT: TELEVISION BROADCASTS

Senator MCAULIFFE:

– My question is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs. By way of preface, I remind him of a question that I asked on 2 May 1979 regarding the Channel Nine television network agreement with the Australian Cricket Board of Control, which I asked the Minister to examine. On 25 June, the Minister replied: . . The Commision is an independent statutory body responsible Tor administering and enforcing the Trade Practices Act. It is the Commission ‘s responsibility to determine what action, if any, should be taken.

He added that he felt that it would be inappropriate for him to comment on the issues that had been raised. I ask: Is it a fact that, on 15 September 1978, the Minister gave directions pursuant to section 29 ( 1 ) of the Trade Practices Act instructing that the Commission’s application for an injunction against the Banana Growers’ Federation be stood over? Is it also a fact that the Minister took similar action, under section 29 ( 1 ), in the newsagents ‘ case? Consequently, I ask the Minister again whether he will examine the agreement by referring it to the Trade Practices Consultative Committee, which he established on 28 June 1978 to advise him on matters such as the one in question?

Senator DURACK:
LP

– I recall the question that Senator McAuliffe asked in May. It was duly referred to the Minister and replied to by him. The honourable senator now, of course, raises further matters in a somewhat argumentative fashion.

Senator McAuliffe:

– The Minister said it would be inappropriate for him to comment.

Senator DURACK:

– I appreciate that. I have no objection to any arguments being made in this place. That is what we are here for. I will refer the honourable senator’s question to the Minister and invite him to consider the points that have been made.

page 11

QUESTION

RANGER URANIUM PROJECT

Senator KILGARIFF:

– I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Trade and Resources. It follows the announcement that the Government intends to sell its share in the Ranger uranium project. I ask: Does the Government intend to give its present partners first option on the shares? If so, under what terms of valuation and conditions will this be done? If not, will the shares be sold to Australian interests, after consultation with the Ranger partners and, if necessary, will sufficient time be given to permit those companies with the highest beneficial Australian interest to participate? If the answer to these two questions is no, what is the present situation in regard to the disposal of Federal Government shares in Ranger?

Senator DURACK:
LP

– Article 43 of the Ranger Uranium Agreement signed on 9 January 1979 sets out procedures for the disposal of the interest of any party in the project, and provides that before disposing of its interest, the Australian Atomic Energy Commission- which is, of course, the Government body involved- must give the other partners, Peko and EZ, a first right of refusal.

The position is as has been announced by the Minister for Trade and Resources. The Government has decided to throw open the question of the purchase of its interest in the Ranger uranium project for the purpose of learning what interest there would be by potential purchasers. However, the Minister has stressed that the Government has not yet made a decision to proceed to divest itself of its interest in the project. A final decision will be taken after an examination has been made of the various proposals received.

Senator WRIEDT:

– As a supplementary question, I ask: Will the Minister explain why the Government has decided to throw open the question of the disposal of this asset?

Senator DURACK:

– In announcing the Government’s decision in August 1977 to proceed with the development of the Ranger project on the basis of the Whitlam Government’s Memorandum of Understanding with the Ranger partners, the Minister for Trade and Resources said:

The participation of the Commonwealth in a mining project is, of course, contrary to the political philosophy of the Government.

Since August 1977 the Government has received approaches from companies interested in acquiring the Government’s share in the project. We have now decided to examine those proposals. They are not affecting the basic undertakings or the policies that the Government has framed with great care particularly in relation to the development of uranium mining.

Senator Wriedt:

– It is shameful. It is a shameful move.

Senator DURACK:

-Senator Wriedt says that it is shameful. That may be his opinion. The Government has made clear, as I have just quoted from the Minister- from the original statements made in August 1977 in regard to its policy in relation to uranium- its own view as to its disagreement with the fundamental philosophy. It was a philosophy of participation by government. It was the Labor Government’s philosophy. The Labor Government entered into the Memorandum of Understanding. We decided that we had to honour it. We made it clear that it was contrary to our own philosophy. We are now, as I have said, indicating a consideration of the proposals of interested parties who are prepared to make a satisfactory proposition as far as the Government’s interest in the project is concerned. This matter has nothing whatever to do with the implementation of the policies that the Government has framed in relation to the development of uranium mining.

page 12

QUESTION

ABORIGINES: WRECK BAY

Senator KNIGHT:
ACT

– I ask the Minister representing the Minister for the Capital Territory: What stage has been reached with arrangements to determine the boundaries of the lease for the Aboriginal people of Wreck Bay? Is any delay over this question affecting programs at Wreck Bay, particularly the construction program for houses for the Wreck Bay Housing Co.? Can the Minister indicate when this matter of such importance to the Aboriginal people of Wreck Bay will be finalised?

Senator WEBSTER:
NCP/NP

– I understand that arrangements have been made with the Institute of Aboriginal Affairs for an expert in Aboriginal matters to confer with the community at Wreck Bay concerning the boundaries of the site and, in particular, the Aboriginal claims for occupancy of the area. I understand that further consideration of any extensions of the boundaries of the lease previously agreed to must await that report of the consultant to the Institute of Aboriginal Affairs. I understand that construction of housing in the area is proceeding on the basis of funds which have been allocated by the Department of Aboriginal Affairs.

Senator Keeffe:

– I raise a point of order. The Minister is again misquoting. He had his islands mixed up a while ago. He is calling the Institute of Aboriginal Studies the Institute of Aboriginal Affairs. I think that ought to be corrected for the record.

The PRESIDENT:

– That will be for the Minister in his reply.

page 12

QUESTION

EMBASSIES

Senator MULVIHILL:
NEW SOUTH WALES

– I direct a question to the Attorney-General. If I had to prepare a report card on his activities in the recess, what would I put in in relation to the enactment of the legislation which was brought in quite a while ago to curb bogus embassies and consulates such as we have, for example, in Canberra?

Senator DURACK:
LP

-Senator Mulvihill was proposing a report card on my activities during the recess. I think he would be able to put in a very good report on the activities in relation to the subject that he raised. Unfortunately the proceedings are not finally disposed of, but the proceedings which I think I announced before the end of the session as having been commenced were instituted. On 7 August Mr Justice Smithers in the Federal Court made orders against the gentleman who did style himself as the charge d’affaires of the Croatian embassy. Mr Justice Smithers made some detailed orders on 7 August but suspended the implementation of them for 2 1 days. That is a fairly normal procedure, particularly if there is any suggestion of an appeal. That is the position as far as the legal proceedings are concerned.

Some statements have been made since then by the defendant in those proceedings. Presumably Senator Mulvihill has seen those statements. The defendant has indicated that he is prepared to abide by the order of the Court, and has resigned as charge d’affaires. However, his secretary has been appointed charge d’affaires. The Government is considering what legal steps should be taken now in the light of that development. I would not like to say anything more because the matter is really sub judice.

page 13

QUESTION

AID TO PAPUA NEW GUINEA

Senator WATSON:
TASMANIA

– Is the Minister representing the Minister for Foreign Affairs aware that Sir John Crawford is currently conducting an investigation into the nature and extent of aid to Papua New Guinea? Because of the close ties between the two countries, the importance of this assistance to the Papua New Guinea national Budget and the need to assist in the development of parliamentary democracy, and for strategic reasons, will the Minister assure this House that there will be no reduction in the overall quantum of assistance to Australia’s nearest neighbour?

Senator CARRICK:
LP

– The second part of Senator Watson ‘s question concerns a policy and Budget matter, and on neither may I comment for the moment. I am aware of the investigation in question; I am aware of the very close ties between the two countries, of the importance of the maintenance of Australia’s ties with Papua New Guinea and of significant commitments. I will draw the attention of the responsible Minister to the subtance of Senator Watson’s question.

page 13

QUESTION

SYDNEY (KINGSFORD-SMITH) AIRPORT CURFEW

Senator Douglas McClelland:
NEW SOUTH WALES · ALP

-My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Transport. Has the Minister for Transport given permission for the operation of executive-type jet aircraft in the 1 1 p.m. to 6 a.m. curfew period at Sydney (Kingsford-Smith) Airport? If so, was this decision taken without any consultation with the Sydney (Kingsford-Smith) Airport Noise Abatement Committee? Has the Minister also given his permission for the provisions of the curfew to be changed to permit certain international jets to land until midnight?

Senator CHANEY:
LP

– I will refer that question to the Minister for Transport for a reply.

page 13

QUESTION

TELECOM: RECORDED TELEPHONE MESSAGE

Senator LEWIS:
VICTORIA

-I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Post and Telecommunications whether on or about 7 August 1979 the Tobacco Institute of Australia asked Telecom to remove the following recorded telephone message:

The moment you stop smoking your body begins repairing the damage done, your breathing becomes easier, your heart works more efficiently and you cough less.

Senator Peter Baume:

– That is a good message.

Senator LEWIS:

– Yes, and 1 have had it written into Hansard. Was this message produced by the Victorian College of General Practitioners?

Having received this request from the Tobacco Institute of Australia, did Telecom then require the Victorian College of General Practitioners to replace the recorded message? If that is so, what objection did Telecom have to the recorded message and why did it require the College to replace it?

Senator CHANEY:
LP

– I am relieved that Senator Baume has been joined by another person who will pursue the tobacco companies with evangelical zeal. As a recent convert, I can only say: ‘Hallelujah, brother’ and refer the question to the Minister for reply.

page 13

QUESTION

WIDOWS PENSION

Senator GRIMES:

-I refer the Minister for Social Security to a case of a very courageous mother of seven from Hobart who recently had her widows pension restored and was paid some $10,000 after taking out a High Court writ against officers of the Minister’s Department. Was the money paid to this lady in replacement of the pension that she had previously been refused? What action has been taken against those officers who refused her this pension in October 1977 and then allowed the situation to go on until a High Court writ was necessary? Have the guidelines pertaining to bona fide domestic relationships, which were an issue in this case, been changed as a result of the case? If so, how will this affect the thousands of other women in this country who have been refused pensions for similar reasons?

Senator GUILFOYLE:
LP

– The first part of the question raised by Senator Grimes referred to the money paid to the person concerned in replacement of the pension. If I recall correctly, part of the money was paid to her. The other part of it, I think, may have been reimbursed to the State department which had paid allowances to her during the period she was deemed by my Department not to be eligible for the pension.

As far as I am aware, there was no requirement for action to be taken against the officers concerned. This matter concerns the determination of eligibility for a pension; and on grounds which were reasonable to the officers concerned a determination was made. I am not aware whether the Director-General has altered the guidelines with regard to pensions as a result of this case. I think that the manual states the terms of eligibility required in the Department’s work with regard to all pensions and benefits. I am not aware of any need to change these as a result of the particular case that has been referred to by Senator Grimes.

Senator GRIMES:

– I wish to ask a supplementary question. Was it because the woman took out a High Court writ against the Minister’s officers that the officers’ decision was reversed? Does this mean that the officers’ decision would not have been upheld in the court? Therefore, should not the guidelines be changed?

Senator GUILFOYLE:

– Neither I nor anyone else would be in a position to say what would be upheld in a court prior to a court hearing. As far as the reversal of the decision is concerned, I understand that there was a continuing review of this matter through Social Security Appeals Tribunals and in other ways throughout the period of the matter we are discussing. I cannot make an assumption on the basis of unheard court cases, nor would I presume to give some prior knowledge of what determinations would be made in a court. I am saying only that this matter was the subject of review and that, in the final instance, the review determined that the pension should be made available to her retrospectively. I understand that the matter has been concluded.

page 14

QUESTION

AUSTRALIAN FILM AND TELEVISION SCHOOL

Senator WALTERS:
TASMANIA

– My question is to the Minister representing the Minister for Home Affairs. Does the Australian Film and Television School have funds available to assist independent individual film makers to gain further experience through secondment to large scale film producers?

Senator WEBSTER:
NCP/NP

– I will refer that question to the Minister for Home Affairs.

page 14

QUESTION

FAMILY ALLOWANCES: HANDICAPPED CHILDREN

Senator BISHOP:
SOUTH AUSTRALIA

– My question, which is directed to the Minister for Social Security, refers to a ruling which we have been told comes from Canberra and affects the payment of family allowances to parents of handicapped children. I understand that one case has been sent to the Minister. Yesterday two cases were brought to my notice. In one case a parent who had put a child into an approved home for a holiday rest for 1 S days was told finally that she had lost both payments for the whole month. In the other case the period was just as brief. As this is a great injustice, I ask whether the Minister will reconsider what seems to be a most recent policy. If the children are in homes on the fourteenth or fifteenth of a month the parent loses both payments for the full month.

Senator GUILFOYLE:
LP

– I will undertake to review the matter raised by Senator Bishop. If there are two cases that he personally would like to refer to me I will see that they are investigated.

page 14

QUESTION

SMALL DISTILLERIES

Senator THOMAS:
WESTERN AUSTRALIA

– I direct a question to the Minister representing both the Minister for National Development and the Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs. It is illegal at present for small unlicensed distilleries to be operated in Australia. Because of the increasing cost and the risk of irregular supplies of oil-based fuels for rural production, will the Government consider allowing small distilleries to be operated in country areas to provide ethanol or grain alcohol as a fuel supplement and, depending on the product used for distillation, a high protein stock food as a by-product?

Senator DURACK:
LP

– That is an interesting proposition from Senator Thomas. I will refer it to the Ministers whom I represent and who may be concerned with the question.

page 14

QUESTION

KAMPUCHEA: FREE ELECTIONS

Senator WHEELDON:
WESTERN AUSTRALIA

-Has the Minister representing the Minister for Foreign Affairs seen statements which are reported to have been made by Prince Norodom Sihanouk in which he asked that the United Nations declare vacant the seat of Kampuchea in that organisation and that recognition be granted neither to the present Vietnamese supported government in Phnom Penh nor to the refugee government of Pol Pot, and asked also that the United Nations supervise the holding of free elections in Kampuchea? Does the Minister know whether the Australian Government has any policy on Kampuchea?

Senator CARRICK:
LP

– I have read reports as to the purported statements by Prince Sihanouk and his suggestions regarding action to be taken by the United Nations with regard to Kampuchea and the possibility of free elections. As to those matters I am not aware that the Government has responded. I will bring the attention of the Minister for Foreign Affairs to the question and seek a response for the honourable senator.

page 14

QUESTION

TRANS-AUSTRALIA AIRLINES

Senator RAE:
TASMANIA

– I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Transport. I refer to the questions which have been asked this afternoon relating to the proposed sale of the Government’s interest in the Ranger uranium project. I ask: While the Government is considering the sale of its Ranger interests, will it also, consistent with its philosophy, consider further the sale of Trans-Australia Airlines to a public listed company to be incorporated by the Commonwealth, in relation to which at least 50 per cent of the shares are offered to employees and in which the Commonwealth may retain some of the shares, and that other limited size holdings be offered to small investors?

Senator CHANEY:
LP

– Consistent with my own philosophy, I am very interested in the question asked by the honourable senator. As it is a serious matter and since we have had a longstanding commitment to the two-airline agreement, I believe I should refer it to Mr Nixon for consideration and reply.

page 15

QUESTION

ENGAGEMENT OF CONSULTANTS

Senator O’BYRNE:
TASMANIA

– Amongst the multitude of deceptions which the Government perpetrated during the election campaigns of 1975 and 1977 was the matter of jobs for the boys. The Government’s criticism of this practice was very trenchant. I should like to ask the Leader of the Government in the Senate how many times the Federal Director of the Liberal Party has been engaged as a consultant to the Government or to Mr Fraser personally? Has he taken leave without pay from the Liberal Party on each of these occasions, if any?

Senator CARRICK:
LP

– May I first of all detach the propaganda of the first part of the question. Let me make it perfectly clear that our criticism of the Whiltam Government’s long range of appointments and jobs for the boys was that they were political and without merit- ‘no damn merit’, as I think the phrase was on another occasion. Directing myself to Senator O ‘Byrne’s question, he will of course have refrained from informing the Senate and the people of Australia of the singular capacity and experience of Mr Eggleton in the field of the Commonwealth of Nations, he having been, over the years, directly associated with those institutions and with their leaders and, therefore, having a particular quality of value and experience not only to the Prime Minister and the Government but also to the people of Australia. Let me make it clear that it is only the Labor Party that regrets the great success of Mr Fraser at Lusaka. That success was in some measure due to the advisers around him. I do not know whether Mr Eggleton secured leave of absence. Unlike the Labor Party, when the Commonwealth Government uses advisers it uses people of singular expertise and experience, and in this case there are few people with more experience in this field than Mr Eggleton.

Senator O’BYRNE:

- Mr President, I ask a supplementary question of the Leader of the Government in the Senate. Is it a fact that the same Mr Eggleton as the one under discussion was officially deputed to hand out the Prime Minister’s Press statements during the Lusaka conference? If so, what qualifications does he have to act on behalf of our Prime Minister?

Senator CARRICK:

– I have no direct information on that matter. I ask the honourable senator to put the question on notice and I will get an answer for him.

page 15

QUESTION

CULTURAL MATERIAL FOR ETHNIC GROUPS

Senator MESSNER:
SOUTH AUSTRALIA

-Is the Minister representing the Minister for Transport aware that many ethnic groups, particularly schools, in Australia often seek cultural material, such as gramophone records, books, et cetera, from countries and that this quite often entails travel by expert people to such countries in order to evaluate the material concerned? Is it a fact that, whilst many overseas national airlines are prepared to grant free travel for such purposes, they are prohibited from so doing by Australian transport regulations? Whilst I appreciate certain administrative problems which might be involved, will the Minister consider altering regulations in order to facilitate this important ethnic cultural activity?

Senator CHANEY:
LP

– I will ask the Minister for Transport to give consideration to the matters raised by the honourable senator and to let him have a reply.

page 15

QUESTION

OVERSEAS TRAVEL BY DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER

Senator KEEFFE:

– My question is directed to the Minister representing the Prime Minister. I take the Minister back a few months and call his attention to the trip made by the Deputy Prime Minister to the Middle East. Is the Minister aware that the cost of sending the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Resources and a party to the Middle East was $ 10,462? Can the Minister inform the Parliament of the cost of providing the Royal Australian Air Force BAC 1 1 1 to carry that party to the Middle East?

Senator CARRICK:
LP

– I am not aware of the specific cost of carrying the Deputy Prime Minister to the Middle East. I am aware that, if the honourable senator’s figures are right, it cost something like five or six times that amount to carry the Leader and the Deputy Leader of the Opposition around the world during the parliamentary recess. I might say that that travel was undertaken for barren purposes and not for the obvious significant purposes associated with the role of the Deputy Prime Minister. If the honourable senator puts the question regarding the BAC1 1 1 on notice, I will seek the information.

page 16

QUESTION

AIRPORT RENT-A-CAR FRANCHISES

Senator ARCHER:

– I ask a further question of the Minister representing the Minister for Transport concerning the matter that I raised earlier. Will the Minister ascertain from the Minister for Transport whether, during the period in which tenders for licences for airport rent-a-car franchises were invited, the Minister or his Department was approached by any operator to ascertain whether the legal meaning of the wording of the tender documents was strictly in accordance with that wording or whether it permitted a legal interpretation such as that which had been applicable under the previous franchise? If any such question was raised, will the Minister ascertain which operator or operators asked such a question and also whether at any stage all the tenderers were advised that transferability in fact could be undertaken?

Senator CHANEY:
LP

– I will seek to ascertain those facts from the Minister for Transport and will let the honourable senator have a reply.

page 16

QUESTION

COMMONWEALTH SCIENTIFIC AND INDUSTRIAL RESEARCH ORGANISATION

Senator McINTOSH:
WESTERN AUSTRALIA

– My question is directed to the Minister for Science and the Environment. I was very interested to read the Minister’s glowing report on the activities of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation in the recent address that he gave when opening the Industrial Design Institute of Australia Commemorative Forum. The activities of the scientists and officers of the CSIRO are surely most commendable, but can the Minister inform me of the extent, if any, to which they are involved in developing a process to extract oil from coal; and can the answer be given in terms of dollars allocated?

Senator WEBSTER:
NCP/NP

– I thank the honourable senator for his comments about the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation. It certainly is worthy of the support of all. I know that it has that support from the Opposition as well as from the Government. The honourable senator asked whether the CSIRO is involved in research on the extraction of oil from coal. As part of the general package of energy research that has been put down, that subject certainly is one for assessment by the Government.

CSIRO has been involved for some years now, basically in Sydney, in what is known as the flash pyrolysis method of extraction of oil from coal and has been particularly successful in that respect. The honourable senator asked whether the answer could be put in dollar terms. Over a period of some years CSIRO has been involved in the extraction of oil from coal, using the particular method I mentioned. The various consequences of that and the testing of the product, which is carried out in another area of CSIRO ‘s operation at Fishermen’s Bend in Melbourne, would be inputs into the cost of the extraction of oil from coal. However, if the honourable senator has a genuine question in relation to the cost and cares to put the question on notice, I will seek an answer for him.

page 16

QUESTION

OIL EXPLORATION INCENTIVES

Senator MacGIBBON:

– My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for National Development, ls it a fact that between 1972 and 1975 oil exploration, as measured by the number of wells drilled, declined to a negligible figure and that since 1975 oil exploration has been re-established in this country? Is it also a fact that no incentive will be given to oil explorers in their search for oil if a secondary profits-related resources tax, which is now the inflexible and committed policy of the Australian Labor Party, is imposed on the oil industry?

Senator DURACK:
LP

-Although I do not have the actual figures in front of me, I agree in broad terms with what Senator MacGibbon has said. During the time of the Labor Government there was the greatest disincentive and discouragement in regard to the search for oil and gas. There was a steady decline in that area of activity, as indeed there was in many other areas of resource investment and development. The present Government has been able to revive a good deal of activity in this field, particularly since its world parity pricing policies have been implemented and understood. As the Senate would know, the Government was faced with the question of the effect of a resources tax in this area. It considered the matter but rejected such a tax because of the very clear disincentive effect it would have on investment in this and other vital areas of resources development. The Labor Party has adopted the same policy again, and if it were faced with responsibility in this area again, that policy would have the same effect as it had previously.

page 17

QUESTION

RACIAL DISCRIMINATION IN QUEENSLAND

Senator CAVANAGH:
SOUTH AUSTRALIA

-I ask the Attorney-General: Was a complaint received by the Commissioner for Community Relations from the Winchinam and Burdel groups of Aborigines in Queensland that the Queensland Government was acting in breach of the Commonwealth Racial Discrimination Act in refusing the transfer to such groups of land intended to be purchased? Did the Commissioner, in accordance with section 22 of the Racial Discrimination Act, call a conference of representatives of all parties concerned to try to resolve the matter? Were two Queensland State Ministers and two State Government officials directed to attend the conference and did they fail to attend? Did the complainants seek a certificate under section 24 of the Act to permit further proceedings? In the circumstances, did the Commissioner have a statutory responsibility to issue the certificate? As reported in the Press, did the Attorney-General pressure the Commissioner to neglect his statutory responsibility and not issue the certificates?

Senator DURACK:
LP

– As Senator Cavanagh has suggested, a conference was called by the Commissioner for Community Relations on alleged racial discrimination by Ministers and, I think, two officials of the Queensland Government. It was called by Mr Grassby and the Ministers and the two Queensland officials were instructed to attend. This is a question of long standing. Some time ago the Solicitor-General gave an opinion on the power of the Commissioner for Community Relations to call State Ministers to a conference of this kind. I wrote to the Commissioner for Community Relations and drew his attention to the opinion of the SolicitorGeneral and expressed my view and my agreement with it. I explained to him what in our opinion were the limits on his powers. That letter was conveyed to the Commissioner for Community Relations.

I can assume only that that is what it has been alleged constitutes pressurising of the Commissioner. All I was doing was drawing his attention to his legal powers and asking him to observe the limits of his legal powers. I specifically said in the letter that under the statute he was not, in the performance of his powers and functions, subject to direction by me or by any other Minister. As the first law officer of the Commonwealth 1 felt that it was my responsibility to inform him what his powers were. That is all I did.

Senator CAVANAGH:

– I direct a supplementary question to the Attorney-General. Did he instruct or advise Mr Grassby not to issue the certificates?

Senator DURACK:

– As I said, my letter to him was one to inform him, not instruct him.

Senator Cavanagh:

– Will you table it?

Senator DURACK:

– I am quite prepared to table the letter.

page 17

QUESTION

NAMIBIA

Senator CARRICK:
LP

-Senator Puplick asked me earlier in the day an important question regarding Namibia. I have some information. I am advised that since the Parliament last met there has been no real progress towards implementation of the Western-United Nations plan for a Namibian independent settlement. Developments over the past few months within Namibia, including the installation on 2 1 May of the internally elected Namibian Constituent Assembly as a national assembly with legislative powers and reports of continuing armed clashes between the South African forces and the South West African People’s Organisation can only further retard prospects for an early implementation of the plan. At the recent Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Lusaka the heads of government deplored South Africa’s attempt to establish an illegal national assembly as the developments contravened Security Council resolutions and were in defiance of the efforts of the international community to bring an end to South Africa’s illegal occupation of Namibia.

The Government has consistently supported the Western-Security Council plan for Namibia and believes it is most important for the future stability of southern Africa that it be put into effect. For this reason the Government is glad that the door to negotiations is being kept open and that discussions between the Five and the South African Government through the agency of the Five’s special envoy. Sir James Murray, will continue.

The Minister has previously outlined in another place some of the difficulties still to be resolved- the question of regroupment of SWAPO forces within Namibia, monitoring SWAPO forces in neighbouring countries and agreement on the composition of the United Nations Transitional Assistance Group. South Africa maintains that all SWAPO forces should be confined to regroupment centres in neighbouring countries- for example, Angola and Zambia- whilst the Secretary-General, in accordance with the Western plan, has proposed the establishment of a number of centres within Namibia to house such SWAPO forces as may be inside Namibia at the start of a ceasefire. The Australian offer to contribute an engineering unit, in response to informal approaches in New York, remains contingent upon final agreement emerging between the parties on the implementation of the United Nations plan.

page 18

ASSENT TO BILLS

Assent to the following Bills reported:

Wool Industry Amendment Bill 1979

Wool Tax Amendment Bill (No. 1 ) 1979

Wool Tax Amendment Bill (No. 2) 1979

Wool Tax Amendment Bill(No.3) 1979

Wool Tax Amendment Bill (No. 4) 1 979

WoolTax Amendment Bill(No.5) 1979

Wheat Industry Stabilization Amendment Bill 1979

Judiciary (Diplomatic Representation) Amendment Bill

1979

States Grants (Schools Assistance) Amendment Bill 1979

States Grants (Tertiary Education Assistance) Amendment Bill 1979

Wheat Industry Stabilization (Reimbursement of Borrowing Costs) Bill 1979

Income Tax (Rates and Assessment) Amendment Bill 1979

Atomic Energy Amendment Bill 1979

Live-stock Slaughter (Export Inspection Charge) Bill 1979

Live-stock Slaughter (Export Inspection Charge) Collection Bill 1979

Grain (Export Inspection Charge) Bill 1979

Grain (Export Inspection Charge) Collection Bill 1979

Wool Industry Amendment Bill (No. 2 ) 1 979

Excise Amendment Bill (No. 2) 1979

Qantas Airways Limited (Loan Guarantee) Bill 1979

Commonwealth Employees (Redeployment and Retirement) Bill 1979

Health Insurance Amendment Bill 1979

National Health Amendment Bill 1979

Supply Bill (No. 1) 1979-80

Supply Bill (No. 2) 1979-80

National Railway Network (Financial Assistance) Bill 1979

National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Amendment Bill 1979

Australian Federal Police Bill 1979

Taxation Administration Amendment Bill 1979

Estate Duty Assessment Amendment Bill 1979

Gift Duty Assessment Amendment Bill 1 979

Income Tax Assessment Amendment Bill (No. 3) 1979

Pay-roll Tax Assessment Amendment Bill 1979

Pay-roll Tax (Territories) Assessment Amendment Bill (No.2) 1979

Wine Grapes Levy Bill 1979

Wine Grapes Levy Collection Bill 1979

WineGrapesCharges(Repeal)Bill 1979

Wine Overseas Marketing Amendment Bill 1979

Bounty(Books) Amendment Bill 1979

Bounty (Rotary Cultivators) Bill 1979

Bounty (Dental Alloys) Bill 1979

Bounty (Paper) Bill 1979

Live-stock Slaughter Levy Amendment Bill 1 979

Live-stock Slaughter Levy Collection Amendment Bill 1979

Live-stock Export Charge Amendment Bill 1979

Australian Meat and Live-stock Corporation Amendment Bill 1979

Meat Research Amendment Bill 1979

Bounty (Injection-moulding Equipment) Bill 1979

Bounty (Bed Sheeting) Amendment Bill 1979

Customs Tariff Amendment Bill 1979

Excise Tariff Amendment Bill 1979

Customs Tariff Validation Bill 1979

Excise Tariff Amendment Bill (No. 2) 1979

Customs Tariff Amendment Bill (No. 2) 1 979

page 18

DEFENCE FORCES RETIREMENT BENEFIT FUND

Senator CARRICK:
New South WalesMinister for Education · LP

– For the information of honourable senators I present the second report by the Defence Forces Retirement Benefits Board, together with a companion report to the Board by the Australian Government Actuary, on the assets and liabilities of the Defence Forces Retirement Benefits Fund at 30 September 1972. I also present the text of a statement by the Minister for Defence relating to the reports.

page 18

REPORT ON EDUCATION AND TRAINING FOR SOCIAL WELFARE PERSONNEL

Senator GUILFOYLE:
Minister for Social Security · Victoria · LP

– For the information of honourable senators I present a report entitled ‘Education and Training for Social Welfare Personnel in Australia ‘ by Ms Eva Learner. This report was distributed to honourable senators during the recess.

Senator GRIMES:
Tasmania

– by leave- I move:

I seek leave to continue my remarks later.

Leave granted; debate adjourned.

page 18

REPORT ON THE LONG DISTANCE ROAD HAULAGE INDUSTRY

Senator CHANEY:
Western AustraliaMinister for Aboriginal Affairs · LP

– For the information of honourable senators I present a report of the Bureau of Transport Economics entitled The Long Distance Road Haulage Industry’. This report was distributed to honourable senators during the recess.

Senator ROBERTSON:
Northern Territory

-by leave- I move:

I seek leave to continue my remarks later.

Leave granted; debate adjourned.

page 18

REMUNERATION TRIBUNAL REVIEW

Senator CHANEY:
Western AustraliaMinister for Aboriginal Affairs · LP

– Pursuant to section 6 of the Remuneration Tribunal Act 1973 I present the Remuneration Tribunal Review 1 979 together with the text of a statement by the Minister for Administrative Services relating to the report. This report was distributed to honourable senators during the recess.

page 19

OIL SPILLS

Senator CHANEY:
Western AustraliaMinister for Aboriginal Affairs · LP

– For the information of honourable senators I present the text of a statement by the Minister for Transport on the report on oil spills by the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Environment and Conservation.

Senator MULVIHILL:
New South Wales

– by leave- I think it is essential that at the beginning of a new session we make provision for ample discussion at a later date on these various statements on international disasters. There is no question that the magnitude of each new oil spill seems to be increasing. Some questions have never been resolved and one of them was touched on in the first report of the Senate Select Committee on Water Pollution chaired by Senator Davidson. A number of other House of Representatives and Senate committees have considered the matter further. However nobody on the Government side has been very clear cut in relation to oil exploration mishaps and their effect on yachtsmen, fishermen or people at large and liability under the Navigation Act or the Tanker Owners Voluntary Agreement concerning liability for oil pollution. This is quite apart from the environment damages which may result. It is one matter about which we should have a more clear cut understanding.

As Senator Wriedt would be aware, the establishment of the Australian Marine College in Tasmania will improve the quality of our master mariners and the maritime work force generally and I know that amendments are contemplated to the Navigation Act. However, on the question of tanker mishaps as distinct from oil exploration mishaps, the Government has not indicated that it is prepared to outlaw inefficient vessels that masquerade under Liberian or Panamanian flags. These matters, coupled with the oil exploration mishap off the coast of Mexico, are matters on which we want full and frank discussion.

We are- I suppose it is debatable at times- a States House. We have relations with the various States. Without canvassing a dispute with honourable senators from the northern State of Queensland, 1 point out that our nearest major mishap was the Oceanic Grandeur disaster. There was a slanging match between Federal transport officers and State marine officers about who was right and who was wrong. Fortunately, I suppose, mother nature intervened and the effect of the tides was such that no major damage claims resulted.

I will round off my remarks because I know that Senator Mason, a fellow member of the Senate Committee on Science and the Environment wishes to supplement them. I believe that we cannot go on and on living in a fool ‘s paradise and believing that it will not happen here. It can and will happen here. Unless we have devised iron clad relations, as between Federal and State governments, to minimise the possibilities, we could have a disaster of amazing magnitude. I will conclude on that note.

Senator MASON:
New South Wales

-by leave- I rise to refer briefly to this matter now because I am a little concerned, in view of recent international events such as the Mexican oil spill, about the text of the statement of the Minister for Transport (Mr Nixon)- a view expressed also by honourable senators, particularly in the last session during the debate on the Great Barrier Reef- that somehow nothing is going to happen for the oil industry has reached a stage of technology where it is impossible for there to be major spills, wells can be capped and other measures taken to clean up or prevent a spill from becoming dangerous. In that regard I can only support the statement of Senator Mulvihill that a sort of ‘in-God-we-trust’ attitude is not good enough. Such an attitude is reflected in the Minister’s statement, when he says: . . although the possibility exists of large scale pollution from shipping, off-shore operations or land installations, experience has shown that the risk factors are extremely low. This is due to the low density of shipping around Australia and to the operating procedures followed on off-shore platforms and at shore installations.

When one reads the proceedings of overseas parliaments, and other organisations, including that of the California legislature, in regard to this matter, those words have a very familiar ring. The view has always been that it will not happen here. What we have to consider is what we will do if it does happen here.

When we come back to questions of oil drilling in certain parts of the Australian off-shore waters, surely we must go further than generalities and deal with specific matters. For instance, I would hope, as the Minister has mentioned, that one of the recommendations that will be carried through- the monitoring of international developments- will include a careful study of the history of major oil spills throughout the world in recent years and, further, that such information will then be collated and considered within the context of Australian weather, tidal and geographic patterns, because experience has shown that measures which can be taken to prevent or control oil spills differ greatly in different geographic situations. One would hope that, particularly if there is to be any question of oil exploration on, or exploitation of, the Great Barrier Reef, there should be prepared through this mechanism which the Government has provided- the monitoring of international developments- a specific model, available to the Australian people and to this Parliament, as to exactly what would happen if there were a major oil spill in areas of the Great Barrier Reef in which there are proposals to drill. I believe that once we have this information we will be in a position to judge whether such exploration should proceed. I believe that without that information it would be dangerous and irresponsible to do so.

The second major point that I wish to make concerns the question of funding. The report of the Minister says that a number of useful measures have not been carried through because, in some instances, of a problem of nonavailability of funds. These include such things as compulsory pilotage, imposing restricted areas around off-shore platforms, the widening of recommended tracks on navigation charts, the provision of increased funds for hydrography work, and the extension of the national plan to other hazardous substances.

All of these, except the last, have, I believe, a direct relationship to the tanker industry. I am wondering how that industry and the oil companies seem to have such a good lobby that the statement can be made that the view is not accepted by the Department of Transport or by the shipping industry that tanker operators should pay a larger share of levies because ‘in Australian waters tankers are no more frequently the source of marine pollution than other vessels’. Surely this misses the point completely. If an ordinary merchantman were unlucky enough to sink or go aground there would not be major pollution, but if it happened to an oil tanker there would indeed be pollution on a large scale. So guarding against that possibility in the future is what we ought to be considering, and I suggest that in this case the Government ought to consider going to the shipping industry and saying: Yes, if you do operate oil tankers it is essential, based on world experience, that you pay a levy, and that the resulting funds be used to plan for the future in a responsible way. ‘

Finally, for many decades- it is decades nowthere have been attempts by many wellintentioned people to get going a world organisation that is capable of dealing with oil spills. They have never succeeded. I ask the Australian Government at this stage to use its influence in international forums to see that that is done. I believe that is possibly the answer. Oil spills are now so enormous that to control them is beyond the ability of a single country. There again, we would hope that the planning organisation that we now have would study carefully which methods- bacterial, booming, air drops- have been used in other parts of the world, so that when we do have that oil spill of the future- and it will happen sooner or later, with tankers nearing the end of their useful lives and with greater oil exploration around this country- when that crisis comes we will be operating from a basis of knowledge and preparedness, rather than one of panic and complete ignorance.

Senator GEORGES:
Queensland

-by leave- I move:

I seek leave to continue my remarks.

Leave granted; debate adjourned.

page 20

TELECOMMUNICATIONS (INTERCEPTION) BILL 1979

Senator CARRICK:
New South WalesLeader of the Government in the Senate · LP

– I seek leave to move a motion to discharge from the Notice Paper a Bill contained in an Order of the Day.

Leave granted.

Senator CARRICK:

-I move:

Honourable senators will be aware that the Telecommunications (Interception) Bill 1979 (No. 2), listed on the Notice Paper as Government Business, Order of the Day No. 3, supersedes the Bill proposed to be discharged.

Question resolved in the affirmative.

page 21

NORTHERN TERRITORY SUPREME COURT (REPEAL) BILL 1979

Second Readings

Debate resumed from 6 June, on motion by Senator Durack:

That the Bills be now read a second time.

Senator BUTTON:
Victoria

-There are four Bills in this package relating to the Northern Territory Supreme Court or, rather, to the Northern Territory. I think that at this stage I had better put it no higher than that.

Senator Robertson:

– You wouldn’t be game.

Senator BUTTON:

-I think that Senator Robertson is already showing an interest in his bailiwick. In indicating briefly what the four Bills do, I make a fairly redundant speech, I think, because the Attorney-General (Senator Durack) has already done that. The first of the Bills, the Northern Territory Supreme Court (Repeal) Bill 1979, repeals the Northern Territory Supreme Court Act of 1961-68 in order that the 1979 Act may come into effect on a day to be proclaimed. There is in the Bill a number of transitional provisions in relation to appeal proceedings, pending before the High Court and the Federal Court of Australia, from decisions of the old Supreme Court. These preserve that right of appeal. Under clause 6, the repeal provisions will not affect the appointment of judges to the Federal Court of Australia where such appointments have been made before the commencing date. There are a number of other transitional provisions in that Bill.

The Bill to amend the Judiciary Act 1973 provides, by clause 3, that section 67b of the principal -

An incident having occurred in the chamber-

The PRESIDENT:

– Order!

Senator Evans:

– I apologise to the chamber. I have a new research assistant who was not aware of the conventions applicable to this place. It was quite by surprise that I was interrupted.

Senator BUTTON:

-I am grateful for the apology, Mr President. I have completely lost my train of thought in this important debate. (Quorum formed). I wish to express my gratitude to my colleague, Senator Grimes, who has brought

Government senators into the chamber in order that people may see the degree of unanimity that we have about this very important legislation.

Senator Walters:

– It certainly has not brought in the Labor senators.

Senator BUTTON:

-No. It has brought Senator Walters in. We always expect some noise from that side when she is present. I was speaking to the Judiciary Amendment Bill. Clause 3 of the Bill provides that Section 67b of the principal Act will allow the Commonwealth and the Territory to sue each other at law in equity or in tort in the new Supreme Court of the Territory. There are also provisions which will allow actions by way of prerogative writs in the Supreme Court against the Commonwealth or its officers. The Bill grants the Territory’s Supreme Court the powers contained in section 15(2) of the Old Act. There is also a provision which makes it clear that the Legislative Assembly of the Northern Territory shall have full power to make laws for the prosecution of indictable offences against the laws of the Territory in the Supreme Court. That is consistent with previous decisions of this Parliament in relation to the state of the Northern Territory Legislative Assembly. Section 67e provides that there shall be no execution against a property or moneys of the Territory. Section 67f provides that jurisdiction conferred on the Supreme Court of the Northern Territory by this Act is in addition to and not in derrogation of any jurisdiction otherwise conferred on that court. There are a number of transitional provisions in this Bill. 1 will now briefly refer to the Federal Court of Australia Amendment Bill 1979. That is consequent on the provisions of the Northern Territory Supreme Court (Repeal ) Bill. The Judges’ Pensions Amendment Bill is also consequential and will merely change the nomenclature of judges of the Northern Territory Supreme Court in the Judges’ Pension Act 1968. These are, I have no doubt, very important Bills. As 1 have indicated, the Opposition does not oppose them. I hope that honourable senators were enlightened by my explanations of the respective clauses of the Bills. I wish the Bills a speedy passage.

Senator DURACK:
Western AustraliaAttorneyGeneral · LP

– in reply- I thank the Opposition for its support of these measures. Despite the interruptions, Senator Button treated us to a very clear analysis of these Bills. I do not think that there is anything really -

Senator Grimes:

– Erudite.

Senator DURACK:

– It was erudite as well. I do not think that there is further need for me to add to this debate. I also share the hope that the Bills may have a speedy passage.

Question resolved in the affirmative.

Bills read a second time, and passed through their remaining stages without amendment or debate.

page 22

HIGH COURT JUSTICES (LONG LEAVE PAYMENTS) BILL 1979

Second Readings

Debate resumed from 9 May, on motion by Senator Durack:

That the Bills bc now read a second time.

Senator BUTTON:
Victoria

-The substance of the High Court Justices (Long Leave Payments) Bill 1979 and the Judges (Long Leave Payments) Bill 1979 has been dealt with by the Attorney-General (Senator Durack) in the second reading speech. I only want to make some very brief comments about these Bills and to move an amendment to the second reading stage of the Bills. These Bills remedy a situation that was discovered in a Senate Estimates committee as far back as April 1 977 when those three outstandingly diligent senators, Senators Wright, James McClelland and Wheeldon, in the course of their duties on an Estimates committee, raised questions about the capacity of the Government to make long service leave payments to Federal judges. Honourable senators will recall these questions being raised at the time. It appeared that the payments, which were in the form of a gratuity, were made by virtue of a convention that one suspects the High Court had established for itself. Under that convention the judges got a pot of gold at the end of the judicial rainbow which was provided for by the Government. As I understand it, the amount was essentially determined by the judges themselves.

The three honourable senators to whom I referred raised questions as to the validity and desirability of payments being made in this way to judges. This legislation reflects the view that the Government now considers that it is more appropriate for these payments to be legislated for as, of course, other long service leave payments in respect of ordinary people are legislated for. It has taken a very long time for the AttorneyGeneral to bring these Bills to the Senate consequent upon that Estimates committee of April 1 977. One makes no further comment about that. We welcome them as necessary legislation and do not dispute that long service leave payments forjudges should be legislated for.

However, there are a couple of matters in the Bills which we regard as unsatisfactory. The first relates to the arrangements for payment of long service leave to judges. These Bills provide for no pro rata payment of long service leave in the event of a judge leaving the bench prior to 10 years of service being completed. The Long Service Leave (Commonwealth Employees) Act 1976, which deals with other Commonwealth employees, provides for a pro rata payment in respect of termination of service before the expiration of 10 years.

It is important to remember that a number of desirable points should be taken into account in considering the whole question of payment of long service leave, and that it is important in any legislation which comes before this Parliament that there should be a consistency of approach about the payment of long service leave entitlement. I say that because with the consequences of the greater incursions into the working lives of most people in the community which I believe are likely to follow from technological change, and the consequences of what is sometimes termed in the jargon the post-industrial society, more and more as a legislature, we will have to examine the provisions pertaining to the formal provision of periods of leisure in the course of people’s working lives.

It is desirable that we develop some consistency in the principles which apply and see that as far as possible key principles apply across the board and apply to judges as well as everybody else. I believe we have to be diligent in considering such questions as the desirability of portability of long service leave entitlement and perhaps as time goes by long service leave entitlement accruing after much shorter periods and being made available to people in part time employment. We must consider also the important question of pro rata payments to people whose employment is terminated prior to the expiration of the period in respect of which they are eligible for full long service leave entitlements

In the course of discussing this legislation I wish to draw attention to the fact that there are quite disgracefully discriminatory provisions in long service leave legislation throughout Australia. I am not referring only to Commonwealth legislation but also, more particularly, to State legislation, which I would think covers the vast majority of employees for long service leave entitlement. In that context it is important that the Australian Government should set the pace in terms of setting uniform, and perhaps better, standards for long service leave.

Let us look at the sorts of situations which arise when long service leave is not payable on a pro rata basis prior to a lengthy period of employment. Anyone who is experienced in law or industrial relations will be familiar with numerous cases of companies which, if long service leave is provided for after 10 years, adopting the practice of examining their staffing situation and getting rid of people at the expiration of about nine and a half years service. There is some point in looking at the desirability of introducing pro rata payments on a wider basis to try to stop that practice. It is a principle which should be enshrined in all long service leave legislation.

Similarly, employees who have been with a company for a long time but who have served for less time than the period needed to accrue absolute rights to payment of long service leave often feel themselves financially bound to remain with the one employer for fear of forfeiting those rights to long service leave entitlements. It is not only bad for an employee who remains in a work situation unhappily because financial reasons dictate that he should do so but arguably it is also bad for the economy generally in terms of the prevention of natural mobility of labour and natural choice of career and job. That is an issue which will become more and more important as society becomes increasingly technologically committed in terms of changing skills and things of that kind which will affect people’s desire for mobility in employment.

I raise those general issues only because I think it is important that general principles should be considered when one is talking about any legislative vehicle dealing with long service leave. I know people such as the Attorney-General hang on my every word and, if those issues are not particularly relevant to this legislation the next time long service leave legislation is introduced these sorts of matters will undoubtedly be taken into account. The problems which flow from the inflexibility of long service leave legislation throughout Australia are compounded by the worse problem with superannuation in Australia. It is not really a problem with judges but it is a problem with most employees. That problem is well illustrated by companies which, through private trust deeds governing the administration of superannuation funds, effectively bind employees for a lifetime in much the same way as I have just suggested in relation to long service leave entitlement.

A second specific objection to this legislation is that under it judges will be accredited with 36 days of long service leave per year of service, whilst under the Long Service Leave (Commonwealth Employees) Act Commonwealth employees are entitled to a mere three-tenths of a month per year of service, which works out at approximately nine days per year of service. So there is a long service leave entitlement of nine days per year of service for Commonwealth employees generally and 36 days per year of service forjudges. I am not arguing for an increase in the entitlement of Commonwealth public servants in respect of that matter; I am not arguing necessarily for a decrease in respect of judges. I am arguing for some degree of uniformity in the entitlements because, after all, the judges’ salaries, which of course are enormous, are presumably assessed on the basis of all the disabilities which attach to their most onerous profession. Their long service leave entitlement in terms of money reflects the onerous nature of their work long after they have, as it were, transcended the bench and entered another sphere of life on, indeed, a sphere of death, in which case the benefits flow to the widow. It is very difficult to establish what is the basis for the discrepancy for judges and other people in this legislation. Perhaps the Attorney can tell honourable senators something about that. I would have thought that the differences were most adequately compensated for in terms of judicial salaries.

Senator Missen:

– You treat them as ordinary mortals, do you?

Senator BUTTON:

– I would never suggest that but I am grateful for the phrase that the honourable senator has used, because it is something about which we ought to think. The point I seek to make is about the ludicrous discrepancy, for which I do not think there is any justification, except that perhaps judges have a bit of clout with Government because of their robes and things which seem to make them more important than anybody else. As I have said, the Opposition has two objections to the legislation. For that reason I move:

I have moved this amendment not out of any desire to denigrate the high office of judges or necessarily to increase Commonwealth employee entitlements, but out of a desire that this

Parliament look towards establishing some principles of uniformity which will seem to have a rational base in relation to long service leave entitlements for all Australians when we come to legislate on those issues. They are increasingly important issues in terms of the changing pattern of work life in Australia. For that reason I commend the second reading amendment to the Senate.

The DEPUTY PRESIDENT-Is the amendment seconded?

Senator EVANS:
Victoria

– I second the amendment. (Quorum formed). When stripped to their essentials these two Bills provide in effect for payments of the two following kinds to High Court judges in particular and to Federal judges generally. First of all, there is provision for an additional payment of 12 months’ salary on the retirement of the judge in question after 10 years’ or more service. Secondly, there is the provision for pro rata payment on death of 5.2 weeks’ salary for each year of service which the judge has given. These payments are expressed to be reduced by the amount of the actual long leave which the judge may have taken and to that extent the payments provided for in this legislation are payments in lieu of long service leave.

As we were told by the Attorney-General (Senator Durack) when he introduced this legislation, we now have embodied in legislationthat is, in the Bills before us- what hitherto has been merely the subject of administrative arrangements which as such have been the subject of considerable criticism by a Senate Estimates committee in 1977, as Senator Button pointed out. While the Opposition certainly applauds the decision, belated as it is in its accomplishment, actually to embody financial arrangements of this kind in legislative form rather than to leave them to ex gratia payments and the operation of convention and administrative arrangements, we are certainly not at all happy with the terms of this particular legislation which is now before us.

The essential reasons for our unhappiness are those summarised by Senator Button in terms of the second reading amendment which is before this chamber. It seems to me that there are three basic criticisms which can be directed to these Bills. Let me spell them out in turn. The first is that, as does any payment in lieu of the taking of leave of any kind, the provisions of a lump sum cash payment here must be regarded, at least to some extent, as encouraging the acceptance by judges of payment in lieu of leave rather than the actual physical taking of leave by them. This, I understand, has been the practice for many years, particularly at the High Court level where long leave has been taken only in fairly isolated instances and has not been regarded as something which the judges took as a regular matter. However, in our view it is not desirable for judges, any more than it is for anyone else in the community, to accumulate leave of this kind and take it in cash form rather than to enjoy it as it falls due. We make this point, as the Government has been heard to make it on a number of occasions at least in the context of annual leave, particularly in the context of jobs of the kind in issue here which involve very considerable stresses and strains on the incumbents. We regard it as both appropriate and desirable that occupants of judicial office, particularly high appellate judicial office take leave as it falls due. There is an unfortunate incentive to that extent embodied in this legislation for them not to do that.

The desirability of persons of this character and decision taking this leave was in fact something which was emphasised by a number of Government back benchers in another place. I recall that in May when this matter was debated in the other chamber, the honourable member for Fadden, Mr Donald Cameron, said:

Sometimes when I watch the efforts of some Ministers- referring to his own Ministers -

I think that the holiday period should be extended- beyond the two weeks which they are customarily in the habit of taking– to perhaps three or even four weeks.

That point becomes perhaps particularly pertinent to those of us who heard Mr Newman, the Minister for National Development, referring this morning three times in the course of the radio program AM to the ‘United Arab Emigrants’- not ‘Emirates’ as one might have expected. As my colleague Senator Sibraa said, this is something one might expect from a National Country Party Minister, but it represents a sad deterioration in standards for the once great Liberal Party. Even Ministers, it seems, from time to time require a more extended period of leave than they seem able to get under present arrangements.

We would make the same point, sharing the sentiments of the honourable member for Fadden, in respect of judges. We make that point particularly in the context, as I have said, of judges of high appellate standing who are subject to very great stresses and strains and who deserve rest accordingly. There are some less than charitable souls who might hope that the leave taken by some High Court Justices would be of a more permanent character than is provided for in this particular legislation. Without going so far as to suggest anything of that kind the Opposition makes the point that judges ought to be encouraged to take leave and not simply to accumulate an entitlement and cash it in the way they are allowed to do by this particular legislation.

The second and perhaps most substantial criticism of this legislation is that it sets standards for long service leave which are far in excess of the norm prevailing in the community generally and certainly in excess of the norm prevailing in the Public Service. The norm in the community generally is a figure of something like nine days of long service leave accumulated for each year of service carried out as compared with 5.2 weeks which is the relevant figure here. One cannot help but note that legislation of this kind can do nothing but encourage unions, particularly the Public Service and white collar unions, to seek the extension of benefits of this kind to themselves. No doubt when claims of this kind are made they will be met by the Government, with all the hypocrisy which it is usually able to muster on these occasions, with a clear, straightforward and unequivocal rejection. The Government is tempting fate by passing legislation of this kind and by setting standards of this kind.

While it may be that judges are deserving of proper financial consideration for taking up the burdens that they do, it is difficult to argue that they are especially deserving, more so than other members of the community who work equally hard for a living. It is, it seems, just a matter of judges, whether waving their robes or exercising some other kind of strategic power, being a small group of strategically located employees who are able to exercise industrial muscle which is out of all proportion to their desserts. It is a phenomenon which this Government is not loth to criticise in a very elaborate and rumbustious form when it is experienced in other industrial contexts, and in my suggestion it is a phenomenon which the Government ought to be equally robust about condemning and rejecting when it occurs in a judicial context. It is not to the point that this legislation is simply embodying an established convention or administrative practice. If there has been such a practice which has emerged and developed over recent years to pay these sorts of sums on an ex gratia basis, it is a practice which ought to cease. In the present stringent economic and public sector financial climate that we are constantly told about, this is one particular gravy train which, in the Opposition’s submission, ought to come to a halt.

Senator Missen:

– Are you and Senator Button on the same side when you say that?

Senator EVANS:

– I think if the honourable senator reads the Hansard, he will appreciate-

Senator Missen:

– I will study it carefully.

Senator EVANS:

– I have no doubt that with the honourable senator’s customary attention to detail, even from some 12,000 miles distance, he will be only too able to draw attention to any anomalies which might appear. Nor is it to the point, in case this particular matter might be thought by the Attorney-General to be relevant when he replies, that judges are deserving of some special financial consideration because in most cases they are giving up substantially greater incomes than they receive as judges on the Bench. I make the point, whether or not my colleague Senator Button also makes it, that barristers who get of the order of $80,000 to $ 100,000 or more per year by way of income are, by any standards, however hard they work, being overpaid. To that extent a barrister’s income ought not be treated by the Government, or anyone else, as a relevant consideration when working out the kinds of fringe benefits to which judges ought to be entitled by virtue of their judicial office. Perhaps a further point that needs to be made here is that judges’ salaries are fixed basically by a remuneration tribunal and it is to that remuneration tribunal, in respect of Federal judges generally, that arguments of this particular kind ought to be put in order that proper considerations might be applied, rather than one-off random considerations of the kind which seem to have lain behind the initial development of this administrative practice and which are now enshrined in this particular legislation.

A third criticism which the Opposition makes of this Bill is that it does not provide- and I certainly understood Senator Button to be making this point with some vigour- any pro rata payment for justices who are forced to retire before completing 10 years’ service. This, in my submission, is quite anomalous, not least because, first of all, many other employees in the community- I suggest most other employees- do have pro rata provisions of some kind in their long service leave entitlements. I understand in particular that the position with respect to Commonwealth public servants under recently enacted legislation is that there is a pro rata provision which applies after only one year’s service in the event of age or invalidity forcing the retirement of the public servant in question. A further anomaly that occurs to one as a result of the absence of any pro rata provision is the extraordinary one that judges may feel themselves placed by this legislation in a position where it is financially advantageous to them, or at least I suppose I should say to their families, for them to die on the job, to continue working when they are manifestly ill, rather than retiring, because if they are in a situation where they have not yet accumulated their basic 10 years’ service they will get no cash return in lieu of long service leave forgone. That seems to me a quite obviously anomalous provision which flows very directly from the provisions before us, and in particular the failure of those provisions to conform to the kind of provisions which are applicable in most other parts of the community, and in particular are applicable to Commonwealth employees under the Long Service Leave (Commonwealth Employees) Act 1976. It is for those reasons that I support the second reading amendment which has been moved by the Opposition.

Senator MISSEN:
Victoria

-I feel that I should say a few words at least on this subject, even though I had not contemplated doing so. While I drew attention to what seemed to be some rather remarkable inconsistency in tone and approach between the two speakers from the Opposition on one aspect, I must say that on this last aspect I also express some concern. I will not be voting for the Opposition amendment, I am not endeavouring to change the Bill, but I hope the Government will look further at this question of pro rata payments. It does seem to me that there is a great deal of sense in what has just been said about the provisions in relation to a judge who perhaps sensibly ought to retire before a period has elapsed. Not to make provision in respect of judges whilst they are made in respect of other persons, public servants and so forth, seems to me very considerably a matter of injustice and a matter of folly. So far as this aspect is concerned, I would be very interested to hear why there should not be a pro rata provision. This is why I hope that the Government will look further into this matter. If it is persuaded by some foolish propaganda by persons that it is not desirable to give judges too much, and this is thought to be something which is too much, I should like it known that I do not think it is, and I never have thought it was too much. It seems to me that this is something which the judges could rightly have expected to have had in this legislation, but it is something which is not there. Therefore, I rise to express my own concern that this provision is not in the legislation and hope that the Government will look at it again.

Senator DURACK:
Western AustraliaAttorneyGeneral · LP

– The Opposition has submitted an amendment that the Bill should be withdrawn and redrafted to provide for pro rata long leave entitlements for judges on the same basis as long leave entitlements to Commonwealth employees. It is not quite clear to me, as indeed I do not think it was clear to Senator Missen, just what is the attitude of the Opposition to this measure. I do not know whether the object of this amendment is to seek a redrafting of this Bill in order to put the long leave entitlements of judges on the same basis as Commonwealth public servants, or whether the Opposition wants to improve the Bill in order to provide this additional entitlement to pro rata leave, and presumably payment in lieu thereof. Indeed, from what Senator Button said, I understood it was really the latter purpose. But in view of something that Senator Button said, and also what Senator Evans has said, it seems as though the Opposition is really opposed to the provisions for long leave which have been accorded to judges.

This legislation does not constitute a code of long leave for judges. The rights and entitlements of judges to long leave are set out in administrative arrangements which have been in existence for some years. In fact, I think it was in about 1967 that those arrangements were formally adopted by way of a Cabinet decision. Those administrative arrangements set out the entitlements to leave and also the payments which may be made in respect of leave not taken. The vast majority of Federal judges have been appointed on that basis. Indeed, I think that all High Court judges, with the exception of the Chief Justice, have been appointed on the basis of those arrangements. The taking of long leave by judges is a practice of long standing.

Really, the purpose of this legislation is to give effect to an undertaking which I gave to this chamber on behalf of my predecessor, the present Minister for Home Affairs and Minister for the Capital Territory, Mr Ellicott, in response to criticisms made in the hearings of the relevant Senate Estimates Committee in 1977, I think it was; Senator Evans mentioned the date of those hearings. As I recollect, the criticism of that Committee was not in respect of the long leave to which judges were entitled, nor was it in respect of the actual payments to which they were entitled in lieu of long leave not taken. The criticism of the Senate Estimates Committee was that those payments were not authorised by an Act of

Parliament but were authorised simply by the administrative arrangements to which I have referred. The only parliamentary authorisation is contained in the Appropriation Bill. Of course, it was the Appropriation Bill which the Senate Estimates Committee was considering in its hearings.

The Government accepted that Committee’s criticism and agreed that any payments to judges, on the highest constitutional principles, should be provided for in legislation. That is what this Bill does. As I said, it has been brought into the Parliament purely and simply to give effect to the undertaking which was given to the Parliament by my predecessor and which at the time was given specifically to this chamber by me on behalf of my predecessor. So this legislation contains no new policy at all. It is designed simply to give legislative effect to one aspect of the entitlement of judges to long leave, namely, the payments to which they are entitled in lieu of any of that leave which is not taken by them.

Senator Button outlined some views about the nature of long leave- about what the entitlements to it should be throughout the community. What he said was of interest to me and to the Government, as it always is, despite some pessimism which he seems to have about these matters. I certainly will give regard to what he said. But I do emphasise that those entitlements of the judges are really, in a sense, accrued rights in that all the judges have been appointed on the basis of their receiving those rights. They know on appointment that those entitlements are part of the rights which they will have. From something which Senator Button said I am rather of the impression that he is not opposed to judges receiving long leave of the length to which they are entitled under these arrangements, although Senator Evans was critical of what, as I understand it, he thought were excessive entitlements.

Senator Button:

– An appropriate divergence in the House of review.

Senator DURACK:

– Quite. I am only pointing out these matters. I am not wanting to chastise the Opposition in any shape or form. What I really want to emphasise is that these are rights and entitlements on the basis of which the vast majority of the judges of Federal courts have been appointed. Senator Button talked about the mobility of labour and of how we ought to have as much uniformity as possible under these entitlements to long leave because of the greater mobility of labour. Although that undoubtedly is correct- I think that mobility of labour is a very welcome development in our modern economy- I do not think mobility of labour is likely to apply to judges. In the case of judges, virtually the only mobility would be between State and Federal judiciaries. It is a fact that recently one judge of the Family Court resigned to go back to his practice at the bar, but I think that, generally speaking, the argument about mobility in the labour force generally has little application to the judiciary.

Senator Evans:

– Do not forget Bert Evatt. Lionel Murphy might still come back to haunt you.

Senator DURACK:

-We should never forget Dr Evatt. I am sure that no one would ever be able to forget him. Another matter which was raised related to pro rata leave. It has not been provided for Federal judges. Indeed, from the investigations which have been made by my Department, it does not appear that it is provided in any of the States. Each of the States provides for a very substantial qualifying period before there is an entitlement to long leave. In Queensland, Victoria and South Australia, the qualifying period is seven years. In Tasmania, which incidentally provides only three months long leave, the qualifying period is five years. Western Australia provides for three months long leave after five years service or six months leave after seven years service. New South Wales provides six months long leave after five years service. So, the general principal has been against pure pro rata entitlements. As I said, all the States provide for a substantial qualifying period. Admittedly, under our provisions the qualifying period is 10 years. It might be that there is merit in the suggestion that the Commonwealth Government should look again at the actual entitlements.

As I have said, this legislation is not brought forward to provide the entitlement. The entitlement is there; it has been there for many years. This legislation has been introduced purely and simply to give legislative force to payments in lieu of long leave not taken or lost by reason of death. The Bill has never been intended to address itself to the general matter of policy on entitlement to long leave and how it ought to be altered. However, the matter of pro rata entitlements has been raised in this debate. Senator Missen indicated that he would support certain pro rata provisions. I think that the general tenor of the debate has been interesting and valuable. Certainly I would like to give the matter further consideration. However, I think it would be a pity if this beneficial legislation were held up while those matters were reconsidered. As I have said, the legislation is designed to give force to an undertaking first given, as Senator

Evans pointed out, over two years ago. I know that Senator Evans does not like the Government and its Attorney-General in particular delaying measures, so I hope that he will not support the Opposition’s amendment. That would mean only further delay. For those reasons the Government does not accept the amendment. I hope that it will be defeated and that this beneficial legislation will have a speedy passage this afternoon.

Question put:

That the words proposed to be left out (Senator Button’s amendment) be left out.

The Senate divided. (The President- Senator the Hon. Sir Condor Laucke )

AYES: 27

NOES: 34

Majority……. 7

AYES

NOES

Question so resolved in the negative.

Original question resolved in the affirmative.

Bills read a second time, and passed through their remaining stages without amendment or debate.

Sitting suspended from 5.9 to 8 p.m.

page 28

DISTINGUISHED VISITORS

The PRESIDENT:

– May I express our pleasure at the company in my Gallery of two former highly respected and esteemed members of this place in the persons of Sir Robert Cotton and Mr Laurie Wilkinson. To Sir Robert and Lady Cotton, and to Mr Wilkinson we tender warm welcomes back to this place.

Honourable senators- Hear, hear!

page 28

BUDGET 1979-80

Suspension of Standing Orders

Motion (by Senator Carrick) agreed to:

That so much of the Standing Orders be suspended as would prevent the Minister for Education (Senator Carrick) speaking without limitation of time when moving that the Senate take note of the Budget Papers 1 979-80.

Senator CARRICK:
New South WalesMinister for Education · LP

– For the information of honourable senators I lay upon the table the following papers:

Estimates of Receipts and Summary of Estimated Expenditure for the year ending 30 June 1 980

Civil Works Program 1979-80

Government Securities on Issue at 30 June 1979

Payments to or for the States, the Northern Territory and Local Government Authorities 1 979-80

Australia’s Overseas Development Assistance Program 1979-80

National Income and Expenditure 1978-79

National Accounting Estimates of Receipts and Outlays of Commonwealth Government Authorities

Income Tax Statistics

Particulars of Proposed Expenditure for the service of the year ending 30 June 1980

Particulars of Certain Proposed Expenditure in respect of the year ending 30 June 1980.

I seek leave to move a motion.

Leave granted.

Senator CARRICK:

-I move:

Tonight the Treasurer is delivering in another place his Budget Speech for 1 979-80.

It is my privilege to outline to the Senate the budget proposals of the Government.

The purpose of a Budget Speech is not only to give details of a Government’s revenue and expenditure plans for the year.

It is also an occasion to take stock, to review the course of the economy over the previous year, to assess prospects and problems for the year ahead and above all to restate the basic economic policies of the Government.

One persistent theme has dominated this Government’s conduct of economic policy since its election in 1975.

That has been the uncompromising nature of its attack upon inflation as the fundamental and most enduring cause of the economic difficulties of the 1970’s.

Tonight I reaffirm the determination of this Government to maintain that attack.

In recent months, due largely to world wide price increases, inflationary pressures have intensified in Australia.

The prime purpose, therefore, of this Budget is to respond decisively to these renewed pressures.

In doing so we should not lose sight of the real gains that have been made. Despite the recent upward movement in inflation, it is still very much lower than it was several years ago.

It should not be forgotten that inflation was as high as 17 per cent in the year to June 1975 and stood at 14 per cent when this Government took office. For the year to June 1979 it was 8.8 per cent which was below the average for the OECD countries.

The priority given by the Government to the attack upon inflation has been vindicated by the steady improvement in Australia’s economic health over the past three and a half years.

That improvement strengthened and broadened in 1978-79.

Real gross domestic product is presently estimated to have increased by 4.7 percent.

It was, of course, a very good year for the rural sector, with a most gratifying rise in real farm product of 36 per cent.

Growth elsewhere, while less spectacular, was still quite firm.

On current estimates, real non-farm product grew by 2.8 percent.

Business fixed investment recorded an increase of 10 per cent in real terms.

Private dwelling construction has also picked up.

Overall business profits improved last year. This process must continue if recovery is to be consolidated.

Civilian employment grew by 1 .4 per cent over the course of the year. Most encouragingly private sector employment rose by about Vh per cent and, for the first time since 1973-74, there was a rise in jobs in manufacturing industry.

Our balance of payments turned sharply for the better in the second half of the financial year.

It was especially pleasing to see a strong growth in manufactured exports reflecting a substantial improvement in the competitiveness of Australian industry.

Confidence in the strength and stability of the Australian economy continued to grow.

Private capital inflow for 1978-79 was the largest for seven years.

There was also a marked rise in the number of major investment projects foreshadowed.

These developments clearly show that policies which address fundamental economic problems do yield results.

Lower inflation does inspire greater confidence and encourage greater risk taking.

Lower costs do make our industries more competitive; they do encourage development; and they do, thereby, provide jobs.

The clear benefits of firmly pursuing an antiinflationary policy over more than three years are reason enough to reaffirm that policy tonight.

Moreover, the difficulties faced by the entire industrialised world- including Australia- over the next year in responding to fresh inflationary pressures make it all the more essential that fighting inflation be the hallmark of this Budget.

In doing so we should remember that no Government can guarantee that prices rises will never occur; indeed, some price rises are inevitable.

The rise in the price of oil is a case in point.

Our policy in respect of crude oil is to conserve our resources through a reduction in consumption, to promote exploration and to encourage the use of alternative energy sources.

There is no way this policy can be effectively pursued unless the price of Australian crude oil is set at the world level.

This means we now feel the full effects of price increases by the OPEC countries.

Oil prices alone will add directly about 1 lA per cent to the Consumer Price Index in 1979.

We might wish that we could isolate ourselves from the higher world oil prices.

But to have persevered with the old pricing policy would merely have delayed the inevitable change and would have run counter to our energy objectives.

Ultimately the change would have been forced upon us. Ultimately it would have been necessary to recognise that if something is scarce, artificially holding down its price will make it even scarcer.

If we had delayed the change the eventual dislocation would have been all the greater.

page 30

THE 1978-79 BUDGET OUTCOME

The Budget deficit in 1978-79 was $665 m higher than estimated when the Budget was brought down last August.

The higher deficit was not due to a relaxation of expenditure restraint. Outlays grew by 8.4 per cent which was only 0.6 per cent greater than estimated in the Budget itself.

Most of the higher deficit was due to a revenue shortfall of $490m largely in the areas of provisional and company tax.

Tax avoidance played no small part in the lower revenue collections in these two areas.

Of the total revenue shortfall, $180m was due to tax avoidance over and above the allowance which had been made for that when the Budget figures were prepared last year.

To illustrate the continuing nature of the tax avoidance problem, I point out that the total amount of income tax outstanding at 30 June 1979 included an abnormally high figure of $433m attributable to specific tax avoidance schemes against which the Government has taken action.

This amount is in effect tax in dispute arising from these schemes. Given the nature of the processes involved, it is not assumed, for the purpose of the revenue estimates, that any of this amount will be recovered in 1 979-80.

In addition, in preparing this year’s estimates of revenue it has been necessary to allow a sum of $2 50m to cover further possible loss of revenue through tax avoidance.

page 30

THE SHAPE OF THE BUDGET

I have already explained the economic needs to which this Budget must respond.

Accordingly, we have decided upon a major reduction in the size of both the total and the domestic deficits.

In doing so we have continued firm restraint over our expenditures.

The containment of Government spending has been one of the central elements of our economic policy.

It is worth noting that in the three years to 1972-73 Commonwealth Budget outlays grew by an average of 43A per cent per year in real terms; in the three years to 1975-76, by lO’/i per cent per year; and in the three years to 1 978-79 by only 1 per cent per year.

There is a growing and I believe proper sentiment in the community towards lower taxation and smaller government.

However, it is all too often the case that enthusiasm for taxation reductions and for the general restraint on expenditures which makes these reductions possible is not matched by a willingness to accept the consequences of expenditure reductions in particular areas.

It is the Government’s responsibility to achieve a proper balance between these competing pressures.

No one should be under any illusion that the task is easy.

It is often compounded by unexpected changes in the need for certain government services. For example, an examination of our defence needs earlier this year showed that we required a greater commitment to defence spending.

This priority will undoubtedly command the support of the Australian community but, obviously, it comes at a price.

Furthermore, the need for social security spending- which is the largest single item in the Budget- can increase through circumstances not always within the control of any government.

The proportion of social welfare pension and benefit recipients in the community has about doubled since 1971-72.

Whilst a considerable part of this increase results from an extension of benefits such as the removal of the means test for those aged over 70 and the introduction of the sole parent benefit, social and demographic factors have also swollen the social welfare bill.

These include the aging of the population, the greater tendency towards early retirement, the increased incidence of single parent families, and a sharp rise in the number of World War II veterans becoming eligible for the service pension.

However, all in all, this Government’s record in expenditure restraint speaks for itself.

On the revenue side I noted in my statement of 24 May that it was not possible to make final decisions about revenue measures for 1 979-80 until closer to the Budget.

I also foreshadowed in that statement that it would not prove possible to both restore tax indexation for this financial year and remove the income tax surcharge imposed in the last Budget.

In the final event, we have been able, within the context of a responsible Budget, to remove the surcharge from 1 December.

As it happened, there were major changes in the revenue picture between May and final preparation of the Budget.

One of the main changes related to the crude oil levy.

Prior to the new arrangements I announced in May, it could have been expected that, on the basis of then posted OPEC prices, revenue from the levy would have been $ 1 ,363m in 1 979-80 or $ 1 74m more than actual receipts in 1 978-79.

Revenue from the levy is now estimated to be $2,023m, or about $660m greater than the earlier estimate.

Of this additional amount, $140m reflects the new arrangements concerning the levy on parityrelated oil announced in my statement in May and fully set out by my colleague the Minister for National Development on 29 June 1979, had posted OPEC prices remained in their May levels.

The remaining $520m thus represents the additional revenue flowing from the further price increase announced by OPEC on 28 June.

But this does not mean that when we came to finalise the Budget we had $S20m more in hand than we had supposed on 24 May.

In particular, policy decisions aside, estimates of other revenue items were some $400m lower than the preliminary estimates available in May.

I shall now give details of expenditure and revenue decisions.

page 31

OUTLAYS

I turn firstly to expenditure.

Many of the Government’s 1979-80 expenditure decisions have already been announced. Details of these and the others I am about to announce are contained in the accompanying Budget documents.

page 31

DEFENCE

Positive steps are being taken to maintain and improve the operational effectiveness of our defence forces.

The Budget provision for defence expenditure this year is $2,887m. This is a rise of $281 m and implies an increase of 2.6 per cent in real terms.

The Minister for Defence will keep the Parliament informed of particular decisions made by the Government in this important area.

page 31

EDUCATION

Programs of the Education Commissions

The provisions already announced for the Tertiary Education Commission will maintain total intakes of students into universities and colleges of advanced education in 1980 at current levels and permit substantial real increases in activity in technical and further education.

Present real levels of recurrent support for schools will be maintained in 1 980 and in some areas, such as migrant education, increased. The prospective decrease in capital expenditure is in line with a levelling off in total enrolments in schools and projections of a downward trend throughout the 1980s.

Overseas Student Charge

Commencing with the 1980 academic year, private overseas students who enrol at an Australian university or college of advanced education for the first time, or who change courses, will be charged between $1,500 and $2,500 per year towards the cost of their tuition.

This charge is consistent with overseas practice where foreign students attending tertiary institutions are required to contribute to the cost of their education. The move will also assist in alleviating the current excess demand for places available to overseas students.

This charge is estimated to yield about $6m in 1979-80 and will help to defray the costspresently met in full by Australian taxpayers- of educating private overseas students in Australia.

Full details of these new arrangements will be announced after consultations have been held with major source countries.

Student Assistance Schemes

The Government has decided to adjust the means tests used for determining student benefits to reflect past increases in average weekly earnings. There will be no change in the level of those benefits in 1980.

These adjustments are estimated to cost $3. 1 m in 1979-80 and $6.5m in a full year.

page 31

WELFARE PAYMENTS

Budget outlays classified as Social Security and Welfare Payments are estimated at $8,925m in 1979-80, an increase of 9.6 per cent and equivalent to 28 per cent of total outlays.

Indexed Pensions and Benefits

Last year when the Government took its decision to introduce annual indexation adjustments of social security and repatriation pensions and benefits, it was with the prospect of a lower rate of inflation than now prevails.

In the event this expectation was not realised. Following many representations to the Government, it has been decided to restore twice yearly automatic indexation for all indexed pensions and benefits.

This means that in addition to the forthcoming November increase, there will be a further increase in May 1980 in line with the rise in the Consumer Price Index over the six months to December 1979.

The additional cost of restoring twice yearly indexation is $63 min 1979-80.

Pensioner Fringe Benefits

We have decided to extend eligibility for Pensioner Health Benefit Cards to supporting parents and their dependants. This means that supporting parents will be eligible, as are widows and other sole parents in similar circumstances, for certain fringe benefits, such as free pharmaceuticals.

The basic income test limits for eligibility for Pensioner Health Benefit Cards have not been altered since 1 973. This has resulted in the loss of this particular benefit by large numbers of pensioners. As a consequence, the Government has decided to increase these limits as follows: from $33 to $40 per week in respect of single people; and from $57.50 to $68 per week in respect of married couples.

These extensions will be effective from 1 November and are estimated to cost a total of $ 1 3m in 1979-80 and $23m in a full year.

Repatriation Benefits

The changes to welfare benefits just outlined will also be available to repatriation pensioners.

In addition, as promised in the 1977 policy speech we have decided that, from the first pension-day in February 1 980, the Service Pension will be available, on a similar basis as for British Commonwealth veterans, to those veterans who served as members of the formally raised forces of allied countries in any war or warlike operations in which Australia participated.

Tne Government will re-introduce free medical and hospital treatment for all conditions for all veterans who received TB pensions prior to 2 November 1978.

There will also be increases in a range of benefits available to specially disadvantaged Repatriation beneficiaries including Orphan’s Pensions, Attendant’s Allowance, Recreation Transport Allowance, Gift Car Allowance and Clothing Allowance.

The rate of Repatriation Funeral Benefit will be increased by $200 to $300 as from 1 November 1979.

My colleague, the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, will be announcing full details tonight.

The total cost of these changes is estimated at $10.7 million in 1979-80 and $27.6 million in a full year.

Other Programs

Other provisions which indicate this Government’s concern to assist needy groups include: $62. 5m for the construction of homes and hostels for aged persons, an increase of $9.8m; a further $4m for senior citizens centres; $69.2 m for assistance for pre-school and child-care projects in the States and Northern Territory, an increase of $5.4m; $39.3m for handicapped persons facilities, with further approvals up to $5m for funding in 1980-81; and grants totalling $500,000 to community welfare agencies which are in need of support in providing emergency assistance to members of the community.

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ABORIGINALS

The Budget also provides $125m for special assistance to Aboriginals through programs administered by the Department of Aboriginal Affairs; this is an increase of about $9m on 1978-79.

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HEALTH

Hospital Payments

The Commonwealth will provide an estimated $1,1 94m to the States and Territories in 1 979-80 under the cost-sharing arrangements for public hospitals.

But for the increase in public hospital charges effective from 1 September 1979, this amount would have been much greater.

As foreshadowed, an independent inquirywith the powers of a Royal Commission- is to be established to investigate and report on the efficiency and administration of hospitals.

It is planned that an interim report be available by 30 June 1980.

Medical Benefits

Expenditure on medical benefits is estimated to increase by $64m in 1979-80 to $593m, notwithstanding the previously announced changes which are to apply from 1 September 1979.

In the absence of those changed arrangements, the medical benefits bill in 1979-80 would have been about $ 1 80m higher.

Pharmaceutical Benefits

Legislation is to be introduced to increase the patient contribution for pharmaceutical benefits supplied under the National Health Act to the general public from $2.50 to $2.75 per prescription.

This increase will be effective from 1 September and is estimated to reduce Commonwealth outlays on pharmaceutical benefits by $5m in 1 979-80 and by $7m in a full year.

Eligible pensioners- those holding a Pensioner Health Benefits Card- will, however, continue to receive their pharmaceutical benefits free of charge.

The Government is also proposing to examine the range of drugs available under the National Health Act with a view to reducing the costs of the scheme by up to $20m a year.

The Government will shortly receive the report of the Inquiry into the Pharmaceutical Industry- the Ralph Inquiry.

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OVERSEAS AID

Assistance under the overseas aid program is estimated at $485m in 1979-80, an increase of $29m.

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IMMIGRATION AND REFUGEE PROGRAMS

Assisted Migration Program

Provision is made in the estimates for an assisted migration program of 23,500 persons in 1979-80, approximately 5,000 more than last year.

This total includes up to 14,000 Indo-Chinese refugees, compared with 12,000 in 1978-79.

Services to Migrants

Some $15m will be provided in 1979-80 for the continuing implementation of the Galbally recommendations to provide special services to migrants.

An amount of $24.1 m has been allocated for the Adult Migrant and Refugee Education Program, an increase of $6. 1 m.

Departmental Charges

Charges are to be introduced to help offset the administrative costs incurred by the Department of Immigration and Ethnic Affairs in providing certain of its services.

These charges, which will be detailed by the Minister, are estimated to yield $2. 3m in 1 979-80 and $4m in a full year.

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CULTURE AND RECREATION

The Budget provides $3 1 9m for cultural and recreational activities, $38m more than in

1978- 79.

This includes $ 189.2m for the ABC and associated activities. Over the next three years the ABC will also be permitted to retain, for its own purposes, increases in revenues from its entrepreneurial activities.

The total also includes: $26. 3m for assistance to the arts through the Australia Council; $ 1 7.6m for the National Gallery, including $ 10. 1 m for its new building; $4.2m for the National Parks and Wildlife Service; and $2. 7m for sports development.

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HOUSING

Welfare Housing

As already announced, the Commonwealth will provide $260m to the States for welfare housing in 1979-80.

Of this, $100m will be provided by way of grants.

This compares with grants of $ 1 4m in 1 978-79 and will enable substantially increased assistance to be extended to pensioners, Aboriginals and other disadvantaged groups.

Homes Savings Grants

As I announced in May, the Homes Savings Grant Scheme has been modified by the introduction of a tapered dwelling value limit with the aim of directing assistance to those most in need.

However, because of the build-up of approvals awaiting payment, outlays are estimated to increase from $20m in 1978-79 to $75m in

1979- 80.

Private Sector Housing

Activity in the private sector housing area has strengthened during 1978-79. This has been aided by the record amounts of finance made available by the major housing lenders.

It is the Government’s policy that a high priority for housing finance be maintained consistent with overall monetary policy.

Lending institutions are again being informed of the Government’s wish that, within the parameters of monetary policy and subject to their own commercial judgment, they lend to home seekers to the maximum extent.

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NATIONAL WATER RESOURCES PROGRAM

The allocation for the National Water Resources Program is to be increased from $20m to $25m in 1979-80.

This will enable a number of new projects to be commenced, including urgent salinity control and drainage works in the Murray Valley.

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INDUSTRY MATTERS

Air Navigation Charges

It is the Government’s intention to fully recover costs incurred on the domestic trunk airline sector over the next three years. To this end we will be seeking annual increases of 25 per cent in air navigation charges for domestic airlines over that period.

Air navigation charges for the general aviation sector are to be raised by 20 per cent.

These increases are estimated to yield a total of about $4m in 1979-80 and $8m in the first full year.

Crawford Report

The recommendations of the Crawford Study Group on Structural Adjustment have been receiving careful consideration and the Minister for Industry and Commerce will make a detailed statement on the Government’s response shortly.

I note, however, that in respect of two of the principal recommendations in the Reportencouragement of exports and industrial research and development- this Government already has a commendable record.

Export Incentive Grants

A total of $2 15m is provided for export incentive and market development grants, an increase of $157m over 1978-79.

This large increase reflects the full-year effects of the generous export incentives scheme introduced last year, the strong growth in eligible exports, and steps taken to expedite the processing of claims.

Industrial Research and Development

Industry will also benefit from a substantial increase in the provision for industrial research and development.

Expenditure for this purpose increased from $14m in 1977-78 to $24m in 1978-79 and is estimated to increase further to $32m in the current year.

The Tourist Industry has the potential to generate a large number of additional employment and income opportunities in Australia. To foster this industry, the Government has decided to provide additional assistance for its expansion and development.

The Minister for Industry and Commerce will announce details but I mention, as one illustration, that $8. 2m will be provided to the Australian Tourist Commission in 1979-80 compared with $4.2 m last year.

I shall have more to say about this industry in the Receipts section of this Speech.

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REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT

A further $ 10.5m will be available under the Commonwealth Regional Development Program to encourage the development of selected non-metropolitan centres, together with a further $5m for the Albury-Wodonga growth centre.

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ASSISTANCE TO TASMANIA

The Callaghan Report identified certain areas where special assistance might be provided to Tasmania and the Commonwealth proposes to offer assistance for a number of projects.

These offers amount to $ 1.3m in 1979-80 and include assistance for native forestry; restoration and development in the Port Arthur region, the establishment of a fish centre in Hobart and a pilot industrial estate at Legana; and reequipment of the Launceston Precision Tool Annex.

The Commonwealth has also agreed to fund, by way of special grants, the full cost of constructing a second bridge across the Derwent River at Hobart.

The total cost of this project is estimated at about $32m, of which $lm is likely to be required in 1979-80.

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MANPOWER AND TRAINING PROGRAMS

A total of $ 131m will be provided for training programs in 1 979-80 to assist some 1 70,000 Australians to improve their own employment prospects and to help fill gaps in the supply of skilled workers.

The total provision represents a reduction of $27m, mainly because of a reduction of almost $50m, to $68m, in estimated expenditure on the National Employment and Training System (NEAT). That in turn reflects the steps taken by the Government to limit subsidy payments under the Special Youth Employment Training Program (SYETP) to people who would not otherwise have been employed.

Expenditure on the CRAFT program, under which employers receive tax-exempt rebates for the costs of releasing apprentices to attend approved trade and training courses, is estimated to increase by $26m to $54m.

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STATES, NORTHERN TERRITORY AND LOCAL AUTHORITIES

Taken together, net Commonwealth payments to the States, the Northern Territory and local government authorities are estimated to increase by 7.8 per cent in 1 979-80, to $ 1 1 ,608m.

Payments to the Northern Territory Government amount to $442 m and comprise both general and specific purpose payments akin to those made to the States.

The total also includes $222m- an increase of $42 m or 24 per cent- in tax-sharing grants to local government authorities and reflects our decision to increase their share of 1978-79 personal income tax collections from 1.52 per cent to 1.75 per cent.

The Government’s election promise to increase the share to 2 per cent will be met by the time of the next Budget.

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MAINTENANCE OF EXPENDITURE RESTRAINT

For its part the Commonwealth intends to maintain maximum restraint on expenditures in 1 979-80 and to pursue economies and eliminate wasteful practices wherever possible.

In this connection I mention that last year there was a further net reduction of 780 in areas subject to staff ceilings and that the overall ceiling this year will be retained at about the same level as in 1978-79.

In each of the past four years this Government has held actual spending below, or very close to, the Budget estimate of total outlays and we aim to maintain that good performance in 1 979-80.

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RECEIPTS

In turning to the receipts side of the Budget, I deal first with personal income tax.

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PERSONAL INCOME TAX

As I have already indicated, it has only proved possible to remove the income tax surcharge. Tax indexation will not be restored for 1979-80.

Whether or not tax indexation can be restored in 1980-81 will depend upon general economic conditions. Wage decisions by the Conciliation and Arbitration Commission will be relevant to that.

The Government hopes that the increase in take-home pay of wage and salary earners as from 1 December will encourage greater wage restraint.

Let there be no mistake. The Government wants to be in a position to restore tax indexation but economic circumstances have to be right.

One of the factors which will be relevant is the extent to which wage and salary increases contribute to inflation.

From 1 December 1979, the standard rate of personal income tax will be reduced from the present effective 34.57 per cent to 32 per cent for PA YE purposes and PA YE tax instalment deductions will accordingly be reduced from that date.

There will be corresponding reductions of 2.57 per cent in the rates applying to higher incomes, to 46 per cent and 60 per cent.

For a person on average weekly earnings, the reduction in tax instalments and increase in takehome pay will be about $4.45 a week.

Rates for assessment of 1 979-80 tax will be derived as a weighted average of the present effective scale for PA YE purposes and the scale to apply from 1 December. For example, the ‘standard ‘ rate on assessment for the year as a whole will on that basis be 33.07 per cent.

Provisional tax payments for 1979-80 will also be based on that weighted-average rate scale where the taxpayer self-assesses. In accordance with past practice, somewhat higher rates will apply for provisional taxpayers who do not self-assess.

There will also be adjustments to provisional tax arrangements to take account of the withdrawal of the Trading Stock Valuation Adjustment from the beginning of the current year.

Further details of these measures are contained in Statement No. 4 attached to the Treasurer’s Budget Speech.

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PROVISIONAL TAX THRESHOLD

Provisional tax is not at present charged to salary and wage earners, pensioners and superannuitants if income subject to provisional tax is less than $400. This amount, which has not been changed since 1970, is to be increased to $1,000. This will have the effect of freeing large numbers of taxpayers with small amounts of property and investment income from the liability to pay provisional tax.

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PRIVATE COMPANIES

A frequent concern of small business is the maintenance of adequate working capital. The Government acted in 1976 to ease the distribution requirements for private companies under Division 7 of the Income Tax Assessment Act by increasing the retention allowance from 50 per cent to 60 per cent.

We have now decided to go further. For distributions in respect of taxable incomes of 1978-79 and subsequent years, the retention allowance for trading or business income will be increased from 60 to 70 per cent.

No change is being made to the 10 per cent retention allowance for property income or to the rule that there is no retention allowance for dividends that one private company receives from another.

The increase in the retention allowance will have negligible cost in 1979-80 but is estimated to cost $30m in a full year.

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DEPRECIATION OF INCOME-PRODUCING BUILDINGS-TRAVELLER ACCOMMODATION

To encourage the provision of accommodation for tourists and travellers, the Government has decided to introduce a system of depreciation allowances for new income-producing buildings, or extensions to existing buildings, used for the accommodation of travellers, where construction commences after today.

Eligible buildings or extensions to buildings must contain at least 10 guest rooms.

Depreciation will be allowed at a flat rate of 2Vi per cent of eligible cost.

This deduction will have no cost in 1979-80 but a progressively increasing cost in subsequent years.

Further details will be announced at a later date.

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STORAGE FACILITIES FOR GRAIN, HAY OR FODDER

Since 1 973, on-farm facilities for the storage of grain, hay or fodder have been subject to depreciation in the usual way.

In the light of recent heavy grain harvests and the consequent pressures on bulk grain facilities, and in order to encourage the holding of hay and fodder reserves against the requirements of poor seasons, a special rate of depreciation will be allowed in respect of on-farm facilities for the storage of grain, hay or fodder in conducting a primary production business.

A rate of 20 per cent per annum will apply to such facilities which are ordered, or the construction of which by the taxpayer commences, after today, so that the cost of such facilities is written off in 5 years

The investment allowance, at the 20 per cent rate, will continue in respect of eligible storage facilities covered by the new special rate of depreciation.

This measure, which will have negligible revenue effects in 1 979-80, is estimated to cost $6m in a full year.

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LIMITATION OF VALUE OF MOTOR CARS FOR DEPRECIATION AND LEASING PURPOSES

Whilst the Government recognises that cars are needed in many businesses and professions it does not believe there is any reason why the revenue should subsidise the full cost of expensive luxury vehicles used for such purposes.

The Government has decided to limit to $18,000 the amount which may be depreciated for income tax purposes for motor cars and station wagons (including four-wheel-drive vehicles, leased vehicles, and those used to provide services to the general public) ordered after tonight.

The excess of the price above $ 1 8,000 will not be depreciable and balancing adjustments on disposal will be calculated by reference to a deemed cost of $18,000.

The limit of $ 1 8,000 for depreciation purposes will be indexed annually.

The gain to revenue from this proposal will be negligible in 1 979-80 and $ 1 5m in a full year.

I mention also that the Government is concerned that some lessees of cars and station wagons are, at the end of the lease, buying the vehicles for a price that enables them to profit by reselling the vehicles at their market value.

As the law now stands, the resulting profit may not be taxable, even though it effectively represents a recoupment of tax deductible lease charges.

Accordingly, the Government has decided to amend the law to ensure that any such profit is taxed on a basis corresponding with that applied where a person sells plant on which he has previously been allowed depreciation.

The amendment will apply in respect of all cars and station wagons that are purchased from lessors by the lessee or a relative or other associate after tonight.

The gain to revenue from this proposal will be negligible in 1979-80 but about $25m in a full year.

Further details of these measures are given in Statement No. 4.

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ENERGY CONSERVATION

In his statement of 27 June on Energy Policy, the Prime Minister announced a number of taxation measures designed to conserve scarce oil resources.

Those measures will be supplemented by two income tax concessions related to conversion of oil-fired industrial equipment to other energy sources.

The cost of such conversion or adaptation of an existing unit will be allowed as an outright deduction in the year in which it is incurred.

Where an existing oil-fired unit of property is wholly replaced by one that uses other energy sources, the replacement unit will qualify for normal depreciation but will also attract a special conversion allowance at a rate of 40 per centdouble the investment allowance that may otherwise have applied.

To qualify, the conversion must be completed and the equipment be in use by 30 June 1 982.

In addition, the exemption from sales tax of kits used to convert vehicles to LPG use is to be extended to compressed natural gas conversion kits, and further extended to cover conversion kits for all internal combustion engines.

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REBATE FOR PETROLEUM EXPLORATION AND DEVELOPMENT

In order to provide further encouragement for the discovery and development of petroleum resources throughout Australia, the Government has decided to extend the present scheme of tax rebates for share capital subscribed for offshore petroleum exploration and development to subscriptions for onshore petroleum exploration and development.

In addition, it has been decided to extend from two to four years the period within which capital subscribed must be spent in order to qualify ibr a rebate.

These changes will apply to share capital subscribed after tonight. The legislation will of course contain appropriate safeguards against abuse.

There will be no revenue cost in 1979-80, but an estimated $6m cost in a full year.

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SALES TAX ON EQUIPMENT USED BY BLIND OR DEAF PERSONS

The sales tax law already provides exemption for a range of appliances and other goods used by blind or deaf persons.

To avoid the need to amend the law frequently to cater for the development of new aids, the Government has decided to provide a general exemption that will apply to all articles designed and manufactured expressly for and of a kind used by blind or deaf persons.

The exemption will apply after tonight.

The cost to revenue of the new general exemption is estimated to be $ 100,000 in a full year.

Details of this and some other measures in the sales tax area will be given in the enabling legislation to be introduced later this evening.

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COAL EXPORT DUTY

The existing coal export duty of $3.50 per tonne on high quality coking coal will be reduced for open-cut operations, and major expansions of such operations, commencing production after 30 June 1980, and for existing and future underground mines.

The rate of duty to apply will be $1.00 per tonne- the rate presently applying to exports of lower quality coking coal.

These changes will take effect on 1 November 1979.

The cost to revenue is estimated to be $ 12m in 1 979-80 and $ 1 9m in a full year.

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BUDGET OVERVIEW

Total outlays in 1979-80 are estimated to increase by 9. 1 per cent to $3 1 ,692 m.

Total receipt, after the measures I have outlined, are estimated to increase by 15.4 per cent to $29.499m

The overall deficit is therefore estimated at $2,193m, a reduction of$l,285mon 1978-79.

After allowance for overseas transactions, the domestic deficit is estimated at $87 5 m in 1 979-80, much less than half the domestic deficit of $2,258m in 1978-79, and the lowest for six years.

To see these deficit figures in perspective it should be noted that the projected Budget deficit as a percentage of GDP has been reduced from last year’s outcome of 3.4 per cent to an estimated 1.9 percent.

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ECONOMIC OUTLOOK

This section of the Budget Speech traditionally contains views on likely developments in the economy during the year ahead.

They do not, of course, represent promises or guarantees by the Government as to the outcome in certain areas. They never can.

Circumstances can alter quickly to radically change the basis on which original assumptions and forecasts have been made.

The monetary outcome for last year is a good example. A major part of the change was due to the unexpectedly large turnabout in private sector foreign exchange transactions during the year and the increase in the Budget deficit.

I have already canvassed the further progress of economic recovery in 1 978-79 as well as drawing attention to the heightened inflationary pressures facing the industrialised world.

Quite apart from the adverse developments caused by oil price movements, 1 979-80 will be a difficult year for the world economy.

Nevertheless, our prospects are better than those of many other countries.

Activity in the non-farm sector is expected to continue to expand in 1979-80, at a rate of over 3 per cent.

Following last year’s exceptionally favourable rural conditions, we must expect some falling back in farm production. However, given reasonable conditions farmers should still have a good year.

GDP as a whole might increase by only 2 to 2Vi percent this year.

Private investment should again contribute quite strongly to aggregate demand.

Although plant and equipment investment will probably grow less dramatically than in 1978-79, the building and construction component of business investment is likely to keep on expanding firmly.

Dwelling investment is in a moderate upswing phase.

Non-farm stocks are expected to accumulate fairly steadily during the year.

However, total public spending on goods and services may increase somewhat more slowly than in 1978-79.

Private consumption spending has been fairly subdued and there are no evident factors which suggest any major change in that trend in the months immediately ahead, although the increase in take-home pay from 1 December next should help.

The contribution to aggregate demand from net exports of goods and services is likely to be quite strong.

As a result, the improvement in the current account deficit which occurred during the second half of last year should be maintained. Whereas the deficit amounted to $3, 156m in 1978-79, it could decline by several hundred million dollars in 1979-80.

There are also good prospects of a continuation of the recent stronger rate of net private capital inflow.

Taken together, these improvements would, of course, permit a substantially lower overseas borrowing program by the Commonwealth than last year.

Against this background, we expect a moderate growth in job opportunities during the year.

Wage and salary earner employment is expected to grow by about 1 per cent.

Although the level of unemployment remains high, recent trends in labour force participation rates have combined with growing employment to hold it broadly steady over the past year.

We do not expect unemployment to improve in the year ahead.

As to the inflation outlook, factors already in the system are likely to lead to higher rates of increase in price indices in the months immediately ahead, before a renewed downward trend can be established.

Those factors include recent oil price increases still largely to be reflected in the Consumer Price Index, higher costs of health care as a result of changed financing arrangements and increases in doctors’ fees, and some acceleration of wage costs.

For 1979-80 as a whole, the CPI is presently estimated to increase by a little above 10 per cent.

It is expected to peak with a relatively large December quarter increase due to the coincidence of the factors I have mentioned.

It is essential for our future economic prosperity that the temporary factors putting upward pressure on prices in recent months do not become permanently built in to the inflation base.

For this reason, restraint on the part of all those involved in wage determinationincluding, not least, the arbitral authorities themselves- is no less vital than it ever was.

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MONETARY OUTLOOK

I turn now to the monetary prospect for the year ahead.

First, the expected improvement in the balance of payments on private account is likely to result in an addition to domestic liquidity in 1979-80, in contrast to the reduction from this source over 1978-79 as a whole.

This involves a turnaround in private sector foreign exchange transactions which has already become apparent in recent months.

The turnaround is expected to amount to approximately $ 1,000m or more and will convert the negative impact of these transactions of some $2 50m on the money supply last year to a sharply positive impact in 1979-80.

Another large wheat harvest is being foreshadowed. The Government will, however, again seek arrangements for financing advances to growers so as to minimise the addition to liquidity. As was the case last year, this will not be at extra cost to growers.

The large reduction in the domestic Budget deficit will, of course help greatly in moderating the growth of the monetary aggregates.

Moreover this year the borrowing requirement of the public sector as a whole will be markedly reduced; the net reduction on account of the Commonwealth Budget and approved Loan Council programs is some $ 1 billion.

I reaffirm that the Government’s monetary policy is directed at providing adequate funds for sustainable expansion in private sector activity and employment, while continuing to bear down steadily on inflation and inflationary expectations.

There is a need for growth in the monetary aggregates this year to be reduced from the rates of 1978-79. The Government has already taken a number of measures to that end.

As was evident in 1978-79, circumstances can arise which render appropriate a monetary outcome different from any initial projection at the outset of a financial year.

For 1979-80, it is believed that growth in the broadly defined measure of the volume of money (M3) of about 10 per cent over the course of the year would be compatible with policy.

Economic developments throughout the year may make appropriate an outcome either above or below that projection.

However on present assessments it seems appropriate that the outcome be not more than ten per cent.

There will be a fairly sizeable bond-selling task for that outcome to be achieved.

But, given the expected trends in underlying conditions, and with appropriate flexibility in the operation of policy, it should be manageable.

I reaffirm the Government’s commitment to the importance of monetary control in bearing down on inflation and for the pursuit of a path of economic stability.

With this commitment, supported by our continued emphasis on fiscal restraint, we look forward to further sustainable growth in activity, and the prospect of seeing, by the latter part of the year, a return to a downward trend in the rate of inflation.

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CONCLUSION

This Budget has been framed to meet the needs of the Australian economy in 1979.

Its object is to reduce inflation and promote sound and broadly based growth.

It provides incentive for both individuals and businesses within a responsible overall framework conducive to our longer term economic goals.

It significantly reduces the call of Government upon the nation’s financial markets.

It equips Australia to succeed in a world environment of rising inflation and intensifying competition.

Mr President, I commend the Budget to the Senate.

Debate (on motion by Senator Wriedt) adjourned.

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SOCIAL SECURITY PROGRAMS

Ministerial Statement

Senator GUILFOYLE (Victoria-Minister for

Social Security)- by leave- The Treasurer in his

Budget Speech referred to changes in social security programs. It is appropriate that I elaborate on his statement and provide the Senate with some additional information. The Treasurer, in his statement of 24 May 1979 in which he announced certain decisions on expenditure and taxation, said:

Against the severity of these cuts there will be attempts to frighten people receiving Commonwealth social security pensions and benefits and repatriation payments. These payments will be maintained by the Government. The fearmongers should be ignored.

The Government has maintained social security payments. It has also been able to make some very worthwhile improvements to the social security and welfare system. In particular, we will restore half-yearly indexation of pensions and benefits; extend the income limits for pensioner fringe benefits; extend eligibility for Pensioner Health Benefit cards to supporting parent beneficiaries; provide grants to voluntary agencies providing emergency relief; significantly increase expenditure on services for families and children; and increase the rates of worker’s compensation for Commonwealth employees.

Half-Yearly Indexation

This year the Government has given very careful consideration to the issue of indexation in the light of present economic and budgetary circumstances and, as the Treasurer announced in his Budget Speech, the Government is pleased to be able to restore twice-yearly indexation. The Government will be introducing legislation to amend the Social Services Act to enable the following payments to be increased automatically in May and November each year in accordance with movements in the consumer price index: age, invalid and widows’ pensions; supporting parents’ benefits; wives’ pensions; sheltered employment allowances; unemployment benefits for all people aged 18 or over with dependants and for married people aged 16 or 17 years; and sickness benefits for all people aged 1 8 or over and for married persons aged 16 or 17 years. Indexation will not be introduced to cover the following payments: Unemployment benefits for single persons aged 16 or 17 years and for those aged 18 or more without dependants; sickness benefits for single persons aged 16 or 17 years; and age pension paid free of income test to people aged 70 years or more.

With the concurrence of honourable senators I seek leave to incorporate a table which sets out the maximum current rates of the basic pensions and benefits together with the maximum rates that will apply from November 1979.

Leave granted.

The table read as follows-

Senator GUILFOYLE:
LP

– The Government is also pleased to announce that it will maintain the income test free pension currently payable to those aged 70 or more. The rates are $5 1 . 45 a week for a single pensioner and $85.80 a week for a married pensioner couple. People in receipt of these pensions may be eligible for a higher rate of payment depending on how much income, excluding pension, they receive. With the concurrence of honourable senators I seek leave to incorporate in Hansard a table setting out the rates of pensions that will be payable to pensioners 70 years or more as from 8 November 1979.

Leave granted.

The table read as follows-

Senator GUILFOYLE:

– I thank the Senate.

Fringe Benefit Income Limits

One area of great concern to pensioners has been the income test limits for pensioner fringe benefits. Commonwealth fringe benefits available to pensioners holding Pensioner Health Benefit cards include: Access to bulk billing of medical fees; a range of free pharmaceuticals; access to free optometrical consultations and hearing aids; a one-third reduction in telephone rentals; and some reductions in fares on Commonwealth rail and shipping services. In addition, State governments and various private organisations provide assistance to these pensioners.

At present a pensioner loses all of these fringe benefits if his private income reaches $33 a week for a single pensioner and $57.50 a week for a married pensioner couple. These amounts are higher when there are children. While it is difficult to calculate the value to the individual pensioner of fringe benefits, it has been suggested that, on average, they could be worth up to about $ 10 a week. The income limits for fringe benefits have been fixed for some time. Some pensioners have lost entitlement to fringe benefits as a result of increases to their superannuation or war pensions over which they have no control. Accordingly, the Government has decided to increase these limits to $40 a week for a single pensioner and $68 a week for a married pensioner couple. These amounts are higher where there are children. It is estimated that some additional 25,000 pensioners plus 5,000 dependants will qualify for Pensioner Health Benefit cards as a result of these increases.

Extension of Eligibility for Pensioner Health Benefit Cards to Supporting Parent Beneficiaries

For some time the Government has been aware of differences in the treatment of different sole parents. When we came to office, there was no specific assistance available to sole fathers and supporting mother beneficiaries were not eligible for the full range of pensioner fringe benefits- they were not eligible for pensioner health benefits.

In 1977 this Government introduced the supporting parents benefit which replaced the supporting mothers benefit and extended eligibility for assistance to sole fathers on essentially the same basis as for sole mothers. We have now decided to extend eligibility for Pensioner Health Benefit cards to supporting parent beneficiaries subject to the liberalised pensioner fringe benefit income test outlined above. As a result, Commonwealth fringe benefit assistance for supporting parent beneficiaries will be exactly the same as that for Class A widow pensioners. The rates of assistance are already the same.

It is estimated that some 56,000 supporting parent beneficiaries, including 2,500 men, plus 96,000 dependants will qualify for Pensioner Health Benefit cards. As a result their health costs will be reduced significantly. This will be of special assistance to those with young children, particularly children suffering from chronic illnesses.

Eligibility for fringe benefits provided by State governments and other organisations are generally restricted to holders of Pensioner Health Benefit cards. The extension of these benefits to supporting parent beneficiaries and to pensioners with private incomes between the existing and proposed income limits will, however, be a matter for the States and other responsible bodies.

Other Income Security Measures

The Government has already announced its intention to charge long-term hospital patients who are, in effect, nursing home type patients an amount towards their care and accommodation on a similar basis to nursing home patients. This change will not come into effect until the States agree to changes in the hospital cost-sharing agreements.

As a consequence of the Government’s decision in this area some minor improvements will also be made to provisions under the Social Services Act, namely:

The standard rate of pension is to be extended to a woman receiving wife’s pension where the living expenses of a married couple are likely to be greater than they would otherwise be because illness or infirmity prevents them from living together. As a result, in this area a wife pensioner will be treated as if she were a pensioner in her own right.

Eligibility for wife’s pension is to be extended to a woman who is an inmate of a benevolent home and to a woman who has no child or has not attained 50 years of age where her husband is an inmate of a benevolent home. Thus, where either or both of a married couple are inmates of a benevolent home, wife’s pension will be payable on the same basis as age or invalid pension.

Emergency Assistance

During the last election the Government made a commitment to provide $500,000 to assist voluntary agencies providing emergency relief. Last year the Australian Council of Social Service and the Department of Social Security were commissioned to prepare a report on emergency relief-giving agencies and their clients. The report of the joint study, ‘Emergency Relief- A Study of Agencies and Clients’, was tabled in the Senate on 29 March 1979.

The Government has decided to allocate $500,000 in 1 979-80 to assist voluntary agencies providing emergency relief and to provide special assistance to welfare organisations experiencing financial difficulty. In addition, administrative changes have taken place in the Department of Social Security to give immediate assistance, by way of special benefit under the Social Services Act, to clients suffering hardship. In view of the findings of the joint study, these measures will reduce the burden on voluntary agencies and State welfare administrations.

Assistance to the Aged

Apart from the payment of pensions, the Government provides assistance for the provision of suitable homes for the aged and disabled and home care services including senior citizens’ centres. In addition, the Government provides a personal care subsidy for organisations providing hostel accommodation and a delivered meals subsidy for organisations providing meals-on-wheels services. Total expenditure allocated under the aged or disabled persons homes and aged persons hostels programs is $62.5m in 1979-80; $52. 7m was spent in 1978-79. This year’s allocation should enable all approved projects to be completed. Early approval has been given also for funding additional priority projects to the value of $ 10m in 1980-8 1 in order that the necessary forward planning and development of those projects can be completed during 1979-80.

Further, $4m has been allocated in 1979-80 for grants towards the costs of senior citizens’ centres; $3m was spent in 1978-79. A joint Commonwealth-State announcement on the new projects to be funded will be made as soon as State governments confirm their priority lists. (Quorum formed). Spending under other parts of the home care services program also will increase from $822,000 to $1,128,000 for grants towards salaries of welfare officers and from $8,586,000 to $9,255,000 on grants towards costs of home care services. These increases follow on a large increase in total Commonwealth expenditure on home care services last year.

Assistance for the Handicapped

Apart from the payment of invalid pensions, sheltered employment allowances, sickness benefits and handicapped child ‘s allowance paid under the Social Services Act, the Government assists handicapped people under the Handicapped Persons Assistance Act by way of grants to eligible organisations to establish and operate sheltered workshops, activity therapy and training centres and residential accommodation for handicapped children and adults. In addition, the Government provides rehabilitation treatment and training through the Commonwealth Rehabilitation Service.

Expenditure under the handicapped persons welfare program will total $39.3m in 1979-80. Approval will also be given to new projects during the financial year, some of which will be completed during 1979-80. Additionally, new projects will be approved this fianancial year in order that planning can be undertaken to enable funding in 1980-81. Expenditure by the Commonwealth Rehabilitation Service will rise from $ 17.3m to $ 19.2m in 1979-80. This rise follows the expansion of rehabilitation services to Townsville, Hobart and Darwin, together with the effects of the widened eligibility criteria announced by the Government in 1 977.

Assistance for the Homeless

Expenditure under the homeless persons assistance program will increase from $2,781,000 to $5,640,000 in 1979-80. The higher expenditure reflects progress on construction of two major centres in Brisbane. At 30 June 1979, 1 13 other centres catering for homeless persons were receiving recurrent assistance. The Government has decided also to extend the prinicipal Act to permit continued rental subsidies.

Children’s Services

In addition to the payment of universal family allowances, double orphans pension and handicapped child’s allowance, and additional payments for the children of pensioners and beneficiaries, the Government provides under its children’s services program financial assistance to community organisations, local government bodies and the States for a range of care services for children under 1 8 years of age and services to support their families. A block grant is also made to the States and the Northern Territory for preschools. Total expenditure under the children’s services program will rise from $63,786,000 to $69,220,000 in 1979-80. Grants for services for families and children will rise by $5,094,000 to $36, 1 30,000. Particular types of services funded include day-care, emergency outside school hours and vacation care. The Government has given priority to expansion of services in these areas.

An announcement will be made in the near future of new projects to be funded under the children’s services program and on special grants to mark the International Year of the Child. The Fraser Government has more than doubled assistance on child care and other related services, from $16.9m in 1975-76 to $36.13m in the present Budget. Assistance to the States for preschool education will be maintained. A total of $32. 75m will be provided this year. For the first time assistance of $340,000 will be provided for pre-schools in the Northern Territory.

Pilot Programs

The welfare rights program provided funds for the appointment of welfare rights officers to work with organisations associated with disadvantaged minority groups within the community.

Ten organisations received grants during the pilot period of the program and these will now be funded within other Commonwealth programs. The community information centre program was a pilot program to evaluate means of providing community information and referral services to assist people to make use of the full range of welfare services and facilities offered by the community. The pilot program has now been completed. The centres will be funded within existing programs.

Assistance for Research and Welfare Co-ordination

The Social Welfare Research Centre at the University of New South Wales will become operational during this year. An amount of $300,000 has been provided for the Centre’s operation in 1979-80. There has also been an expansion in the Budget of the Social Welfare Policy Secretariat, from $424,000 to $564,000. Total allocations to national social welfare coordinating organisations have increased. The Australian Council of Social Service, the Australian Council for Rehabilitation of Disabled and the Australian Council on the Ageing have had their basic Commonwealth grants increased by $10,000 to $160,000. In addition, the Australian Pre-school Association will receive $50,000, together with an additional sum for coordinating the activities of Lady Gowrie centres.

Compensation Rates for Commonwealth Government Employees

The Commonwealth has decided to increase, from I September 1979, the rates of worker’s compensation payable to Commonwealth employees by about 12% per cent. Mr President, I seek leave to incorporate in Hansard a table which sets out the existing and proposed rates.

Leave granted.

The table read as follows-

Senator GUILFOYLE:
LP

– This is a highly responsible package. Despite the need to restrain public expenditure the Government has been able to improve significantly benefits available to the needy members of the community. This is a compassionate Budget. The Fraser Government has continued to give a high priority to income security and social welfare. I am sure the Government’s approach will be endorsed by all Australians. I present the following paper:

Social Security Programs- Ministerial Statement, 21 August 1979.

I move:

Senator GRIMES:
Tasmania

– I wish to throw a little more light and a different perspective on the social security section of this Budget, or as much light as I can in view of the short time I have had to look at the Budget papers and at the statement put down by the Minister for Social Security (Senator Guilfoyle). The Minister has said that this is a compassionate Budget, and I assume that she based that statement on the fact that the Government has decided to restore justice to the pensioners of this country by reintroducing twice-yearly indexation, which should not have been removed last year. It should not have been removed, firstly because its removal was unjust and, secondly, because in doing so the Government went back on a firm electoral promise to the people of this country. The Minister also said that the Budget was compassionate because it dealt in a compassionate way with the needy in this community.

I want to deal with four aspects of the Budget which concern the needy in this country and to demonstrate the Government’s strange handling of the word ‘compassionate’. First of all, I assume it is an oversight, but nowhere in the

Budget Speech or in the Minister’s statement can I find reference to special benefits. I assume that special benefits will be indexed in the same way as sickness benefits, but as there is no reference to them I believe that the Minister at some time should make it clear that they will be indexed. If not, it would certainly be a severe penalty on the poorest people in the community. Much has been made in both the Treasurer’s speech and the statement by the Minister of the increase in the eligibility level for fringe benefits. By coincidence, the Minister today answered a question from Dr Klugman in another place which asked what the level of eligibility for fringe benefits would be if they had been indexed in the years since they were last increased. In answer to Question on Notice No. 3968 the Minister said that for a single person the amount would have been $62.10 and for a married couple $108.15, considerably more than the $40 and $68 of which the Government is trying to make great play. It is the very poor and the very disadvantaged people in this community about whom I am concerned.

The first group to which I will refer is the single unemployed without dependants. Such people will remain on $51.45, the same benefit they have received for the last two years. I point out that that is actually less than the daily travelling allowance for a Minister of the Crown in this country. In March there were some 261,500 unemployed without dependants in this country. As with other unemployed people, they are still allowed to earn only $6 a week. If they earn more than that their benefit is reduced by $ 1 for every dollar they earn over $6 a week. Such people are still in that parlous situation in an economic climate where there are 23 unemployed for every job vacancy in the community. Our biggest social problem by far is unemployment, yet the Government treats the unemployed without dependants in what I believe is a heartless and callous manner. The young employed, those under 18 years of age, remain on $36 a week, as they have since 1975. However, their benefits have been eroded considerably by the 40 per cent-odd inflation that has occurred since then. Many of the unemployed without dependants in fact are over 45 years of age. They have lost their jobs because of technological changes, because their jobs have been replaced by machines as a result of, amongst other things, the investment allowance introduced by this Government. Yet of all people they have been singled out in this Budget. One wonders why.

The next group is those who can probably be called the poorest of the poor in the community. They are the pensioners who are earning less than $5 a week and who live in rental accommodation. Every survey of the poor in our community points out that such pensioners are the poorest of the poor, yet the supplementary allowance payable to assist them with their rent remains as it was in 1 975. There is to be no increase in that allowance, nor is there to be any increase in the amount paid for pensioners’ children, which has not been increased since 1975. These poor people with children, who are dependent on the Government for their incomes, have not had their children’s allowances increased since 1975. That can hardly be described as compassionate behaviour towards the poorest people in the community.

I come now to family allowances, mention of which has been avoided very carefully in this Budget. Family allowances have not been increased since 1976, when they were introduced to replace child endowment, which had remained unchanged for many years and had become fairly meaningless. They also replaced the tax rebate for children, which in any reasonable system of tax indexation would have been indexed since 1976 and certainly would have been increased since 1976. Family allowances have been eroded by inflation since that time, a factor which was admitted in a speech made to a recent social security conference by none other than the Director-General of Social Services, a man who is not known for wild statements on this subject. The allowances are extremely important to that group in the community who are not touched by our social security system- the working poor, the people on low incomes with a number of dependent children. Their only extra income has been the family allowances, and the value of those allowances has been eroded consistently since their introduction in 1976. If one adds to that group the pensioners with children whose dependants’ allowances also have not been increased since 1975 one finds that those people in the community are being affected severely by inflation and by the failure of the Government to recognise that and to compensate them for the inflationary forces in our economy.

Finally, may I mention the Commonwealth employees compensation scheme. At last, following considerable pressure since 1976, the Government is going to increase the benefits paid under the Commonwealth employees compensation scheme. They will be increased by about 12.5 per cent, although the consumer price index has increased by some 36 per cent in that time. With the exception of that well-known welfare State of Queensland, the Commonwealth

Government remains the Government which pays the lowest compensation to its sick and injured employees. Employees in private industry in Canberra still will be paid more than employees of the present Government. We have had already a report from the Commissioner for Employees Compensation criticising both the level and the efficiency of the Commonwealth employees compensations scheme. After three years the Government is to increase its payments by a measly 12.5 per cent, which puts it below all other States except Queensland, and even below Victoria, which in the past has been notorious in this area.

In the area of the unemployed without dependants, in the area of low income earners with children, in the area of the poorest of pensioners- those who have an income of $5 apart from their pension and live in rented accommodation- and in the area of Commonwealth employees compensation the Government has been as mean and miserly as it was in the past. I dare say that it will continue to be so in the future except that we believe the Government will not remain the Government for much longer.

There are other areas of social security which will need questioning and more careful examination once one gets through the economic and sociological jargon in which Budget Papers are usually cast. But in those points I believe that the Opposition is bound to demonstrate the Government’s meanness and its unfair treatment of these poor people in our community. I seek leave to continue my remarks later.

Leave granted; debate adjourned.

page 45

BUDGET MEASURES AFFECTING VETERANS

Ministerial Statement

Senator GUILFOYLE:
Minister for Social Security · Victoria · LP

– I seek leave to make a statement relating to veterans’ affairs measures in the Budget and to move a motion that the Senate take note of that statement.

Leave granted.

Senator GUILFOYLE:

– As the Treasurer (Mr Howard) announced in the Budget Speech, some important increases and extensions in repatriation benefits will be effected in this financial year. I would like, for the benefit of honourable senators, to provide details of these and other Budget measures which will concern veterans. I am pleased that the Government has been able to act now to improve very appreciably the lot of those who served their country in time of conflict and these measures certainly emphasise the Government’s commitments to veterans and our determination to ensure that the continuing needs of veterans are met. When the Government came to office it had to review very carefully all fields of its expenditure and veterans’ affairs was no exception. Administrative expenses were cut back wherever possible without affecting the quality of treatment services available through the repatriation system or the level of compensation to disabled veterans and their dependants. Despite this, some significant improvements have been made.

In 1 976, we announced the indexation of the main repatriation pensions in line with movements in the consumer price index, the first increases under this new arrangement applying from May 1977. This has been 100 per cent indexation and not discounted. Indexation, which will now be twice yearly, has been one of the most significant developments in the history of repatriation. It has given to our veterans and their families the security of knowing that their pensions are not eroded by inflation. In addition to indexation, repatriation pensioners enjoy freedom from taxation on disability pensions. This has placed them in a very favourable position compared with a general community dependent upon wages and salaries. Despite the great value of indexation, however, the Government has not until now been in a position to increase many repatriation benefits and, particularly, those which are directed at the most disadvantaged groups among the veteran population. It has now decided that the effective value of many of these benefits will be increased. As mentioned by the Treasurer, these allowances are to be increased as from 1 November next. The increases are substantial.

The funeral benefit, for instance, will be increased by $200 to a new level of $300. The benefit for an orphan of a veteran who has lost both parents will be increased by $4.10 to $25 weekly, and for an orphan who has lost one parent by half this amount. Seriously disabled veterans who require the help of an attendant will receive an extra $10.10 a week, making the new benefit $35 a week, while those less seriously afflicted will receive an increase of $2.80 a week, making the new weekly rate $ 1 7.50. Seriously disabled veterans greatly suffer from a loss of social mobility unless special arrangements are made for them. Because of this, the recreation transport allowance for the most seriously handicapped is to be raised by $4 to $40 a month, and for the less seriously handicapped it will be raised by half this amount to $20 a month.

Some veterans, because of the nature of these disabilities, are provided with cars at no cost to them, together with an annual allowance. As honourable senators are aware, the cost of maintaining a car has risen considerably in the last few years, and so the Government has decided to increase the annual allowance for this purpose by $48 to a new figure of $480 a year. Because of their disabilities, certain veterans experience unusual wear and tear on their clothing. To help them meet this cost, a small clothing allowance is provided at three different rates. As from 1 November, these rates will be increased, the highest rate being now $ 1 .50 a week.

Whenever a veteran is required to travel in connection with repatriation pension or treatment matters, he is reimbursed travel and subsistence costs at set levels. These rates of reimbursement have not been changed for some years, although costs to the veteran have increased markedly in the meantime. This Government has decided therefore that travel and subsistence allowances will be automatically adjusted in future in line with the levels paid to Commonwealth public servants. The daily sub.sistance rate for attendance for official purposes in a capital city will be increased by $ 1 8.65 to a new rate of $41.15, while the daily rate for attendance elsewhere will rise by $17.50 to $34.50. Some veterans who live relatively near to the departmental office or hospital may not incur high costs, but in the event of their being required to attend during a mealtime, new rates up to $7.80 will apply from 1 November. Where it is medically necessary for a veteran to use his own motor vehicle for such official attendance, new rates of reimbursement, more in line with current costs, will be paid. Where it is not medically necessary for a veteran to use his own vehicle, he will normally be reimbursed at rates based on public transport travel costs. If he travels by rail, the standard will now be first class.

In 1977, the Government decided that a review of all pensions paid in respect of pulmonary tuberculosis would be carried out to ascertain actual levels of disability in line with the general principles of the repatriation system. Rates for the TB pension were frozen at the May 1 978 cash levels pending the outcome of the review, which is nearing completion. This decision placed the TB pensioners on the same footing as all other veterans and, in so doing, confirmed a principle, namely that pension and treatment benefits be related to the degree of actual disability. The review has provided an opportunity for an accurate determination of the needs of veteran TB pensioners and a fully informed reassessment of their total situation. On the basis of this reassessment, the Government has decided that eligibility for full, free medical treatment will apply immediately to those veterans who were receiving a pension for pulmonary tuberculosis before 2 November 1978. In addition, they will continue to receive for life a pension paid at a rate not less than the 100 per cent general rate applicable in May 1978, irrespective of the degree of actual incapacity.

Veterans in receipt of the Service pension, which is similar to the social security age pension, could be entitled to a pensioner health benefit card to show their eligibility for full free medical treatment under the arrangements administered by the Department of Health. In considering eligibility, other income is considered, and in the case of veterans half of any disability pension is taken into account. The indexation of disability pensions has taken a number of Service pensioners beyond the limit of other income on which eligibility depends, and so they have lost pensioner health benefit entitlement and eligibility for certain fringe benefits which all add up to a considerable saving in a year. The limit for pensioner health benefit card has been $33 a week in the case of the single pensioner and $57.50 in the case of a married pensioner. As for social security pensioners, these limits are to be lifted from 1 November to $40 and $68 a week respectively.

The extension of Australian repatriation benefits to veterans who served in Allied, rather than Australian, forces during wartime has been an important issue for many years. Eligibility for the Service pension was extended to those who served in British Commonwealth forces in 1975, and in 1 977 the Government accepted the argument that such eligibility should be extended to members of Allied forces now living in Australia. The need for maximum financial restraint has prevented this until now. I am sure that all honourable senators will agree that those who fought for the Allied cause in time of war have considerable claim to benefit. In view of the tremendous contribution which they have made to this country since the war, it is only fitting that they should be eligible for the Service pension on a similar basis to Australian and British Commonwealth veterans. As announced, from the first pension pay-day in February next year Allied veterans will be eligible to apply for the Service pension on the similar basis to that applying to British Commonwealth veterans. The exact details of this eligibility will be included in legislation to be introduced later in this session.

Apart from indexation, the measures I have outlined tonight will cost $30m in a full year. The pension increases alone in November 1979 will cost $84m in a full year. The lifting of pensioner health benefit income limits will lead to additional Commonwealth expenditure through the Department of Health. This is a very considerable additional expenditure by the Government when you bear in mind that we were already spending more than $1.1 billion a year on maintaining the repatriation system. Let me repeat, it is more than $1.1 billion a year. It is estimated that pensions and allowances alone this year will amount to nearly $950m.

Finally I would remind honourable senators that these increases in expenditure will add to a repatriation system which is outstanding by world standards. Compared with arrangements in other countries with comparable standards of living, the Australian repatriation system is very generous. The Government has not been able to increase other than the main repatriation pensions for three years, but this has been a matter of priorities in which we were guided by continuing consultation with organisations representing veterans. I am aware that these priorities have been a large factor in the regular consultations between the Minister and his Department on the one hand and the National President of the Returned Services League, Mr Keys, and the federal leaders of various organisations on the other hand. This has also been the subject of discussion whenever the Minister visits, as he frequently does, sub-branches of the RSL or other gatherings of veterans.

Now, I am happy to say, we have been able to adjust these allowances to conform with current needs. These increases in benefits, restoration of six-monthly indexation, lifting the limits applying to pensioner health benefits and the restoration of full, free medical treatment to veterans who have suffered tuberculosis, plus inclusion of Allied veterans into the Australian repatriation system, is evidence for the whole country that this Government has compassion and is very mindful of the needs of the veteran and his dependants. There is no doubt of the obligation which the Australian people still owe our veterans. I hope that the new measures announced in the Budget will demonstrate that the Government fully accepts this commitment.

I present the following paper:

Budget Measures Affecting Veterans- Ministerial Statement, 2 1 August 1 979 and move:

That the Senate take note of the paper.

Debate (on motion by Senator Grimes) adjourned.

Senate adjourned at 9.43 p.m.

page 49

ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS

The following answers to questions were circulated:

Taxation: Zone Allowance (Question No. 869)

Senator Kilgariff:

asked the Minister representing the Treasurer, upon notice, on 10 October 1978:

  1. 1 ) When did the Government last review the zone allowance Tor taxation purposes.
  2. Will the Government undertake a further review of the allowance to ensure greater parity in lifestyle between people of the outback and persons living on the Eastern and Southern seaboard.
Senator Carrick:
LP

– The Treasurer has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

  1. 1 ) The income tax zone allowance provisions were last considered during the preparation of the 1978-79 Budget. No decision to amend them was taken at that time.
  2. They will be further examined during the preparation of the 1979-80 Budget.

Prime Minister: Transfer of powers to the States (Question No. 1074)

Senator Wriedt:

asked the Minister representing the Minister Assisting the Prime Minister in Federal Affairs, upon notice, on 23 November 1978:

What powers within the Prime Minister’s jurisdiction have been transferred to the States since December 1975.

Senator Carrick:
LP

– The Minister Assisting the Prime Minister in Federal Affairs has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

Strictly speaking, the answer to the question is ‘ nil ‘, as any transfer of the nature referred to would require a constitutional amendment. However, in order to be as forthcoming as possible, set out below are details of functions and duties which have been transferred to State Governments or Instrumentalities since December 1975. Also included arc details of functions and responsibilities which it has been agreed are to be transferred in the future. The Northern Territory has been treated as a State for these purposes. For convenience, the following material covers matters falling within the portfolio responsibilities of all Ministers.

Minister for Industry and Commerce: In two instances the prime responsibility of States has been re-affirmed:

In the small business field- a Commonwealth/States program of assistance was developed, under the aegis of the Commonwealth/State Ministers Industry Council, by which States provide ‘grass roots’ counselling services for small business and the Commonwealth provides support services such as management training packages and publications. This scheme replaces national small business counselling services which operated in Sydney and Perth.

In the field of domestic tourism promotion- the Commonwealth, through the Australian Tourist Commission, ceased to bc involved. State/Territory prime responsibility for domestic tourism has been agreed between Commonwealth and State Ministers responsible for tourism.

Minister for Primary Industry: The following responsibilities have been transferred to the States:

Livestock certification in respect of the Northern Territory;

The Commonwealth Department of the Northern Territory transferred to the Northern Territory Department of Industrial Development the responsibility of being the designated authority for the purposes of OECD Schemes for varietal certification of seed moving in international trade.

In addition, the 1978 Premiers’ Conference on off-shore matters produced a proposal for joint Commonwealth/State management of fisheries. Under the present system, the State manages the fisheries within territorial limits and the Commonwealth manages the fisheries beyond territorial limits, with the States performing day to day licensing and enforcement jurisdictions for the Commonwealth. Under the proposed system, which will be further considered at the 1979 Premiers’ Conference, fisheries would be managed by a joint Commonwealth/State authority, by the Commonwealth alone or by the State alone.

Minister for Education: The following adjustments have been made in areas which are the responsibility of the Minister for Education:

States Grants (Schools) Acts have been simplified to provide States with greater flexibility in the application of funds, less detailed accountability requirements and greater devolution of responsibility for approving disadvantaged and special government schools: and in addition the facility now exists to enable States to transfer grants between the general recurrent and capital programs in line with their own program requirements.

In the tertiary area there have been discussions with the States on ways to improve administrative arrangements and already some procedures have been modified to reflect the responsibilities of the States. The Williams Report has made a number of recommendations in this area and these are under consideration.

The Northern Territory Apprentices Board was transferred to the then Department of the Northern Territory on 1 January 1978, and control subsequently passed to the Northern Territory Government on 1 July 1 978. The provision of education services and responsibility for education matters in the Northern Territory, excepting those of a national nature for which the Commonwealth has a continuing responsibility, will be transferred to the Northern Territory Government on 1 July 1979.

Minister for Transport:

Navigation Amendment Bill 1979 contains provisions that will allow the Stales and the Northern Territory to legislate to apply the international collision regulations to all civilian shipping in the territorial sea and internal waters, to the exclusion of Commonwealth law. To the extent that the States and Territory so legislate. Commonwealth law on this subject will not apply in those waters.

It is also proposed that:

The regulation of intraterritorial navigation in the Northern Territory, which is currently covered by the Navigation Act, will be eventually covered by Northern Territory legislation; and

The Northern Territory will eventually exercise aviation regulatory functions similar to those possessed by State governments, viz. economic regulation in the form of licensing of air services.

Treasurer: States have been enabled under the Income Tax (Arrangements with the States) Act 1978 to increase or decrease the rate of personal income tax imposed on residents of the State.

Minister for Social Security:

The Australian Assistance Plan- previously within the jurisdiction of the Minister for Social Security devolved to the States in July 1977.

Preschool education- from I January 1977 payments to the States have been made as block grants and not (as previously) on the basis of 75% of preschool teachers salaries. This change has allowed greater discretion to states in the deployment of preschool education resources.

Lone mothers- as from 1 July 1979, the NT will assume responsibility for financial assistance to mothers bringing up children alone under an arrangement similar to that which is available to States under the provisions of the States Grants ( Deserted Wives ) Act.

Minister for Finance: Revenues and expenditures relating to functions transferred to the Northern Territory as a consequence of self-government have been subject to the Territory’s Audit Ordinance since 1 July 1978. The Audit Act 1901 ceased to apply to those revenues and expenditures from that date and the functions and responsibilities of the Minister for Finance have therefore been correspondingly reduced.

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs: Further to the answer given on 24 November 1 978 by the Minister representing the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, agreement has been reached with the Northern Territory Government on the transfer of essential services in Aboriginal communities in the Northern Territory.

Minister for Health: The following matters, previously the responsibility of the Minister for Health, have been transferred:

As from 1 January 1979 the Northern Territory Government assumed responsibility for the provision and maintenance of all health services of types ordinarily provided and maintained by State Governments.

On 3 1 December 1976, the Commonwealth terminated the tuberculosis arrangements with the States. Thereafter the States became responsible for all costs associated with tuberculosis. However, when sufferers are treated in recognized (i.e. public) hospitals, costs are shared equally between the State and the Commonwealth under the hospital cost sharing agreements.

As from I July 1 978, Commonwealth funding of capital costs of health facilities provided under the hospitals development program ceased. States now bear the total cost.

Attorney-General: The following matters, previously within the Attorney-General’s responsibility, have been transferred to the States:

The functions of the Australian Legal Aid Office have been absorbed by State legal aid commissions in Western Australia and South Australia. It is proposed that those functions will be absorbed by State legal aid commissions in Queensland, Victoria, Tasmania and the Northern Territory and negotiations between the Commonwealth and these States and the Northern Territory are continuing. New South Wales has legislated on the establishment of a legal aid commission. No provision is made in the New South Wales legislation for absorbing the functions of the Office or for taking over the staff of the Office.

The power of the Attorney-General to intervene in proceedings in State Courts exercising jurisdiction under the Family Law Act 1975 (s. 91 (a) ) has been delegated to the Western Australian Attorney-General with respect to WA courts;

State courts have been vested with the following jurisdictions:

A matter pending in the High Court’s original jurisdiction, with respect to which a State, Federal or Territorial Court would have jurisdiction- the High Court is now empowered to remit the matter for trial in such a court, (s. 44 of the Judiciary Act, inserted by s. 9 of the Judiciary Amendment Act 1976);

Original jurisdiction in patents and trademarks matters- transferred to State Supreme Courts, and to ACT, NT, and Norfolk Island Supreme Courts (the latter 3 subject to certain limitations) by Patents Amendment Act 1 976 and Trade Marks Amendment Act 1 976;

Original jurisdiction to hear taxation prosecutions under the Income Tax Assessment Act- transferred from High Court to State and Territory Courts by Income Tax Assessment Amendment (Jurisdiction of Courts) Act 1976;

The Northern Territory (Self-government) Regulations (Statutory Rules No. 102 of 1978) formally embodied the transfer to the Northern Territory of State-type functions previously exercised by the Attorney-General’s Department, including functions relating to legislative drafting, printing and publishing of Northern Territory laws, legal policy and law reform, lower courts, criminal law, common law, commercial law, literary censorship, Companies Auditors Board, and management services with respect to the foregoing matters.

There are also the following proposals:

To extend State powers to the territorial sea, including the seabed, with respect to specific subject matters;

To confer taxation and industrial property jurisdiction on State and Territorial Supreme Courts in those tax and industrial property matters in which these Courts do not now have jurisdiction (the Jurisdiction of Courts (Miscellaneous Amendments) Act 1978);

To legislate to give Supreme Courts of States federal jurisdiction to deal with applications in Chambers in matters pending in the general jurisdiction of the Federal Court of Australia;

To transfer executive authority for the Supreme Court of the Northern Territory to the Northern Territory Government.

Minister for Veterans’ Affairs: Negotiations are now in progress with the Northern Territory Department of Health concerning the transfer of responsibility for the provision of orthoses to non-repatriation beneficiaries resident in the Northern Territory to the Northern Territory Government. The projected date of the transfer is currently 1 January 1980.

Minister for Housing and Construction: The following functions in the Housing and Construction portfolio have been transferred to the Northern Territory Government since December 1975:

Roads- design, construction and maintenance;

Water supply and sewerage- design, construction operations and maintenance;

Electricity supply and distribution- design, construction, operation and maintenance;

Northern Territory government housing design, construction and maintenance;

Northern Territory government building (other than education buildings)- design, construction and maintenance;

Aboriginal community centres- provision of essential services.

In addition, the following functions are proposed for transfer to the Northern Territory government on I July 1979:

Northern Territory education buildings- design, construction and maintenance.

The following powers have been returned to the States since December 1975:

Commonwealth/State Housing Agreement- eligibility tests, maximum interest rates on housing loans and proportion of rental dwellings sold;

Rental Assistance to Pensioners Scheme- approval of schemes nominated by States for funding under the program.

Minister for National Development: The following matters within the responsibility of the Minister for National Development were the subject of agreement at the Premiers’ Conferences of October 1977 and June 1978:

Offshore mining within the area to the outer limit of the 3 mile territorial sea and subterranean mining extending from the land mass should be the responsibility of the adjacent State;

States should have a share in the administration of offshore mining beyond the outer limit of the territorial sea through the establishment of joint Commonwealth/State authorities and should retain a share of royalties in the case of petroleum.

Action is currently in hand between the Commonwealth and the States and the NT to bring these proposals into effect.

Further, the Prime Minister and the Chief Minister of the Northern Territory agreed in October 1978 that the Minister for National Development should delegate all his powers and functions under the Petroleum (Submerged Lands) Act in respect of the areas adjacent to the Northern Territory and to the Ashmore and Carrier Islands to the Northern Territory Minister for Mines and Energy, subject to an agreement for consultation in accordance with the principles generally agreed at the Premiers’ Conferences. Administrative action to implement the delegation is currently being undertaken.

Minister for Home Affairs: The following matters, formerly within the jurisdiction of the Department of Northern Territory have been transferred to the Northern Territory Government:

Remuneration, allowances and other entitlements in respect of services of members of the Legislative Assembly, members of the Executive Council and Ministers of the Territory, including matters in respect of which enactments may be made under section 54 of the Northern Territory (Self-Government) Act;

Provision of rural, industrial and home finance credit and assistance:

The Public Service of the Territory;

Maintenance of law and order and the administration of justice (including correctional services);

Police:

Administration of estates and trusts; Civil liberties;

Inquiries and administrative reviews (including matters relating to a Territory ombudsman);

Markets and marketing;

Corporate Affairs;

Marketable securities;

Consumer Affairs;

Sales and leases of goods, supply of services, and security interests in or over goods;

Prices and rent control;

Industry (including forestry, fisheries, pastoral, agricultural, building and manufacturing);

Regulation of business and professions;

Tourism;

Printing and publishing;

Labour relations (including training and apprenticeship and workers’ compensation and compulsory insurance or indemnity therefore);

Industrial safety;

Mining and minerals (including gases and hydrocarbon fuels but excluding the mining of uranium or other prescribed substances within the meaning of the Atomic Energy Act 1953 and regulations under that Act as in force from time to time);

Land, public and private (including internal waters but excluding Aboriginal land rights);

Land use, planning and development;

Surface transport regulation (including traffic control, carriers, roads and bridges, vehicle registration and compulsory third party insurance, driver licensing and road safety);

Ports and harbours;

Environment protection and conservation (including parks, reserves and gardens and preservation of historical objects and areas);

Flora and fauna;

Fire prevention and control;

Water resources;

Energy planning and regulation;

Public utilities:

Public works;

Registration of land titles, instruments, and births, deaths and marriages;

Local government;

Housing;

Child, family and social welfare;

Museums, libraries and art galleries;

Scientific research;

Recreation, entertainment and sport;

Community, cultural and ethnic affairs;

Lotteries, betting and gaming;

Liquor;

Firearms, explosives and hazardous and dangerous substances;

Civil defence and emergency services;

Censorship;

Agreements between the Territory and the Commonwealth or a State or States;

Matters in respect of the Legislative Assembly;

Management of the public moneys of the Territory.

Minister for Administrative Services: The following matters previously within the responsibility of the Minister for Administrative Services have been transferred:

Responsibility for administration of property requirements for the NT government now rests with the NT Public Service, as the result of a division of certain land and property management functions between the Northern Territory and Commonwealth Government. (The Commonwealth still administers Commonwealth property requirements, such as defence, transport, and telecommunications).

The Australian Survey Office functions which were previously performed with respect to the Northern Territory are now the responsibility of the NT Public Service. (The Commonwealth still administers Commonwealth Survey requirements, such as defence, transport, and telecommunications).

The Government Printing Office in Darwin has been transferred to the NT government;

The Commonwealth Grants Commission’s power to recommend general purpose grants to individual local councils has been taken over by State Grants Commissions.

Furthermore, the question of the Australian Electoral Office’s functions in the conduct of the NT Legislative Assembly elections is presently under discussion.

Public Service Board: A small number of staff associated with personnel administration in the Northern Territory transferred from the Office of the Public Service Board in Darwin to the Northern Territory Public Service in July 1978.

Minister for Finance: Transfer of Powers to the States (Question No. 1085)

Senator Wriedt:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Finance, upon notice, on 23 November 1978:

What powers within the Minister’s jurisdiction have been transferred to the States since December 1973.

Senator Guilfoyle:
LP

– The Minister for Finance has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

I refer the honourable senator to the answer to Question No. 1074 provided by the Minister Assisting the Prime Minister in Federal Affairs.

Post and Telecommunications: Transfer of Powers to the States (Question No. 1094)

Senator Wriedt:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Post and Telecommunications, upon notice, on 23 November 1 978:

What powers within the Minister’s jurisdiction have been transferred to the States since December 1975.

Senator Chaney:
LP

– The Minister for Post and Telecommunications has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

I refer the honourable senator to the reply to Question No. 1074 given by the Minister assisting the Prime Minister in Federal Affairs.

Business and Consumer Affairs: Transfer of Powers to the States (Question No. 1096)

Senator Wriedt:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs, upon notice, on 24 November 1978:

What powers within the Minister’s jurisdiction have been transferred to the States since December 1975.

Senator Durack:
LP

– The Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

I refer the honourable senator to the Minister assisting the Prime Minister in Federal Affairs’ answer to Question No. 1074.

Administrative Services: Transfer of Powers to the States (Question No. 1101)

Senator Wriedt:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Administrative Services, upon notice, on 24 November 1978:

What powers within the Minister’s jurisdiction have been transferred to the States since December 1 975.

Senator Chaney:
LP

– The Minister for Administrative Services has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

I refer the honourable senator to the answer to Senate Question No. 1074 provided by the Minister assisting the Prime Minister in Federal Affairs.

Ministry: Christmas Cards (Question No. 1134)

Senator Colston:

asked the Minister representing the Prime Minister, upon notice, on 20 February 1979:

What amount of Government funds was spent by each Minister on the production and postage of 1978 Christmas cards.

Senator Carrick:
LP

– The Prime Minister has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

I am advised that, in most departments, costs of production and postage of Christmas cards are not separately identified in departmental ledgers. Such costs are normally charged to Appropriation items: office requisites and equipment, stationery and printing; and postage, telegrams and telephone services.

In the circumstances, I am not prepared to ask departments to spend the considerable time and resources which would be involved in order to seek to identify and draw together the information which the honourable senator has requested.

Minister for Special Trade Representations: Overseas Visits (Question No. 1358)

Senator Wriedt:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Special Trade Representations, upon notice, on 28 February 1979:

  1. 1 ) How many overseas visits have been made by the Minister since 13 December 197S.
  2. What countries were visited on each occasion, what was the length of stay in each country, and what was the purpose of the visit.
  3. How many: (a) members of the Minister’s personal staff; (b) departmental advisers; and (c) persons other than personal staff and departmental officers, accompanied the Minister on each trip.
  4. What are the names of the persons in category (3) (c) above, in what capacity were they travelling, and who paid their fares and other expenses.
  5. What was the total cost incurred: (a) in connection with the travel undertaken by the Minister, (b) by departmental officers accompanying the Minister, (c) by personal staff accompanying the Minister, and (d) by persons other than the Minister’s personal staff and departmental officers.
  6. To whom were the costs incurred by persons in category (5) (d) charged.
  7. Were the aircraft of No. 34 Squadron used for all or part of the travel; if so: (a) has a charge been raised for such travel; (b) what was the charge; (c) what would have been the commercial airfare applicable for travel undertaken by aircraft of No. 34 Squadron; and (d) do the costs requested in S (a) above include the costs for use of aircraft of No. 34 Squadron.
Senator Durack:
LP

– The Minister for Special Trade Representations has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

  1. 1 1, as Minister.
  2. 14 February- 13 March 1978:

Canada and USA- bilateral trade discussions (including MTN);

Belgium, FR Germany, Italy, UK- Trade representations with European Communities; discussions with Commonwealth War Graves Commission (as Minister for Veterans’ Affairs);

Switzerland- MTN discussions;

Bahrain, Abu Dhabi, Dubai- explore market opportunities for Australian agricultural exports; open Australian trade display. 4April-8 May 1978:

USA- bilateral trade discussions (including MTN); discussions with United Nations Secretariat;

Switzerland- review progress of MNT (including bilateral negotiations with European Communities, Japan and USA);

FR Germany, Belgium, Netherlands, Italy, Denmark, France, Ireland- bilateral trade representations with European Communities;

UK- bilateral trade representations and Commonwealth Ministerial meeting on the Common Fund. 1-18 June 1978:

Belgium, UK- bilateral MTN negotiations with European Communities;

Switzerland- trade discussions:

France-OECD Ministerial Council. 5-21 July 1978:

Switzerland- high-level session of MTN;

USA- bilateral trade discussions (including MTN). 19-26 August 1978:

India- ESCAP meeting of Asian Trade Ministers;

Malaysia- trade discussions. 25 September-22 October 1978:

Singapore, Thailand- bilateral trade discussions;

Iraq- negotiations for a trade agreement;

Czechoslovakia, Hungary- bilateral trade discussions;

Holy See- funeral of Pope John Paul;

Italy, Belgium, UK- bilateral MTN negotiations with European Communities;

Switzerland- review MTN progress; negotiations with European Communities. 12-24 November 1978:

Switzerland- review MTN progress including bilateral negotiations with USA, Japan and EC; discussions with UNCTAD Secretariat;

France, UK- bilateral MTN negotiations with European Communities. 6 January- 2 February 1979:

USA, Canada- bilateral trade discussions including MTN negotiations;

France, FR Germany, Belgium, Switzerland- bilateral MTN negotiations with European Communities; review MTN progress;

Egypt, Indonesia- bilateral trade discussions. 5 March-7 April 1979:

UK. France, FR Germany, Denmark, Netherlands. Belgium, Switzerland- bilateral MTN negotiations with European Communities. 8-26 May 1979:

Philippines- lead Australian Delegation to UNCTAD

V.

18-22 June 1979:

Tonga- South Pacific Forum meeting of Trade and Economic Ministers.

  1. 3 ) to ( 7 ) I refer the honourable senator to the answer provided by the Prime Minister to Senate Question No. 1335 (Senate Hansard, 2 May 1 979, pages 1 608- 1 609.

Immigration Statistics (Question No. 1369)

Senator Douglas McClelland:
NEW SOUTH WALES · ALP

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Immigration and Ethnic Affairs, upon notice, on 28 February 1979:

  1. How many persons have applied for migration to Australia since 1 July 1 978.
  2. How many applications have been approved, and from which countries did the successful applications originate.
  3. What is the percentage of successful and unsuccessful applications for each country from which applications were received.
Senator Guilfoyle:
LP

– The Minister for Immigration and Ethnic Affairs has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s questions:

In providing this answer the Minister Tor Immigration and Ethnic Affairs draws attention to the need to distinguish between inquiries about migration and formal applications for migrant entry as measures of interest in migration to Australia. Many inquirers become discouraged at the inquiry stage. These include the less strongly motivated; those with unreasonably high expectations and those who see themselves as unable to meet the eligibility criteria or entry rules.

Our officers overseas discourage those who are clearly ineligible from lodging applications. Inquiries about immigration at overseas posts in the period covered by the honourable senator’s question numbered approximately 256,000 cases.

The term ‘applications’ means the number of people covered by formal applications lodged at overseas posts.

1 ) Preliminary statistics indicate that 62,604 persons applied for migration to Australia during 1 July to 31 December 1 978. ( Later figures are not yet available. )

and (3) For the six months period applications for 19,415 persons were approved. The countries of origin of applicants, classified by the result for those applications processed in the period are shown on the following table:

Minister for Trade and Resources: Visits to Middle East (Question No. 1461)

Senator Keeffe:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Trade and Resources, upon notice, on 21 March 1979:

Did the following persons accompany the Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister for Trade and Resources on a recent trip to the Middle East: (a) the Chairman of the Australian Wheat Board, Sir Leslie Price; (b) the Chairman of the Australian Meat and Livestock Corporation, Mr R. G. Jones; (c) the Chairman of the Australian Overseas Project Corporation, Mr E. P. McClintock; (d) the President of the Australian Livestock Exporters’ Association, Mr T. Eastwood; (e) the National President of the Metal Trades Industry Association, Mr A. Gray; ( f) the Director of the Bureau of Meteorology, Dr J. W. Zillman; (g) the SecretaryGeneral of the Australian Automobile Association, Mr B. R. Lunn; (h) the Acting Director of the Aircraft, Guided Weapons and Electronics Supply Division of the Department of Productivity, Mr W. B. Meehan; and (i) the Secretary of the Department of Trade and Resources, Mr J. Scully; if so: (a) what was the cost of sending the mission; and ( b ) did the Government pay the travel and other costs of the mission.

Senator Durack:
LP

– The Minister for Trade and Resources has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

All the people indicated accompanied me at my invitation on the visit to Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait in February, this year.

Expenditure incurred in sending the mission and brought to account in Australia as at 30 June was $10,462.

This amount does not include the cost of the RAAF BAC 1-1 1 aircraft used on the visit which is met by the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.

Travel and related costs were met by the Government with the exception of acommodation and most ground transport charges in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait which were met by the respective Governments of those countries, at their request.

Kakadu National Park (Question No. 1504)

Senator Kilgariff:

asked the Minister for Science and the Environment, upon notice, on 29 March 1979:

  1. 1 ) When is Kakadu National Park to be Gazetted.
  2. What authority will be responsible for its administration.
  3. Are the Pastoral leases of Goodparla and Gimbat Stations to be included in the National Park; if so, by what authority.
  4. Has there been adequate consultation between the Federal Government and the Northern Territory Government.
  5. Does the Government intend to include other nearby areas in the Kakadu National Park area.
Senator Webster:
NCP/NP

– The answer to the honourable senator’s question is as follows:

  1. 1 ) The proclamation to declare Kakadu National Park was published in Gazette No. S6 1 on 5 April 1979.
  2. 2) Kakadu National Park was proclaimed under the provisions of the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act.

That Act vests responsibility for management of the Park in the Director of National Parks and Wildlife.

  1. The Government has not yet completed its consideration of the inclusion of Gimbat and Goodparla in the second stage of the Park. In respect to these pastoral leases the Ranger Uranium Environmental Inquiry recommended that: if possible the national park include at least one large total river catchment; the South Alligator catchment is the most suitable. consideration be given to the resumption of Goodparla and all or part of Gimbat with a view to their incorporation in the Park. (Gimbat and Goodparla encompass the headwaters of the South Alligator catchment. )
  2. Yes. Discussions have been held with the Northern Territory Government on participation by the Territory Parks and Wildlife Commission in the management of Kakadu National Park. Further consultations will occur between Commonwealth and Territory authorities on the preparation of the management plan for the Park as provided for in the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act.
  3. 3 ) The Government does not intend to include in Kakadu National Park any areas other than those recommended to it by the Ranger Uranium Environmental Inquiry.

Herbicide 2,4,5,T (Question No. 1506)

Senator Melzer:
VICTORIA

asked the Minister for Science and the Environment, upon notice, on 3 April 1979:

  1. 1 ) Has the Minister read a report by United States authorities on the use of the herbicide 2,4,5,T in Oregon.
  2. Is the Government concerned that, despite the actions of authorities in the United States, the National Health and Medical Research Council in Australia has advised the Government that there is insufficient evidence to warrant withdrawal of 2,4,5,T even if only as a precaution, until Australian authorities can carry out their own research.
  3. Is the Government concerned that, while in the United States precautions have been taken since 1970 to prevent pregnant women, and women of child-bearing age, making contact with this material, in Australia pregnant housewives can purchase the herbicides from supermarket shelves, with no warning of the physical damage which can result from excessive use of the chemical involved.
Senator Webster:
NCP/NP

– The answer to the honourable senator’s question is as follows:

  1. 1 ) As 1 stated to the Senate on 29 March 1979 (Hansard. page 1 102), I have read the United States report on the use of 2,4.5-T in Oregon and noted what it said.
  2. and (3) The matters raised concern the responsibilities of the Minister for Health and accordingly I have referred them for reply.

Domiciliary Nursing Care Benefit Brochures (Question No. 1523)

Senator Colston:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 3 April 1979:

  1. 1 ) Why were brochures on Domiciliary Nursing Care Benefit not available in the Brisbane Office of the Department of Health before I asked Senate Question No. 1244 on 20 February 1979 (see answer in Senate Hansard, 20 March 1979, page 793).
  2. Were the brochures that are currently available prepared by the Department of Health; if not, which Department prepared them.
  3. When were the brochures last printed.
  4. When is it expected that brochures will be reprinted.
  5. 3 ) Are sufficient quantities of the brochure currently held by offices of the Department of Health for Members of Parliament to send to interested constituents.
Senator Guilfoyle:
LP

– The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

  1. 1 understand that the Brisbane office of my Department had exhausted their stocks of this brochure prior to the honourable senator’s initial question on this matter (Senate Question No. 1244 of 20 February 1979). Some reserve stocks were available in Canberra and these were distributed to Department of Health offices in the States. Whereas stocks had been exhausted at the date of the honourable senator’s question on 20 February 1 979, the brochure was available in the Brisbane office on the date of the answer (20 March 1979).
  2. No. The currently available copies of the brochure were prepared by the Department of Social Security prior to the transfer of the administrative responsibility for the Domiciliary Nursing Care Benefit to my Department.
  3. July 1975.
  4. A further reprint of the brochure is now planned for distribution well before 1 November 1979 to incorporate the improvements made to the program since this Government came to office, particularly the reduction in age eligibility to 16 years, to apply from 1 November 1979. The new brochure will be distributed as soon as it is available.
  5. Yes.

Nuclear Energy (Question No. 1550)

Senator Melzer:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for National Development, upon notice, on 4 April 1 979:

  1. 1 ) Does the Government intend to continue to differentiate between (a) safeguards directed towards preventing the improper use of fissionable materials and their diversion into weapon manufacture and (b) safety as it relates to the safe operation of all elements of the nuclear industry, in view of: (i) the continuing and far-reaching dilemma nuclear engineers are faced with in Pennsylvania; (ii) the latest report that there is a nuclear reactor in South Korea which is approaching a similar critical state; (iii) the fact that five nuclear reactors were closed in South America because they were built in an earthquake area; (iv) the fact that a reactor is planned for an earthquake area in the Philippines; (v) the fact that a Swedish reactor has released considerable amounts of radioactivity into the atmosphere; and (vi) the possibility that an Italian reactor may be closing because of various significant amounts of radioactivity which are being released into the River Po.
  2. Will the Government in the future insist upon guarantees of safety in relation to environmental control and operations of reactors, as well as the other safeguards mentioned in ( 1 ) above, before overseas contracts are approved.
Senator Durack:
LP

– The Minister for National Development has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

  1. Yes.

    1. Health, safety and environment remain primarily matters ibr individual Governments and unilateral action by Australia would not be appropriate.

Nevertheless, the Government is concerned that strict and effective safety standards apply in all activities in the nuclear fuel cycle, and looks to individual countries to take appropriate measures. The Government endorses the importance of those nuclear safety standards which have been and may be agreed upon in international discussions in forums such as the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Australia is participating constructively in these discussions.

Export Control Guidelines (Question No. 1551)

Senator Keeffe:

asked the Minister representing the Prime Minister, upon notice, on 4 April 1979:

Did the Executive Director of the Australian Mining Industry Council, Mr Paul Phillips, indicate that the Government’s export control guidelines relating to minerals are to bc abolished; if so:

a ) was Mr Phillips ‘ statement accurate; and

why was the Parliament not informed before the Australian Mining Industry Council.

Senator Carrick:
LP

– The Prime Minister has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

  1. No. The Government has made it clear from the outset that the guidelines were draft guidelines for discussion with the Premiers and the industry. We indicated also that following these discussions and in the light of our experience with the guidelines, this matter would be the subject of further consideration by the Government at an appropriate time.
  2. See (a)

Queensland Air Services (Question No. 1552)

Senator Colston:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Transport, upon notice, on 4 April 1979:

What was the departure time from Brisbane of the direct Trans-Australia Airlines flights between Brisbane and Bundaberg and between Brisbane and Gladstone on:

10 December 1978;

24 December 1978; and

21 January 1979.

Senator Chaney:
LP

– The acting Minister for Transport has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

Since the answer to Question No. 1 126 TAA had advised that the information previously provided was incorrect and that on 24 December 1978 a BrisbaneMaryboroughBundaberg flight was operated and departed from Brisbane at 12.13 p.m. TAA has advised that the flight departure times were:

Brisbane-Bundaberg: 12.44 p.m.; BrisbaneGladstone: 8.46 a.m.

No direct Brisbane-Bundaberg flight was operated; Brisbane-Gladstone: 9.45 a.m.

Brisbane-Bundaberg: 12.09 p.m.; BrisbaneGladstone: 8.33 a.m.

Australian National Gallery (Question No. 1572)

Senator Ryan:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Home Affairs, upon notice, on 1 May 1979.

  1. 1 ) What works of art have been purchased by the Australian National Gallery since 1 January 1975.
  2. What works of art have been donated to the Australian National Gallery since 1 January 1975, and by whom were they donated.
Senator Webster:
NCP/NP

– The Minister for Home Affairs has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

I am advised by my Department that:

  1. I ) and (2) Information in respect of purchases and donations for the years 1976-77 and 1977-78 is published in the Australian National Gallery’s Annual Reports for those years, which have been tabled in Parliament. Arrangements have been made for a copy of each of those Reports to be sent to the honourable senator.

With regard to the periods not covered by those Reports, the Gallery has furnished the following details in respect of works of art purchased or donated to the Gallery between 1 January 1975 and 30 June 1976, and between 1 July 1978 and 31 March 1979.

Torres Strait Islands: Telephone Facilities (Question No. 1583)

Senator Colston:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Post and Telecommunications, upon notice, on 2 May 1 979:

  1. 1 ) Which inhabited islands in Torres Strait (a) do; and (b) do not, have full telephone facilities.
  2. When is it expected that full telephone facilities will be available at those inhabited Torres Strait islands which do not currently have these facilities.
Senator Chaney:
LP

– The Minister for Post and Telecommunications has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

  1. 1 ) Inhabited islands with telephone services are Thursday, Moa, Horn, Hammond, Prince of Wales, Booby, Friday. Inhabited islands without telephone services are Badu, Boigu, Coconut, Darnley, Dauan, Mabuiag, Moa (Kubin Village), Murray, Saibai, Stephens, Warraber, Yam, Yorke.
  2. Installation of a VHF telephone system to service the 13 islands is in progress and subject to satisfactory delivery of equipment the task should be completed between March and June 1980.

Lockhart River Settlement: Telephone Facilities (Question No. 1585)

Senator Colston:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Post and Telecommunications, upon notice, on 2 May 1979:

Does the settlement of Lockhart River in North Queensland have telephone facilities; if not, when is it expected that telephone facilities will be available.

Senator Chaney:
LP

– The Minister for Post and Telecommunications has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

There are no telephone facilities connecting the Lockhart River community to the telephone network. However, the office of the aboriginal community has an outlet via radio to the State Department of Aboriginal and Islanders Advancement network based on Thursday Island. The hospital has access by radio to the Royal Flying Doctor Service at Cairns for medical calls and telegrams.

A number of Outpost stations have been connected to the telephone network on a trial basis through the RFDS base station at Cairns. It is understood that the RFDS has no objection to Lockhart River community joining this trial but a request to participate would need to be made by the State Department of Aboriginal and Islanders Advancement.

Telecom is currently surveying the whole problem of telephone facilities for aboriginal communities and has commenced a program designed to provide standard telephone service for a number of communities both in Queensland and the Northern Territory. Firm plans for Lockhart River have not yet been made but it is quite a remote area in which there are other communication needs which must also be catered for. It will be sometime before standard telephone service is available in the area.

Qantas Airways Ltd (Question No. 1586)

Senator Colston:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Transport, upon notice, on 2 May 1979:

Was Qantas Airways Limited required to return the Government a dividend not less than the long term bond rate (see answer to Senate Question No. 1243, Hansard, 1 May 1979, pages 1514-5), if so when was this directive issued.

Senator Chaney:
LP

– The Acting Minister for Transport has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

The original Financial Directive, issued in 1948, required that where possible a dividend equal to the then long term bond rate be paid.

Trans-Australia Airlines (Question No. 1587)

Senator Colston:

asked the Minister for Transport, upon notice, on 2 May 1979:

Was the erroneous statement that ‘despite the extra services and larger aircraft, seating was still barely available’ referred to in the answer to Senate Question No. 1241 (see Hansard, 1 May 1979, p. 1514) corrected by TransAustralia Airlines Limited in the period between 10 December 1978 and Christmas Day; if not, why was this not done, so that intending passengers would have been spared the worry that they might not have been able to obtain seating during the Christmas season.

Senator Chaney:
LP

– The Acting Minister for Transport has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

TAA has indicated that its advices to the Queensland Press during the pre-Christmas period were handled by its Brisbane based public relations officer. It is not possible at present to specifically confirm that he became aware of the error or that he took corrective action because some months later he left TAA for promotion elsewhere.

TAA advise further that, in answer to press queries concerning Christmas bookings and capacity in the period leading up to Christmas, the correct advice that seating was freely available would have been tendered by staff.

One Cent Coins (Question No. 1592)

Senator Mason:

asked the Minister representing the Treasurer, upon notice, on 3 May 1979:

  1. 1 ) How many one cent coins are at present in circulation.
  2. How many one cent coins were minted and put into circulation in the years from 1 966 to April 1 979.
  3. How many of these one cent coins have been removed from circulation.
  4. Does the Treasurer keep any statistics on the velocity of circulation for the one cent coin; if so, what are they.
Senator Carrick:
LP

– The Treasurer has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

  1. 1,627 million1 -cent coins have been issued as at 28 March 1979.

No information is available on the number of coins in active circulation.

  1. The number of 1-cent coins issued in each of the following years is-

The numbers of coins minted bearing the date of the year of striking are-

  1. 250,000 1-cent coins have been returned to the Royal Australian Mint- notidentified by year.
  2. No.

Australian Capital Territory: Commercial Leases (Question No. 1594)

Senator Chipp:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for the Capital Territory, upon notice, on 2 May 1 979:

  1. 1 ) How many commercial leases have had their land rent conditions altered after the initial granting of the lease in (a ) 1977 and (b) 1978.
  2. ) What are the details of the change in each case.
Senator Webster:
NCP/NP

– The Minister for the Capital Territory has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

  1. (a)Nil.(b)One.
  2. Block I Section 34 Phillip. Auction date- November 1 975. Reserve annual rent (at auction)- $6,750. Amount of successful bid $25,000 per annum became annual rent payable under lease. New lease was negotiated requiring payment of rent which has regard to present day market conditions, of $9,600 per annum, subject to lump sum payment of capitalised land rent of $46,074.

Timorese Family Reunions (Question No. 1595)

Senator Missen:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Immigration and Ethnic Affairs, upon notice, on 8 May 1979:

  1. How many of the 600 Timorese family reunions planned to take place in Australia had occurred as at 3 May 1979.
  2. What criteria are employed by the Government to assess the suitability of Timorese applicants seeking reunion with their families in Australia.
  3. At what stage of processing are arrangements for the remaining Timorese nominees selected for reunion with their families in Australia and when will these be completed.
  4. Has an Australian Immigration official been seconded to Dili; if so, what tasks does this officer perform there.
  5. What action is the Government taking to ensure that the initial agreement between Australia and Indonesia relating to the two-way reunion of Timorese families is honoured by the Indonesian Government.
Senator Guilfoyle:
LP

– The Minister for Immigration and Ethnic Affairs has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

  1. As at 3 May 1979, 196 Timorese had arrived in Australia to bc reunited with their relatives. Of these, 38 were husbands of Timorese women resident here.
  2. ) Timorese included on the list of approximately 600 are those regarded as being eligible through agreement reached between the Australian and Indonesian Governments. They are interviewed overseas to establish their identity and relationship to sponsor. They are required to undergo normal x-ray and medical requirements to ensure they do not represent a health risk to the Australian community.

Others not included in the agreed list are required to meet normal migration criteria for entry to Australia.

  1. Groups of Timorese are progressively being processed for entry to Australia by the Australian Embassy in Jakarta. It is not possible to estimate when this process will be complete.
  2. As has been noted in (3) above the processing of Timorese applicants is carried out in Jakarta. A position for an Australian Migration Officer has been established at the Australian Embassy in Jakarta and an officer will take up the position shortly.
  3. The first phase of the Timor Family Reunion Program permitted the entry to Australia of an initial group of 99 persons in January 1979. The second phase of the program is proceeding as agreed.

Migratory Birds Treaty with Japan (Question No. 1596)

Senator Mulvihill:

asked the Minister for Science and the Environment, upon notice, on 9 May 1979:

What stage have negotiations between the Commonwealth and relevant State Governments reached regarding State responsibilities relating to the ratification of the Migratory Birds Treaty with Japan.

Senator Webster:
NCP/NP

– The answer to the honourable senator’s question is as follows:

On 6 September 1978 the Prime Minister wrote to all Premiers and to the Chief Minister of the Northern Territory inviting them to legislate for implementation of the Australia-Japan Migratory Birds Agreement and proposing that discussions take place as soon as possible between Commonwealth and State officers. All Premiers and the Chief Minister of the Northern Territory have now responded nominating a liaison officer for the discussions.

Examination of State and Territory legislation with respect to its coverage of provisions of the Agreement can now be undertaken by officers of the Australian National Parks and Wildlife Service and Attorney-General’s Department. Discussions on these matters have commenced.

Nabarlek Mine: Radiation Limits (Question No. 1600)

Senator Melzer:

asked the Minister for Science and the Environment the following question, upon notice, on 9 May 1979.

  1. 1 ) Will radon gas decay products build up very rapidly in the small Nabarlek pit, following the opening of the Nabarlek Mine in Arnhem Land by Queensland Mines.
  2. Does the Government intend to amend the Code of Practice on Radiation Protection in Mining and Milling of Radioactive Ores.
  3. Is the Supervising Scientist to be given any special instructions on the matter.
  4. Will the mine be closed if the level exceeds the set limit of radiation.
  5. Will Queensland Mines be required to check constantly the health of miners.
  6. Will Queensland mines be responsible for any loss of wages arising from any closure of the Nabarlek Mine.
Senator Webster:
NCP/NP

– The answer to the honourable senator’s question is as follows:

Operations with respect to radiation safety and protection at Queensland Mines ‘ Nabarlek Project are subject to the requirements of the Code of Practice on Radiation Protection in the Mining and Milling of Radioactive Ores, Department of Health 1975, and to certain environmental requirements attached to the Northern Territory Special Mineral Lease which authorises the project. The 1975 Code of Practice has been legislated in the Northern Territory through the Mines (Radiation Protection) Regulations made under the Mines Regulation Act. Queensland Mines must comply with these Regulations.

In relation to the specific points in the question:

1 ) Radon decay products will arise in the Nabarlek pit during mining operations. Their concentrations in the mine will vary throughout the day and night depending on a number of factors including atmospheric conditions, the ore grade being mined and movement of air within the mine, lt is understood that ventilating systems will be installed in the pit to enhance the dispersion rate of radon and its decay products from the pit when necessary.

The 1975 Code of Practice is being re-cast into a more suitable form for incorporation into legislation by the Commonwealth and the States and the Northern Territory. In addition a number of guidelines and handbooks are being produced, for use by the supervising authorities and those required to operate in conformity with code, on technical matters relevant to the implementation of the Code of Practice. These guidelines and handbooks will take into account the most recent methods and advances available in the various fields covered by them and will enable a high standard to be achieved uniformly throughout Australia.

No. Implementation of the Mines (Radiation Protection) Regulations is the direct joint responsibility of the Northern Territory Director of Mines and the Northern Territory Chief Medical Officer. Under the Environment Protection (Alligator Rivers Region) Act the Supervising Scientist exercises an overall supervisory role in the implementation of the Code of Practice and he has been involved jointly with the above Northern Territory authorities in the consideration of and approval for Queensland Mines radiation protection and monitoring programs.

The protective action to be taken by the Mine Manager when air borne contamination levels in the mine exceed prescribed levels, is laid down explicitly in the Code. In the event of radon daughter concentrations exceeding specified levels during working shifts, suspension of operations is required and the area must be vacated until corrective actions have been taken to reduce the concentrations to acceptable levels.

Yes. The 1975 Code of Practice sets out in detail the medical examination and radiation monitoring requirements for miners. Queensland Mines is obliged to meet these requirements.

The matter referred to in 6 is outside the responsibility of my portfolio.

Public Servants in Private Enterprise (Question No. 1604)

Senator Ryan:

asked the Minister representing the Prime Minister, upon notice, on 9 May 1979:

  1. 1 ) Did a senior public servant from the Prime Minister’s Department help to prepare the TCN9 application to the Broadcasting Tribunal for a television licence renewal.
  2. What guidelines have been laid down by the Government relating to the participation by public servants in private enterprise when dealing with issues that are public and controversial.
Senator Carrick:
LP

– The Prime Minister has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

  1. Since 1977 several officers of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet have been selected to participate in the Executive Development Scheme conducted by the Public Service Board on behalf of the Service. This Scheme enables selected officers of capacity and achievement to undertake a 12-month development program combining formal coursework and differing work experiences. An officer of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet participating in the Executive Development Scheme has spent a period of 4 to 5 months with Consolidated Press.

This followed work assignments in the Departments of Business and Consumer Affairs and Immigration and Ethnic Affairs. He has worked in each of the operating divisions of Consolidated Press and assisted with TCN9’s application for a licence renewal. Time spent with Consolidated Press has enabled the officer, among other things, to gain first hand experience of the effect of Government regulation on business.

  1. The placement in Consolidated Press was made under existing arrangements for the Interchange Program which is conducted by the Board and has the strong support of the Government. The normal arrangement in settling possible placements under the Interchange Program is to give full consideration to potential conflict of interest situations so that they may be avoided. If necessary, undertakings are given in relation to disclosure of information. The officer placed with Consolidated Press has not had any access to or involvement in matters of broadcasting or its attendant policy at any time before commencing his assignment, or since returning from it.

Computer Manufacturing Industry (Question No. 1605)

Senator Chipp:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Industry and Commerce, upon notice, on 9 May 1 979:

Is Australia completely dependent on imported computers; if so, will the Minister consider taking any measures comparable to those taken by the Brazilian Government to encourage the development of a computer manufacturing industry in Australia, thereby enhancing Australia’s selfreliance in the field of defence, as well as providing business and employment opportunities.

Senator Chaney:
LP

– The Minister for Industry and Commerce has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

The Automatic Data Processing (ADP) equipment industry in Australia comprises two sectors: a small manufacturing sector (6 companies) employing some 500 persons and producing mainly cathode ray tube display terminals (known as CRT’s) and other peripheral equipment a large service and consulting sector, mainly concerned with supplying and installing large computer systems (including software) of overseas origin. Large international companies e.g. IBM, Digital Equipment, Facom and Honeywell, constitute this sector of the industry.

In its report on ADP Equipment and Parts of 1 8 August 1 976 the Industries Assistance Commission (IAC) found that there was little prospect for the production of large scale computer systems in Australia and that these units would continue to be imported. The IAC considered that the local manufacture of ADP equipment would probably continue to be confined to small peripheral equipment.

The Government’s decision, announced in November 1 976, on that report was to maintain the existing 24 per cent tariff on CRT’s and to provide a bounty over a seven year period for most other ADP equipment. The bounty is equivalent to 20 per cent of value added in Australia by ADP manufacturers in each of the first three years of operation, decreasing to 15 per cent in each of the next two years and 7.5 percent in the remaining two years.

Because the industry is subject to rapid technological change the Government also decided that the assistance accorded the industry be reviewed in five years, instead of the seven years recommended by the Commission, and that consideration would be given to including the software sector in the review.

The Government’s decision on the type and level of assistance to be provided to the manufacture of computers in Australia takes into account the need to provide positive assistance to the industry to plan for the future, to maximise the use of computers in Australia and to allow users access to the latest and best computer technology at or near world prices both to the benefit of Australian industry and the community as a whole.

Bounty payments, which commenced on 29 March 1977, amounted to some $600,000 in 1977-78 and in last year’s budget $ 1 , 500,000 was appropriated for this purpose.

The Australian computer industry is also assisted by the Government’s offset policy which was introduced in 1970 with the objective of narrowing the gap in technology and industrial efficiency between Australian manufacturing industries and those of highly developed overseas countries. As a result, major direct technological benefits to the computer industry have occurred through improvements in software developments, computer terminal production technology, introduction of high precision machinery and the manufacture of computer components.

To date, offsets in excess of $60m have been awarded against purchases of imported computers providing considerable benefit to the computer industry.

Electoral Office (Question No. 1606)

Senator Chipp:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Administrative Services, upon notice, on 10 May 1979:

Has the Electoral Office established procedures to conduct an election at large, in the event of this becoming necessary in any of the States; if so what are the details.

Senator Chaney:
LP

– The Minister for Administrative Services has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

No specific procedures have been laid down for the conduct of an election at large. Were such a situation ever to eventuate the Australian Electoral Office would be required to follow the procedures laid down by whatever legislation was applicable at that time.

Aquarium Fish Imports (Question No. 1608)

Senator Walsh:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Primary Industry, upon notice, on 10 May 1979:

  1. 1 ) Do laws exist in each State and Territory which would restrict or control the breeding for commercial or other purposes of those aquarium fish which are currently available, but which would become illegal imports upon the adoption of the ‘List of Species and Genera of Aquarium Fishes Proposed for Continued Importation’; if so, what are they; if not, will the effectiveness of restrictions of live fish imports be diminished.
  2. Has the Minister or his Department or any other Government agency consulted with the State Governments with a view to making State laws consistent with the proposed import restrictions.
Senator Webster:
NCP/NP

– The Minister for Primary Industry has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

  1. 1 ) The honourable senator will understand that this matter falls outside the portfolio of the Minister for Primary Industry, Mr Sinclair.

However, enquiries to each State and Territory indicated that while laws don’t directly control the breeding of aquarium fish for commercial or other purposes, they, the States, do achieve this goal indirectly.

Relevant information from each State or Territory legislation validating these restrictions may be found in:

New South Wales

Fisheries and Oyster Farms Act, 1 935.

Fisheries and Oyster Farms Amendment Act, 1 979.

Victoria

Victoria ‘s Fisheries Act, 1 968.

Western Australia

Western Australian Fisheries Act, 1 905.

South Australia

South Australian Fisheries Act, 1971-77.

Queensland

Queensland Fisheries Act, 1 976.

Tasmania

Fisheries Act, 1 963, Section 37(1)

Fisheries Act (No. 2) No. 105 of 1974 and No. 45 of 1976

Northern Territory

  1. Apart from licensing requirements, under the Fisheries Ordinance, 1968, no Northern Territory legislation is in force which provides for restriction or control of fish breeding.
  2. Restrictions which currently apply under the Fisheries Ordinance, 1 968, relate to importation of fish.
  3. The effectiveness of import restrictions is somewhat diminished by lack of rigid controls on breeding, but the compromise is considered necessary in view of popularity of particular species.
  4. It is anticipated that Northern Territory legislation governing importation will soon be amended to bring it into line with the ‘List of Species and Genera of Aquarium Fishes Proposed for Continued Importation’, when it is adopted. However, it is envisaged that only minimal additional legislation will be provided to control fish breeding.

Australian Capital Territory

Under existing ACT legislation there is no control over the breeding or sale of aquarium fish. However, the proposed new Nature Conservation Ordinance will introduce such controls.

The Department of Home Affairs advises that in respect of the Territories of Norfolk Island, Cocos (Keeling) Islands, Christmas Island and the Coral Sea Islands, there are no Territory Ordinances restricting or controlling the breeding of aquarium fish. The control point for the importing into the mainland of aquarium fish from an Island Territory is the entry point into the mainland.

  1. The Australian Fisheries Council, of which the Minister for Primary Industry, Mr Sinclair, is Chairman, has established under the Standing Committee on Fisheries, the Advisory Committee on Endangered Species and Import and Export of Live Fish.

This Committee provides a mechanism for joint Commonwealth/State consultation on the matter of aquarium fish. The Chairman of the Advisory Committee, the Victorian Director of Fisheries and Wildlife, Mr J. C. F. Wharton, has advised that his Committee has discussed the need for State controls to be consistent with the proposed import restrictions. However, as stated in reply to part 1 of the question a uniform approach has not been agreed upon yet by the States.

Australian National Gallery (Question No. 1615)

Senator Ryan:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Home Affairs, upon notice, on 10 May 1979:

Has the Government endorsed an acquisition policy and statement of principles for the purchase by the Australian National Gallery of new works of art; if so, what are the details.

Senator Webster:
NCP/NP

– The Minister for Home Affairs has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

The policy of the Australian National Gallery Council for the acquisition of works of art by the National Gallery, was published in the Gallery’s Annual Report for 1976-77 (see pages 12 to 18), which I presented to Parliament on 22 August 1978 (Hansard 22 August 1978 p. 531). The Gallery’s acquisition policy was endorsed by me before inclusion in the Annual Report.

Prime Minister’s Electorate Talks (Question No. 1616)

Senator Ryan:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Immigration and Ethnic Affairs, upon notice, on 22 May 1979:

What were the dates of the Prime Minister’s electorate talks which were translated by the Translation Section of the Citizenship Branch, of the Department of Immigration and Ethnic Affairs.

Senator Guilfoyle:
LP

– The Minister for Immigration and Ethnic Affairs has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

The Translation unit of the Department of Immigration and Ethnic Affairs translated for distribution to the ethnic press and radio two of the Prime Minister’s weekly talks to his electorate dated 29 October and 5 November 1 978.

Northam Telephone Exchange (Question No. 1618)

Senator Walsh:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Post and Telecommunications, upon notice, on 10 May 1979:

  1. 1 ) Does Telecom intend to retrench staff employed at the manual exchange, Northam, WA, in June 1979 and to close the exchange completely in 1981; if so, will the Minister undertake to ensure that the present staff will be given the option of transferring to other manual exchanges or suitable equivalent employment with Telecom.
  2. If retrenchments are to occur, what notice will be given, and what criteria will apply in determining which staff are to be retrenched first.
Senator Chaney:
LP

– The Minister for Post and Telecommunications has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

  1. I ) Telecom has advised that a review of staff requirements is being carried out following a decline in traffic at the Northam Manual Assistance Centre. The fall in traffic handled at the exchange is due to the extension of Subscriber Trunk Dialling facilities in the area. The staffing review has not yet been completed but a reduction of three temporary employees is expected. The five temporary staff at the exchange have been advised of this possibility and four of these employees have already indicated their willingness to accept employment elsewhere. They can be placed in Perth if necessary. There are no firm plans to close the Assistance Centre in 1981. However, a nationwide review is being undertaken to develop plans for Manual Assistance Centres throughout Australia and the future of Northam, along with other centres, will be considered as pan of the exercise. The review will be very comprehensive and the final long-term plan is expected to be completed towards the end of 1979. A significant consideration in developing the long-term plan will be the extent to which it is possible to retain employment opportunities in country areas.

Nevertheless, the extension of Subscriber Trunk Dialling has resulted in a reduction in operator-handled calls and, for this reason, it will not be practicable to retain all of the existing Manual Assistance Centres on a long-term basis.

  1. One month’s formal notice will be given to the temporary employees at Northam. The criteria to determine which staff should be retrenched first is length of service and their associated level of efficiency.

Parliamentary Car Hire (Question No. 1621)

Senator Walsh:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Administrative Services, upon notice, on 23 May 1979:

  1. 1 ) When did the Minister’s Department discover that on two occasions Mrs Rosemary Sinclair had mistakenly charged hire cars to the Department of Administrative Services, as stated in the Minister’s reply to Senate Question No. 1 173 (see Hansard, 8 May 1979, page 1709).
  2. When was each of these accounts received by his Department.
  3. What was the amount of each account.
  4. When did the Minister for Primary Industry personally pay each account.
Senator Chaney:
LP

– The Minister for Administrative Services has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

  1. 1 ) The then Department of Services and Property became aware of the two occasions on which hire cars in respect of Mrs Sinclair were charged to the Commonwealth following receipt of the accounts.
  2. ) November 1 973; July 1 974.
  3. $20.77; $64.93.
  4. The Minister for Trade and Resources has stated that the Minister for Primary Industry paid the accounts personally (see Hansard, 8 May 1979, page 1 709). My Department has no information about the payment of the accounts.

Immigration: Points System (Question No. 1623)

Senator Melzer:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Immigration and Ethnic Affairs, upon notice, on 23 May 1979:

  1. 1 ) Have recent reports suggested that the new points system for selecting immigrants is designed to favour applicants from Rhodesia, South Africa and the British Isles over immigrants from countries such as Greece, Turkey and Lebanon.
  2. Has a further report indicated that since the points scheme was introduced over 200 South African immigrants have been accepted while one Greek immigrant has been admitted.
  3. How many immigrants have been admitted to Australia from: (a) South Africa; (b) Rhodesia; (c) the British Isles; (d) Turkey; (e) Greece; and (f) Lebanon, in each month since the points system was introduced.
Senator Guilfoyle:
LP

– The Minister for Immigration and Ethnic Affairs has supplied the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

  1. 1 ) It is not clear to which reports the honourable senator is referring. However, the new points system for selecting immigrants (NUMAS) is designed to achieve consistency of selection, regardless of country of origin. Differences in selection results thus reflect differences in the characteristics of applicants, in comparison with the criteria established in Australian immigration policy.
  2. and (3) Settler arrivals since January 1979 from the following countries have been:

As the processing of an application for migrant entry normally takes some months, these figures include only very small numbers of people selected under NUMAS.

Prime Minister’s Trip to UNCTAD (Question No. 1629)

Senator Ryan:

asked the Minister representing the Prime Minister, upon notice, on 22 May 1979:

What was the full cost to the public of the Prime Minister’s trip to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development ( UNCTAD) held in Manila during May 1979.

Senator Carrick:
LP

– The Prime Minister has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

The air travel cost is expected to total $28, 1 45. Other costs have not yet been finalised.

During my stay in Manila seven members of the party were guests of the Government of the Republic of the Philippines.

During my stay in Bali all members of the party were guests of the Government of the Republic of Indonesia.

Herbicide 2, 4, 5-T (Question No. 1632)

Senator Mason:

asked the Minister for Science and the Environment the following question, upon notice, on 23 May 1 979:

  1. 1 ) Has the Government given consideration to suggestions made by Senator Mason in a Question without Notice to the Minister about the manufacture and use of herbicides (see Hansard, 12 October 1978. pages 1263-4).
  2. When can a considered, detailed comment be expected from the National Health and Medical Research Council on reports provided to it in early 1 979 of events at Alsea, Oregon, which led to the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s extension of bans on the use of 2,4,5T.
  3. Has the United States Environmental Protection Agency requested information or reports from the Council relating to possible associations of 2,4,5T with birth defects or foetus malformations in Australia; if so, has the Council given the United States Environmental Protection Agency the requested information or reports; if not, why not.
  4. Was a paper by a Sydney University Research team consisting of Dr Barbara Field and Professor Charles Kerr on the possible association of spina bifida and the herbicide 2,4,5T, intended for publication in the British medical journal. The Lancet, withdrawn at the request of the Council.
Senator Webster:
NCP/NP

– The answer to the honourable senators’ question is as follows:

  1. 1 ) Senator Mason will be aware of my reply to his earlier question of 12 October 1978. Matters referring to the registration and use of agricultural chemicals are the responsibility of the Minister for Primary Industry. The Minister for Health has responsibility for examination of possible health effects of agricultural chemicals through the machinery of the National Health and Medical Research Council. Australia places great importance on the procedures that operate in the clearance of agricultural chemicals. A comprehensive document ‘Requirements for Clearance of Agricultural Chemicals’, outlining these procedures is available from Department of Primary Industry.
  2. The matters raised in questions 2, 3 and 4 are the responsibility of the Minister for Health. In relation to (2), 1 understand that a special meeting of the National Health and Medical Research Council was held on 26 March 1 979 to consider the United States report. The NHMRC considered that the report provided no scientific evidence to indicate the introduction of additional restrictions on 2,4,5T was iustified
  3. I understand that copies of the NHMRC report on the investigation into a possible relationship between 2,4, 5T and birth defects in Australia were sent to both the U.S. Embassy in Canberra and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
  4. The paper referred to was recently published in Lancet. I understand that minor modifications to the draft paper were suggested. This is quite a normal procedure prior to the acceptance for publication of scientific articles.

Family Planning (Question No. 1640)

Senator Button:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 28 May 1979:

  1. Did the Minister say, on 29 March 1979, that there was a responsibility on the Commonwealth and State Governments to pay more attention to and allocate more money for family planning.
  2. What funds have been allocated by the Commonwealth Government for the purpose of family planning education and training in each year since 1 972.
  3. How many family planning clinics currently operate, (a) in each State and Territory; and (b) in Australia as a whole.
Senator Guilfoyle:
LP

– The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

  1. 1 said and I quote ‘ I firmly believe that a greater responsibility is now imposed not just upon the Commonwealth Government, but upon State Governments which have a responsibility for administering the laws relating to abortion, to spend more money and to ensure that there is a comprehensive and satisfactory family planning program in this country’.
  2. Commonwealth Government allocations for family planning education, training and information activities (including associated administrative costs but excluding funds allocated for family planning research) since 1972 were as follows:
  3. (a) and (b) Under the Commonwealth Government’s Family Planning Program services embracing information, education and training programs, are provided by State and Territorial Family Planning Associations.

Family Planning Associations are non-governmental organisations which conduct two different types of activities, namely, clinical (i.e. medical ) services and information, education and training programs, although there are some common areas in administration and in practical training.

Clinical services provided by the State and Territory Family Planning Associations include counselling for pregnancy, infertility and sexual problems. These services are funded through Health Program Grants which are paid direct by the Commonwealth to the Associations. In 1978-79 approved Health Program Grants payments for these clinical services amounted to S2.4m.

As mentioned, Commonwealth funding is made available under the Family Planning Program for information, education and training programs for health and health-related professionals, community groups and the general public.

The ACTION Centre (a pilot project which opened in Melbourne in December 1976) is funded wholly by the Commonwealth under the Family Planning Program. The Centre provides services which cater for at-risk youth, including clinical services, drop-in counselling and information on contraception, human sexuality, personal and parental relationships and behavioural problems.

The number of centres currently conducted by the Family Planning Associations and the ACTION Centre and the number of clinic (i.e. medical) sessions provided in 1977-78 (latest available figures) are as follows:

Funds under the Family Planning Program are also allocated to the Australian Catholic Social Welfare Commission which is responsible for distributing grants to natural family planning centres throughout Australia. These centres (and their associated agencies) promote natural methods of family planning through information and education programs. Although these centres are sometimes referred to as ‘clinics’, medical services are not provided.

The number of natural family planning centres and associated agencies currently operating in Australia are as follows:

In addition to the above, some family planning services are provided by hospitals, community health centres, baby health centres and other services conducted within the States and Territories. Commonwealth funding for these services may be provided through broader Commonwealth funding programs such as the Community Health Program or as part of the hospital cost-sharing arrangements with the States.

It will be appreciated that, as well as the above more specialised services, a large segment of family planning activities is carried out during the course of normal medical consultations.

Defence Force Personnel: Participation in Political Parties (Question No. 1646)

Senator Chipp:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Defence, upon notice, on 29 May 1979:

Does Regulation R.2 10A ( 1 ) of the Army Law Manual prohibit Service personnel from joining or actively participating in political parties; if so: (a ) does this regulation infringe the civil liberties of Service personnel, and especially the right to freedom of association guaranteed by the United Nations; (b) does any similar regulation apply to: (i) members of the Commonwealth Public Service working in Defence establishments; or (ii) members of the Army Reserve; (c) does the Report of the 1973 Working Party on the

Defence Force Disciplinary Code deal with this matter; and (d ) will the Minister consider amending the regulation.

Senator Carrick:
LP

– The Minister for Defence has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

Sub-regulation 2 10A ( 1 ) of the Australian Military Regulations, which is re-printed in the Army Law Manual, does not prohibit Service personnel from joining political parties. However, as it stands, the sub-regulation does provide that a member of the Army who is employed on continuous full time military service shall not take any active part in the affairs of any political or municipal organisation or party, either by speaking in public or publishing or distributing literature in furtherance of the purposes of any such organisation or party, or in any other manner.

Recognising that the present provisions were unsatisfactory, I gave approval some time ago to a revised policy on the participation of servicemen in political activities. New regulations of tri-Service application are being drafted to implement this policy.

Essentially, members of the Defence Force will be able to join political parties and participate in their activities, provided that a member engaging in such activity does not use his rank or uniform, prejudice the performance of his duties, affect the functioning of the Defence Force, or identify the Defence Force with any political activity, lt will not be permissible to conduct political activities on Service establishments or ships.

No.

(i) No. (ii) Sub-regulation 2 10A (2) of the Australian Military Regulations provides that a member of the Army who is not employed on continuous full time military service shall not use his military rank when taking part in any activity of a political nature or in connection with any municipal or other local government council or corporation. The sub-regulation does not apply (in connection with his membership or candidature) to any member of or duly nominated candidate for the Parliament of the Commonwealth or of a State, or any municipal or other local government council or corporation.

No.

Australian Military Regulations 2 10A will be repealed when the new tri-Service regulation referred to above is introduced.

Aboriginal Infant Mortality (Question No. 1648)

Senator Keeffe:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 29 May 1979:

  1. 1 ) Are the 1978 Aboriginal infancy mortality rates for the Northern Territory and Queensland yet available (see answer to Senate Question No. 1425, Hansard, 8 May 1979, page 1714); if so, what are the details.
  2. Has Western Australia produced any statistics further to those provided in the answer referred to above; if so, what are the details.
Senator Guilfoyle:
LP

– The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

  1. The 1978 Aboriginal infant mortality rate for the Northern Territory is 48.1 per 1,000 live births. The regional rates are as follows: Northern Region 45.5, Southern Region 38.9, East Arnhem Region 72.7.

Infant mortality rates for Queensland communities for 1978 are not yet available.

  1. There are no further statistics available for Western Australia.

Portrait of Prime Minister (Question No. 1649)

Senator McLaren:

asked the Minister representing the Prime Minister, upon notice, on 29 May 1979:

  1. 1 ) Has the Prime Minister, through the Historic Memorials Committee, commissioned an overseas resident, Mr Westwood, to immortalise him in oils, and is this person to be flown to Australia to carry out the exercise, as reported in the National Times for the week ending 2 June 1 979.
  2. What will be the total cost of the work, including the fares and accommodation for Mr Westwood.
  3. Why is it that the well-known Australian artist, Mr Larry Pickering, who is renowned for his reproductions of the Prime Minister, has not been engaged for this task of immortalisation.
Senator Carrick:
LP

– The Prime Minister has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

  1. 1 ) The Commonwealth has entered into a contract with Mr B. Westwood to execute a portrait of the Prime Minister for the Historic Memorials Collection. Mr Westwood is not to be flown to Australia at Commonwealth expense. He has previously accepted three commissions on behalf of the Historic Memorials Committee- the portraits of Senator the Honourable Sir Magnus Cormack, Senator the Honourable Justin O ‘Byrne and the Opening of Parliament in 1974.
  2. Mr Westwood has entered into a standard contract which provides for the payment of a fee of $6,000 and any incidental expenses incurred for approved travel and accommodation within Australia.
  3. The Visual Arts Board nominates artists it considers suitable for commissions of this nature. Mr Pickering was not nominated by the Board.

Northern Territory Education (Question No. 1655)

Senator Kilgariff:

asked the Minister for Education, upon notice, on 30 May 1 979:

  1. 1 ) Has the Government considered the Neal Hird Report on Northern Territory Education: if so, are its recommendations to be implemented.
  2. Will the proposed transfer of the Northern Territory Department of Education to the Northern Territory Government on 1 July 1 979 have any effect on the recommendations of the report.
Senator Carrick:
LP

– The answer to the honourable senator’s question is as follows:

  1. and (2) The Neal/Hird Report dealt with the professional staffing of government schools, both in the ACT and the NT, and recommendations relating to both Territories were subsequently considered by working parties representative of local educational interests. In the case of the NT the working parties’ recommendations received the endorsement of the NT Minister for Education who saw them as covering a number of improvements he would like to see introduced into the educational system in the NT.

The financial arrangements to apply between the Commonwealth and the Northern Territory as from I July 1979 have been the subject of discussions in the Budget context. The question of implementing the Neal/Hird recommendations has been included in the discussions.

VIP Aircraft (Question No. 1658)

Senator Melzer:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Defence, upon notice, on 4 June 1 979:

What is the continuing cost of the refit that will be necessary each time the two Boeing 707 aircraft recently purchased by the Government are converted from Defence to VIP use.

Senator Carrick:
LP

– The Minister for Defence has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

There are no continuing costs for material in the refit that will be necessary each dme the B707s are converted from Defence to special purpose use. The changeover will be carried out by RAAF personnel provided at RAAF Base Richmond for the maintenance support of the B707 aircraft and therefore there will be no additional costs.

Australian Legal Aid Office (Question No. 1659)

Senator Evans:

asked the Attorney-General, upon notice, on 4 June 1979:

  1. 1 ) Are staff numbers at the Melbourne office of the Australian Legal Aid Office (A.L.A.O.) below the authorised level; if so, what efforts are being made to bring them up to full level.
  2. ) What is the anticipated date for the transfer of the Victorian office of A.L.A.O. to the Victorian Legal Aid Commission.
Senator Durack:
LP

– The answer to the honourable senator’s question is as follows:

  1. 1 ) Yes; staff numbers of the Melbourne Office of the Australian Legal Aid Office (A.L.A.O.) are below the authorised level. Three legal officers and two typing/clerical officers are to be appointed in the near future. These appointments will bring the staff numbers up to the authorised level.
  2. Commonwealth and State officers are working towards an agreement that will enable a transfer of the Victorian Office of A.L.A.O. to the Victorian Legal Aid Commission late this year. No specific date for the transfer has been set.

Overseas Investment in Australia (Question No. 1662)

Senator Watson:

asked the Minister representing the Treasurer, upon notice, on 4 June 1979: ls there an upward surge of overseas interest in securities listed on Australian stock exchanges; if so, what action is proposed to protect established profitable Australian companies from foreign takeover and control.

Senator Carrick:
LP

– The Treasurer has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

Since the beginning of 1 979, there has been a satisfactory recovery in foreign portfolio investment in Australia, reflecting the effect on foreign investors’ confidence of the improved outlook of the minerals and rural sectors, the stability of the Australian dollar and the general increase in the competitiveness and profitability of Australian industry. Data published by the Australian Bureau of Statistics indicate that for the March quarter 1979 the level of foreign portfolio investment was the highest quarterly inflow since this component was first published separately.

The Government welcomes foreign portfolio investment because it injects additional capital resources into the economy without diminishing Australian control of local companies.

By its nature, a portfolio investment would not normally result in the foreign investor gaining a substantial interest in a company, let alone achieving control of the company.

Where foreign investment would result in a foreign interest acquiring or increasing a substantial interest in an Australian company, the proposed investment is subject to the Foreign Takeovers Act 1975 and to the provisions of the Government’s foreign investment policy. Proposed investments that involve takeovers of Australian companies must be notified to the Government. Such proposals are considered against broad criteria that take into account economic, social and other considerations and are only allowed to proceed provided they are found to be not contrary to the national interest.

Brisbane Airport: Curfew (Question No. 1665)

Senator Colston:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Transport, upon notice, on 31 May 1979:

  1. 1 ) When was the curfew broken at the Brisbane airport during the period 1 March 1 979 to 3 1 May 1 979.
  2. What was: (a) the time of take-off or landing; and (b) the reason for the breaking of the curfew, on each occasion.
Senator Chaney:
LP

– The Acting Minister for Transport has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

  1. 24March 1979.

  2. (a) 0521 hours.

    1. The Minister for Transport approved the departure of the flight from Brisbane to Sydney before the end of the curfew to avoid hardship and inconvenience which would have been suffered otherwise by the passengers intending to take the flight. On that day, Brisbane Airport was to be closed from 0600 hours to 1 300 hours and Sydney Airport from 1 300 hours to 1 700 hours because of an industrial dispute.

Surgical Operations (Question No. 1666)

Senator Chipp:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 3 1 May 1979:

  1. 1 ) Do statistics reveal: ( 1 ) a substantial variation in the frequency rates of surgical operations between different States and areas within Australia; and (b) that the variation is especially marked in the case of elective surgery such as tonsillectomy and hysterectomy.
  2. Are the rates for some types of surgery in some areas so high as to cause concern.
  3. What action is proposed to introduce a monitoring system such as those now operating in New York and in Saskatchewan, or some other form of second opinion system, in order to protect the public and reduce health costs.
Senator Guilfoyle:
LP

– The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

  1. (a) and (b) My Department does not maintain statistics on the incidence of surgical procedures that allow comparisons to be made between States and between areas within States. However, Table 1 below shows estimates made in my Department of the incidence of tonsillectomies and hysterectomies in each State in 1 977-78, for which medical benefits were paid. The table also shows estimates, made on the same basis, of the incidence of all surgical procedures.

The table shows a marked variation between States for the total number of surgical operations per 1,000 population, but smaller differences between rates for tonsillectomies and hysterectomies. However, it must be emphasised that these arc estimates for services for which medical benefits were paid and do not include any assessment of the number of operations performed on Medibank levy payers in standard wards of recognised (public) hospitals.

I am aware of recent authoritative papers concerning the incidence of surgical operations in general, and tonsillectomies, appendicectomies, hysterectomies and cholecystectomies in particular, which maintain that the variations between regions in Australia appear to be greater than can be explained by differences in population structure.

  1. Insofar as these regional variations mentioned in ( 1 ) suggest that excessive surgery is being performed, these variations are obviously cause for concern.
  2. I am not aware of any detailed plans to introduce a hospital patient monitoring system. However, following a recommendation of the National Committee on Health and Vital Statistics, on which all States and Territories are represented, every health authority is expected to be maintaining a hospital inpatient statistical collection by 1980. These will give a good picture of the utilisation of hospital services in Australia and should provide a foundation for further cost saving initiatives. In addition the Government is actively supporting the medical profession in developing systems of peer review, which, as well as promoting quality care, should serve to identify unnecessary procedures. The Government is firmly committed to reducing health costs and is discussing with the States possible measures which could be used to contain hospital costs, the largest component of health care expenditure. The discussion paper ‘ Report on Rationalisation of Hospital Facilities and Services and on Proposed New Charges’, which I tabled in Parliament on 24 May 1 979 describes a number of these measures. In addition, I am confident the proposed national hospital inquiry will provide valuable information on ways of achieving savings overall in the hospital system.

Admiralty House, Sydney: ‘Duress Alarm System’ (Question No. 1668)

Senator Walsh:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Housing and Construction, upon notice, on 4 June 1 979:

  1. 1 ) What is the proposed function of the ‘ Duress Alarm System’ recently installed in Admiralty House, Sydney, as notified in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette G21, page 50 (Tender No. NQ 565).
  2. Why was such a system not thought necessary during the occupancy of Sir John Kerr at Admiralty House.
Senator Webster:
NCP/NP

– The Minister for Housing and Construction has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

  1. 1 ) and (2) The purpose of the equipment referred to is protection against unauthorised entry. This equipment updates an existing alarm system.

Army Rifle Range at Geraldton (Question No. 1669)

Senator Walsh:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Administrative Services, upon notice, on 4 June 1979:

Were funds from the sale of the Army Rifle Range at Geraldton, Western Australia, placed in trust to be used as a contribution towards a new rifle range; if so:

on what conditions will these funds be made available; and

b) will these funds be made available for a new site currently being considered at Grenough, Western Australia, if approval is given for it.

Senator Chaney:
LP

– The Minister for Administrative Services has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

No. Proceeds from the sale were paid into consolidated revenue.

Expenditure on Soil Conservation (Question No. 1670)

Senator Mason:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for National Development upon notice, on 5 June 1979:

  1. 1 ) Is the Minister considering the policy options decided upon by the Joint Commonwealth/States group in the report, ‘A Basis for Soil Conservation in Australia’; if so: (a) when will the Minister decide on the preferred option or action necessary; and (b) will expenditure on work required be at the ‘ urgency levels ‘ seen as needed by the authors.
  2. What has been the expenditure on soil conservation by the Commonwealth Government in each State for each year from 1972 to 1978.
  3. What percentage of these expenditures has been on land treatment rather than technical services.
Senator Durack:
LP

– The Minister for National Development has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

  1. 1 ) The report is now under close examination by the Government, and I expect to be able to announce the Government’s response to the report in the near future.
  1. Of total Commonwealth expenditure on soil conservation from 1971-72 to 1977-78, 42 per cent was on land treatment and 58 per cent on technical services.

Industrial Accidents and Diseases (Question No. 1675)

Senator Mcintosh:

asked the Minister representing the Treasurer, upon notice, on 5 June 1979:

  1. 1 ) Does the Australian Bureau of Statistics, or any other Government department, collect statistics on the number of man hours weeks lost through industrial accidents and diseases arising out of work-place conditions.
  2. ) If yes, to what year were these statistics current.
  3. ) Is it correct that these statistics are not collected by the Commonwealth Government department responsible, but by State Government instrumentalities.
  4. If yes, to the preceding question, are the statistics collected by the State instrumentalities collected by a common system according to common criteria.
  5. If the answer to question (4) is no, what are the differences in collection and criteria between each of the States.

  6. If the answer to question (3) is yes, do any of these statistics detail:

    1. a ) time lost through work-related or caused disease:
    2. causes of accidents and disease:
    3. industry or enterprise to accident/disease comparisons;
    4. types and extentofinjury;
    5. whether measures were taken to prevent the recurrence of injuries/diseases caused by work. (Please provide State by State details).

  7. For the last five years that both series of statistics are available, please provide a comparison of the number of man days lost through:

    1. industrial disputation;
    2. industrial accidents. (Please provide the criteria of definition, description, and classification of industrial disputation).
  8. 8 ) Has the Australian Bureau of Statistics gone part of the way in preparing a program for the Australia wide collection of statistics on the cause and effects of industrial accidents and disease in Australia.
  9. 9) If the answer to the preceding question is yes, what details would this program collect and collate if implemented.
  10. If the answer to question (8) is yes, why has this program not been implemented.
  11. 1 1 ) If the answer to question (8) is yes, how many persons would be needed to staff the program, and what would be the estimated cost of implementing this program.
Senator Carrick:
LP

– The Treasurer has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

  1. 1 ) Statistics of working time lost due to industrial accidents and diseases are collected by the Australian Bureau of Statistics for each of the six States. The statistics are based on workers compensation claims that have been closed. Similar statistics are not currently collected in respect of Australian Government employees, the Northern Territory, and the Australian Capital Territory.
  2. The most recently published statistics (at 30 June 1979) for each State are:

New South Wales……… 1976-77

Victoria………… 1974-75

Queensland……….. 1976-77

South Australia………. 1976-77

Western Australia……… 1977-78

Tasmania………… 1976-77

Therefore, the latest financial year for which all States have published is 1974-75.

  1. The statistics are collected by State Offices of the ABS, largely through a State Government department or instrumentality responsible for the administration of workers compensation legislation. Some information is collected direct by the ABS from insurers. The obligation upon insurers to report is now compulsory in all States except Tasmania.
  2. No.
  3. Although the information collected in the States is broadly similar, as indicated above there are differences in collection arrangements. There are also many differences in the legislative provisions. Furthermore, the basis of reporting varies, as follows:

Recent legislative changes in Victoria allow individual firms to insure only against accidents that result in total costs of $500 or more, and to meet the cost of smaller claims from their own resources. A useful summary of the legislative differences is contained in ‘Conspectus of Workers Compensation Legislation in Australia as at 1 January 1978’, published by the Department of Social Security.

  1. The following table indicates whether the statistics are classified according to the categories specified:

No details of preventive measures are collected. The collection of such information through workers compensation claims is not practicable.

  1. For a number of reasons, it is not possible to make direct comparisons of the published statistics of industrial accidents and industrial disputes. Apart from other limitations, the industrial accident statistics for some States include only those accidents which resulted in the loss of one week or more of working time; and they exclude the two Territories, Australian Government employees and in some cases other groups such as seamen, police forces, mining employees, etc. Also, the industrial disputes statistics relate only to disputes involving stoppages of work of ten man-days or more at the establishments where the stoppages occurred.
  2. Yes.
  3. The following details would be collected on a standardised basis:

Date of occurrence of accident or of reporting of disease:

Number and duration of accidents or disease cases resulting in lost working time of one week or more in stage one of the program and one day or more in stage two;

Industry of employer (or of self-employed persons);

Occupation;

Age;

Sex;

Type and agency of accident- in accident cases

Nature and location of injury- in accident cases

Nature of disease- in disease cases

Disability category.

  1. Present ABS resources are insufficient to allow implementation of the program in the short term. In addition, progress has been hampered by the need in some areas for changes to legislation, the difficulty which some of the authorities involved have had in finding resources for the work (thus increasing the burden on the ABS) and the emergence of other complicating factors. Complete uniformity and coverage is unlikely to be achieved without some increase in resources in the ABS.

    1. The present resource allocation for the compilation and publication of industrial accident and workers compensation statistics is about 2 1 man-years per year. It is not possible to foresee all of the difficulties that might emerge in increasing the coverage and implementing the full standardisation program, nor the extent to which the additional work would be shared between the various bodies involved. It is estimated that nine to ten man-years per year above the present ABS resource allocation would be required and that the additional annual cost would be $ 1 50,000. An additional one man-year per year would be required for development of the program in the first two years.

Farm Machinery (Question No. 1679)

Senator Douglas McClelland:
NEW SOUTH WALES · ALP

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Primary Industry, upon notice, on 6 June 1979:

  1. 1 ) Is there a high degree of dissatisfaction on the part of many farmers regarding the poor quality of farm machinery, the unavailability of spare parts and the high costs of such parts.
  2. What action is taken by the Department of Primary Industry to monitor matters of this nature, and are any steps being contemplated: (a) to rationalise the number of different brands of equipment available; and (b) to make spare parts more available.
Senator Webster:
NCP/NP

– The Minister for Primary Industry has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

  1. 1 ) Occasionally there have been reports of individual farmers or farmer organisations expressing dissatisfaction with some aspect of the quality of farm machinery. This may be expected in these days of intensive farm mechanisation when it is so necessary to match the machine to the particular performance expected of it. It is not possible for machinery manufacturers to control the way in which the machinery is used in the field. The machine may be overloaded or not used according to specifications resulting in a failure which could not be attributed to faulty design or manufacture.

There is some degree of dissatisfaction regarding the availability of spare parts as shortages can occur from time to time. This is understandable in view of the large range of sophisticated machines now in use on Australia’s highly mechanised farms and the difficulties of maintaining full stocks of spares at numerous small agencies. Many country agents prefer to order spares as required from city merchants rather than maintain large costly stocks themselves. Sometimes there will be delays in despatch and transport from the cities. Furthermore the spare parts for many machines are imported which means that they may be subject to delays in supply from overseas.

The question of the price of spare parts was the subject of an inquiry by the Prices Justification Tribunal in 1 977.

The inquiry was initiated by the Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs following representations from several primary producer organisations including the Australian Farmers Federation, which expressed concern about the price and availability of farm machinery spare parts. The inquiry covered the seven major importers of tractors and agricultural equipment. It did not cover distributors or dealers, which are in most cases relatively small enterprises.

In its report the Tribunal found that the prices of one of the seven companies should be reduced by five per cent and those of two other companies by ten per cent.

The relatively high prices of spare parts were found to be due partly to the fact that the farm machinery industry generally sought higher rates of profit on parts than on new equipment, and partly to the cost of holding stocks of spare parts. In respect of some imported parts, it was found that the high prices were due to high transfer costs charged by the overseas parent company.

Nevertheless, the Tribunal commented that the industry provided a high-grade service in terms of quality and availability of spare parts but that the cost of providing such a service network entailed large dealer networks holding large stocks of parts with slow turnover and consequent shrinkage and obsolescence.

The Tribunal also found that complaints about availability of spare parts were few, particularly in view of the extensive distribution system provided by all companies.

  1. The Department of Primary Industry maintains an interest in the supply and availability of agricultural machinery, and has recently collected information on availability and prices in the agricultural areas of Australia.

Whilst the Government seeks to provide the climate and conditions conducive to efficient development of industry, it would not be appropriate for the Government to seek to intervene directly in such matters as the number of different brands of equipment offered or policies concerning spare parts availability. Consumers and equipment producers alike are free to make their own commercial judgements in matters related to the purchase and supply of equipment. This enables consumers to secure access to the widest range of equipment which they themselves consider necessary, whilst producers are encouraged by the self-regulating effects, and the market place to ensure that they satisfy customer’s requirements, including requirements for spare parts.

Australian Broadcasting Tribunal (Question No. 1688)

Senator Douglas McClelland:
NEW SOUTH WALES · ALP

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Administrative Services, upon notice, on 6 June 1 979:

  1. 1 ) What was the cause of the fire in the Melbourne Office of the Australian Broadcasting Tribunal on 24 February 1978 between 7 p.m. and 7. 15 p.m.
  2. 2 ) What was the cost of damage to the building.
  3. What contents of the building were destroyed or damaged, and what was their estimated value.
Senator Chaney:
LP

– The Minister for Administrative Services has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

  1. 1 ) Investigations by the Commonwealth Police, Victorian Police, Arson Squad and Metropolitan Fire Brigade, Melbourne have been unable to determine the cause of this fire so the cause has been recorded as ‘ unknown ‘.
  2. The reported value of damage to the building was $325,000.
  3. The following are the details of the contents of the building destroyed or damaged and their estimated values-

Department of Aboriginal Affairs (Question No. 1689)

Senator Douglas McClelland:
NEW SOUTH WALES · ALP

asked the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, upon notice, on 6 June 1979:

  1. 1 ) How many people are employed in the Department of Aboriginal Affairs.
  2. ) What percentage of the staff is Aboriginal or people of Aboriginal descent.
  3. Is there a policy of encouraging Aboriginal employment within the Department; if so, what steps have been taken to implement such a policy.
Senator Chaney:
LP

– The answer to the honourable senator’s question is as follows:

  1. 1 ) As at 3 1 May 1979 there were 863 staff employed in the Department. Of this number 787 were employed under the Public Service Act whilst the remainder of 76 were employed on work in Aboriginal communities in the Northern Territory.
  2. 28.6 per cent of the total staff employed at 31 May 1 979 were Aboriginals.
  3. In 1978 the Government announced the National Employment Strategy for Aboriginals to improve employment and training opportunities for Aboriginals in both the public and private sectors. The Department’s policy on the employment of Aboriginals has been developed in the context of the Strategy.

The Public Service Board has issued guidelines on the implementation of the Strategy in the Australian Public Service within the overall principle of open competitive merit recruitment. In accordance with these guidelines the Department has been undertaking a review of those positions where the ability to communicate effectively with Aboriginals or a knowledge or understanding of Aboriginal culture is relevant to the effective performance of the duties. Positions where these special abilities are relevant to the duties have generally been advertised as open to persons inside and outside the Service. The Department is making every effort to ensure that Aboriginal people are aware of such employment opportunities in the Department by advertising the positions by means of a Departmental vacancies notice which is widely distributed to all Aboriginal communities and organisations.

Great Barrier Reef (Question No. 1691)

Senator Button:

asked the Minister representing the Prime Minister, upon notice, on 5 June 1979:

Will the Prime Minister give an assurance that the Great Barrier Reef region, as defined under the present Act, will not be reduced or altered as a result of any negotiations with Queensland or for any other reason, in view of the fact that the Prime Minister said on 4 June 1 979 that the Commonwealth Government has decided that there will be no further exploration for petroleum in the Great Barrier Reef region until the results of both short and longer term research are known.

Senator Carrick:
LP

– The Prime Minister has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

It was announced on 14 June 1979 that the Premier of Queensland and I had conferred on future consultative arrangements for joint consideration of recommendations of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, and had agreed to establish a joint Commonwealth/Queensland Ministerial council comprising Ministers particularly representing marine parks, conservation, science and tourism to co-ordinate policy at a ministerial level. In that announcement it was clearly indicated that the Commonwealth Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act will continue unchanged and that the boundaries of the Reef Region will remain as defined in the Commonwealth legislation.

Departure Tax (Question No. 1695)

Senator Colston:

asked the Minister representing the Prime Minister, upon notice, on 6 June 1979:

Why did the Prime Minister indicate, in his answer to Senate Question No. 1579 (see Hansard, 4 June 1979, page 2595), that he had nothing further to add to the answer he gave to Question No. 1 142 (see Hansard, 1 May 1979, page 1512).

Senator Carrick:
LP

– The Prime Minister has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

As I said in my answer to Question No. 1 142, 1 have paid the cost of departure tax personally for each occasion I have left Australia since 24 October 1978.

As departure tax has been paid to the appropriate authority there is nothing further to add to my previous answers.

Prime Minister: Overseas Visits (Question No. 1696)

Senator Colston:

asked the Minister representing the Prime Minister, upon notice, on 6 June 1979:

On what dates since 24 October 1978 has the Prime Minister left Australia.

Senator Carrick:
LP

– The Prime Minister has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: 29 October 1978; 25 December 1978; 24 January 1979; 8 May 1979.

Ngaligilangu Cattle Company (Question No. 1698)

Senator Robertson:

asked the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, upon notice, on 7 June 1 979:

  1. 1 ) Is the body known as Ngaligilangu Cattle Company incorporated under Northern Territory Law or Federal Law.
  2. When did this company first request transfer of cattle owned by the Crown.
  3. Was the company promised transfer of ownership of such cattle on 1 July 1 978; if so, why was this promise not kept.
  4. Will the cattle be transferred to the company on 1 July 1979; if not, why not.
  5. Is the Crown holding the cattle because of the current price boom.
  6. If the Crown retains ownership, will it reimburse the Aboriginal company for (a) agistment of approximately 3000 head; and (b) for natural increases to the herd at current market rates.
Senator Chaney:
LP

– The answer to the honourable senator’s question is as follows:

  1. 1 ) The Ngalkirlangu Pastoral Co. Pty Ltd, was incorporated on 14 September 1978 under the Northern Territory Companies Act 1963.
  2. The matter of transfer of cattle has been a point of discussion between DAA and interested Aboriginals for about two years. On a number of occasions it was explained that transfer would be subject to the establishment of a Land Trust and Commonwealth approval for the handover of assets associated with the cattle project. Those assets included cattle.
  3. No.
  4. It is hoped to transfer the assets before I July 1 979.
  5. No.
  6. The Commonwealth does not intend to retain ownership.

Northern Territory: Housing (Question No. 1699)

Senator Robertson:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Housing and Construction, upon notice, on 7 June 1979:

  1. 1 ) When will the Commonwealth make houses in the Northern Territory available for purchase by tenants.
  2. Have inordinate delays in making houses available had the result that many who wish to purchase will now not qualify for the Home Savings Grant.
  3. How many applications for the Home Savings Grant in the Northern Territory were received between 1975 and 1978.
  4. What is the level of home ownership in the Northern Territory.
  5. What is the anticipated number of applications for Home Savings Grants, given that the lowest priced housing in the Northern Territory, that is. Housing Commission Homes, is sold for prices in excess of $40,000.
Senator Webster:
NCP/NP

– The Minister for Housing and Construction has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

  1. 1 ) The Minister for Administrative Services has advised that the whole question of the provision of Commonwealth staff housing in the Northern Territory, including whether a home sales scheme should be re-introduced, is currently under review, lt is expected that this review will take several months to complete.
  2. The Minister for Administrative Services has advised that apart from the need for the review mentioned in ( I ), the Commonwealth has been unable to sell any of its staff housing in the Northern Territory since 1 July 1978 when, consequent upon attainment of self-government by the Northern Territory, title to all Commonwealth housing transferred temporarily to the Northern Territory. Although most properties required for Commonwealth purposes have since been re-acquired, the non-issue of individual titles to date has been one factor preventing the sale of any houses.

The Government has decided that a value limit will apply to qualifying homes for persons who contracted to buy or build their first home after 24 May 1979 and apply for a home savings grant. Persons who buy or build homes within that limit, or before the operative date, will continue to qualify for a grant.

  1. In the period 1 January 1975 to 31 December 1978, 224 applications for home savings grants in the Northern Territory were received.
  2. A survey conducted in November 1978 by the Australian Bureau of Statistics indicated that, in the Northern Territory some 25 per cent of all households were owneroccupied, as against 69-77 per cent in the States. Statistics of those owning and occupying their first home are not available.
  3. Separate statistics are not maintained of applications for grants from persons purchasing homes from the Northern Territory Housing Commission. Departmental records indicate that, in 1978-79, 147 applications for grants were received for homes in the Northern Territory, and that some 5 5 per cent of homes cost less than $40,000.

Leaded Petrol (Question No. 1701)

Senator Gietzelt:
NEW SOUTH WALES

asked the Minister for Science and the Environment the following question, upon notice, on the 7 June 1979:

  1. Has the Minister’s attention been drawn to a voluminous report on the incidence of lead in the air and its harmful effects on children in Sydney arising from the growing use of petroleum products.
  2. Has the Government noted the remark of Professor Lloyd Smythe that the National Energy Research Development and Demonstration Council has refused an application for funds to carry on his important research work and his statement that the Government does not seem to be much concerned about the adverse effects of energy.
  3. Will the Government reconsider its position in view of its stated purpose to take steps to improve public health and prevent illness.
Senator Webster:
NCP/NP

– The answer to the honourable senator’s question is as follows:

  1. 1 ) Yes, the recent report by Dr V. P. Garnys, Dr R. Freeman and Professor L. E. Smythe entitled, ‘Lead Burden of Sydney Schoolchildren’, has been brought to my notice. I understand that the complex issues raised in the report have been referred to the National Health and Medical Research Council and the Australian Environment Council for consideration.
  2. The National Energy Research, Development and Demonstration Council (NERDDC) reports to the Minister for National Development. One of its major tasks is to recommend to the Minister support grants for energy research and development projects.

I have been advised that in response to national press advertisements, 474 applications were received for support grants during 1978. The competition was very keen and on 2 May 1979 the Minister announced details of 177 successful projects totalling $ 1 5.3m. “The priorities approved by the Minister and employed by Council were tabled in Parliament on 5 April 1979. The importance of economic, social and environmental effects of energy usage is emphasised.

Lack of support for a project does not necessarily mean that it is not worthwhile. It simply means that after careful assessment and review, NERDDC recommended that there were alternative projects having a higher priority.

  1. The Government is fully aware of the importance of air pollution resulting from energy usage. A number of the grants in the 1978-79 National Energy Research, Development and Demonstration Program addressed this problem, including $60,000 to Macquarie University to investigate the origin of the Sydney brown haze. The CSIRO will be collaborating with Macquarie University on this project.

On 5 July 1979 the Minister for National Development issued a statement on Energy Policy Initiatives in which he said that the Commonwealth would be pleased to join with the States in further investigation of air pollution issues. The Commonwealth attaches such importance to this matter that the Minister also announced that, although applications for the 1979-80 National Energy Research, Development and Demonstration Program had formally closed on 15 June 1979, he would be most willing to extend the deadline for submissions in this area.

Health Benefits (Question No. 1703)

Senator Chipp:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 6 June 1979:

Why is the scheduled fee under the Revised Schedule of Benefits for removal of a skin cancer the same, regardless of whether the procedure is performed by a dermatologist or by a general practitioner.

Senator Guilfoyle:
LP

– The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

In answering the honourable senator’s question it would help to give some background information regarding the decision to pay the same benefit regardless of whether the removal of a skin cancer is performed by a dermatologist or a general practitioner.

The 1973 Medical Fees Tribunal under the chairmanship of Mr Justice J. T. Ludeke discontinued the practice of lower Tees for Items 3330-3346 (removal of keratoses, warts or similar lesions) when these services were provided by nonspecialist practitioners. This decision which came into effect in April 1974 was in line with the Australian Medical Association’s (A.M.A.) policy of not providing fee differentials when services are commonly and efficiently performed by specialist and non-specialist practitioners. The A.M.A. had, in fact, already removed the fee differentials from these items in its List of Medical Services and Fees 1 973.

Item 3349 covering the removal of skin cancer was introduced into the Medical Benefits Schedule from 1 February 1979, after due consideration by the Medical Benefits Schedule Review Committee, on which the A.M.A. is represented. Cancer, of course, is often a very serious disease, but the skin cancers covered by Item 3349 resemble the wans, keratoses and similar lesions that I have already referred to. I am advised that they can be satisfactorily removed by a virtually identical procedure, and I have accepted the Committee’s recommendation that a fee differential should not be provided.

Australian Conservation Foundation Funding (Question No. 1704)

Senator Chipp:

asked the Minister for Science and the Environment, upon notice, on 7 June 1979:

Will the Minister accede to the Australian Conservation Foundation’s request for a modest increase in funding in 1979-1980 to enable it to carry out its function or information and advocacy effectively, in view or the fact that Government contributions to the Foundation remained static from 1972 to 1978, and were actually reduced by !6 in 1979.

Senator Webster:
NCP/NP

– The answer to the honourable senator’s question is as follows:

The Government will give full consideration to the Australian Conservation Foundation’s application for funds. This will, of course, be carried out in the light or the Government’s overall budgetary proposals for the Grants to Voluntary Conservation Bodies Program.

Agricultural Chemicals: Health Hazards (Question No. 1705)

Senator Chipp:

asked the Minister for Science and the Environment, upon notice, on 7 June 1979:

  1. 1 ) Does the high toxicity or many agricultural chemicals used in spraying mean that any mistakes in proportions used could cause serious health and environmental hazards.
  2. ) Will the Minister consider the dual use of metric and imperial measurements in all labelling and instructions on agricultural chemicals as long as may be necessary to minimise hazards duc to errors in conversion, in view of the Tact that spraying equipment made to imperial measurements may have a working lire or up to 20 years.
Senator Webster:
NCP/NP

– The answer to the honourable senator’s question is as follows:

  1. 1 ) Many agricultural sprays are highly toxic in their concentrated form. Even when diluted they could cause health or environmental hazards if improperly used. They must be handled with extreme care and only by properly trained, competent persons. For more than a decade the Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals Association (AVCA) has conducted a campaign urging users ‘read the label and heed the label’ so that they will use these chemicals safely. The labels draw attention to the need for care at all times. They specify not only the concentration and frequency of spraying, but also the safety precautions that must be observed and the safe period between the last spray and harvesting, and they give first aid information in the case of accidents.
  2. No. The packaging and labelling of these chemicals was converted to metric units in 1974, that is to say fi ve years ago, though dual markings were permitted for a transitional period, lt would be a retrograde step to reintroduce dual marking. During 1974 the Metric Conversion Board issued a booklet entitled Metric Farming which had been prepared by its Agricultural Information Sector Committee in association with AVCA. 300 000 copies were distributed through AVCA members and State agricultural extension officers who also advised farmers on the recalibration of their mixing vats. The only significant dimension is the size of the tank or mixing vat. Once that has been recalibrated correct mixing is easy especially since many chemicals are pre-packaged in sizes directly related to the more common tank and vat sizes. Chemical sprays are expensive items and cost conscious users will take great care to avoid unnecessarily high and hence uneconomic mixtures.

Employment: Textile Industry (Question No. 1706)

Senator Wriedt:

asked the Minister representing the Treasurer, upon notice, on 6 June 1 979:

How many: (a) persons were employed in the textile industry in Tasmania as at 30 June 1975;

persons were employed in the textile industry in Tasmania during each quarter since 30 June 1975; and

firms employed 20 persons or more as at 30 June 1 975, and in each year thereafter.

Senator Carrick:
LP

– The Treasurer has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

The Australian Statistician has advised that details or employment in the textile industry in Tasmania for each quarter since 30 June 1975 are available only in respect or the numbers of employees. The figures which are based on information supplied by firms liable for payroll tax are published each month in Civilian Employees (Catalogue No. 6212.0).

Answer to the questions (in respect of employees only) are as follows:

The average number or employees in each quarter since 30 June 1 975 is shown below:

  1. Payroll taxpayers are generally classified only to their major activity. The number of payroll taxpayers with 20 or more employees and classified to the textile industry was as follows: 30 June 1975, seven; 30 June 1976, eight; 30 June 1 977, eight: 30 June 1 978, six.

Fishing: Tasmanian Waters (Question No. 1707)

Senator Wriedt:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Primary Industry, upon notice, on 7 June 1 979:

  1. 1 ) How many applications have been (a) received; and (b) granted, for joint fishing or feasibility fishing ventures to be undertaken by firms wishing to fish in waters surrounding Tasmanian waters.
  2. ) To which person or firms has approval been granted.
  3. For what: (a) type of fishing and (b) period of time, has approval been granted.
  4. Are special conditions attached to any of the approvals granted; if so. what are the details.
  5. 5 ) How many applications for joint fishing or feasibility fishing ventures have been granted in each other State.
Senator Webster:
NCP/NP

– The Minister for Primary Industry, has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

  1. I ) (a) 10 feasibility fishing proposals received.

    1. 3 feasibility fishing proposals approved to operate in waters off Tasmania.
    1. , (3) (a) (i) Tasmanian Fisheries Company in partnership with Zengyoren (Japanese National Federation of Fisheries Co-operative Associations) to take squid by jigging.
    2. H. J. Heinz (Australia) Ltd in partnership with Starrest Foods (USA) to take tuna other than southern bluefin by the purse seine method.
    3. Mauri Brothers and Thomson (Australia) Ltd in partnership with Dalmor Deep Sea Fishery and Fishing Service Enterprises (Poland) to take fish by midwater and demersal trawl.
    4. (b) All projects have been approved for a maximum of two years and are reviewed annually with no commitment to any exclusive or preferential rights in any fishery that may develop.
    5. All feasibility fishing projects are approved subject to certain conditions concerning: agreed areas of operation fishing methods and gear temporary importation and licencing of vessels marketing of catch

Australian scientists and/or fishermen as observers to operations plan of operation reports on operations port access provision of data completion of ships ‘ logs compliance with State and/or Commonwealth laws.

The conditions are designed both to protect the Australian fishing industry and to obtain the maximum information about the operations.

  1. Attachment A lists all feasibility fishing projects approved to date. You will note that some projects operate off more than one State.

Australian Survey Office (Question No. 1714)

Senator Townley:
TASMANIA

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Administrative Services, upon notice, on 8 June 1 979:

  1. 1 ) Does the Australian Survey Office plan to purchase new survey mapping or aerial photography equipment during 1979-80; if. so: (a) how does the estimated expenditure compare with expenditure in 1978-79; and (b) are there no similar facilities available from private surveying and mapping consultants.
  2. Will an expansion of departmental facilities result in the provision of facilities which are currently available from small business firms in the surveying and mapping industry.
  3. What action is proposed to ensure that any reduction in the funding of the Australian Survey Office does not restrict the engagement of private survey consultants by the office.
  4. What action is proposed to ensure that any reduction in the funding of the Australian Survey Office does not restrict the engagement of private survey consultants by the office.
Senator Chaney:
LP

– The Minister for Administrative Services has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

  1. 1 ) The 1979-80 program of equipment purchases by the Australian Survey Office forms part of the considerations leading up to the August Budget. It is not possible, therefore, to comment on details at this stage. The program, together with the estimated expenditure, will be included in the Departmental explanations prepared for the Senate Estimates Committee. Copies of these explanations will be distributed to all honourable senators.
  2. The emphasis in equipment purchases by the Australian Survey Office is currently on replacement rather than expansion of existing facilities. Where additional equipment is purchased, it is for services not generally available from small business firms in the mapping and surveying industry. Replacement equipment is limited to items essential to support on-going activities of the Survey Office.
  3. 3 ) The funds available for the engagement of private surveyors depend on the overall Commonwealth requirements for surveys. These in turn are determined by budgetary considerations and are outside the responsibility of the Department of Administrative Services. Accordingly, the question of action by the Department does not arise.

Aboriginal Land: Access by Public Servants (Question No. 1717)

Senator Kilgariff:

asked the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, upon notice, on 8 June 1979:

Are Federal and Northern Territory public servants permitted on: (a) recognised Aboriginal reserves; and (b) Aboriginal-owned pastoral leases and other Aboriginalowned land outside the recognised reserves, in the Northern Territory; if so, what procedures apply to public servants entering Aboriginal land: (i) on routine business, and (ii) in emergency situations.

Senator Chaney:
LP

– The answer to the honourable senator’s question is as follows:

  1. Aboriginal reserves became Aboriginal land when deeds of grant were handed to Aboriginal Land Trusts in September 1978. In respect of entry on to Aboriginal land in the course of duty, public servants are required to have a permit, issued by the Chief Minister, in accordance with the Northern Territory Aboriginal Land Ordinance 1 978.
  2. The same controls on entry to special purpose leases or pastoral leases apply irrespective of whether the leaseholders are Aboriginals or others. Written permits are not required.

Minister for Primary Industry: Business Interest (Question No. 1731)

Senator Wriedt:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Primary Industry, upon notice, on 8 June 1 979:

Has the Minister for Primary Industry derived any benefit for taxation purposes from losses incurred by the five companies involved in the investigation he outlined to the Parliament on 6 June 1979 (see House of Representatives Hansard, pp. 3065-73); if so, what are the details?

Senator Webster:
NCP/NP

– The Minister for Primary Industry has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

The Minister’s shareholding in Sinclair Pastoral Company Pty Ltd and that Company’s shareholding in the Reliance Investments Pty Ltd group have been reported to the Parliament.

Tax deductions and penalties following completion of the investigation by independent chartered accountants into the Reliance Investments group will affect profitability. Neither any benefit nor detriment can be exactly determined until the issue of tax assessments.

Minister for Primary Industry: Business Interest (Question No. 1732)

Senator Wriedt:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Primary Industry, upon notice, on 8 June 1 979:

Did Mr M. J. Finnane state, in an official document read to the Senate on 15 November 1978 (see Hansard, page 2075), that the companies which were the subject of the Minister’s statement to the House of Representatives on 6 June 1979 (see Hansard, pages 3068-73) ‘seem to have been run in precisely the same fashion before and after (Mr George Sinclair’s) death and for the benefit of the same person, really’; if so, was Mr Finnane ‘s statement accurate?

Senator Webster:
NCP/NP

– The Minister for Primary Industry has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

A statement not made in his presence cannot be attested by the Minister. The assertion is inaccurate.

Minister for Primary Industry: Press Report (Question No. 1733)

Senator Wriedt:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Primary Industry, upon notice, on 8 June 1979:

  1. 1 ) Has the Minister ascertained how the report of a private investigation conducted at his instigation by his private accountants found its way to the Age newspaper?
  2. When was the Minister informed that the Age had this material, and who so informed him?
  3. 3 ) When was the report conveyed to the Minister?
  4. Did he make an immediate statement to the Parliament concerning his personal affairs, in accordance with undertakings he gave to the Parliament last year?
Senator Webster:
NCP/NP

– The Minister for Primary Industry has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

  1. 1 ) and (2) The Minister’s office was advised on 6 June that a story about the Reliance Investment Pty Ltd group of companies was to be published in the Age on 7 June based on information purchased by the newspaper, lt was not until after publication of the Age on 7 June that the details of the article, the nature of the material, and its source became known to the Minister.
  2. Frequent reports have been made to the directors of the companies since the investigating accountants appointment early in 1976. The published material came mainly from one such report.
  3. The Minister has reported to the Parliament in accordance with his undertakings.

Microwave Ovens

Senator Guilfoyle:
LP

-On 9 November 1978 (Hansard, page 1835) Senator Townley asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice concerning the possible health hazards of using plastic cooking utensils in microwave ovens.

The Minister for Health has provided the following information:

Microwave ovens have been in general use for a comparatively short time. Information on the questions raised by the honourable Senator has only just become available. Extensive inquiries both within Australia and overseas were necessary before this could be obtained. Hence delay in answering the question.

There is no evidence to suggest there is any risk of cancer arising from the use of plastic utensils in such ovens. Tests carried out by the Union Carbide Corporation and Mobay Chemical Corporation in the USA have not shown any migration of plastics constituents into the food. The Food and Drug Administration of the USA has not placed any restrictions on the use of plastics in microwave oven cooking ware.

Any container manufactured from plastics for food contact which is not fitted with metal pans can be used in microwave ovens as the microwaves do not heat the plastics. Heating of the plastics only takes place via the food in contact with the container. However, some plastics are limited in their use for microwave oven ware because of their low softening point which affects physical stability, their flammability and their low resistence to staining and impact.

Extradition of Mr W. J. Flynn

Senator Durack:
LP

-On 3 April 1979 (Hansard, page 1208) Senator Mulvihill asked me a question without notice concerning the possible extradition of a Mr Flynn arising out of newspaper reports associating Mr Flynn with ‘a false Australian passport and certain machinations in Gold Coast real estate’. I am now able to provide the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

I have not been requested by any State Attorney-General to institute proceedings to secure the extradition of Mr Walter James Flynn in respect of any State offence.

In relation to the allegation that Mr Flynn obtained an Australian passport by false pretences, the appropriate charge would be under section 10 of the Passports Act 1938. An offence against that section, however, is not extraditable under any of Australia ‘s extradition arrangements.

Cooper Basin: Risk Capital

Senator Durack:
LP

– On 4 April 1979 Senator Archer asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Trade and Resources, the following question without notice:

Has the attention of the Minister representing the Minister for Trade and Resources been drawn to a letter in the Australian Financial Review entitled ‘Injustice to Shareholders’ and written by Mr K. W. A. Bridges in which the writer outlines the taxation system whereby the suppliers of all the risk capital in the Cooper Basin are receiving minimal dividends on the vast sums of risk capital invested so that consumers in the Sydney area are able to obtain subsidised gas supplies? Does the Government accept these actions as being conducive to the encouragement of further exploration and development?

The Minister for Trade and Resources has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

My attention has been drawn to Mr Bridges’ letter, the thrust of which appears to relate to pricing arrangements for natural gas from the Cooper Basin rather than taxation as such. Cooper Basin natural gas for distribution in Sydney is purchased from the producers by The Australian Gas Light Company. The well-head price for this gas is established by negotiation between AGL and the consortium of producers. When agreement is not able to be obtained in these negotiations, the price is determined by independent arbitrators appointed by the producers and AGL.

The city gate price at Sydney is a composite of the producer price plus the pipeline tariff from Moomba to Wilton. Until quite recently, the Sydney city gate price of natural gas was higher than any other Australian capital city.

In March 1979, AGL announced reduced rates that apply only to domestic consumers, who represent 1 2 per cent of the total load. AGL estimate that the average price reduction to domestic consumers will be of the order of 5 per cent.

Although the Federal Government does not control the price paid to Cooper Basin producers for gas distributed in NSW, nor in South Australia, we have a number of incentives to encourage exploration and development of hydrocarbon reserves, a number of which have benefited the Cooper Basin producers. For example, current taxation concessions include the accelerated write-off provisions available for capital expenditures on the development of a petroleum field and on petroleum transport facilities, and the eligibility of petroleum exploration, development and transport expenditures to be deducted against income derived from any source. Petroleum exploration and development has been encouraged by the Government’s move to import parity pricing- especially by the decision to increase progressively the proportion of crude oil production eligible for import parity pricing, and by the reintroduction of permission to farm out exploration permits. The Government’s various decisions concerning the North West Shelf have enhanced the prospects for that project and are further expressions of this Government’s interest to encourage oil and gas exploration and development.

Immigrant Doctors

Senator Guilfoyle:
LP

-On 22 May 1979 (Hansard, page 1900), Senator Tate asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice concerning the immigration of doctors. I undertook to refer his question to the Minister for Health.

The Minister for Health has provided the following information: 1 am aware of the speech by Dr Brian Morgan of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons which was referred to by the honourable senator.

The number of medical practitioners who have migrated to Australia in the nine month period to 31 March 1979 totalled 371; a substantial reduction from the 586 for the same period in the previous financial year. Of the 37 1 immigrant doctors, 14 were refugees and 25 were admitted on the basis of family reunion. In addition, a small number were admitted on humanitarian grounds or under free-flow movement across the Tasman.

These figures clearly indicate the impact of the Government’s recently introduced tightening of entry requirements which now involve an ‘employment nomination’. To be acceptable, an employment nomination must show that after extensive advertising a suitable medical practitioner was not available in Australia.

The whole question of the immigration of overseas medical practitioners was considered by the Committee of Officials on Medical Manpower Supply, whose report was tabled in Parliament on 22 March 1979. Following the Committee’s report, arrangements are in hand for a further review of the composition and characteristics of medical practitioners entering Australia and of the overall medical manpower position in Australia.

The Tasmanian Minister for Health has advised me of his willingness for Tasmania to participate in further discussions on the medical manpower supply issue.

Oil: Glen Davis Shale Deposits

Senator Carrick:
LP

-On 29 May 1979 Senator Douglas McClelland asked the Minister representing the Minister for National Development the following question without notice:

Is he aware that at Glen Davis in New South Wales there are large scale deposits of shale which remain untapped so far as the extraction of oil is concerned? Is the Minister further aware that when Glen Davis was closed down by the Menzies Government it was retorting at the average rate of about 120 gallons of oil per ton of raw shale? In view of Australia’s growing energy problems, will the Government consider conducting a feasibility study on the question of reopening the Glen Davis project in order to provide Australia with an additional oil supply, and also to provide jobs for many Australians who at the moment are unemployed?

The Minister for National Development has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

The production of oil from shale at Glen Davis in New South Wales was sponsored by the Federal and New South Wales Governments between 1940 and 1952. 1 am informed that the project was sustaining heavy losses at the time of the decision to close the plant and that the decision was also influenced by a shortage of mineable shale. Although the remaining reserves at Glen Davis are not known accurately, they are considered to be relatively insignificant by comparison with certain other deposits in Australia. In these circumstances they are not considered to be an attractive proposition for development at this time.

Quarantine

Senator Guilfoyle:
LP

-On 30 May 1979 (Hansard, page 2314) Senator McLaren asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice concerning the quarantine procedures carried out on an aircraft on which the Prime Minister was a passenger.

The Minister for Health has provided the following information:

The caption alongside the photograph of the Prime Minister alighting from the aircraft at Mount Gambier printed in the 15 May issue of the newspaper. The Border Walch, stating that the aircraft had flown direct from Bali to Mount Gambier is not correct.

I am well aware that foot and mouth disease is present in Indonesia and of the serious consequences to our rural economy if the disease was introduced into Australia.

For these reasons, full quarantine procedures were carried out at Darwin as a first port where the Prime Minister’s VIP aircraft landed at 1045 hours on 1 3 May 1 979.

Two quarantine assistants undertook general quarantine procedures and two agricultural quarantine officers were in attendance to perform measures connected with animal and plant quarantine.

National Health Promotion Program

Senator Guilfoyle:
LP

-On 30 May 1979 (Hansard, page 2310) Senator Gietzelt asked me, as Mininster representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice concerning nutritional aspects and the establishment of the national Health Promotion Program.

The Minister for Health has provided the following information:

I and my Department are aware of recent statements by nutritionists and medical practitioners about the relationship between poor food habits and patterns of disease in the community and the large amounts of money spent on advertising highly processed foods.

Some time ago, I asked my Department to look at better nutritional programs for the Australian people. As a first step, a food and nutrition policy has been developed by my Department and nutrition education activities have been expanded. This year a number of publications have been produced including the large full-colour teaching poster Good Food for Good Health’ and a 76 page book ‘Your Health and Your Figure’ which addresses itself mainly to people who are overweight- the major problem of malnutrition in our community. In response to public demand, a smaller edition of the poster has just been released, which is suitable for individual and household use.

Also, the popular budget publication ‘Eat Better for Less’ has been widely distributed in the community and continues to be available.

A number of new publications are planned for 1979-80, including nutrition booklets for adlolescents and for pregnant and lactating women. The poster’Good Food for Good Health’ will also be printed in a number of languages for the migrant community.

I would like to point out that an active nutrition education program at a national level would require a co-ordinated effort from many groups in the community. These would include the food industry, consumer organisations and professional groups, as well as Government.

It is expected that food and nutrition will be an important component of the recently announced National Health Promotion Program to develop and test an initiative aimed at persuading all Australians to adopt healthier lifestyles.

Banking

Senator Carrick:
LP

-On 30 May 1979 (Hansard, page 23 14) Senator Watson asked me, as Minister representing the Treasurer, a question without notice concerning the merger of the Bank of Adelaide with the Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited. The Treasurer has provided the following information in answer to the honourable senator’s question:

I would refer the honourable senator to press statements made on 1 4 May 1 979 by the Governor of the Reserve Bank of Australia, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of The Bank of Adelaide and the Chairman of the Australian Bankers’ Association and a joint statement by the Chairmen of the Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Ltd and The Bank of Adelaide on 22 May. I would also refer him to answers that I gave to questions without notice in the House of Representatives on 23 May 1979 (Hansard, pages 2244 and 2246) and to a press statement that I issued on 7 June 1979. The Board of Directors of The Bank of Adelaide has decided to recommend to its shareholders acceptance of a scheme involving the acquisition of the issued capital of the Bank by the Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Ltd and I have indicated that from the Commonwealth Government’s viewpoint there would be no objection in principle to such an arrangement. In these circumstances I do not believe that it would be appropriate for me to comment upon some other possibility.

Random Breath Tests

Senator Guilfoyle:
LP

-On 31 May 1979 (Hansard, pages 2418 and 2419) Senator Peter Baume asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice concerning the intentions of the Northern Territory Government with respect to random breath testing of motorists.

The Minister for Health has provided the following information:

I understood that a Bill was introduced in the Northern Territory Legislative Assembly on 30 May 1979 to amend the Northern Territory Traffic Act to provide for random breath tests along the lines adopted by the State of Victoria. The debate will continue during the September Sittings and the Bill, if passed, is expected to become law in October 1979.

Fast foods and takeaway meals

Senator Guilfoyle:
LP

-On 31 May 1979 (Hansard, page 2415) Senator Davidson asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice concerning fast foods and takeaway meals.

The Minister for Health has provided the following information:

I am aware of recent comments made by a Departmental nutritionist in regard to excessive use of ‘fast’ foods and ‘take away’ meals by some families in the community. In its nutrition education program, my Department emphasises the importance of family meals prepared in the home from basic nutritious foods- bread and other cereals, vegetables and fruits, meat and meat substitutes, milk and butter or table margarine.

In regard to the recommendations made in the report ‘An Inquiry into the Impact of Television on the Development and Learning Behaviour of Children ‘ of the Senate Standing Committee on Education and the Arts, this matter has been under consideration by my Department. The Chairman of the National Health and Medical Research Council (N.H. and M.R.C.) has recently approved the setting up of a Working Party of the Nutrition Committee to provide a forum for consultations with the purpose of drawing up guidelines on food advertising during the children’s television programs. The Australian Medical and Dental Associations and the Australian Broadcasting Tribunal will be invited to nominate representatives and similar nominations will also be invited from the food industry and the Australian Associations of Dietitians. This Working Party will study the nutritional recommendations of the Senate Standing Committee on Education and the Arts.

Drug Abuse

Senator Guilfoyle:
LP

– On 4 June 1979 (Hansard, page 2S20) Senator Peter Baume asked Senator Chaney, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice concerning the level of drug use in Australia. The Minister for Health has provided the following information:

The full extent to which drugs, including heroin, are illegally used in Australia is difficult to gauge due to lack of comprehensive and uniform statistics. The indirect indices of illegal drug use which are available include police statistics on drug-related offences, drug-related deaths reported upn by coronial enquiries, statistics from Government treatment services for drug dependent persons and community surveys of drug use.

Because of the difficulties in comparing available data and the limitations on their interpretation, it is difficult to know how Mr Gordon of the We Help Ourselves Organisation could make an accurate measurement of the current heroin usage level in Australia or predict future levels. While it would appear that there is a serious problem at present concerning illegal use of heroin, none of the indices available suggest a rise in heroin use in the future of ‘epidemic proportions’.

The most recent police statistics show that the number of detected offenders involving heroin had decreased from 1,662 in 1976 to 1,346 in 1977. Figures available on the known deaths related to abuse of narcotics for all States except the Northern Territory show that there has not been a marked increase in deaths over the period 1 974 to 1977. The largest and possibly the most accurate numbers are reported for New South Wales, which had a total of 121 opiaterelated deaths over the four-year period. The deaths in NSW, however, have remained steady in 1976 (49) and 1977(42).

It is also known that the numbers of patients treated for drug dependence (not only heroin) by State Government health services have continued to increase. While treatment statistics indicate a growth in the number of patients, it should be recognised that this increase is related to such factors as the availability of facilities, and the types of treatment offered.

Several population surveys of drug use have been carried out in Australia in recent years, but it is difficult to compare study findings and reach any conclusions other than those of a general nature. In the most recent of the surveys of the NSW Health Commission*, it was shown that just under S per cent of 1,443 fourth formers reported having tried opiates and that half of these indicated that they were still using drugs. Very few indicated ‘use on most days of the week ‘ and the trend from 1971 (0.2 per cent) to 1973 (0.4 per cent) of increased frequency of use on most days was reversed in 1977(0.2 percent). lt should be noted that only a small proportion of ‘users’ are, in fact, addicted and in any prediction concerning future levels of use of heroin, only a small proportion of total use would be for the purpose of maintaining actual addiction.

Contraceptive Pills: Health Warning Leaflets

Senator Guilfoyle:
LP

-On 4 June 1979 (Hansard, page 2521) Senator Melzer asked Senator Chaney, as Minister representing the Minister for

Health, a question without notice concerning health warning leaflets in packets of contraceptive pills.

The Minister for Health has provided the following information:

It has been a requirement in Australia since 1970 for patient information leaflets to be distributed with combined oral contraceptive preparations.

Following a recommendation of the Australian Drug Evaluation Committee at its meeting held on 24 February 1978, these leaflets are required to include a warning relating to the increased risk of cardiovascular disease that may be encountered by women over 30 years of age, particularly those women who smoke.

Such a statement is already included in product information documents for products recently approved by my Department (including some Schering products), and is being progressively inserted in reprints and revisions of product information for older products.

Furthermore, a Patient Information Booklet, which it is hoped to make available in a number of migrant languages to all users of the combined oral contraceptive pills, is currently in the final stages of drafting. This booklet, which will be in plain language, will provide comprehensive information concerning the advantages and disadvantages of oral contraceptives, including notes on contra-indications, warnings, precautions, adverse reactions etc. This will supplement the present package leaflets, and will be complementary to the detailed product information supplied to doctors.

Great Barrier Reef Marine Park

Senator Durack:
LP

– On 4 June 1979 Senator Button asked the Minister representing the Minister for National Development, the following question without notice:

Is it a fact that the boundaries of the proposed Capricornia section of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park overlap the areas of permits Q/4P and Q/5P?

The Minister for National Development has provided the following answer:

Yes.

Tokyo Economic Summit Meeting

Senator Carrick:
LP

– On 7 June 1979 ( Hansard, pages 2829-2830) Senator Harradine asked me, as Minister representing the Prime Minister, a question without notice concerning Japanese efforts to have Australia invited to the Tokyo Summit meeting. The Prime Minister has supplied the following information for answer to the honourable senator’s question:

The issue of Australian attendance at the Summit was originally raised publicly in Japan. The Japanese Government sought our attendance amongst other regular Summit member countries. Our reaction was favourable as we felt that, as a major representative of the industrialised democracies in Asia and the Pacific, and as an important producer of energy resources, we could make a worthwhile contribution.

However, the consensus view of other member countries was, as we understand it, that participation at the Summit should not at the present be expanded. We accepted this view and advised the Japanese Government that we did not wish to create difficulties for them in their further seeking our attendance.

Olympic Games 1988

Senator Carrick:
LP

– On 8 June 1979 (Hansard, page 2923) Senator Sibraa asked the Minister representing the Minister for Administrative Services or the Minister representing the Minister for Employment and Youth Affairs a question without notice concerning the 1988 Olympic Games. The question was referred to the Prime Minister by Senator Chaney. The Prime Minister has supplied the following information for answer to the honourable senator’s question:

The only reference of which I am aware that it would cost $2000m for Sydney to stage the 1 988 Olympic Games was in the Press. The Sydney feasibility study has not been made public and, therefore, the Commonwealth Government has no knowledge of what was proposed or the costs of staging the Games. I have had correspondence from the Premier of New South Wales requesting Commonwealth assistance if Sydney were to stage the Games. In my reply I indicated that the Commonwealth would be prepared to play its part in the financing and staging of the Games if they were to be held in 1 988 in either Sydney or Melbourne.

Health: Jabiru Town Site

Senator Guilfoyle:
LP

-On 8 June 1979 (Hansard, page 2920) Senator Robertson asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health a question without notice concerning the incidence of Anopheles mosquitoes at the Jabiru Town Site and the siting of the town.

The Minister for Health has provided the following information:

Surveys of the Jabiru town site have shown the presence of Anopheles species mosquitoes. The species is widely distributed in the northern half of the Northern Territory.

A program of monitoring the breeding sites of mosquitoes and advice on their control in relation to centres of population has been in existence for some years, together with surveillance of possible human carriers of malaria, and public education measures. The Northern Territory Health Department is continuing this activity.

With regard to the selection of the town site, this was recommended by consultants to the Ranger Uranium Environmental Inquiry, A. A. Heath and Partners Pty Ltd and Willis, Heathwood and Partners Pty Ltd. The site recommended was approximately eight kilometres to the west of the Ranger site on the south side of the Arnhem Highway, although other sites were put forward in addition to the preferred site.

The Ranger Inquiry subsequently endorsed the recommendations of the consultants and the Ranger Inquiry recommendations were, in turn, endorsed by the Government.

Officers of the Commonwealth were responsible for the design and successful implementation of the malaria eradication campaign which freed mainland Australia of this disease in 1962. Since that time a successful maintenance campaign has kept Australia free from malaria and this will continue in co-operation with the State and Territorial authorities concerned.

Attorney-General: Transfer of Powers to the States (Question No. 1088)

Senator Wriedt:

asked the Attorney-General, upon notice, on 24 November 1978:

What powers within the Attorney-General’s jurisdiction have been transferred to the States since December I97S.

Senator Durack:
LP

– The answer to the honourable senator’s question is as follows:

I refer the honourable senator to the answer to Question No. 1074 given by the Minister assisting the Prime Minister in Federal Affairs.

National Development: Transfer of Power to the States (Question No. 1092)

Senator Wriedt:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for National Development, upon notice, on 23 November 1978:

What powers within the Minister’s jurisdiction have been transferred to the States since December 1 975.

Senator Durack:
LP

– The Minister for National Development has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

I refer the honourable senator to the Minister assisting the Prime Minister in Federal Affairs’ answer to Question No. 1074.

Bass Strait Oil Wells (Question No. 1471)

Senator Keeffe:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for National Development, upon notice, on 27 March 1979:

Have the companies which arc exploiting the hydrocarbon deposits of Bass Strait been directed by the Government to increase production by 5 per cent in order to meet the shortfall in Iranian oil imports; if so, will the forced increased production damage the Bass Strait oil wells in any way.

Senator Durack:
LP

– The Minister for National Development has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

The companies producing hydrocarbons from the Bass Strait fields were not directed by the Government to increase production but were able to achieve the increase within the production program for the fields approved by the Designated Authority.

Advertising Industry: Foreign Ownership (Question No. 1520)

Senator Chipp:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Administrative Services, upon notice, on 4 April 1 979:

  1. 1 ) Is the Australian advertising industry dominated by foreign ownership.
  2. Is the advertising for major public utilities and statutory authorities, such as the Australian Wool Corporation, the Australian Dairy Corporation and the Overseas Telecommunications Commission, handled by United States agencies.
  3. Does Australia differ greatly from Canada, in that all Canadian public authorities are obliged to use Canadian advertising agencies.
  4. Is the percentage of Canadian commercial firms using foreign advertising agencies only about 30 per cent, while in Australia it is approximately 60 per cent.
  5. Will the Government examine the Canadian practice with a view to its implementation in Australia.
Senator Chaney:
LP

– The Minister for Administrative Services has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

  1. 1 ) The Australian Bureau of Statistics Bulletin on foreign ownership and control of accredited advertising agencies in Australia, 1974-7S reported that S0.9 per cent of total turnover was accounted for through advertising agencies which had some degree of foreign ownership. Some of these agencies are predominantly Australian owned. There is little foreign ownership in supply houses which service advertising agencies, in advertising media or in advertising by retailers.
  2. Some public utilities and statutory authorities, including those mentioned in the question, have selected advertising agencies which are wholly or partly foreign owned.
  3. 1 understand that, while there is no specific regulation requiring Canadian public authorities to use Canadian advertising agencies, that practice is followed in most cases. It might bc noted, however, that the Canadian position has been greatly influenced by the proximity of the United States and the strength of competition from advertising agencies and suppliers based in that country.
  4. I have no authoritative information on the comparison the honourable member makes.
  5. Whether or not the Government should adopt the Canadian practice is a matter of Government policy and one which I would not wish to canvass by way of Parliamentary Question.

Defence Force: Trainee Technicians (Question-No. 1617)

Senator Ryan:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Defence, upon notice, on 22 May 1979:

  1. 1 ) Will the Minister explain how the defence forces have arrived at the conclusion that female trainee technicians have a lower retention rate than males in view of answers given to Senate Questions Nos. 782 and 1331 (see Hansard, 8 November 1 978, p. 1 8 1 3 and 3 May 1 979, p. 1 644).
  2. Is it possible to establish the viability of employing women as trainee technicians in the defence forces when last year there were only 7 women employed compared with 4381 men.
  3. Why has the number of women employed as trainee technicians in the defence forces fallen from 19 in I97S to 7 in 1978, while the number of men has increased from 3S98 to 438 1 during the same period.
Senator Carrick:
LP

– The Minister for Defence has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

  1. 1 ) to (3) The figures provided in response to part (2) of Question 782 were comparative average retention rates for the Royal Australian Air Force as a whole.

Female trainee technicians have been employed by the Services for too short a period for any valid conclusions on retention rates to be drawn.

The vacancies for electronics training allotted to females and referred to in the reply to Question No. 466 did not attract the total of four female recruits necessary for implementation of the pilot scheme. Females are now recruited to RAAF technical musterings in open competition with males, but very few females apply.

Due to misinterpretation in the collating of statistics the number of female trainee technicians was understated in the reply to part ( 1 ) of Question No. 1331. The figures provided for RAN female trainee technicians, and consequently the totals, should be amended to read as follows:

The ratio of female to male trainee technicians is unlikely to change substantially in the near future because of the very few applications being received from suitably qualified females and, in the case of the Navy, the requirement to maintain a satisfactory sea-to-shore service ratio.

Aircraft Metal Fatigue and Corrosion (Question No. 1650)

Senator Keeffe:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Transport, upon notice, on 30 May 1979:

  1. 1 ) Has any metal fatigue and or corrosion been detected in the DC9 and or Boeing aircraft and engines operated by Ansett Airlines of Australia or Trans-Australia Airlines; if so, which aircraft and components have been affected.
  2. Do the manufacturers of DC9 and Boeing aircraft, or does the Department of Transport, specify maximum safe operating hours for the airframes or engines; if so, what are they.
  3. Are any of the DC9 and Boeing aircraft operated by Ansett and Trans-Australia Airlines nearing this limit; if so. which aircraft are affected.
Senator Chaney:
LP

– The Minister for Transport has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

  1. 1 ) Control of metal fatigue and corrosion is a continuing maintenance function exercised by aircraft operators throughout the world with metal aircraft of all types. Corrosion control is a variable and unpredictable component of aircraft maintenance throughout the economic life of all aircraft. It is a simple fact that all metal aircraft such as the Boeing 727 and Douglas DC9 suffer corrosion problems in service and these can only be dealt with by early detection and application of corrosion control measures. Despite the millions of dollars spent on research on aluminium alloys no methods have yet been developed which can prevent corrosion economically in the aeroplane environment. The same situation applies to aircraft engines. Control of metal fatigue is similarly maintained by a process of early detection and rectification.
  2. Rigorous inspection, overhaul periods and component retirement lives are set by the aircraft and engine manufacturers. These must be approved by my Department and in the case of the local airlines, the manufacturers’ recommended inspection intervals and overhaul periods are varied by my Department to suit Austraiian operating conditions, lt is generally conceded by the prime manufacturers and overseas airworthiness authorities that Australian standards are conservative in this regard. The intervals are specified in the airline maintenance manuals as well as in Departmental airworthiness directives.
  3. The Boeing 727 and Douglas DC9 aircraft are designed to fail-safe principles and thus are not finite life aircraft. The criterion which decides how long such aircraft can be kept in service is largely economic.

Nursing Homes (Question No. 1682)

Senator Douglas McClelland:
NEW SOUTH WALES · ALP

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 5 June 1979:

  1. 1 ) How many registered nursing homes were there in the Electoral Divisions of (a) Barton; (b) New England; (c) St George; (d) Lyne; (e) Gwydir and (0 Hume, during the period 1 July 1978 to 31 May 1979.
  2. Who owned these homes.
Senator Guilfoyle:
LP

– The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

  1. 1 ) and (2) The names and addresses and proprietors of nursing homes located in the Electoral Divisions requested, during the period 1 July 1978 to 3 1 May 1979 are as follows:

Barton- 10 Nursing Homes

Hillcrest. 1 1 Mimosa Street, Oatley- Hillcrest Nursing Home Pty Ltd

Blakehurst, 20 Cheddar Street, Blakehurst- Blakehurst Nursing Home Pty Ltd

The Bay, 394a Princes Highway, Blakehurst- Milstern Charlotte Pty Ltd

St Joseph ‘s, 114 The Promenade, Sans Souci- Sisters of Mercy

Astrea, 1 Robert Street, Sans Souci- W. J. Elder

Brighton, 78bBarton Street, Brighton-Le-Sands- P. M. and M. Penklis

Endeavour, 76 Rocky Point Road, Kogarah- -Kenna Investments Pty Ltd

Stonehaven, 50 Gray Street, Kogarah- D. J. Armstrong & J. & M.Walsh

Belgrave, 20 Belgrave Street, Kogarah- Cumberland Holdings

Jenny- Lyn, 13 Henson Street, Brighton-Le-Sands-Catmay Holdings Pty Ltd

New England- 7 Nursing Homes

  1. N. McLean Memorial, Killean Road, InverellTrustees of H. N. McLean

Roseneath, 205 Meade Street, Glen Innes- C. & D. Frizelle Pty Ltd

Strathlea. 137 Mann Street, Armidale- -Zaay Pty Ltd

Hilton House, 1 12 Brown Street, Armidale- B. Cougle

Nazareth House, Manilla Road, Oatleyvale via Tamworth- Poor Sisters of Nazareth

Coomoora, 110 Carthage Street, TamworthCoomoora Pty Ltd

Tamworth, 9 Burnside Avenue, Tamworth- Resabita Pty Ltd, as Trustee for Tamworth Convalescent Home Trust

St George- 19 Nursing Homes

Macquarie Lodge, 171 Wollongong Road, ArncliffeSalvation Army Property Trust Pty Ltd

El Jayda, 89 Fairview Street, Arncliffe- El Jayda Nursing Home Pty Ltd

Alloa, 34 Bayview Street, Arncliffe-N. S. Ew Pty Ltd

Menaville, 121 Frederick Street, Rockdale- Levenson: Radio Pty Ltd

Rockdale, 22 Woodford Road, Banskia- Sean Investment Pty Ltd

Blairgowrie, 30 Albyn Street, Bexley- Quipi Holdings Pty Ltd

Eddystone, 3-5 Eddystone Road, Bexley- Eddystone Nursing Home Pty Ltd

Fairmont, 20 Dunmore Street, Bexley- J. F. & F. Cassidy

Huntingdon, 1 1 Connemarra Street, BexleyHuntingdon Nursing Home Pty Ltd

Holmwood, 64 Iliffe Street, Bexley- Holmwood Holdings Pty Ltd

Royals, 82-84 Connemarra Street, Bexley- Morana Pty Ltd

St George, 3-5 Verdun Street, Bexley- Marlowe Homes Pty Ltd

Botany Gardens, 80-90 Botany Street, Carlton- V. R. Holdings Pty Ltd

Colonial, 741-743 Forest Road, Bexley- Hughan & Hughan Pty Ltd

Shangri-La, 107 Carrington Avenue, Hurstville- Erma and Milgred Nominees Pty Ltd

Hilltop, 48 Gloucester Road, Hurstville- Phyllis Longmore

Wadelyn, 26 Milieu Street, Hurstville- J. M. Wade Pty Ltd

Rosemore, 18 Kingsgrove Road, Belmore- Conform Distributors Pty Ltd

Lucy Gullett Nursing Home, 28 Harrow Road, BexleyBenevolent Society of NSW (Prescribed Government Nursing Home)

Lyne- 5 Nursing Homes

Karingal, Manning Street, Taree- Manning Valley Senior Citizen Homes

Wingham Court, Primrose Road, Wingham- Frank Whiddon Masonic Homes

Oban, 27 Kangaroo Street, Raymond Terrace- Oban Nursing Home Pty Ltd

Gloucester, Church Street, Gloucester- Board of Directors, Gloucester Soldiers Memorial Hospital

Westcott, Fullerton and Hereford Sts., StocktonPresbyterian Church of Australia

Gwydir-2 Nursing Homes

Fairview Nursing Lodge (with effect from 8.1.79), Victoria Terrace, Moree- Moree Care for the Aged Association

Condobolin District Retirement Village (with effect from 12.9.78), Madeline Street, Condobolin- Lachlan Shire Council

Hume- 6 Nursing Homes

Jemalong Retirement Village, Church Street, ForbesForbes Jemalong Aged People’s Association

Moyne Eventide Home, Eugowra Road, CanowindraSalvation Army Property Trust

Canowindra, 60 Gas kill Street, CanowindraCanowindra Convales Pty Ltd

Weeroona, Comerford Street, Cowra- Cowra Rest Home Pty Ltd

Mount St Joseph’s Home, Young- Sisters of Mary (Prescribed Government Nursing Home)

Mater Misericordiae (with effect from 1.10.78), I Johnson Street, Forbes- Trustees of the Sisters of Mercy

Coffs Harbour Airport (Question No. 1709)

Senator Sibraa:
NEW SOUTH WALES

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Transport, upon notice, on 7 June 1979:

  1. 1 ) Has the Government undertaken to extend the existing Coffs Harbour Airport, or does it intend to build an entirely new facility.
  2. Has any undertaking been given by an airline operator to operate medium jet aircraft on routes involving Coffs Harbour airport facilities.
Senator Chaney:
LP

– The Minister for Transport has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

  1. 1 ) The Department of Transport has no firm commitment to extend the existing Coffs Harbour aerodrome or to build any new facilities in the area.
  2. No airline operator has given a firm commitment to operate medium jet aircraft on routes involving Coffs Harbour aerodrome.

Aviation: Aircraft Usage (Question No. 1713)

Senator Keeffe:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Transport, upon notice, on 7 June 1979:

  1. 1 ) How many: (a) Kilometres were flown by; (b) passengers embarked on; and (c) tonne kilometres were performed by, aircraft of: (i) Ansett Airlines of Australia Limited; (ii) Trans-Australia Airlines Limited; and (iii) Qantas Airways Limited, in each year from I96S to 1978.
Senator Chaney:
LP

– The Minister for Transport has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question:

Cite as: Australia, Senate, Debates, 21 August 1979, viewed 22 October 2017, <http://historichansard.net/senate/1979/19790821_senate_31_s82/>.

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