Senate
19 August 1980

31st Parliament · 1st Session



The PRESIDENT (Senator the Hon. Sir Condor Laucke) took the chair at 3 p.m., and read prayers.

page 1

MINISTERIAL ARRANGEMENTS

Senator CARRICK:
Vice-President of the Executive Council · New South WalesLeader of the Government in the Senate · LP

– I inform the Senate that His Excellency the Governor-General has accepted the resignation from the Ministry of Senator the Hon. Douglas Scott and that the Rt Hon. Ian Sinclair has been appointed Minister for Special Trade Representations. He has also been appointed Leader of the House. In this chamber I shall represent the Minister for Special Trade Representations; Senator Durack will represent the Minister for Home Affairs and Minister for the Capital Territory; Senator Dame Margaret Guilfoyle will represent the Minister for Primary Industry and the Minister for Housing and Construction; and Senator Chaney will represent the Minister for Administrative Services.

page 1

DEATH OF MR MASAYOSHI OHIRA

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

– It is with deep regret that I inform the Senate of the death on 12 June 1980 of the Prime Minister of Japan, Mr Masayoshi Ohira. I move: .

Thai the Senate records its sincere regret at the death of Mr Masayoshi Ohira, Prime Minister of Japan, and expresses its deepest sympathy to his family and to the people of Japan.

The Senate will wish to be advised formally that the Government extended its deep sympathy to the Government and people of Japan and that the Prime Minister represented Australia at Mr Ohira’s memorial service. Mr Masayoshi Ohira led the Japanese Government at a time when changing international circumstances presented the Japanese nation with considerable uncertainties. A wisdom born of wide experience coupled with a deep personal commitment to the shaping of a better world for future generations earned Mr Ohira great international esteem. His wise advice and considered counsel gained him the respect of leaders around the world.

Mr Ohira recognised the important role which Japan has to play in international affairs as a member of the Western alliance. He was concerned to enhance Japan’s political and economic contribution to world peace and security. His understanding of the changing circumstances in Asia and the Pacific region led Mr Ohira to play an active part in seeking closer ties between the countries of the region. His promotion of the concept of a Pacific community is an outstanding example of this. In January this year Mr Ohira visited Australia. He was welcomed both as a representative of one of the countries most important to Australia and as a national leader who strove to increase understanding and personal contact between the peoples of different countries. I believe his visit made a lasting contribution to the strengthening of relations between our two countries. We all mourn his death.

Senator WRIEDT:
Leader of the Opposition · Tasmania

– On behalf of the Opposition I wish to offer formally our condolences to the Japanese people and to the Japanese Government on the death of Prime Minister Ohira. As Senator Carrick has just indicated, Mr Ohira visited Canberra last January. Mr Ohira, in both his foreign policies and his personal contacts, showed himself to be a constructive supporter and developer of relations between Japan and Australia. The loss is therefore a joint loss. He was a product and a leader of what might be called the old school of conservative Japanese politics, but he was also a statesman and a man of broad vision. He was an internationalist and significantly more outward looking than some of his predecessors.

Mr Ohira was the architect of better balanced relationships between Japan and the United States of America. He was also the architect, firstly as Foreign Minister and then as Prime Minister, of Japan’s developing dialogue with China. In Australia he will probably be best remembered for his advocacy of the Pacific Basin concept. It is an indication of his contribution to JapanAustralia relations and to Pacific affairs overall that his death led to some uncertainty about the future momentum of this diplomacy. In the turbulent international events of the first half of this year Mr Ohira took a broad and cautious view. He was a statesman of world standing. The Opposition wishes to record its recognition of his achievements and in doing so to reaffirm its belief in the fundamental importance of good relations between this country and Japan.

Question resolved in the affirmative, honourable senators standing in their places.

page 2

DEATH OF SIR SERETSE KHAMA, K.B.E

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

– It is with deep regret that I inform the Senate of the death on 13 July of this year of the President of Botswana, Sir Seretse Khama. I move:

The Senate will wish to be advised formally that the Government extended its deep sympathy to the Government and people of Botswana and that the Minister for Health and Minister Assisting the Prime Minister (Mr MacKellar) represented Australia at Sir Seretse’s memorial service. Sir Seretse Khama was a great statesman. It is not often that the leader of a relatively small country has a large influence in the world. Sir Seretse did. He was very widely respected, initially for the way he led his country to independence in 1966, then for the way he guided his country with wisdom and judgment through all difficulties, and not least for his actions and counsels over such large international matters as South Africa and Rhodesia.

Sir Seretse was always a voice for common sense and moderation. Africa and Commonwealth councils, as well as his own country, were advantaged by his leadership. He was a fine and good man and a staunch friend whose death was a great loss not only to Botswana but also to Africa, the Commonwealth and, indeed, the international community.

Senator WRIEDT:
Leader of the Opposition in the Senate · Tasmania

– The Opposition wishes to associate itself with the motion moved by Senator Carrick. Sir Seretse Khama was indeed one of the great political figures of Africa in recent years. His death at the rather premature age of 59 is a loss not only to Africa but also to the Commonwealth and the world scene. He was, as we know, a pioneer of African independence. We recall the event of his manage to a European, formerly Miss Ruth Williams, which also helped in his approach towards racial harmony in that very troubled continent. He was for 1 4 years President of Botswana, and under his leadership great progress was made in an atmosphere of democracy. He set examples of political and personal behaviour and achievement which his successors will find challenging. On behalf of Opposition senators I record our deep regret at the death of this outstanding African leader and express condolences to his family, his tribe and his nation.

Question resolved in the affirmative, honourable senators standing in their places.

page 2

DEATHS OF FORMER MEMBERS AND SENATOR

The PRESIDENT:

– It is with deep regret that I inform honourable senators of the deaths during the winter recess of Mr William Morrow, a senator for the State of Tasmania from 1 947 to 1953, and of former members of the House of Representatives, Mr R. Davies, former member for Braddon, Tasmania, Mr A. E. Greenup, former member for Dalley, New South Wales, Mr E. W. Peters, former member for Burke and Scullin, Victoria, and Mr L. J. Reynolds, former member for Barton, New South Wales.

Senator O’BYRNE:
Tasmania

– I wish to be associated with my fellow senators in their expressions of condolence on the occasion of the very sad passing of a former Senate colleague, former Senator William Morrow. Bill Morrow was elected to this Senate on the same day as J was elected in September 1 946. He was a member of this chamber until 1953. He was a great fighter for world peace. When he died on 12 July last, at the age of 9 1 , he was still fighting for the great causes to which he had applied himself all his life. He was a great man in every sense of the word. He had the great quality of love of his wife and family. It was a very close-knit family. To the members of his family I extend my very deep sympathy.

Bill Morrow was a kind and gentle person. At all times he was a modest and completely unassuming man. His life was one of struggle, but it won him recognition not only here in Australia but also internationally. In his pursuit of world peace he moved in circles with such people as Pandit Nehru, Mao Tse-tung, Chou En-lai, Stalin and Molotov. He was the recipient of the JoliotCurie Peace Prize and also was awarded the Lenin Peace Prize. Mao Tse-tung once wrote that a man’s ability may be great or small, but if he has this spirit of selflessness he is already nobleminded and pure, a man of moral integrity and above vulgar interests, a man who is of value to the people. Such a man was Bill Morrow.

Bill Morrow had very humble beginnings. He was born in Rockhampton, Queensland, in 1891. He first began to emerge as a leader as an organiser with the Australian Railways Union. He went to Tasmania in 1936 and became the State secretary of the Australian Railways Union. He took a very active part in the Australian Labor Party and was not only a member of the State Executive of our party but also the vice-president of the Trades Hall Council. As I have already said, he was elected to the Senate in 1946. During the time that he was a member of the Senate we in this country witnessed such great world events as the birth of the People’s Republic of China and the outbreak of the great Korean War in 1950. During the debate on the Korean War Senator Morrow spoke always of the ordinary struggling people and pointed out that the ordinary people do not make wars; they just do the fighting, suffering and dying, and they have no say in making wars. That advice is as true today as it was when Bill Morrow spoke in this chamber in 1949. He attacked the merchants of death, the armaments manufacturers, who are coming out of their funkholes again at present trying to find excuses for wars, which will be far beyond the comprehension of any of us because of the new dimensions of war. Inherent in Bill Morrow’s warnings to people was that such a war would be the end of mankind. That should be heeded.

In concluding my tribute to Bill Morrow, I would like to quote a poem which was written on 15 July last by Maurie Edwards. The poem is headed ‘Bill Morrow - Australian’. It reads:

When all the running dogs

Had run

He

Stood his ground

Disdaining

The abuse

Of

Political gymnasts -

Their puny egos

Hollow- Inflated

Rattling when shaken,

Fearing his threat

To

Their worn and fragile

Safety nets.

Inspiring through

His undiminished faith

In

The workers

Everywhere.

Humble

Yet fearless

Strong

Yet gentle

Loving - Kind

To

Family - and man.

He laughed

And cried

With

Us all

At

Human folly.

Rejecting

All corruption

And

Self gain

His example

Is a message

Everlasting.

A loyal friend

A man

For

All humans

Bill Morrow - Internationalist

Socialist -

Bill Morrow- Australian

May he rest in peace.

Senator Douglas McClelland:
NEW SOUTH WALES · ALP

Mr President, I speak in support of the expressions of condolence in respect of the late Senator Bill Morrow, the late Arthur Greenup, the late Mr Ron Davies, the late Mr Ted Peters and the late Mr Len Reynolds. I knew all of them at one time or another in their service in the Labor movement and to Australia, but because of my close association with the late honourable member for Barton I wish to pay my personal tribute to the memory of the late Mr Len Reynolds. He was the member for Barton in this Parliament from 1958 to 1966 and from 1969 to 1975.

Mr Reynolds and I spent our early days together in the Labor movement. When the late Dr Evatt was the member for Barton and the leader of the Australian Labor Party, Mr Reynolds was the president of the Barton federal electorate council of the Labor Party and at the same time I was the secretary of the council. When Dr Evatt transferred from having Barton as his electorate to having Hunter, Len Reynolds became the member for Barton. I well recall that at that time our political opponents thought that when Dr Evatt left the electorate of Barton no-one could win the seat for Labor, but Mr Len Reynolds disproved that.

He was active in every community activity. He sold double tickets for senior citizens groups in the streets of Kogarah, Rockdale, Ramsgate and Sans Souci. He was a member of many ex-servicemen’s associations in the district, he was a prominent member of the St George Leagues Club and he was also an active member of that organisation’s bowling club. He was a very strong and keen supporter of the St George football club. He and his wife Sylvia devoted the whole of their lives to the service of their electorate. Between them they would have attended every school fete, every church bazaar and every local government function that was held in the electorate. They were a most widely respected couple in the district. It was only because Mr Reynolds suffered a massive heart attack in 1973 that he retired from the Parliament and did not offer himself for re-election in 1975.

The late Len Reynolds and his late wife Sylvia loved life and loved people. They shared a common goal of serving their electorate and serving humanity. I know how much Mr Reynolds grieved after he lost his wife Sylvia in 1978. On behalf of all members of the Labor Party - in the Barton electorate especially - I pay tribute to his life’s work. I tender my deepest sympathy and that of my colleagues and all members of the Labor Party, particularly those in the Barton electorate, to his sons Gary, Neal and Brian.

Senator CHIPP:
Leader of the Australian Democrats · Victoria

Mr President, I did not know the late Senator Morrow or Mr Greenup and I knew Mr Davies only slightly, but I did know Mr Peters and Mr Reynolds very well during my terms in the House of Representatives and I would like to place on record my condolences.

Both of them were highly dedicated hard-working members of Parliament. I remember that Mr Peters, although a self-educated man, used to address the House with great wisdom. One of his obsessions was interest rates and the creation of credit by the banks. Some of his contributions to the House were appreciated by all members. Mr Reynolds was a very hard-working person, particularly in social welfare and education, but above all I would like to place on record that in my view, after having known both of these members for many years, they were both extremely decent human beings who made a great contribution to this place.

Senator PRIMMER:
Victoria

– I wish to say just a few short words on behalf of members of the Australian Labor Party in relation to the passing of our colleague Mr Ted Peters. Mr Peters joined the Labor Party on leaving school. On looking back over his history that would appear to me to have been perhaps about the time of the great conscription debates in 1916 and 1917. He worked as a public servant for 20 years from 1915 to 1935. During that period he became President of the Victorian branch of the Australian Labor Party and was a member of that branch’s central executive from 1 928 until 1 955. That record indicates that Mr Peters as an activist in the Party was involved in some fairly strong struggles within the Labor movement in Victoria over those years. He was also a member of the Victorian Teachers Tribunal for three years and was secretary of the Victorian parliamentary Public Works Committee from 1935 until 1946, which indicates a broader view of life than plain politics. He was elected to the House of Representatives for the seat of Burke in 1949 and again in 1951 and 1954. After a redistribution in 1954 he became the member for Scullin in 1955 and held that seat until his retirement.

Ted Peters played a long and active role within the Australian Labor Party. He could only be described as a fiery orator. One is reminded of men of his period such as the late Eddie Ward and the former Minister for Agriculture in the Chifley Government, Mr Reg Pollard. I suppose that in my early years in the Labor Party, if there were three fiery orators within its ranks then surely they were the three. However, as I said, Mr Peters could only be described as an ardent Australian nationalist. On behalf of the Opposition in this chamber I would like to pass on our condolences to Mr Peters’ wife Min, who herself played a long and active role in the Labor Party, and to their son.

Senator WRIEDT:
Leader of the Opposition · Tasmania

– I wish to make a few brief remarks in respect of Mr Ron Davies, the former member for Braddon in Tasmania, whose passing we regret today. Ron Davies came to this Parliament in 1 958, winning that seat in quite remarkable style. We all remember that in that State he converted a deficit of 8000 votes, I think it was, in 1955 to a winning margin in 1958, which was a remarkable performance. He was a very dedicated member for Braddon and a man who worked his electorate very effectively. He remained the sitting member until his defeat in 1975. He was an object lesson for any member of Parliament as to the manner in which an electorate should be serviced. His great interest in Tasmania and Tasmanians was well recorded in this Parliament and in the work he did in his own State. On behalf of the Opposition I place on record our sincere regret at his passing.

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

– On behalf of Government senators I express to the relatives and friends of those to whom we are paying tribute today our deep sympathy at their passing and our acknowledgement of the service which in their own way, in their own lights, they gave to Australia. I express to the Australian Labor Party as a whole our sympathy at the loss of people who in their day played great parts within the Australian Labor Party. I was not privileged to know most of those people directly - I knew them by reputation only - but I acknowledge their very real service to the Australian Labor movement. May I simply say that I was privileged to know Len Reynolds, and a finer gentleman and a nicer person would have been hard to find in this world. I think as a person and as a member of Parliament he brought a contribution to this Parliament that we are all the richer for, and I am sure that Australia is the poorer for his passing. I, therefore, join in tribute to those who have passed on.

Senator GIETZELT:
New South Wales

– I want to be associated with the words of condolence at the passing of five former members of the national Parliament, all of whom served the Parliament in different capacities but who were all members of the Australian Labor Party, in the majority of cases for most of their lives, and join with my colleagues who have spoken of the four other members of the Australian Labor Party who were members either of the Senate or the House of Representatives. I refer specifically to the life of public service that Arthur Greenup dedicated in his 78 years on this planet. He was born in 1902 and most of his life was dedicated to the service of his fellow man. He was a very active member of the Shop, Distributive and Allied Employees Association at a very early age. He became an official of that union, as an organiser, and subsequently rose to become the President of that organisation. He was a unique person in that he served in all three arms of government. He served for some 14 years in local government, both in the council which serves the Newtown area and the Sydney City Council. He then went on to serve in the State Parliament and subsequently served a period in the national Parliament. His services in both the State and Federal parliaments were disrupted as a result of redistributions which caused him no longer to be able to represent those areas in the respective parliaments.

The most interesting thing about him is that his 51 years membership of the Australian Labor Party was an active membership. Despite his 78 years of age he was, nevertheless, a delegate to our New South Wales Labor Party conference held on the Queen’s Birthday weekend in June 1980. So Arthur Greenup in his various ways in the trade union movement- for something in excess of 40 years he was an official of our organisation - and in the three arms of government, local, State and Federal, sought successfully to represent his fellow man. He did so with a great deal of distinction. He was a very gentle person. He held views fairly strongly about the Labor movement and he expressed those views sometimes when they were not popular views. He, nevertheless, held to those views and it was in that sort of spirit that he was accepted as being a very honourable and hard working member of the Australian Labor Party. Whilst he had only a brief association with the national Parliament, I think what we have to look at, in looking at Arthur Greenup and his recent death, is the fact that he spent practically the whole of his adult life in the service of his fellow man. He did not marry and, therefore, any condolence remarks can be referred only to his nieces and nephews who are still alive. Through their close association with him they were able to see that he was a man who at all stages in his life sought to represent the little people wherever he could. In the most humble way Arthur Greenup made a very considerable contribution to the political life of this country.

I also endorse the remarks of preceding speakers in respect of former Senator Bill Morrow, and Ron Davies, Len Reynolds and Ted Peters, former members of the House of Representatives. We are poorer for the loss of these five former members of the national Parliament.

Senator MULVIHILL (New South Wales)In briefly supplementing the tributes that have been paid, I can do no better than follow up what Senator Gietzelt said in relation to Arthur Greenup. Most of us came in contact with Arthur

Greenup after he had passed from the parliamentary stage. As can be seen from Hansard, a feature of his speeches on the cost of living was a good knowledge of food distribution. He had an ability to illustrate fluctuations in the cost of living not only in Industrial Court hearings but also in the Parliament. Many people who go out of politics get a bit soured, but although Arthur Greenup was twice the victim of redistributions, once in the New South Wales Parliament and once in the Federal Parliament, he never became sour. He always made a constructive contribution at Australian Labor Party conferences. As Senator Gietzelt has said, he was just as fluent in his speech in the last year as he had been when I came to know him in the mid-1950s.

Notwithstanding all that Senator McClelland has said about the custody of a marginal seat, I found in my days as an official that Len Reynolds, the former member for Barton, was always available to go to distant areas to serve. I think the best epitaph that one could give him would be in the words spoken during the service attended by Senator McClelland, myself and others to mark the passing of Len Reynolds. People active in junior rugby league circles said: ‘He was one of the few men who was an active referee and you still thought he was fair and decent’. They did not say that in jest either. That is the sort of person he was both in his ethics and his general attitude.

Senator Justin O’Byrne, in paying a very comprehensive tribute to Bill Morrow, referred to the former senator’s zest and power in crusading for world peace. I do not wish to speak disparagingly of the smaller States, but having been a trade union official I know that at times Tasmanian union officials have to take on the mainland branches to get justice for their members. Bill Morrow appeared to have a particular capacity or versatility. Despite his intense interest in foreign affairs, he in no way neglected his advocacy in relation to the claims of railwaymen in Tasmania. He had a happy combination. There is no doubt that both in the period he served in the trade unions and during his political life he left his mark.

In speaking of the former member of the House of Representatives Ted Peters, I support the remarks of Senator Chipp. I went to meetings of the Caucus during the last three or four years of Ted Peter’s term. There is no doubt that he had an economic fundamentalism, and he would illustrate his views on interest rates and other matters in a very colourful manner. He would certainly liven up a debate that was languishing.

The former member for Braddon also could enthral the Caucus when there was a debate on a subject in which he was really interested. I do not think I would be revealing any Caucus secrets by mentioning that on one Bill - I think Senator Gietzelt would know about this - relating to the annual renewal of a softwoods agreement, Ron Davies, in a devastating 10 minutes, wiped the floor with everybody because he felt we were distorting a point of view put by the Tasmanian timber industry. I will always remember that about the former honourable member for Braddon.

Senator SIBRAA:
New South Wales

– I too associate myself with the expressions of condolence and wish to add briefly to the remarks made by my colleague Senator McClelland concerning Len Reynolds. In 1966, as a candidate for the House of Representatives, I got to know Len Reynolds well for the first time, and as a party official I worked closely with him in election campaigns in 1969, 1972 and 1974. In all those elections, of course, he held the seat of Barton. In 1975, because of ill health, he decided not to run again as our candidate, and I, along with Senator McClelland and others, tried unsuccessfully to persuade him to continue because of his strong personal vote in the Barton electorate. I think it is fair to say that he was among the hardest working members of parliament or candidates with whom I have ever worked, and 1 have no doubt that his strenuous activity on behalf of the Australian Labor Party and on behalf of the constituents of Barton helped towards his untimely death. To his family I extend my deepest sympathy.

Senator O’BYRNE (Tasmania)- When this debate commenced I was not quite certain of the form it would take and I omitted to mention some of my former colleagues - Ted Peters, whom I knew very well in the early days of my time in the Parliament, Arthur Greenup and Len Reynolds. But I would like to associate myself particularly with the expressions of sympathy to the relatives of Ronald Davies who was the member for Braddon from 1958 until 1975. Ron Davies was the first Labor member for Braddon since King O’Malley. There was great jubiliation in our party in Tasmania when we won that seat because it had been held by such an illustrious person as Dame Enid Lyons. When she retired Ron Davies succeeded her and maintained the very high standard of representation in that electorate.

The late Ron Davies made a great contribution in many spheres of activity in Tasmania. He was associated with sporting activities - wood chopping - and he had a group of world champion Tasmanians participating in a world championship in Hong Kong when his untimely death occurred. He was also associated with the executive side of horse trotting and of galloping. Not only was he closely involved in politics but also his son is the Speaker of the House of Assembly in Tasmania and carries out the duties of that very high office with great credit and with great dignity. I knew very well his wife Jennie, who predeceased him, and I knew what a very happy couple they were. I want especially to extend my deep sympathy to Glen Davies, the Speaker of the House of Assembly of Tasmania, and to his daughter, Anne Burr, who lives here in Canberra.

The PRESIDENT:

– I invite honourable senators to stand in silence as a mark of respect to the deceased.

Honourable senators having stood in their places ;

The PRESIDENT:

– I thank honourable senators.

page 7

PETITIONS

Alice Springs to Darwin Railway

Senator KILGARIFF:
NORTHERN TERRITORY

– I present the following petition from 1 ,270 citizens of Australia:

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

That in order to: lower transport costs boost tourism improve defence increase transport reliability generally assist northern development

Your petitioners therefore humbly pray that the Senate in Parliament assembled should urge that the Federal Government proceed immediately with the construction of the Alice Springs/Darwin railway.

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

Petition received and read.

Social Security Benefits

Senator NEAL:
VICTORIA

– I present the following petition from 1 56 citizens of Australia:

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

That there is an urgent need to ensure that the living standard of pensioners will not decline, as indeed the present level of cash benefits in real terms requires upward adjustment beyond indexation related to the movement of the Consumer Price Index. By this and other means your petitioners urge that action be taken to:

. Adjust all pensions and benefits quarterly to the Consumer Price Index, including the ‘fixed’ 70s rate.

Raise all pensions and benefits to at least 30 per cent of the average weekly earnings.

Taxation relief for pensioners and others on low incomes by:

The present static threshold of $75 per week for taxation purposes be increased to $ 1 00 per week.

A substantial reduction in indirect taxation on consumer goods.

And your petitioners in duty bound will ever pray.

Petition received and read.

Social Security Benefits for Handicapped People

Senator THOMAS:
WESTERN AUSTRALIA

– 1 present the following petition from 453 citizens of Australia:

To the Honourable the President and Members of the Senate in Parliament assembled:

The petition of the undersigned quadriplegics and severely disabled and concerned citizens of Australia respectfully showeth: That the financial disadvantaged ‘the disabled’ are being continually burdened over many years and now ask redress. Your petitioners most humbly pray that the Senate in Parliament assembed should request that:

A Social Security payments be calculated to take into account the cost of surgical appliances and other items which are used daily for normal personal health, care and activity by quadriplegics and persons with similar disabilities.

B Mobility allowance or a petrol allowance be paid regardless of place of residence to cover part of the cost of using a motor vehicle. A motor vehicle is the only practical means of transport and this cost falls very heavily on quadriplegics and persons with similar disabilities on limited incomes.

C Exemption of sales tax on new motor vehicles and parts granted to severely disabled persons who are at home and receive a pension.

D Domiciliary nursing care be increased from $2 to $4 per day or alternatively a nursing home allowance equal to half the invalid pension be paid to a spouse or attendant per week who gives daily care to a severely disabled person.

Petition received and read.

Zone A Taxation Allowance

Senator KILGARIFF:

– I present the following petition from 1181 citizens of Australia:

To the Honourable the President and Members of the Senate in Parliament assembled:

The petition of the undersigned citizens of the Northern Territory of Australia respectfully showeth:

That in order to place Australian citizens residing in the Northern Territory on an equitable basis with those residing in the south in terms of real economy.

Your petitioners therefore humbly pray that the Senate in Parliament assembled should:

Support the Chief Minister of the Northern Territory in his drive to gain an increase of the zone ‘A’ taxation allowance for residents of the north of Australia to $2,500.

And your petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray.

Petition received and read.

National Women’s Advisory Council

Senator MELZER:
VICTORIA

– I present the following petition from 69 citizens of Australia:

To the Honourable the President and Members of Parliament assembled in the Senate, Canberra: the humble petition of the undersigned members or organisations listed below and citizens of Australia respectfully showeth:

That the thorough nationwide investigations by the Working Party highlighted the need to establish the National Women’s Advisory Council.

That we believe the Council consistently and democratically demonstrates its wide representation of the interests of all Australian women, as shown by the Draft Plan of Action for the 1980 National Conference to be held in Canberra in preparation for Australia’s participation in the United Nations Decade for Women World Conference in Denmark, July 1980.

Your petitioners therefore humbly pray:

That the Parliament will continue its support of the National Women’s Advisory Council and its recommendations.

And your petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray.

Petition received and read.

Family Allowances

Senator HARRADINE:
TASMANIA

– I present two petitions from 18,015 residents of Tasmania and 2,1 75 residents of other States as follows:

To the Honourable the President and Members of the Senate in Parliament assembled.

The Petition of the undersigned respectfully showeth:

Family Allowances have not been increased over the last 4 years when food prices have risen by 60 per cent in Tasmania and consumer prices generally by over 50 per cent throughout Australia.

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

Ensure that the Government takes immediate action to restore the lost value of Family Allowances, to index them to cover future price rises and to provide additional support for homemakers and one income families.

And your Petitioners, as in duty bound, will ever pray.

Mr President, I ask that the first petition be read. I seek leave after its reading to make a statement of about one minute’s duration on the petition’s historical significance and the shortness of time available to people to sign it.

Leave granted.

Petitions received, and first petition read.

Senator HARRADINE (Tasmania)- Mr President–

Senator Georges:

Mr President, I take a point of order. I feel that we are establishing a precedent which will not serve us very well. I believe it is the practice of the Senate not to allow any comment on petitions put before the House.

Senator HARRADINE:

– Leave has been sought.

Senator Georges:

– I know that leave was sought and granted, but 1 still raise a point of order on whether leave should have been granted in this case. I was not aware of this happening; perhaps I should have been. I do not think I was in my seat at the time. If I had been I would have objected to leave being granted. Nevertheless, I ask the Senate to consider whether a precedent ought to be established whereby a petition placed before the House on behalf of citizens - rightly so - should be commented on by senators. A senator might wish to speak adversely about a petition. Surely we would not wish that to happen.

The PRESIDENT:

– Leave has been granted.

Senator HARRADINE:

- Mr President, this petition is the largest–

Senator Walsh:

– I raise a point of order, Mr President. It was requested that leave be granted, but since then we have dealt with other business. The petition has been read.

The PRESIDENT:

– Leave to make a statement was sought.

Senator Walsh:

– But we have had intervening business.

The PRESIDENT:

– There is no point of order.

Senator HARRADINE:

– This petition represents the largest petition presented by a single senator since at least 1973, if not earlier. Of course, multiple petitions of large numbers have been presented by groups of senators but a petition of this magnitude has not been presented by one senator. The signatories to the petition represent a broad cross-section of the community from literally every part of Tasmania. The petition resulted largely from its distribution to 75 per cent of Tasmanian householders by 300 volunteers over the last couple of weeks. The remarkable feature of the petition is that approximately 15,500 of the petitions flooded into my office in the last three postal sortings and there are more to come. This spontaneous response reveals the depth of feeling amongst families that they have been getting a raw deal. I hope members of the Government will take note of this petition before it is too late for them.

Senator Georges:

Mr President, suppose I now seek leave to make a further statement on the petition before the Senate–

The PRESIDENT:

– Is leave granted?

Senator Georges:

– I am not seeking leave. I want to bring before you the possibilities which arise from such leave being granted in future. I suggest to honourable senators that leave should noi be granted in future on such an occasion.

Senator Carrick:

– I take a point of order. This is a precedent. I share the Opposition Whip’s concern that we are opening a precedent. I think it is one that we should not attempt to develop until we have explored it. I suggest that the Senate refrain from establishing further precedents until the Standing Orders Committee or some similar body has looked at this matter for the future.

Social Security Benefits

Senator MISSEN:
VICTORIA

– I present the following petition from 66 citizens of Australia:

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

That there is an urgent need to ensure that the living standard of pensioners will not decline, as indeed the present level of cash benefits in real terms requires upward adjustment beyond indexation related to the movement of the Consumer Price Index. By this and other means your petitioners urge that action be taken to: -

. Adjust all pensions and benefits quarterly to the Consumer price Index, including the ‘fixed’ 70’s rate.

Raise all pensions and benefits to at least 30 per cent of the Average Weekly Earnings.

Taxation relief for pensioners and others on low incomes by: -

The present static threshold of $75 per week for taxation purposes be increased to$ 1 00 per week.

A substantial reduction in indirect taxation on consumer goods.

And your petitioners in duty bound will ever pray.

Petition received.

Social Security Benefits

Senator EVANS:
VICTORIA

– I present the following not historic but still quite important petition from 163 citizens of Australia:

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

That there is an urgent need to ensure that the living standard of pensioners will not decline, as indeed the present level of cash benefits in real terms requires upward adjustment beyond indexation related to the movement of the Consumer Price Index. By this and other means your petitioners urge that action be taken to:

. Adjust all pensions and benefits quarterly to the Consumer Price Index, including the ‘fixed’ 70’s rate.

Raise all pensions and benefits to at least 30 per cent of the Average Weekly Earnings.

Taxation relief for pensioners and others on low incomes by:

The present static threshold of $75 per week for taxation purposes be increased to $ 1 00 per week.

A substantial reduction in indirect taxation on consumer goods.

And your petitioners in duty bound will ever pray.

The Acting Clerk - Petitions have been lodged for presentation as follows:

Family Allowances

To the Honourable the President and Members of the Senate in Parliament assembled.

The Petition of the undersigned respectfully showeth:

Family Allowances have not been increased over the last 4 years when food prices have risen by 60 per cent in Tasmania and consumer prices generally by over 50 per cent throughout Australia.

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

Ensure that the Government takes immediate action to restore the lost value of Family Allowances, to index them to cover future price rises and to provide additional support for homemakers and one income families.

And your Petitioners, as in duty bound, will ever pray. by Senator Dame Margaret Guilfoyle.

Petition received.

Social Security Benefits

To the Honourable the President and Members of the Senate in Parliament assembled. The petition of the undersigned respectfully showeth that lone parents receiving Social Security benefits are being further disadvantaged by the fact that their benefits are only partially adjusted to the Consumer Price Index.

Your petitioners most humbly pray that the Members of the Senate in Parliament assembled, should ensure that the necessary legislation be enacted to raise the dependents allowance for pensioners and the level of permissible income for pensioners and that both these factors be indexed in future.

And your petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray, by Senator Dame Margaret Guilfoyle.

Petition received.

Human Rights Commission Bill 1979

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 because we already inherit constitutional safeguards and many free institutions which assure to us as an unconditional right, the enjoyment of all basic human rights.

And because the exercise of our true common law rights is the proper means of dealing with attempted infringements or abuses of our human rights or personal freedoms within the Commonwealth of Australia and its territories.

And because the Human Rights Commission Bill 1979 would virtually eliminate our common law rights and heritage by substituting so-called rights and freedoms as defined under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights of December 1 966, which does not correspond with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and in fact deletes some of its essential safeguards,

We have the conviction that the above-mentioned Bill would in due time destroy much of our traditional liberties and rights and established system of law, remembering that it calls for all ‘the laws of the Commonwealth’ to conform to it, that we would be liable to the definitions, whims and decrees coming from a foreign source instead of our own sovereign, elected, constitutional parliamentary democracy, that the United Nations today is composed of a large majority of totalitarian-type States, and that the Bill must certainly result in a quickly expanding costly bureaucracy with wide and alarming powers of investigation and opinion-making.

Your petitioners therefore humbly pray that the Government of the Commonwealth of Australia will withdraw, or repeal as the case may be, the Human Rights Commission Bill 1979 to protect the rightful interests of Australia and all Australians.

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

Petition received.

Plant Breeders’ Rights

To the Honourable the President and Members of the Senate in Parliament assembled.

We, the undersigned citizens of the Commonwealth, do humbly pray that the Commonwealth Government:

  1. . Note that legislation establishing plant breeders’ rights in other countries has had serious adverse effects, namely:

    1. Virtual monopoly control of seed production has passed into the hands of the few large international corporations seeking to profit from the exclusive rights over plant genetic materials created by such legislation.
    2. The varieties of seeds available have been restricted mainly to hybrids which will not reproduce truly and will not grow without the aid of artificial fertilisers and pesticides, thus maximising corporate profits without regard for the interests of growers and consumers.
    3. The genetic diversity of crops has been eroded, rendering them vulnerable to disease and other environmental threats.
  2. Recognise that maintenance of the genetic diversity of plant varieties is crucial to the continued well-being of the Australian Nation, and take all necessary steps to preserve and promote such genetic diversity as a public resource and to prevent exclusive control over plant genetic materials from falling into private hands.
  3. Defend the vital interests of Australian farmers and gardeners, independent Australian seed companies and their employees, and consumers of Australian farm and garden produce, by rejecting any proposal to legislate for the establishment of plant breeders’ rights in Australia.

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

Petition received.

Guaranteed Minimum Income Scheme

To the Honourable President and Members of Parliament assembled in the Senate, Canberra. The humble petition of the undersigned citizens of Australia respectfully showeth that through thorough investigation there is an increasing number of people in Australia living in extreme poverty.

We believe that there is a need for a Guaranteed Minimum Income Scheme throughout Australia.

Your petitioners, therefore, humbly pray that the Parliament will implement a Guaranteed Minimum Income Scheme as soon as possible and your petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray. by Senator Grimes and Senator Dame Margaret Guilfoyle.

Petitions received.

Donations to Amnesty International: Tax Deductibility

To the Honourable the President and Members of the Senate in Parliament assembled:

The humble Petition of the undersigned citizens of Australia respectfully showeth:

We, the undersigned, being concerned citizens of Australia and of the world, noting widespread violations of fundamental Human Rights around the world, observing that Australia has taken a leading role in the United Nations Commission for Human Rights, being aware that less than 40 per cent of money raised by Amnesty International is remitted outside Australia, urge the Government to support Amnesty International in a practical way by permitting donations to it to be deductible from income for taxation purposes.

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

Petition received.

Oil Pricing Policy

To the Honourable the President and the Members of the Senate in Parliament:

The humble petition of the undersigned citizens of Australia respectfully showeth that we oppose the pricing of Australian produced crude oil under the import parity pricing formula based upon official OPEC prices.

Official OPEC prices bear absolutely no resemblance to economic reality.

It is clear that the monopoly cartel of the seven largest oil distributing companies are holding the economy of the West at ransom.

Artificial shortages are being created and oil supplies are being diverted to the ‘spot market’ to maintain the price escalation.

Your petitioners therefore humbly pray that the Federal Government will end its practice of following an oil price structure which is no longer based upon economic reason.

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

Petition received.

Funding of Government School Programs

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 did not make increased funding available for government school programs such as:

  1. . General recurrent
  2. Migrant education
  3. Disadvantaged schools
  4. Special education
  5. Capital grants
  6. Multicultural education
  7. Disadvantaged country areas
  8. Children in institutions
  9. Services and Development
  10. Education Centres
  11. 1 . Special projects but increased the money available to the non-government school sector by 5.9 per cent.

Your petitioners most humbly pray that the Senate in Parliament assembled should restore and increase substantially, in real terms, the allocation of funds for government school programs. by Senator Peter Baume (2 petitions) and Senator Puplick.

Petitions received.

Child Care Expenses: Tax Deductibility

To the Honourable the President and Members of the Parliament assembed in the Senate:

The humble petition of the undersigned citizens of Australia respectfully showeth that:

Taxpayers who incur child-care expenses in order to earn income should be able to have those expenses exempt from income taxation in the same way as other taxpayers can deduct business expenses from their assessable income.

And your petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray. by Senator Ryan and Senator Dame Margaret Guilfoyle.

Petitions received.

National Women’s Advisory Council

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 National Women’s Advisory Council has not been democratically elected by the women of Australia;

That the National Women’s Advisory Council is not representative of the women of Australia;

That the National Women’s Advisory Council is a discriminatory and sexist imposition on Australian women as Australian men do not have a National Men’s Advisory Council imposed on them.

Your petitioners therefore pray:

That the National Women’s Advisory Council be abolished to ensure that Australian women have equal opportunity with Australian men of having issues of concern to them considered debated and voted on by their Parliamentary representatives without intervention and interference by an unrepresentative ‘Advisory Council’.

And your petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray. by Senators Dame Margaret Guilfoyle, Missen and Puplick.

Petitions received.

Anti-discrimination Legislation

To the Honourable President and Members of the Senate of the Australian Parliament in Canberra assembled:

The petition of certain citizens respectfully showeth -

That the right to work without discrimination on any ground including, inter alia, discrimination on grounds of race, ethnic origin, pregnancy, marital status, sex and/or sexual preference is a fundamental human right; and

That it is both the duty and responsibility of society to fully support those denied work and therefore those who are unemployed as a result of society’s inability to provide full paid employment should be guaranteed an adequate income without discrimination on any ground, including inter alia discrimination on grounds of race, ethnic origin, marital status, sex and/or sexual preference, or pregnancy.

Your petitioners therefore humbly pray -

That appropriate and adequate laws be formulated and passed to outlaw discrimination in Commonwealth employment, in employment of persons by statutory bodies and quasi-governmental organisations, in employment of individuals under federal awards, and in employment of all persons in areas over which Commonwealth and Australian Capital Territory equal opportunity legislation should have jurisdiction; and

That appropriate laws be formulated and passed to outlaw discrimination in the provision of unemployment benefits to all persons without regard to race, ethnic origin, marital status and/or sex.

And your petitioners as in duty bound will ever pray. by Senators Peter Baume, Carrick, Evans, Knight and Puplick.

Petitions received.

Superannuation Contributions: Tax Deductibility

To the Honourable the President and Members of the Senate in Parliament assembled:

The petition of the undersigned respectfully showeth:

Employees and self-employed contributions to approved superannuation fund.

Your petitioners most humbly pray that the Senate in Parliament assembled should approve that:

  1. Contributions paid each year to superannuation funds should be removed from the rebate system and made a separate deduction from assessable income.
  2. The amount allowed as a deduction to be at least that required to provide a retirement benefit of $1 55,400.

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

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 objection to the metric system and request the Government to restore the Imperial system.

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

Petitions received.

Aboriginal Rights Treaty

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: whereas before Europeans settled in Australia, the Aboriginal peoples of Australia had lived on their traditional lands from time immemorial and had in Aboriginal law and customs a clear title to those lands; and whereas Europeans and other non-Aboriginal people have occupied and used most of the traditional lands of the Aboriginal peoples against their will and without negotiation, compensation or treaty, and whereas it has been the practice of nations established in territories previously occupied by indigenous inhabitants to reach a negotiated settlement with those inhabitants; and whereas that occupation has seriously damaged the traditional way of life of Aboriginal Australians and has caused poverty and hardship to be the fate of the great majority of their surviving descendants; and whereas the surviving descendants of the Aboriginal peoples have expressed a wish to have their rights to land acknowledged, to preserve their link with their Aboriginal ancestors and to maintain their distinctive identity with its own cultural heritage; and whereas the people of Australia in 1967 voted overwhelmingly that the Commonwealth Parliament should have responsibility for laws relating to Aboriginal Australians: and whereas the National Aboriginal Conference unanimously resolved in April 1 979 in Canberra to ask the Commonwealth Government to negotiate a Treaty with Aboriginal Australians. whereas it is accepted internationally by the United Nations organisation, that each country should work to establish the rights of indigenous peoples to selfdetermination, non-discrimination and the enjoyment of their own culture; and whereas the Woodward Commission in 1974 established principles by which Aboriginal rights to land should be acknowledged and realised; and whereas the Senate of the Commonwealth Parliament in February 1973 resolved that Aboriginal Australians should be compensated for the loss of their traditional lands and for the damage to their way of life; and

Your petitioners therefore humbly pray that the Commonwealth Government should invite the Aboriginal people of Australia to negotiate a Treaty with the Commonwealth of Australia, and any Treaty should contain provisions relating to the following matters: (i) The protection of Aboriginal identity, languages, law and culture, (ii) The recognition and restoration of rights to land by applying, throughout Australia, the recommendations of the Woodward Commission, (iii) The conditions governing mining and exploitation of other natural resources on Aboriginal land, (iv) Compensation to Aboriginal Australians for the loss of traditional lands and for damage to those lands and to their traditional way of life, (v) The right of Aboriginal Australians to control their own affairs and to establish their own associations for this purpose.

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

Petition received.

Social Security Benefits

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

That there is an urgent need to ensure that the living standard of pensioners will not decline, as indeed the present level of cash benefits in real terms requires upward adjustment beyond indexation related to the movement of the Consumer Price Index. By this and other means your petitioners urge that action be taken to:

  1. . Adjust all pensions and benefits quarterly to the Consumer Price Index, including the ‘fixed’ 70s rate.
  2. Raise all pensions and benefits to at least 30 per cent of the Average Weekly Earnings.
  3. Taxation relief for pensioners and others on low incomes by:

    1. The present static threshold of $75 per week for taxation purposes be increased to $100 per week.
    2. A substantial reduction in indirect taxation on consumer goods.

And your petitioners in duty bound will ever pray. by Senators Peter Baume (2 petitions), Colston, Dame Margaret Guilfoyle, Grimes, Kilgariff, and Puplick (2 petitions).

Petitions received.

page 12

QUESTION

QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

page 12

QUESTION

STATES: COMMONWEALTH FUNDING

Senator WRIEDT:

– I refer the Minister representing the Prime Minister to the Premiers’ revolt led by Victorian Liberal Premier Hamer and supported by all State Premiers and, in particular, to the recent meeting of the Premiers which was held in Melbourne and to which the Federal Government was not invited. I ask the Minister: Is it not now apparent that every Premier in Australia views with the greatest distrust and the gravest concern the intentions of the Federal Government in respect of the Commonwealth’s responsibilities to provide adequate funding to the States and that the Premiers have come to the realisation that they have now come to the crunch point to increase their taxes, including the implementation of stage 2 of Fraser federalism - that is, the introduction of State income taxes? Is it not also apparent that the socalled co-operative federalism of the Fraser Government is now revealed for what it always was - confrontation federalism?

Senator CARRICK:
LP

– The answer to the three questions asked by Senator Wriedt is no. The discussions of the Premiers in recent weeks are as the cooing of doves compared with the open and widespread revolt during the time of the Labor Government. It will be remembered that at that time a then State Premier, Mr Dunstan, who was a respected Premier of the Australian Labor Party, condemned the Whitlam Government’s centralist financing. If one wants to analyse what has happened to State government financing under federalism, one has to look only at their Budgets over the years that this Government has been in office. Progressively, year by year, the States have had such surplus revenue that taxes could have been cut heavily, thereby indicating that they had surplus revenue.

If one looks at the employment of State public servants one finds that, whereas the Commonwealth Government reduced the number of its public servants, the States have increased theirs by tens of thousands, involving hundreds of millions of dollars of expenditure. The fact is that demonstrably on their balance sheets at each Budget the States have had more funds than before. They have had surplus funds because they have given tax cuts. Co-operative federalism has worked, particularly in the local government sphere. The revenue sharing system with local government has enabled local government for the first time to stabilise rates and to have some freedom of decision making in their policy making.

Senator WRIEDT:

– I ask a supplementary question. In view of the answer given by Senator Carrick, is it the case that every State Premier of the Commonwealth simply does not know what he is talking about and that every one of them does not know the state of his own finances? If that is the case can the Minister explain to the Senate why Mr Hamer has called the conference that he has?

Senator CARRICK:

– It is not I but Senator Wriedt who is asking the rhetorical questions. What I am saying is that every Premier, when he brought down his Budget, made a clear and positive admission that the revenue available to him was adequate, capable of enabling tax cuts and capable of allowing expanding policies, and was therefore better than it had been in the past. The Slates will always be seeking other ways of getting revenue. The States have always had the ability to increase their taxes. It is important for the people of Australia to know that the States and local government combined spend 52 per cent - that is the majority - of all public finance spent in Australia. The Commonwealth is responsible for only 48 per cent. The big spenders of public finance in Australia are the States. In fact, the States have always had the great capacity to raise taxes if they have wanted to. They have raised very many taxes and charges. Under the Whitlam Government they were forced, as Mr Dunstan said, greatly to increase their taxes and charges; under this Government they have reduced them.

page 13

QUESTION

PENSION AND BENEFIT CLAIM FORMS

Senator PETER BAUME:
NEW SOUTH WALES

– My question is addressed to the Minister for Social Security. It concerns the difficulties many people have in filling in claim forms for pensions or benefits. Is the Minister aware that many illiterate Australians are unable to understand or to deal with the forms, completion of which is necessary before benefits can be paid or continued? Are strategies available, using visual or audio-visual communication methods, which would enable illiterate Australians to comprehend or to deal with forms more appropriately than they seem to do at present? If there are such methods, what means are taken now to publicise them widely in the community?

Senator Dame MARGARET GUILFOYLEI am aware that there are difficulties with literacy concerning some people who deal with my Department. Several steps are taken to assist people with the claims which they make and the business which they wish to undertake with the Department. There is difficulty for those with low literacy in the English language or in other languages. Interpretative services are available for those who have a language problem. In some of the regional offices there are audio posts which can give to people a visual or audio-visual message which may be of assistance to them. I am not sure what steps are taken to inform people of these audio posts in the regional offices. I will check to see whether they are adequate. The regionalisation of the Department in itself has been of assistance because now it is a more visible department in local areas. People are aware of it and are able to have a personal contact with the Department instead of a written communication. I will check to see whether anything else can be done to help those with literacy problems so that they will be able to transact their claims with the Department without any impediment.

page 13

QUESTION

BROADCASTING AND TELEVISION ACT: BREACHES

Senator BUTTON:
VICTORIA

– My question is directed to the Attorney-General. I refer to a number of questions that he was asked in May of this year relating to a letter from Sir Reginald Ansett complaining about breaches of the Broadcasting and Television Act by the company News Ltd. I refer particularly to a typical answer given to Senator Wriedt on 22 May in which the Minister, in seeking to explain his role, said:

I have tried to explain that I am not, nor is my Department, an investigative agency, and that primarily the investigation should be conducted by the Minister responsible for the Act.

I ask the Minister whether when he gave that answer he was aware that within seven days of Sir Reginald Ansett’s letter his Department, according to the Deputy Secretary of the Postal and Telecommunications Department, had advised:

The Attorney-General’s Department says that ‘News Ltd’ is in clear breach of the ownership and control provisions of the Broadcasting and Television Act, which carry a penalty of $2,000 per day for each day of breach. 1 ask the Minister whether he was aware that his Department had so advised the Minister for Post and Telecommunications. If so, is it not a fact that his Department had conducted an investigation? Further, was the Minister serious in telling the Senate that the prime responsibility was with the Minister for Post and Telecommunications when he knew that in fact an investigation had been conducted by his own Department?

Senator DURACK:
Attorney-General · WESTERN AUSTRALIA · LP

– At the time I answered questions in the Senate I was not aware of the particular minute to which Senator Button is referring, which is a minute by Mr Payne, a Deputy Secretary, I think, of the Postal and Telecommunications Department to his Minister dated 1 3 December 1 979. However, the position is that the matter has been investigated by me as a result of disclosures that have been made and I have some comments to make which I think should be made to the Senate. I am grateful that Senator Button has given me the opportunity at this early stage of so doing.

Senator Button:

– You have the opportunity to come clean this time.

Senator DURACK:

– Well, Senator Button, I think that is most improper. I have just said that I was not aware–

Senator Button:

– Wait until you get a few more questions.

Senator DURACK:

– If the honourable senator would listen to the answer he would see that it may have made some difference to the way in which I answered but it would not have made any difference to the substance of my answer.

I have had this matter fully investigated and I have had discussions with the officer of my Department who was concerned. Let me just reiterate that the document was an advice or submission from the Deputy Secretary of the Postal and Telecommunications Department to his Minister. It was not any advice to me. The minute by Mr Payne to Mr Staley was not based on any written advice by my Department to the Postal and Telecommunications Department. The facts are these: On 13 December 1979 Mr Payne of the Postal and Telecommunications Department wrote an internal minute to Mr Staley concerning the letter from Sir Reginald Ansett to the Attorney-General, that is, to me. Mr Payne referred to telephone advice from a senior officer of the Attorney-General’s Department - that was Mr David Edwards - that the letter had been received by the Attorney-General and that the Attorney-General might be seeking to raise the matter with Mr Staley. No advice was conveyed from the Attorney-General’s Department that a prosecution could or should be instituted. A view was expressed by the officer that if Press reports that Mr Payne and he had seen could be taken as accurate it seemed highly likely that News Ltd had acquired in excess of a 5 per cent interest in Ansett Transport Industries Ltd unconditionally on the stock exchange and that, if that were so,

News Ltd would have a prescribed interest in the Ansett television stations and thus clearly would be in contravention of the Act. The minute suggested that the Minister consider a possible course of action.

That was the nature of the discussions between the officer of my Department and Mr Payne. I might say that it is not my practice normally to disclose advice that is given by my Department to other departments or, indeed, by myself or the Solicitor-General to other departments, but in the light of the publication of this internal minute I felt it was appropriate in the peculiar circumstances of this case to make that information publicly available.

In the other part of Senator Button’s question he asked me whether I was aware of that advice. I have just said that I was not at that time. He asked me further whether it was not a fact that my Department had conducted an investigation. The fact of the matter is, from that information I provided, that my Department had not conducted an investigation. It was simply basing these views on the Press reports which the officer had seen. I made it perfectly clear in answers to questions in the Senate last May, and I reiterate, that my Department is not an investigative department. If, under an Act which I administer, such as the Crimes Act, my Department were concerned about a breach of that Act we normally would seek a police inquiry as to the facts. Other departments, of course, by and large do the same or have their own investigative agencies such as procedures of their own. In this case there was the Tribunal. Subsequently the Tribunal’s inquiry into this matter commenced.

When I was answering these questions last May that inquiry had already been proceeding. There had been High Court proceedings in which the High Court indicated very clearly that the Tribunal was an inquisitorial body. That inquiry is still proceeding. I believe the proper course is to await the conclusion of its inquiry, its decision and any report it makes.

Senator BUTTON:

– I ask a supplementary question. Do 1 take the Minister to be saying that when he answered Sir Reginald Ansett’s letter on 22 January 1980 he still had not received any information from his Department about this advice which had been given to the Minister for Post and Telecommunications? Do I further take it that on 21 May when he answered the questions in the Senate he was still unaware of that advice?

Senator DURACK:

– I became aware of that advice only when I, in company, no doubt, with Senator Button, saw this document quoted in the newspapers - I think it was in the Australian Financial Review- last week, lt was as a result of that that I had these discussions with the officer of my Department. That was when I became aware of it.

page 15

QUESTION

DRUIDS HOSPITAL AND MEDICAL BENEFITS FUND, TASMANIA

Senator WALTERS:
TASMANIA

– I preface my question which is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health by saying that I believe the report of the investigator into the finances of the Tasmanian health fund, Druids Hospital and Medical Benefits Fund, has now been forwarded to the Federal Director-General of Health. As the Minister would be aware, the many contributors to that fund are anxiously awaiting the findings of the investigator to see whether they will be entitled to receive money from either outstanding accounts or contributions paid in advance. Can the Minister say when the report will be made public?

Senator Dame MARGARET GUILFOYLEI understand that the report of the inspector appointed by the Minister for Health to investigate the affairs has only just been submitted for consideration. It is a lengthy document, which is being examined, and will be available to the Minister in the next day or two. The legislation requires that the Minister seek the advice of the Attorney-General before he considers the question of whether the whole or any part of the report should be published. This action will be taken urgently. The Minister is most conscious of the interests of the contributors in this matter. I understand that an application to the Federal Court by the Druids Friendly Society of Tasmania to wind up its medical and hospital benefits fund is likely to be made shortly. The Minister for Health expects to have the report available to him in the next day or so and further information will then be given.

page 15

QUESTION

POLITICAL PRISONERS IN URUGUAY

Senator CHIPP:

– My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Foreign Affairs. I pay Senator Evans the courtesy of saying that my question follows his question No. 2974 of 23 May to which an answer has not been given. It is in respect of Uruguay. Has the Minister’s attention been drawn to the plight of political prisoners in Uruguay held without trial? I refer to a group of prisoners about whom I informed the Minister 10 days ago who had been threatened with death by the end of August, and whose relations and friends are currently protesting in Melbourne. Is he aware that Amnesty International considers Uruguay to have one of the worst human rights records in Latin America, with regard to the number of political prisoners held without trial, the frequency and severity of torture, and the number of people who die as a result of torture? Is there a record of prisoners being forced to torture and kill other prisoners? What measures has the Government taken, and what further measures will it take, to exert pressure on the Uruguayan Government to end these practices which are illegal under Uruguayan law and to guarantee the safety of the prisoners? Will the Government, through its representatives, raise the matter urgently with the United Nations and other appropriate international forums?

Senator CARRICK:
LP

– As have all other senators, I have been aware of the media reports on the matter. I am aware also of strong protests by Amnesty International. I am not aware of an outstanding question for answer, No. 2974, but I will take notice of that and ask the Minister concerned to give it attention. Senator Chipp raises a number of matters which deserve careful consideration by the Minister concerned. I will bring them to his attention and ask him to give an early response.

page 15

QUESTION

SAFETY STANDARDS AT AIRPORTS

Senator KNIGHT:
ACT

– Is the Minister representing the Minister for Transport aware of recent media stories that an expert report to the Government has indicated that safety standards at five major airports have deteriorated badly? Is this correct? If so, is one of the airports involved the Canberra Airport? Will the Minister indicate whether these reports are accurate and whether the Government has been informed in fact that safety standards at Canberra Airport have deteriorated? If so, what action is being taken on this?

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

– 1 have been advised by the Minister for Transport that he is aware of the stories to which the honourable senator refers. Indeed, he has publicly responded to them. He made a statement which was released to the Press on 25 July. He indicated in that Press statement that he is not aware of any expert report, which was the expression used in the media stories, but that the stories appear to refer to correspondence from the Aviation Safety Advisory Panel, which is a body made up of the four aviation staff associations. The Minister subsequently met people from the Panel on 13 August to discuss the current shortage of radio technical officers in the Department of Transport. As stated in his Press release of 13 August, he and his Department are very much aware of the current shortage of trained staff and action is in hand to recruit people to fill the vacancies which exist. The Minister advises me that suggestions that safety standards have deteriorated are incorrect and that his Department’s operating procedures would not allow the safety of aircraft operations to be prejudiced.

page 16

QUESTION

BROADCASTING AND TELEVISION ACT: BREACHES

Senator RYAN:
ACT

– My question is directed to the Attorney-General. It relates to statements by the Attorney in his reply to questions by Senator Button. Am I to understand from what the Attorney said that on 5 December the Attorney received a letter from Sir Reginald Ansett alleging a clear breach of the Broadcasting and Television Act by News Ltd? Is it the case that the Attorney replied to Sir Reginald on 22 January saying that he had not sought any advice as to whether there had been a breach of the law? If so, are we to assume that the Attorney, the principal law officer of this country, replied to an allegation of a clear breach of the Act without having sought any advice from his Department as to whether there had been a breach?

Senator DURACK:
LP

- Mr President, I do not know how many more times I will have to answer questions about who is responsible for the administration of various Acts of Parliament. I am not responsible for the administration of every Act of Parliament. I am responsible for certain Acts which are assigned to my administration under the administrative arrangements orders. The administration of the Broadcasting and Television Act is assigned to the Minister for Post and Telecommunications. I was asked numerous questions about this in May. I answered those questions and I said - and I say again - that the question of a breach of this Act is a matter primarily for the Minister for Post and Telecommunications. If I received a letter of complaint about a breach of the Social Services Act I would send it to Senator Guilfoyle. The letter I received about the Broadcasting and Television Act I sent to the Minister for Post and Telecommunications.

In addition to this matter being primarily one for the administration of Mr Staley, the Minister to whom the Act is assigned, the Australian Broadcasting Tribunal is interested and concerned in these sorts of matters. That is the position that I have reiterated today in answer to

Senator Button. I repeat that the question of whether there had been any breaches of this Act was primarily for another Minister, and of course it comes within the concern of the Australian Broadcasting Tribunal.

page 16

QUESTION

LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS SUBSIDY PAYMENTS

Senator ARCHER:
TASMANIA

– Can the Minister representing the Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs advise what States, if any, have not passed complementary legislation to enable the Government’s $80 per tonne liquefied petroleum gas subsidy payment to be passed on to domestic users? On what date did payments commence in each of the remaining States?

Senator DURACK:
LP

– I think it is easier to answer the question the other way around. Victoria is the only State that has passed complementary legislation to date. The remaining States and the Northern Territory have been contacted and have agreed to introduce legislation at the earliest opportunity. The legal schemes in relation to the States and to the Northern Territory formulated by the Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs have been drafted to enable payment of subsidy in anticipation of State legislation. Claims for approval of payment in the States were approved as follows: New South Wales, 31 July 1980; Victoria, 1 August 1980; Queensland, 6 August 1980; South Australia, 25 July 1980; Western Australia, 1 August 1980; Tasmania, 4 August 1980; Northern Territory, no claims have been lodged to date.

page 16

QUESTION

URANIUM

Senator ELSTOB:
SOUTH AUSTRALIA

– My question is directed to the Minister for National Development and Energy. In view of the theft of six drums of yellowcake from the Mary Kathleen mines, how can the Minister justify his past claims that strict security measures were in force with the mining, handling and storing of yellowcake, uranium, and plutonium? Does the Government approach such security with the same degree of ‘I don’t care’ attitude that it adopted to the sale of 900 short tonnes of uranium to Finland, knowing that it will be processed in the Soviet Union? Will the Minister give the Senate a full report on the theft of the yellowcake, where security has broken down, and what measures have been taken to rectify this? Can the Minister give a full report on the terms on which the uranium was sold to Finland?

Senator CARRICK:
LP

– There are two quite separate questions. As to the first question, I cannot comment as to the particularities of the matter which, of course, would be the substance of a court case. The first knowledge that the honourable senator would have had of this matter would have been as a result of the arrest of a person in Mount Isa for the alleged theft of the two tonnes of yellowcake. The fact is that when it became known that an amount of yellowcake had obviously not been accounted for, I arranged that it be taken into custody, that the Commonwealth Police should be put on the job, and indeed that there should be a thorough investigation of how any breach of security could have taken place. This was some 1 1 days before the man was arrested. I think it was 1 or 2 August that the matter came to my notice. The fact is that it was readily easy to get a rough identity and age of the yellowcake by an assay of it. It appeared to be yellowcake that had been mined some years before - possibly in 1977 and in 1978 - and that, I understand, has been alleged in regard to the misappropriation.

Yellowcake within this country is not regarded as a highly radioactive material and therefore does not have rigid safeguards attached to it. It is not harmful unless, of course, one is in total exposure to it for long periods. It is toxic. Its movement by way of export is governed by the most rigid of rules and it comes under our agreements with the International Atomic Energy Agency. It comes under our agreement in the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. Australia has some of the strictest rules in the world in that regard. If some quantities of some yellowcake have been misappropriated - I am not able to comment on that - quite clearly there were weakenesses in the security of either the milling or the storage of the uranium. Representatives of the Australian Safeguards Office - which comes under my responsibility - have visited that mining area and others and have made inspections and issued instructions for the tightening up of security. The major instruction is that a total inventory must be kept precisely in future so that measured and total quantities of the yellowcake are known throughout the whole of their movements.

I can say only that if there has been misappropriation of course the security was not good enough. It would be silly to say otherwise. We have taken very strict precautions. Whether the security that has existed in recent years has been good enough - it has been strengthened under the Australian Safeguards Office - remains to be seen. My understanding is that these thefts - if they were thefts - occurred several years previously. In any case, we will tighten safeguards even further. It must be borne in mind that the material was seized and put under security and a person has been apprehended.

As to the question of the sale of yellowcake or uranium to Finland, I understand that Finland conforms to all the NPT and International Atomic Energy Agency security arrangements that have been laid down under the Ranger recommendations and under the Government’s laws and regulations. I repeat that ours are the strongest and most stringent in the world. It is possible for a country to have its uranium reprocessed elsewhere. It is far from uncommon for west European countries - including, I understand, West Germany and others - to have their uranium reprocessed in the Soviet Union. A movement of radioactive material, including yellowcake, comes under the regulations that have been laid down and comes under the survey of the International Atomic Energy Agency. A total audit of movement out and movement in of the materials is kept and maintained so that there is a scrutiny, a tolling of the material as it is described, so there is an inventory to show that the same amount of radioactive material comes back as goes out.

Senator Wriedt:

– You would trust the Soviet authorities, would you?

Senator CARRICK:

– This is a serious matter. I take it seriously. It is not a question of trusting the Soviet authorities. I take this matter seriously. If there were a need to tighten something up we would do so. It is not a question of that. The International Atomic Energy Agency, to which I thought the Australian Labor Party subscribed, is the body which audits movement, whether or not it trusts nations. Incidentally, the USSR is a signatory to the NPT and is a signatory to these regulations.

Senator Grimes:

– Ha, ha.

Senator CARRICK:

- Senator Grimes laughs. Let me help him with his laughter. If the suggestion is that the Soviet Union would like by these means to add to its store of uranium, yellowcake or plutonium, it would show the most crass ignorance of the distribution of radioactive materials in this world. The Soviet Union, however sadly, is not short of uranium, yellowcake or plutonium. There would be no way that the Iron Curtain countries would seek to get uranium by subversive means. The fact is that they have enormous supplies of uranium available to them. In any case, I stress that this material is monitored throughout the world. Indeed, if the Senate were interested I could give it the names and details of the various non-communist countries in the world that reprocess their materials in the USSR and, in fact, have them audited by the International Agency.

Senator ELSTOB:

– I ask a supplementary question, Mr President. In the Minister’s answer he did not say that he would present a report on the sale of uranium to Finland. Will he reconsider that? Can I take it from the Minister’s reply that the Australian Government considers the Soviet Union to be a satisfactory nation–

Senator Wriedt:

– Trustworthy enough.

Senator ELSTOB:

– Does the Australian Government consider the Soviet Union to be a trustworthy nation to enrich Australian uranium?

Senator CARRICK:

– On the question relating to a full report on the sale of uranium to Finland, if Senator Elstob wants details other than those which I covered I will be happy to give them to him. I took it that he was referring to reprocessing. I hope I dealt with that in some considerable detail, but if Senator Elstob seeks other details I will be happy to give them to him. It is not a matter of our having a viewpoint on whether the USSR is trustworthy.

Senator Wriedt:

– You must believe it is, otherwise you would not–

Senator CARRICK:

– Let me make perfectly clear what happened. Senators opposite were not listening several years ago to a debate when all the legislation relating to this went through the Parliament, when the whole framework for this was set up. Australia sells to nations which agree to abide by rigid regulations for handling and processing which we laid down.

Senator Wriedt:

– Therefore we can trust them?

Senator CARRICK:

– The fact is that those nations must agree to use the material for peacetime purposes. A body called the International Atomic Energy Agency has been set up and its primary job is to monitor the movement in and out of countries of every ounce of radioactive material in the world. So where that material goes for reprocessing is a matter strictly for that agency. The movement of that material out of a country to the reprocessing country and back from that country is monitored. There is no question of trust. A mechanism has been set up which ensures that, trust or no trust, the material returns to the country concerned. I thought that procedure was an acceptance of an Australian Labor Party policy.

page 18

QUESTION

ALICE SPRINGS-DARWIN RAILWAY

Senator DAVIDSON:
SOUTH AUSTRALIA

– My question is directed to the Minister for National Development and Energy. I refer to representations made by the Chief Minister of the Northern Territory concerning a railway line between Alice Springs and

Darwin, which is related to the new railway line from Adelaide to Alice Springs. As the Chief Minister made special visits to see Senator Carrick and Premiers, can the Minister give me information on the progress of the talks as far as his Department is concerned? As the matter of the continuity of that line is of some interest and importance to South Australia, can the Minister say what the present situation is and what the next steps might be?

Senator McLaren:

– You didn’t squeal when they closed down the Larrimah-Darwin line.

Senator CARRICK:
LP

- Mr President, we needed no reminder that Senator McLaren was back amongst us. I hope he had a restful vacation. I am happy to remind honourable senators on both sides of the chamber that recently I met the Chief Minister of the Northern Territory and discussed with him a wide range of matters, including the proposed Alice Springs to Darwin rail link. The proposal has been the subject of a report by officers of the Commonwealth Department of Transport and the Northern Territory Department of Transport and Works and has been the subject of representations from the Chief Minister to the Prime Minister. Of course, the matter is very much one for the Minister for Transport. However, I have sought from my Department advice on any energy and national development implications of the proposal. I understand that the Minister for Transport intends to give the matter early consideration.

page 18

QUESTION

URANIUM

Senator CARRICK:
LP

– While I am on my feet, it occurs to me that in my answer to the question relating to uranium I used a wrong technical term; I used the term ‘reprocessing’ when I meant processing. In fact, the taking of the yellowcake and putting it in a form for use in peacetime reactors is processing. When I said ‘reprocessing’ I meant the ordinary term ‘processing’.

page 18

QUESTION

KAMPUCHEA: POL POT REGIME

Senator SIBRAA:

– My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Foreign Affairs. The Minister will be aware that neither the United States of America nor the United Kingdom recognises the Pol Pot regime in Kampuchea which the Prime Minister has described as the most repressive regime of modern times’. The Minister will be aware also that the People’s Republic of China, long time supporter of Pol Pot, continues to recognise the Pol Pot regime, as does the Australian Government. Does that mean that Australian foreign policy is now being dictated from Peking?

Senator CARRICK:
LP

– The answer to that is no. Of course, one does not have to believe in or to support the actions, qualities or philosophies of a government to recognise that government. Indeed, we recognise - honourable senators on both sides of this chamber recognise - many governments which I hope we do not support in what they do. I think the Government of former President Amin was recognised even though nobody in any degree agreed with what had happened. The Government of Kampuchea was changed by military force. Some 10 or more divisions of Vietnamese troops invaded that country and changed its government by force.

Senator Wriedt:

– Like East Timor.

Senator CARRICK:

- Senator Wriedt says: Like East Timor’. I wish he had a feeling of deja vu and had said that to his Prime Minister at the time when things could have happened in East Timor; in other words, the advice on East Timor would have been given more properly by Senator Wriedt in the right places in 1 975. The fact is that a de facto government has been set up in Kampuchea for one reason only. It has resulted from the invasion of foreign soldiers from Vietnam. Nobody ought to recognise governments which have come about by the use of military force from without.

Senator Wriedt:

– Why do you recognise the Indonesians in East Timor?

Senator CARRICK:

– The fact is that member countries of the Association of South East Asian Nations and many other countries have said that, whilst they deplore what is going on in Kampuchea, they do not believe a withdrawal of recognition at this moment would be a good thing as it would serve to suggest to the Vietnamese and the people of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics that we are weakening in our stance. The stance that is taken is a stance of total opposition to the military invasion of the country by the Vietnamese divisions. I hope that the Opposition opposes that. We do not support the present Government of Kampuchea and its murderous habits, but we do not want to give any kind of aid or help in the form of recognition to Vietnam or to Russia in what has been done. We have made it abundantly clear that the goal ought to be not this kind of argument but for all Australians, including the Government and, I hope, the Australian Labor Party, to demand that the Vietnamese withdraw their armies from Kampuchea. That is the goal to be sought. When that can be done a proper look at recognition can then take place.

Senator SIBRAA:

– I ask a supplementary question, Mr President. I ask the Minister: Is it correct that the United States Government and the United Kingdom Government recognise neither Pol Pot nor Heng Samrin?

Senator CARRICK:

– I believe that is so. But the fact is that in this region in which we live our neighbours universally, who have much more to fear from the destabilisation of this region, hold a view which deserves respectable study. The ASEAN countries, with which I hope we all are friends and with which I hope we share an interest in freedom and survival–

Senator Grimes:

– What about Marcos?

Senator Wriedt:

– You are backing Indonesia and the Philippines.

Senator CARRICK:

– The gratuitous insults that flow from the Labor Party to all other nations ought to be noted by those nations.

Senator Button:

– Deliberate lie!

The PRESIDENT:

– Order! Senator Button, you will withdraw the words ‘deliberate lie’.

Senator Button:

– I withdraw.

Senator CARRICK:

- Mr President, I think that Senator Button, whatever his language, should in deference to you rise to his feet when he withdraws.

Senator Grimes:

- Mr President, I take a point of order. I consider, and surely you consider, that the remarks of Senator Carrick are in fact a reflection on your ability in the chair. He is telling you how to conduct your business. I know that he believes that he runs this place and that you should do as he tells you. I am asking that he not tell you what to do.

The PRESIDENT:

– There is no point of order.

Senator Button:

– I withdraw. I am satisfied that it was not a deliberate lie.

page 19

FREEDOM OF INFORMATION BILL AND ARCHIVES BILL

Senator MISSEN:

– I refer the AttorneyGeneral to an article appearing in the June edition of National Watchdog, a copy of which I have supplied to him, relating to submissions on freedom of information presented by Federal departments and individuals to the Senate Standing Committee on Constitutional and Legal Affairs during its 1979 inquiry into the Freedom of Information Bill and the Archives Bill. Is it correct, as alleged in that article, that an officer of the Australian Archives wrote a submission for individual presentation to the Committee but, that when its existence was discovered, the officer was instructed to shred it?

If so, I ask the Attorney: Firstly, as the officer’s submission was one for individual presentation why was this action taken and under whose instructions was the submission destroyed? Secondly, does the Attorney agree that it is particularly invidious that in an inquiry which seeks to introduce effective freedom of information legislation into Australia such a blatant denial of individual rights should occur? Thirdly, will the Attorney assure the Senate that in future public and parliamentary inquiries Commonwealth employees will be permitted to exercise the same rights as other individual citizens?

Senator DURACK:
LP

– The allegation referred to by Senator Missen that an officer of the Archives was instructed to shred a submission which had been prepared for individual presentation to the Senate Standing Committee on Constitutional and Legal Affairs is a matter within the administration of the Department of Home Affairs. The Minister for Home Affairs is the responsible Minister. I will refer the matter to the Minister for advice and let the honourable senator have a further answer when I have received that advice from him.

There is a clear Government policy that individual officers of the Public Service in their personal capacity are entitled to make submissions to parliamentary committees, royal commissions and other committees of inquiry. That entitlement is, of course, conditional upon an officer who makes such a submission making it clear that the submission is made in his or her private capacity and that prior authority is obtained for the disclosure of any information or the contents of any document acquired in the course of official duty. Last year the Public Service Board issued guidelines on the official conduct of Commonwealth public servants. Paragraphs 4.33 and 4.36 of that document set out the guidelines that ought to be followed by public servants volunteering information to royal commissions and committees of inquiry.

page 20

QUESTION

OIL TANKER DISASTERS

Senator MULVIHILL:
NEW SOUTH WALES

– I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Transport. It concerns the obligations or responsibilities of the Federal Government and the State authorities to ensure that there are no oil tanker mishaps on the Australian coast. Has the Government studied the findings of the Irish Royal Commission which indicted the Total oil company for the disaster with the tanker Betelgeuse which resulted in the death of 50 crewmen and millions of pounds of damage simply because the company failed to spend a small sum on vital tanker maintenance services? In effect I am asking the Minister to ensure that there is a safety blitz on every tanker controlled by Total to see whether there are any structural defects which could lead to a repetition of the Bantry Bay disaster.

Senator CHANEY:
LP

– I am not familiar with the Royal Commission report which the honourable senator has raised. I am, of course, familiar with the close interest he has taken in Australian regulation of oil spillage. I will refer the two elements of his question to Mr Hunt for consideration and, I hope, early reply.

Senator Mulvihill:

– I will not have recourse to a supplementary question but I ask the Senate to note that I have a copy of the London Guardian giving a full outline of the Royal Commission’s findings. I will give it to the Minister.

Senator CHANEY:

– I am sure Mr Hunt will be pleased to receive that from Senator Mulvihill.

page 20

QUESTION

SPORTS FACILITIES AT TRINITY BEACH

Senator MacGIBBON:
QUEENSLAND

– My question is directed to the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs. Does the Aboriginal Development Commission propose to construct sports facilities on land purchased by the former Aboriginal Land Fund Commission at Trinity Beach near Cairns? As the proposals appear to be creating a degree of public concern in the area, will the Minister inform the Senate of the Commission’s plans?

Senator CHANEY:
LP

– Last financial year the predecessor of the Aboriginal Development Commission, the Aboriginal Land Fund Commission, purchased some land at, I think, Trinity Beach near Cairns. I understand that it purchased that land on the application of some of the Aboriginal residents of Cairns who wanted a sport and recreational centre and had plans to develop it for that purpose. The responsibility has now shifted to the Aboriginal Development Commission. As was extensively debated in this chamber when the legislation was considered, the Commission is, of course, independent subject only to a power of general direction. I do not have the direct control of its administration and I have no immediate advice as to the Commission’s intentions with respect to that piece of land. I will ask the Commission to advise me what it has in mind - I am sure it will do that - and I will let the honourable senator have a reply.

Senator MacGIBBON:

– I ask a supplementary question. Does the authority of the Aboriginal Development Commission allow it to use land in ways that are not subject to the local by-laws of the councils and shires in the area?

Senator CHANEY:

– The answer to that question is no. My understanding is that there have been some representations with respect to the use of that land. I hope that the local authority and any concerned citizens will be able to sit down with the Aboriginals who are concerned and with the Development Commission and reach an amiable solution to the problem. The various outriders which are funded by my Department are subject to normal zoning requirements and so on. Like any other developer they may choose to use the machinery which is usually available under State law to challenge rulings which they disagree with. That is a minority situation when it occurs. Usually these things are dealt with as other developers deal with them, in co-operation and consultation with the local authority.

page 21

QUESTION

ALLEGATIONS BY CUSTOMS OFFICERS

Senator CAVANAGH:
SOUTH AUSTRALIA

– Has the Minister representing the Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs noted a request by New South Wales Customs officers for a Federal inquiry into allegations of corruption and inefficiency by the Customs Bureau? Will he have established an inquiry into the allegations of Mr Bob Spanswick, the Secretary of the New South Wales Customs Officers Association, that trained detection experts were warned ofT inspecting high risk cargo from countries such as the Lebanon, Turkey and those in South East Asia; that officers were given verbal orders not to challenge suspected false receipts produced by travellers returning from South East Asia with expensive electrical goods, that the yacht squad, a small team policing movements of small craft in and out of Sydney, was disbanded within an hour of officers advising that they intended to swoop on a wealthy yacht owner suspected of evading more than $20,000 in duty, that Customs men were advised to turn blind eyes to a whole range of prohibited imports, including pornography, and that they learnt that $ 1,000m worth of heroin was to be dropped off Sydney Heads but were taken off the case before they could do anything? If the Minister establishes an inquiry into this matter, will he also permit the inquiry to include in its investigation the matter of the $7,000 worth of jewellery which was lost or stolen from Mr Wacyk by Customs officials which 1 reported to the Senate on 3 1 March of this year?

Senator DURACK:
LP

– I have some information in relation to the matter raised by Senator Cavanagh, but it is in rather general terms. Senator Cavanagh has asked about certain specific allegations which I cannot answer at this stage. I will refer them to the Minister. I am able to say that representatives of the Customs Officers Association of Australia have made a number of statements over the past 18 months which have been critical of the administration of the Bureau of Customs. The Customs Officers Association has had the opportunity of making its claims to at least two recent commissions - the Australian Royal Commission of Inquiry into Drugs and the New South Wales Royal Commission into Drug Trafficking. In the reports of the commissions there is nothing to suggest there is any substance in the claims that were made to them. I do not know whether that covers all the claims which Senator Cavanagh has mentioned. I must put that caveat on it.

Many allegations are being made in the media currently, but the Minister informs me that no details of alleged corruption have been furnished to the Department, despite written requests being made to the Customs Officers Association to give particulars in support of statements that have been made. The head of the Department’s Internal Affairs Unit, Mr Wilson, who was formerly the Commissioner of the Australian Capital Territory Police Force, is currently in Sydney seeking to interview representatives of the Customs Officers Association on the latest allegations. Whilst the COA, as it is known, has refused to cooperate with the chief officer of Customs in New South Wales, it is to be hoped that it will assist the Internal Affairs Unit in its inquiries. The Minister informs me that he could not consider any form of inquiry into the Bureau of Customs or other areas of public administration on the basis of the so far unsubstantiated and general type of complaint that has been made by some members of the staff association. As I have said, that covers a number of fairly general allegations that have been made recently in the Press and otherwise. I will draw the specific cases mentioned by Senator Cavanagh to the attention of the Minister.

page 21

QUESTION

TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATIONS

Senator KILGARIFF:

– My question is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Post and Telecommunications. Telephonic communications are very poor in the north of the Australian continent, particularly along the coast of the Pilbara and North Kimberleys from Port Hedland, Broome, Derby, Kununurra to Darwin and also through Arnhem Land, Groote Eylandt, Borroloola, et cetera, to Thursday Island and Cooktown. Having in mind the urgent need for reliable communication links to support defence activities, surveillance, security and industries in these northern regions, will the Minister indicate what action the Australian Telecommunications Commission is taking to overcome the poor state of communications and what priorities are being given in the various areas for the extension of microwave links and other forms of communication installations?

Senator CHANEY:
LP

– I can assure Senator Kilgariff that the Government is aware of the problems of telephonic communications in the north of Australia. I must say that the theoretical awareness that I had has become very practical awareness since I have had responsibility for Aboriginal affairs. Often I have seen the disadvantage that is suffered by people from the south in trying to make contact with people in the north and vice versa. For that reason the Government regards it as a serious problem. Action has been taken to try to overcome what is a widespread problem. In 1979 Telecom Australia commissioned a major study of telecommunications needs in remote areas of northern Australia. It was a major inquiry which paid particular attention to the needs of Aborigines, pastoral properties, mines and tourist establishments. The study also examined technical solutions, together with other cost implications. Already as a result of that inquiry some action is being taken. Knowing of Senator Kilgariff s interest in this matter, I have a fairly substantial note on the action which is in hand in the various areas which he mentioned. Rather than take the time of the Senate, because it is of broad interest, I seek leave to have the material incorporated in Hansard.

Leave granted.

The document read as follows -

The results of the study have now been made available to Telecom and the Commission now has a detailed picture of the needs of the Northern Territory and the principles of the NT study can now be applied to other remote areas.

Position

The study showed that 20,600 people in the Northern Territory do not have access to a modern telecommunications service. About 80 per cent are Aboriginals. The communications needs of Aboriginals are such that the study recommended the formation of a specialised Telecom unit to study them, consult with the Aboriginals and develop solutions to their communications problems.

The study suggested that 1172 automatic STD telephone services will be needed by 1 985 to meet needs in the remote areas of the Northern Territory and about two-thirds of these will be for Aboriginals and Aboriginal settlements.

Telecom is looking to being able to provide a fully automatic telephone service to all parts of Australia by 1990. The study recommends that the work in the remote areas of the NT be carried out in the period 1 984-89.

Pilbara and Kimberleys area

Telecom is particularly aware of the telecommunications needs in this area. Following severe cyclones earlier this year Telecom has initiated action to substantially reduce the risk of communications failures by providing additional protection against lightning damage to the coaxial cable system and rectifying weaknesses in the open wire system.

The protection program for the coaxial cable is expected to cost in excess of $400,000 and the upgrading of the open wire into the Kimberley area has been budgeted at $36,000, both projects having a target date for completion before the onset of the next wet season.

A broadband service to the Kimberley area is planned to be operational to Broome and Derby during 1982; and to Wyndham and Kunnunurra during 1983 at a cost of $ mm

Action is in hand, in the meantime, to improve and extend emergency HF type radio communications between Derby and Perth by employing modern equipment with an increased number of frequency options. This system is scheduled to be in operation prior to the next wet season.

Investigations are also proceeding for the provision of similar equipment to Wyndham before the 1981-82 cyclone season commences. While these back-up systems have limited capacity, they do provide a substantial measure of additional telecommunication security for the region.

Groote Eylandt

Senator Kilgariff has a particular interest in the improvement of telecommunications services to Groote Eylandt and during his recent visit to the area the Minister for Post and Telecommunications had discussions with the Honourable Senator and representatives of the Groote Eylandt Mining Company (GEMCO) on this subject.

As a result of those discussions consideration is being given by Telecom to the purchase of the GEMCO tropospheric scatter radio system which provides up to 12 circuits between Nhulunbuy public exchange and the company PABX at Alyangula. The link was installed under the ‘Subscriber’ Spur Line Policy which lays down conditions for a privately owned communications system to be connected to the public network. Services in the township are provided and maintained by GEMCO to meet company requirements although circuits are also provided for a public telephone and a Northern Territory Administration exchange line.

The company had elected to provide and maintain its own communications on Groote Eylandt and to be a subscriber on the Nhulunbuy exchange rather than have Telecom take over communications under the provisions of the alternative Trunk’ Spur Line Policy. This policy requires that the company make an unconditional capital contribution of the cost of a trunk spur line facility capable of meeting requirements for five years.

Telecom Australia has now advised that the purchase of the existing subscriber radio link from GEMCO is not an attractive proposition as the system does not have the capacity necessary to meet the predicted requirement for trunk telephone circuits nor does it meet denned standards for trunk operations. To meet the requirements for a trunk system, a more sophisticated tropospheric scatter radio system would have to be installed, costing in the order of $ 1.5m.

Telecom is prepared, however, to consider establishing an exchange on Groote Eylandt and also to take over the provision of services within the island if GEMCO is prepared to make a capital contribution for a suitable trunk line facility. In addition, Telecom is prepared to take over the existing subscriber link, at fair valuation, for possible use elsewhere.

Telecom has, as a matter of urgency, set up a working group to examine the best means of meeting the particular telecommunications needs of Groote Eylandt and the means of providing additional trunk capacity between Darwin and Nhulunbuy. Further consultations with the company are proposed.

Conclusion

Should the Honourable Senator require further information on projects and priorities in improving telecommunications services to Northern Australia I will seek that information from the Minister for Post and Telecommunications.

Senator CHANEY:

– My Department has been concerned about the needs of some of the Aboriginal communities. A major project has just been completed in the Torres Strait which has ensured that the islands of the Torres Strait now have telephonic communication with the mainland. That is a matter which is of satisfaction to the Government, to my Department and to me.

page 23

QUESTION

DISTRIBUTORS OF LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS

Senator WRIEDT:

– I ask the Minister for National Development and Energy whether any liquefied petroleum gas distributors have been registered as recipients of the $80 a tonne LPG subsidy. If so, can the Minister state approximately how many and also whether the Government has a policy as to how many distributors it believes should be registered?

Senator CARRICK:
LP

– The subject of the question is a matter for the Minister representing the Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs. The Attorney-General has the information.

Senator DURACK:
LP

– I am advised that 226 distributors have been registered.

Senator WRIEDT:

– The other part of my question asked whether the Government has a policy as to how many distributors it believes should be registered.

Senator DURACK:

– I cannot answer that. I suppose the honourable senator is really looking for some estimate. I will refer the matter to the Minister.

page 23

QUESTION

URUGUAY: HUMAN RIGHTS

Senator CARRICK:
LP

Senator Chipp asked me a question on Uruguay and human rights. I have some information and, with the consent of the Senate, I will give a brief answer. The Government has heard of allegations that the Uruguayan authorities plan to kill a number of detainees during a ‘staged’ breakout from the Libertad prison near Montevideo. Because any such action would give us great concern, we raised the matter recently with the International Red Cross, who had also heard of it from a Geneva-based group called The Committee for Aid for Human Rights in Uruguay’. Acting on these allegations, the International Red Cross sought and received permission from the Uruguayan Government to visit the prison in question about a month ago. During this visit they uncovered no evidence to support the allegations made against the Uruguayan Government.

While the Government is aware of violations of human rights in Uruguay and has made known its concern to the Uruguayan Government, we are not aware of any recent deterioration of the human rights situation in Uruguay. We understand that prison conditions have not deteriorated, that medical facilities remain normal and that there is no recent evidence of torture. Prisoners have normal facilities such as visits and correspondence and are allowed access to legal assistance.

page 23

QUESTION

QUESTION TIME

The PRESIDENT:

– Honourable senators will recall that on 23 May last, in response to a request, I incorporated in Hansard a table showing an analysis of Question Time during the first six sitting days and the six sitting days up to and including 21 May 1980. At that time I undertook to present to the Senate a full analysis of Question Time for the whole of the autumn period of sittings. These statistics have now been compiled and, with the concurrence of honourable senators, I propose to have the statistics incorporated in Hansard.

The statistics read as follows -

page 24

LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS SUBSIDY

Matter of Urgency

The PRESIDENT:

– I inform the Senate that I have received the following letter, dated 19 August 1 980, from Senator Walsh:

Dear Mr President,

Pursuant to Sessional Order, I give notice that today I shall move

That, in the opinion of the Senate, the following is a matter of urgency:

The Government’s incompetent administration of the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Subsidy’.

Yours sincerely,

PETER WALSH

(Senator for Western Australia)

Is the motion supported?

More than the number of senators required by the Standing Orders having risen in their places -

Senator WALSH:
Western Australia

– I move:

On 24 January this year it was announced by the Minister for National Development and Energy, Senator Carrick, on behalf of the Government, that an $80 a tonne subsidy would be paid on liquefied petroleum gas used for domestic purposes. In a ministerial Press release it was stated: . . a subsidy to wholesale suppliers of LPG and wholesalers of naphtha for gas-making feedstock . . .

It was explicit in that statement that the subsidy would be paid through wholesalers. On 8 April another statement was issued by Senator Carrick which again indicated that the subsidy would be paid to wholesalers and announced that it would be paid retrospectively to 28 March. On 1 7 April, following some questions in the Senate to Senator Carrick, even Senator Carrick evidently realised that a subsidy of this type, which is selective depending upon end use, could not be paid through wholesalers; that was not administratively possible. So in a lengthy answer to a question asked in the Senate Senator Carrick notified us that the subsidy would be paid to retailers and to utilities which supply gas to towns in reticulated form. He clarified some other points pertaining to the subsidy, and there are many more that he failed to clarify. I will return to that matter in more detail.

That marked Senator Carrick’s exit from this matter. The Government, for one reason or another, decided that future releases on this subject would come from the Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs (Mr Garland), who is represented by Senator Durack. I note that Senator Durack is to reply in this discussion of a matter of public importance today. It is probably a wise choice by the Government, whatever its reasons may have been. On 6 July Mr Garland issued a statement which confirmed that the subsidy would be paid through retailers and that it would be paid retrospectively to 28 March. He also announced the registration of distributors. He left many more questions unanswered. We have been told today that after all this time some 228 distributors, I think it was, have been registered. The Government, or at least its representative in this House, apparently is not able to estimate how many potential distributors there are, but since LPG is sold at almost every service station among other places, presumably the number runs to tens of thousands. Whether any subsidy actually has been paid we do not know. If it has been, the amount would be miniscule. A promise made on 24 January this year has still not been honoured.

The subsidy was announced on 24 January. As I mentioned earlier, it was quite explicity stated that a subsidy would be paid to wholesale suppliers of LPG and wholesalers of naphtha for gasmaking feedstock, to utilities which reticulated gas to towns and to domestic consumers who bought gas in bottles of 46 kilograms or less. The final paragraph of the Minister’s statement of 24

January, the Minister in that instance was Senator Carrick; that was before the change, the coup or whatever it was - stated:

It is essential, therefore, that we avoid inappropriate patterns of usage–

That is, usage of LPG -

Which, if maintained in the mid-1980s, would pre-empt a substantial part of annual output for less efficient uses, for which LPG is basically less appropriate than other fuels of much greater availability.

In a statement in which Senator Carrick announced a subsidy for what he himself defined as an inappropriate and less efficient use of LPG, he condemned measures which would encourage the use of LPG in an inappropriate way for less efficient end measures. That, apparently, is responsible economic management, Fraser Government style, 1980! On 8 April, tacked on to a much more comprehensive statement on the pricing of LPG, it was still implied that the subsidy would be paid through wholesalers and that it would be retrospective to 28 March. That complete statement of 8 April added to the contradictions in the Government’s policy on this matter. It reasserted the Government’s belief that LPG is a premium fuel, the use of which so far as possible should be restricted to its premium usage as automotive fuel and a feedstock. But the package of policy announced on that day priced LPG for petrochemical feedstock purposes at $252 a tonne and at $125 a tonne for the crudest of all conceivable uses - space heating. So the Government’s policy - responsible economic management, Fraser Government style 1 980 - is to sell a commodity at half the price for an end use which we wish to discourage and at double the price for an end use which we believe should have priority. Common sense and truth again have been stood on their heads. Reality, as has so often been the case with this Government, has been stood on its head.

Senator Carrick had been questioned on a number of occasions about the administration of the subsidy. The Senate Hansard of 17 April records his answer - a day later - to a question which had been put to him the day before on how the Government intended to identify what LPG was used for household or domestic purposes and what was used for industrial purposes, especially when a poultry farmer, a pig producer or some glasshouse proprietors - any number of industrial users - use LPG for industrial purposes immediately adjoining or even in their own residences. He was asked how the Government proposed to differentiate. His answer did not clarify that fairly fundamental problem but it did make a couple of other points. It announced for the first time an important point - that the subsidy would be paid to retailers. Some time in the two and a half months after it announced this measure, some time between 8 and 17 April, the Government suddenly realised that this discriminatory subsidy - I do not use that as an emotive word; it is a subsidy the qualification for which is dependent upon end usage - cannot conceivably be administered at wholesale levels; it can be administered only at retail level, and very ineffectively there.

As for the individual customer who would use gas, perhaps from the same cylinder, for both domestic and industrial purposes, he said that the dominant usage would prevail in this dual usage situation. So the retailer who sells LPG is expected not only to find out whether it is to be used for domestic purposes or industrial purposes but also to find out, when an individual customer is using the LPG for both those purposes from the same bottle, which usage is dominant. The subsidy is paid not to the person who is actually using the gas, but to the retailer. During the recess Question No. 5822 asked by the Leader of the Opposition, Mr Hayden, was answered. That answer made it clear that there is absolutely no record of the usage patterns of LPG prior to 1979, apart from some calculated estimates made in 1979. We do not know and the Government does not know what proportion of total LPG purchased in the past has been consumed for domestic purposes. So that cross-check is not available to the Government.

On 17 April, as I mentioned, we saw the exit of Senator Carrick from participation in this policy area. When there is an election among his backbenchers we will see his exit from the leadership chair too. Senator Withers will be back there like a rocket. On 6 July under the new regime of Mr Garland, another statement was issued. It confirmed that the subsidy would actually be paid at retail level and that it would be paid retrospectively to 28 March. It also announced that distributors would be registered. The statement read:

The subsidy will be paid to registered distributors of the gas . . .

How many distributors the Government expected would be eligible to enrol we were not told. The Government still apparently does not know. We have found out in the last half hour that some 228, I think it is, are registered now. That is probably just within the last couple of weeks because, according to my information at the time when Mr Garland issued this statement, on 6 July almost six months after the Government had announced it was going to pay the subsidy, the forms for registration had not even been printed. Yet the

Government still insists that the subsidy will be paid retrospectively to 28 March. The Government says it will reimburse an unknown number of distributors whose names in all but 228 cases are not even on record who sold up to 5 months ago an unknown amount of gas for specified purposes. The Government says it will pay a subsidy on that provided this unknown number of dealers who sold the unknown quantity for specific purposes sold it at $80 a tonne below the ruling price. That is a very simple proposition! It is very simple to do that! Anyone who believes that that will be done would believe a Fraser electoral promise or a Carrick explanation dictated by Ian Sinclair of contradictory ministerial answers.

The Government insists that the subsidy will be paid retrospectively to 28 March but it has not explained how it will determine the price at which each of the tens of thousands of retailers have sold LPG from 28 March onwards and the specific purpose for which the LPG was bought, whether it was bought for household or industrial use. The subsidy that was promised eight months ago, if it has been paid at all- perhaps Senator Durack will clear this up when he replies - has been paid only in minuscule amounts because until very recently no distributors had been registered. All along the Government has kept telling the retailers that they should reduce their selling prices by $80 a tonne because the Government will reimburse them for it. After eight months the Government still has not got around to actually doing it. Predictably and, I suggest, justifiably, few if any dealers have complied with the Government’s request to cut the price by $80 a tonne in the expectation of receiving a subsidy. Perhaps they place the same value on the Government’s undertaking to pay a subsidy as the electorate at large places on a prime ministerial promise to reduce or hold income taxes or any other tax down to their present level.

Even beyond that, overlooking the ‘tremendous problems - I suggest the insurmountable problems of retrospectivity and looking into the future - we have the question of how a retailer is to determine whether gas purchased from him or her is to be used for industrial or domestic purposes. How will the Government ensure - it says that this is a condition of the subsidy being paid that the benefit of the $80 a tonne subsidy is passed on to the consumer? How will the Government ensure that? Obviously it requires firstly, the monitoring of retail prices from tens of thousands of outlets. Perhaps we could have an estimate of how many bureaucrats will be engaged in that. It also requires the withholding of a subsidy if the correct retail price, or what some bureaucrat says is the correct retail price, is not charged.

If the Government can do that with LPG why can it not do that with petrol? We come to an interesting contradiction here because the Government is paying $123m a year to oil companies for petrol freight subsidies but the difference between petrol prices in the country and the capital cities is greater than it has ever been. The difference in Western Australia in specific cases that I know of is as high as 1 3c a litre. Yet the Government says it is picking up all the freight in excess of half a cent a litre. Where does the other 121c go? The Government says: We cannot do anything about that’. The Government says: ‘We have no control over retail petrol prices’. If it has no control over retail petrol prices, if it cannot prevent the misuse, the misallocation of its enormous subsidy on fuel freights how will it have effective discipline over retail prices for LPG? It either has that discipline for both or it does not have it for either. It is appropriate that the petroleum products freight subsidy should be used because, as I said, the gap between city petrol prices and country petrol prices is greater than it has ever been, notwithstanding this enormous subsidy which is being paid out, the ultimate destination of which nobody can be absolutely certain of. We only know where it goes at the first step; it goes to the big oil companies. Is the LPG subsidy, when the Government eventually gets around to paying it, going to finish up in the same place? Is it going to be intercepted by the oil companies in the way in which the petroleum freight subsidy appears to have been?

I also noted in a current issue of Inside Canberra which is usually quite a reliable newsletter that the Government is having a great deal of trouble in administering this policy where LPG is reticulated to households by utilities in towns. So these self-proclaimed responsible economic managers are preparing to go to the nation again in 10 weeks’ time to ask the nation to re-elect them on the grounds that they are responsible economic managers who understand business and trade when seven months ago they said that they would pay a subsidy of $80 a tonne without having the faintest idea of how they were going to do it. They said that they would pay it to retailers then they realised that would not work and they would have to pay it to wholesalers. They then said that they would pay it retrospectively to 28 March even though they do not know how much LPG was sold or who sold it. At this distance, five months later, they reckon that they will unscramble the problem of these unknown distributors who sold an unknown quantity of gas to unknown persons at unknown prices for unknown purposes and will pay the subsidy retrospectively. Responsible economic managers indeed! It was, of course, another knee-jerk policy which, like so many of the policies which have got this country into trouble, originated among the standover men of the National Country Party.

The assertion that the Government will pay the subsidy retrospectively is in keeping, of course, with other abstractions from reality which we have recently noted by the Prime Minister (Mr Malcolm Fraser) in particular. He assures us that the Government will continue with its policies of bearing down on inflation, its policies which have borne down on inflation. Has not the Prime Minister noted that inflation has gone up by 40 per cent in the last two years? Has not he noted that it has gone up from 7.7 per cent to 10.7 per cent? Bearing down on inflation indeed! The policies which the Prime Minister has followed have not borne it down; they have pulled it up. They will continue to do so. Perhaps most dangerous of all, judging from statements like that in association with a 105 per cent investment allowance and a 17+ per cent effective interest payment on trust deposits with the Government is the danger that, like Alice in Wonderland, the Prime Minister appears to believe that if he says something three times it is true.

Senator DURACK:
Western AustraliaAttorneyGeneral · LP

Senator Walsh has introduced for discussion as a matter of urgency what he described as:

The Government’s incompetent administration of the Liquefied Petroleum Gas subsidy.

I simply refer to that not because I believe there is any substance whatever in that proposition - indeed I will invite the Senate to reject it out of hand - but because it seemed from a good deal of Senator Walsh’s speech that he was really talking about something else altogether, namely, the policy of the scheme which, of course, was adopted and supported by this Parliament. A number of things he said may have been relevant. He may have said them in the debate in this Parliament when the policy in respect of the scheme was being considered. As usual, he spent a lot of time debating other matters which were really irrelevant to his own proposition. What the Government is asked to answer this afternoon in the Senate is an allegation of incompetent administration of the liquefied petroleum gas subsidy. As that scheme is administered not by the Minister for National Development and Energy (Senator

Carrick) but by the Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs (Mr Garland), whom I represent and as the motion is aimed at the administration of the scheme, I am replying on behalf of the Government; so there should not be any surprise about that fact either.

The position is that this subsidy scheme was first announced on 24 January this year by the Minister for National Development and Energy. I will not go into the details of this scheme. Broadly it provides for a subsidy of $80 a tonne on liquefied petroleum gas supplied to household users and others, not for commercial uses or for industrial purposes either. The payment made to wholesalers was to be passed onto consumers. It is a condition of the scheme that the payment is made only if it is passed onto consumers. 1 hasten to say that that is a very different scheme from the one that Senator Walsh spent some time criticising, namely the petrol freight subsidy scheme. Senator Walsh knows quite well - he mentioned it quite often in the Senate before - that is a payment of a freight subsidy and this Government has no power over the actual ultimate price that is charged by the retailer. It is being paid here specifically on the condition that the subsidy is passed onto the consumer. Under the scheme we have control over the person to whom it is paid.

Dealing with the allegation of incompetent administration, the scheme was announced only as a broad policy on 24 January. The legislation to give effect to the scheme was introduced into this Parliament on 17 April, was passed through the Parliament and was assented to on 23 May. The legislation required detailed schemes as well as administrative details to be developed in consultation with the State governments. As Senator Walsh has already indicated, the matter was passed to the Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs as the Minister responsible for the administration of the scheme and his Department formulated schemes for the States. These details were announced on 6 July this year. Indeed, on 7 July I think Senator Walsh asked me whether application forms were sent to all known distributors; that is, the day after the details of the scheme were announced. Although there may now be some criticism of delay in payment, the fact is that these schemes have been developed to operate from 28 March this year, so that the payments will be made in respect of the liquefied petroleum gas supplied since that date. People who have supplied and received it since that date will be eligible for benefits under this scheme.

There has been a need to consult with a number of parties. I have already mentioned the States.

Many other people are involved in the administration of the scheme as well. First and foremost, I should say, as I answered a question earlier today, all States are required to pass complementary legislation. Only one State has done so, but discussions have taken place with other States. It is anticipated that they will be passing their complementary legislation.

Senator Walsh:

– Which one?

Senator Archer:

– Victoria.

Senator DURACK:

– As Senator Archer answered, Victoria has already passed it. As the Senate knows, State parliaments have varying periods of recess. I think that is probably one of the main reasons for the delay in the passage of legislation. Therefore, there is no suggestion whatever that such legislation will not be passed. The forms were sent out to all known distributors. I have some statistics in relation to the numbers of distributors. Senator Wriedt asked me a question earlier today which, unfortunately, at that time I was not in a position to answer, but there are about 560 distributors of the bulk and bottled liquefied petroleum gas and there will be about 40 reticulators. Both of those groups will be eligible to receive the subsidy for passing on to the selected consumers entitled to the subsidies. There certainly has been some delay on the part of those distributors in returning forms, but the companies have been approached by departmental officers to expedite completion of the registration forms.

As I said earlier, 226 distributors have already been registered and it is estimated that those who have registered cover 90 per cent of the eligible liquefied petroleum gas market. In answer to Senator Archer earlier today I indicated the dates on which claims had first been approved in the various States. Senator Walsh has now gone out of this chamber. Apparently he is not very interested in getting the answers to the questions he has asked, but that, 1 suppose, is to be expected. To date claims totalling $71 5,000 have been paid and it is estimated that there will be payments of $ 1 m by the end of this week. Admittedly there has been some delay in the registration of reticulators in New South Wales, the reason being that these are mainly municipal or shire councillors who have had some difficulty in establishing tariffs that reflect the benefit of the subsidy being passed to their consumers. Discussions are going on. Attempts are being made to iron the matters out and every encouragement is being given to enable the difficulties to be overcome. All reticulators in Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, West Australia and Tasmania have been registered, so that the administration of the scheme is proceeding with considerable expedition as far as the Commonwealth Government is concerned.

As I have said, it is a matter of consultation with the States, it requires legislation by the States and discussions with large numbers of people, including the municipal and shire council reticulators. These things ali take time, but it is our policy to implement this scheme as quickly as possible in the circumstances. I have cited some of the critical dates in the establishment of this scheme, the formulation of policy, the passage of legislation, the working out of the details of the scheme and the implementation of it at the Commonwealth end as quickly as possible. The full implementation of the scheme necessarily involves large numbers of people. For instance, as I said, we estimate that 560 distributors will be involved but so far only 226 have registered. Although we are giving them encouragement to register, we cannot make them register quickly so we have to wait until they get around to doing it. Therefore some delays are bound to occur. I might add that it is not necessary to register all the thousands of garages that Senator Walsh seems to think it will be required to register. Most retailers buy the gas cylinders from distributors. The wholesalers are the ones who will be eligible to receive the subsidy on the condition that the benefit is being passed on.

It can be seen from the details I have given that the Commonwealth Government is proceeding in an efficient manner with the administration of this scheme. Although Senator Walsh took most of the time allotted to him in this discussion, he did not establish incompetent administration by the Federal Government of the liquefied petroleum gas scheme. He pointed out a number of difficulties that may be encountered in the administration of the scheme. We do not deny that there are difficulties in administering a scheme in a nation the size of Australia and a scheme involving large numbers of people who have to be relied upon in order to make it work efficiently. However it seems to be quite clear that there is a general and widespread acceptance of the scheme and there is a very considerable measure of co-operation. There are difficulties in certain respects and I have mentioned some of them, but there is absolutely no basis whatsoever for the allegation of incompetent administration which has been brought before the Senate today by Senator Walsh. In light of the fact that he has not produced any evidence which I believe warrants any further debate or examination by the Senate, I move:

Question resolved in the affirmative.

Original question resolved in the negative.

page 29

ASSENT TO BILLS

Assent to the following Bills reported:

Liquefied Gas (Road Vehicle Use) Tax (Repeal) Bill 1980.

Appropriation Bill (No. 3) 1979-80.

Appropriation Bill (No. 4) 1979-80.

Diesel Fuel Taxation (Administration) Amendment Bill 1980.

Companies (Acquisition of Shares) Bill 1980.

Companies (Acquisition of Shares - Fees) Bill 1980.

Securities Industry Bill 1980.

Securities Industry (Fees) Bill 1980.

Companies and Securities (Interpretation and Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 1980.

Australian Federal Police Amendment Bill 1980.

Australian Federal Police (Consequential Amendments) Bill 1980.

Australian Film Commission Amendment Bill 1980.

Aboriginal Land Rights (Northern Territory) Amendment Bill 1980.

Trade Practices (Boycotts) Amendment Bill 1980.

Northern Territory (Commonwealth Lands) Bill 1980.

Coastal Waters (State Powers) Bill 1980.

Coastal Waters (Northern Territory Powers) Bill 1980.

Coastal Waters (State Title) Bill 1980.

Coastal Waters (Northern Territory Title) Bill 1980.

Seas and Submerged Lands Amendment Bill 1 980.

Petroleum (Submerged Lands) Amendment Bill 1980.

Petroleum (Submerged Lands) (Royalty) Amendment Bill 1980.

Petroleum (Submerged Lands) (Registration Fees) Amendment Bill 1980.

Petroleum (Submerged Lands) (Exploration Permit Fees) Amendment Bill 1980.

Petroleum (Submerged Lands) (Pipeline Licence Fees) Amendment Bill 1980.

Petroleum (Submerged Lands) (Production Licence Fees) Amendment Bill 1980.

Fisheries Amendment Bill 1980.

Navigation Amendment Bill 1980.

Historic Shipwrecks Amendment Bill 1980.

Migration Amendment Bill 1980.

Conciliation and Arbitration (Boycotts) Amendment Bill 1980.

Wireless Telegraphy Amendment Bill 1980.

Whale Protection Bill 1980.

Fisheries Amendment (Whale Protection) Bill 1980.

Continental Shelf (Living Natural Resources) Amendment Bill 1980.

States Grants (Schools Assistance) Amendment Bill 1 980.

States Grants (Tertiary Education Assistance) Amendment Bill 1980.

Tasmanian Native Forestry Agreement Bill 1 980.

Tasmania Agreement (Launceston Precision Tool Annexe) Bill 1980.

Western Australia Agreement (Ord River Irrigation) Bill 1980.

War Graves Bill 1980.

Customs Tariff Validation Bill 1980.

Commonwealth Electoral Amendment Bill 1980.

Antarctic Treaty (Environment Protection) Bill 1980.

Australian War Memorial Bill 1980.

Customs Tariff Amendment Bill 1980.

Roads Grants Bill 1980.

Supply Bill (No. 1) 1980-81.

Supply Bill (No. 2) 1980-81.

Pipeline Authority Amendment Bill 1980.

Customs Amendment Bill (No. 3) 1980.

page 29

QUESTION

STANDING COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION AND THE ARTS

Report on the Broadcasting and Television Amendment Bill 1980

Senator DAVIDSON:
South Australia

– I bring up the report from the Standing Committee on Education and the Arts on the Broadcasting and Television Amendment Bill 1980, together with a copy of the transcript of evidence.

Ordered that the report be printed.

Senator DAVIDSON:

– I seek leave to make a statement in connection with the report.

Leave granted.

Senator DAVIDSON:

– Normally at this stage, as chairman of a Senate standing committee bringing up a report of his committee, I would seek leave of the Senate to move that the Senate take note of the report. On this occasion, however, the Committee is reporting on a Bill at the request of the Senate pursuant to Standing Order 196A and therefore the Committee’s report is a part of the legislative process. The major debate on this report will occur within the Senate’s consideration of the remaining stages of the Bill. However, I would like to explain a number of matters in connection with the Committee’s consideration of the Bill which I feel should be placed before the Senate at this stage.

The Senate will recall that on 22 May it passed the following resolution:

That the Broadcasting and Television Amendment Bill 1 980 be referred to the Standing Committee on Education and the Arts for inquiry and report by the first sitting day of August, on the proposed establishment, functions and powers of the Independent and Multicultural Broadcasting Corporation.

I am grateful to the Committee that we are able to present to the Senate today a report as requested on this, the first sitting day in August. I would also wish to express the Committee’s gratitude to the Committee secretariat for their energy in relation to the preparation of the report. The Committee’s report has five recommendations and 1 think it would be of value if I listed them immediately. They are:

  1. . That the Broadcasting and Television Amendment Bill 1980 in so far as it relates to the Independent and Multicultural Broadcasting Corporation be not further proceeded with.
  2. That the ABC Committee of Review be asked to examine and report upon the possibility of a second channel operation by the ABC or otherwise, which provides for

    1. . . . multicultural and multilingual broadcasting and television services that -
    1. appeal to, entertain, inform and are of educational value to the Australian community as a whole and its component ethnic communities; and
    2. foster understanding and appreciation of the diverse cultures within Australia; and

    3. to support and encourage the provision and development of public broadcasting and public television services.
  3. That the Broadcasting and Television Amendment Bill 1 980 as it is referred to in Recommendation 1

That means, as it relates to the Independent and Multicultural Broadcasting Corporation - be reviewed again in the light of recommendations to the Government arising from the Report of the Australian Broadcasting Commission Committee of Review.

That Committee of Review is known as the Dix Committee. The other two recommendations are:

  1. That, in the meantime, the function to provide multilingual and multicultural broadcasting and television services proceed by interim arrangements under the existing legislation with the SBS.
  2. That, in the meantime, the function to support and encourage the provision and development of public broadcasting and public television services continue under the existing Australian Film Commission arrangements.

At this stage, by way of background I would like to inform the Senate of something of the conduct of the inquiry. After the Senate referred the Bill to the Committee, we met immediately and initiated procedures to obtain submissions, evidence and contributions from all interested sections of the community. Advertisements were placed nationally in the usual manner. Furthermore, given the special nature of the inquiry, contact was made with approximately 100 ethnic newspapers and publications, as well as with numerous ethnic and public radio stations. In response to this advertisement, some 84 submissions and 20 other documents were received from a wide cross-section of the Australian community.

In addition to material received from interests associated with broadcasting, there were representatives from organisations who entered a plea for their special interests to be considered. The organisations included the Australian Centre for Visual Television, the Association of Translators and Interpreters of Australia, the Australian Council for Radio for the Print Handicapped Co-op Ltd, the National Advisory Council for the Handicapped and the Australian Deafness Council. Furthermore, there were two submissions from representatives of the Aboriginal community. Committee briefings were undertaken and public hearings were held in which some 31 individuals covering some 16 organisations gave evidence.

In examining its terms of reference, the Committee was mindful of the need to report on the proposed establishment, functions and powers of the IMBC as well as to take into account the concept of multiculturalism. The implications of multiculturalism cover a very wide field. A culturally diverse nation offers its citizens the chance of a rich and varied pattern of life. However, we should be mindful of the importance of the central nature of the host society. The Committee has recognised the role of multiculturalism in furthering the unity of Australian society and in appreciation of our various cultures. We have emphasised both on our report and in our conclusions this value as a facet of our developing society.

The Committee is in no doubt as to the value of multiculturalism to the contemporary and developing society in Australia. It endorses the development of appropriate means to achieve multiculturalism in accordance with the objectives which are enunciated in the Australian Institute of Multicultural Affairs Act 1979. We therefore welcome the Government’s initiative in the field of multicultural broadcasting.

However, in careful consideration of the written and oral evidence presented at this inquiry, we are concerned that the movement towards its permanent introduction is being made without the necessary preliminary preparation that would ensure its success. The evidence also strongly suggests that the preparations made are inadequate to allow the service to go to air by October this year. The evidence has not shown that the proposed programming policies will necessarily be successful in achieving a worthwhile intercultural exchange between those people of the various ethnic communities and with Australian society at large.

Multiculturalism as envisaged by the IMBC would seem to depend upon the popularity of foreign language programs with English subtitling - a policy that on the basis of evidence received is open to question and hence a policy which will need considerable experimentation. While provision has been made in the legislation for the support and encouragement of independent public broadcasters, we are not satisfied that sufficient consideration has been given to their role and access to IMBC broadcast facilities. Another important unknown factor yet to be resolved is reconciling program policy with stated programming philosophy in the context of maximising revenue from advertising. There is a widely held concern that we share that, in attempting to resolve this possible conflict of interest, programming principles might be compromised. We are also not entirely satisfied that the ethnic community prefers the IMBC concept to the Australian Broadcasting Commission concept for multicultural television. There was a strong element of evidence which suggested that some representatives from the ethnic communities would be prepared to support broadcasting programs on a second channel operated by a reorganised and a re-structured ABC.

In summary, we are in sympathy with the doubts and reservations that have been raised in the evidence which suggest that it would be premature to embark on a full-scale multicultural broadcasting service at this stage. In any event, we are not entirely satisfied that the IMBC is the best option open to us. We believe that the ABC has been insufficiently considered, having regard to the fact that an ABC Committee of Review, the Dix Committee, has been established and is presently inquiring into all aspects of ABC broadcasting. The Committee is conscious that legislation is already in existence which would allow the Special Broadcasting Service to carry out multilingual broadcasting as well as special television services as are prescribed.

We are aware that some preparatory work has already been completed in regard to multicultural broadcasting, and in pursuance of the stated government policy on multiculturalism the Committee would conclude that the Government initially introduce an interim experimental service until the ABC Committee of Review findings are available. This interim service should be carried out under the auspices of the existing but more responsive SBS, having regard to the stated criticisms of that organisation as outlined in the Ethnic Television Review Panel second report. 1 turn to the relation of the matter of what we call function B, that is that section of the Bill which reads:

  1. to support and encourage the provision and development of public broadcasting and public television services,

The Committee notes that there is at present no government policy on public television and that the SBS does ‘not yet have an official public television policy to implement’. The Committee would wish to see reflected in the proposed interim service, facilities to support and to encourage public broadcasting and public television. However, it notes that the SBS will be advising the Government on the development of a public television policy, and in the interim the Committee is of the view that the development of public broadcasting and public television continue under the existing Australian Film Commission arrangements. This will facilitate the eventual integration of both public broadcasting and public television into a wider broadcasting structure at a later stage.

The Committee has noted the different advisory roles of the National Ethnic Broadcasting Advisory Committee and the State Ethnic Broadcasting Advisory Committees in relation to the SBS and it recalls the critical observations of the ETRP second report. The Committee is not at all confident that these existing advisory committees will be appropriate for the proposed interim service. In order to achieve a more successful consultative structure for the interim period, we call for an urgent review of these advisory committees. In any such review consideration should be given to the principal objectives or intent of Section 79ZL and 79ZM of the Broadcasting and Television Amendment Bill 1 980.

It remains for me only to restate to the Senate the important role of Senate committees. The work of our Committee over the last few weeks has been an important part of the legislative process of parliament. A Bill was referred to the Committee for examination and report. This we have now done, and by bringing up our report we are returning the Bill to the legislative processes of this chamber. Mr President, I commend the report to the Senate.

Senator RYAN:
Australian Capital Territory

– by leave - As Senator Davidson said in his introductory remarks, the Senate will have the opportunity for a full debate of the issues covered in the report of the Senate Standing Committee on Education and the Arts when the debate on the legislation is resumed. However, I take this opportunity to make a few remarks in support of Senator Davidson’s statement. First of all, I would like to say how fortunate the Senate Standing Committee on Education and the Arts was in having Senator Davidson as its Chairman in this exercise. Senator Davidson is an experienced and assiduous senator who has devoted a great deal of his time in the Parliament to giving attention to broadcasting matters. His chairmanship of the Senate Committee’s report on children’s television was outstanding, and that report has been one of the most significant documents to come out of the Senate on that matter. It was due in no small part to Senator Davidson’s excellent chairmanship that we have been able to arrive at what is a very important conclusion, namely a unanimous report from the Committee.

I suggest that this report brought down by Senator Davidson represents an exercise in Senate responsibility. This report shows that the Senate, in the work of its standing committees, can exercise a useful check against hasty and ill-considered excesses of the executive. I believe that the Parliament and the general public are becoming increasingly disturbed about the accretion of executive power at the expense of the Parliament. It is only by the work of the committees such as we have been engaged in that the power of the Parliament can be returned. If the Senate’s oftstated claim of being a House of review means anything at all, it means that its committees can investigate in an impartial, expert and cooperative way matters such as controversial and significant legislation. The legislation to set up a multicultural broadcasting corporation was both of those things; it was significant and it was controversial. It was significant because it represented an attempt to bring to the ethnic minorities of Australia a broadcasting system tailored to meet their needs. It also attempted to create a broadcasting system in Australia which would reflect the multicultural character of contemporary Australian society for the benefit of all Australians. With both of these objectives the Australian Labor Party was in accord.

We believe it is time- in fact, it is long overdue - that non-English speaking Australians in our midst get better broadcasting services tailored to meet their specific needs. We believe they are entitled to such services. They clearly want them and it ought to be a responsibility of government to provide them. We also believe in a multicultural Australia. We believe it is time that all our institutions - not only our broadcasting institutions but also our educational and various other institutions - should reflect the true and factual ethnic diversity of our society. We - I am speaking on behalf of the Federal Opposition at this point - are most anxious to see a multicultural Australia pursued through appropriate broadcasting services.

Senator Teague:

– Hear, hear!

Senator RYAN:

– I am glad that Senator Teague, one of my colleagues on this Committee, endorses that view. However, the legislation was controversial, and it was controversial for the reasons Senator Davidson has set out. It seemed to the Committee and it certainly seemed to the Federal Opposition that the legislation, in the form in which it was referred to the Committee, would not achieve those important objectives which we all agree ought to be pursued. I believe that the Senate Committee has done the Senate, the Parliament and the Australian public a great favour in bringing down this report. This report, if adopted by honourable senators - which I sincerely hope it will be - will give the Parliament and the Government more time to look clearly, calmly and carefully at the various alternatives available for the provision of ethnic and multicultural broadcasting services.

Time was needed because, as Senator Davidson said, preparation had not been adequate. In recommending that we leave the matter for consideration until after the Australian Broadcasting Commission committee of inquiry reports, I believe we are giving the Parliament and the Government the opportunity to develop a coordinated broadcasting policy in place of the ad hoc, fragmentary and ill-considered developments we have seen in the past. Because this Senate Committee’s report was an exercise in Senate responsibility, because it will give the Parliament, the Government and the public more much needed time to consider these matters and because I believe, if these recommendations are adopted and pursued they will bring to all Australians and, in particular, to Australians from non-English speaking backgrounds broadcasting services that they both need and want, I heartily endorse the remarks of Senator Davidson and commend his statement to the Senate.

Senator TEAGUE:
South Australia

– by leave - I believe that the Senate Standing Committee on Education and the Arts has done important work. I am one of those most wanting to listen to the arguments being put forward for the achievement of multicultural broadcasting. I support this unanimous finding of the Committee. Nevertheless, I also recognise the very considerable arguments that have been put by the Government, by government departments and by the Special Broadcasting Service in relation to the interim arrangements. I am careful to point out to the Senate that in the conclusions and recommendations brought down some stress is placed upon interim arrangements and that the findings of the Committee, so clearly set forth by the Chairman, are essentially giving time so that a sounder provision for multicultural broadcasting will eventuate, a provision that will be cohesive with other broadcasting services in this country. Nevertheless I, as a member of that Committee, urge upon the Senate and upon the Government that the interim arrangements be as fully implemented as was originally envisaged, that a fifth channel be set up for those interim arrangements and that 35 hours of broadcasting be put together in the best possible fashion as a package that can give a very real trial to multicultural television in this interim period.

At the end of the interim period much more evidence will be available to allow bipartisan support in this Parliament and cohesive support throughout the Australian community for the arrangements that I hope will then be concluded and gain the unanimous support not only of our Senate Committee but also of the whole of the

Senate and the whole of the country. I, as a senator involved in this inquiry, will show the greatest interest in the interim arrangements being fully developed under the SBS legislation for a full trial of multicultural broadcasting. When the Dix Committee report is before this Parliament I believe we will have the opportunity of seeing the evidence we have laid out in this Committee’s findings become cohesively integrated with the Dix Committee report. I have great pleasure in supporting the speech made by the Committee Chairman.

Senator CHIPP:
Victoria

– by leave- I think that one of the last things Senator Davidson could be accused of is dropping bombshells in the Senate. But I think it would be fair to say that tonight he has dropped a bombshell. I have great respect for every member of the Senate Standing Committee on Education and the Arts. I am very impressed that it has been unanimous in its recommendations. On behalf of my party I express grave misgivings, without having read the report and without having sifted the evidence as the Committe has done, about two of its recommendations. The first one is so final and so categoric. It states:

That the Broadcasting and Television Amendment Bill 1980 in so far as it relates to the Independent and Multicultural Broadcasting Corporation be not further proceeded with.

There is a very final air about that sort of recommendation. If adopted it would not only break an undertaking by the Government but also have vast repercussions thoughout the ethnic communities. I will read the Committee’s reasons for reaching that recommendation with great interest before agreeing to it. If I have grave misgivings about that recommendation I have even graver misgivings about the leaning of the Committee towards the Australian Broadcasting Commission’s conducting a service for the ethnic communities. For the last five or seven years it has shown a singular disinterest in the activities and the problems of the ethnic communities. Now, when an interim multicultural Bill is being proposed, the ABC has suddenly become aware of and awakened to its responsibilities towards the ethnic communities. I will need to be persuaded beyond any shadow of doubt that, firstly, the ABC is capable of doing it and, secondly, that it has a genuine interest in doing it. If we are to be asked to believe that the Special Broadcasting Service has any better track record than the ABC in this area, I would like persuasive evidence on that too.

Senator Robertson:

– Don’t you think the Dix Committee will assist in that?

Senator CHIPP:

-I want it to be known that, notwithstanding the unanimity on this excellent Committee comprised of excellent senators, it cannot be taken for granted that the Australian Democrats will naturally follow its recommendations. We will be looking at its reasons and at the Dix Committee very carefully before we allow the ethnic communities to have the promise made to them broken on this big question.

Motion (by Senator Chaney) agreed to:

That consideration of the Broadcasting and Television Amendment Bill 1980 in Committee of the Whole be an order of the day for the next day of sitting.

page 33

JOINT STANDING COMMITTEE ON THE NEW AND PERMANENT PARLIAMENT HOUSE

The PRESIDENT:

– I lay upon the table of the Senate the fifth report of the Joint Standing Committee on the New and Permanent Parliament House.

Ordered that the report be printed.

Senator CHANEY:
Western AustraliaMinister for Aboriginal Affairs · LP

– by leave - I move:

I seek leave to continue my remarks later.

Leave granted; debate adjourned.

Sitting suspended from 6.1 to 8 p.m.

page 33

BUDGET PAPERS 1980-81

Suspension of Standing Orders

Motion (by Senator Carrick) proposed:

That so much of the Standing Orders be suspended as would prevent the Minister for National Development and Energy speaking without limitation of time when moving that the Senate take note of the Budget Papers 1 980-8 1 .

Senator McLAREN:
South Australia

– Tonight we are witnessing one of the most unusual events that has ever happened in the Senate. We just witnessed the Leader of the Government in the Senate (Senator Carrick) moving a motion to suspend Standing Orders to permit him to introduce the 1980-81 Budget. On looking at today’s Notice Paper I am reminded of events which took place just 1 2 months ago when the same Leader of the Government in the Senate moved in this House a similar motion to permit him to introduce the 1979-80 Budget. Mr President, I do not know whether you are aware of the fact that the 1979-80 Budget still appears on today’s Notice Paper for debate. I read that section of the Notice Paper to honourable senators - it appears under Orders of the Day No. 1 4:

Budget Papers 1979-80: Adjourned debate (from 26

A Government senator is to continue his speech on that Budget. Today I took time to do some research in the Records Office. I went back through the records for the past 10 years and found that not in the past 10 years had we witnessed a Leader of the Government moving in this place a motion to suspend Standing Orders to enable him to introduce a Budget while the previous Budget still appeared on the Notice Paper because debate on it had not concluded. I am wondering whether we will witness with this Budget the same situation as we witnessed with the previous Budget when the Government, in its indecent haste while debate on the Appropriation Bills in the autumn session was still proceeding, adjourned the Senate without allowing full debate on even the Appropriation Bills.

On 16 May the Minister for Social Security, Senator Guilfoyle, declared the Appropriation Bills urgent Bills, stifling debate on them. Then on 20 May the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Senator Chaney, declared a whole host of Bills urgent Bills. Senators, who are elected to represent the States, were prevented from raising issues of vital importance to the people who elected them. What I am concerned about is whether we will be faced with that situation in respect of this Budget, whether in two or three weeks the Government will declare the Appropriation Bills of this Budget urgent Bills and stifle debate on them. If that happens we will go into an election without the electors of this nation knowing full well what the thoughts of the Opposition are on the measures contained in this Budget. I raise this matter to point out how slipshod this Government is, not only in running this Senate but also in running the country. I sincerely hope that the electors of this nation will take great account of these matters when they go to the polls this year and that when we come back to this Parliament we of the Opposition will be sitting on the Government side of the chamber and senators opposite will be sitting on this side of the chamber.

Question resolved in the affirmative.

Senator CARRICK:
New South WalesMinister for National Development and Energy · 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 98 1

Civil Works Program 1980-81

Government Securities on Issue at 30 June 1 980

Payments to or for the States, the Northern Territory and Local Government Authorities 1980-81

Australia’s Overseas Development Assistance Program 1980-81

National Income and Expenditure 1979-80

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 1 98 1

Particulars of Certain Proposed Expenditure in respect of the Year Ending 30 June 1 98 1 .

Mr President, I seek leave to move a motion in connection with the Budget Papers.

Leave granted.

Senator CARRICK:

– I move:

At the outset I should mention for the information of honourable senators that tomorrow I will give notice of a motion to refer the relevant Budget Papers to the Senate Estimates committees. I also foreshadow the possibility that the committees might be required to meet during the first week of September. Such an arrangement may become necessary given the heavy program ahead to allow honourable senators sufficient time for the proper consideration of the estimates of expenditure.

Tonight the Treasurer is delivering in another place his Budget Speech for 1 980-8 1 .

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

This is the fifth Budget of the Fraser Government.

It is the first Budget of a new decade - a decade in which all Australians can expect to share the benefits of exceptional growth and national development.

However, this will only be so if there is continued application of the right economic policies.

It will only be so if we continue those policies which in five years have brought Australia from a country clearly living beyond its means to where, this year - for the first time for seven years- we can achieve a domestic Budget surplus.

The dominant feature of those policies has been our relentless effort to control inflation.

There must be no relaxation of that effort.

Unless we persist in our fight against inflation, our full economic potential will not be realised.

Any other course would condemn the Australian economy to second-best status in the years ahead.

We owe our present strength, international standing and optimism to the persistent application of disciplined anti-inflationary policies.

Without them, we could not have hoped for the greater economic growth and development which are now in prospect.

As foreshadowed in last year’s Budget, 1979-80 proved difficult for the world economy.

That Budget was designed to equip Australia to succeed in a world environment of rising inflation and intensifying competition.

That objective was achieved.

Over the year to June 1980, Australia’s inflation rate as measured by the Consumer Price Index was 10.7 per cent - about three percentage points below the average of OECD countries.

Last year, exports grew by almost 1 5 per cent in real terms.

For the first time since 1972-73 private external transactions produced a substantial surplus.

Overall, growth was 2.2 per cent reflecting stronger non-farm growth of 3.1 per cent partly offset by some fall in farm product from the very high level of the previous year.

Whilst business fixed investment declined with the phasing down of the investment allowance, it rose in the second half of the year.

Business profits increased strongly last year, but there is a need for further improvement to support increased investment and employment.

Private dwelling investment was strong throughout the year and recorded a real increase of over 1 0 per cent.

Although personal consumption expenditure was relatively subdued there was an encouraging lift in the second half of the year.

Greater non-farm growth was reflected in a strong rise in total employment of 2.4 per cent in 1979-80- the largest since 1973-74.

Unfortunately this was not enough to reduce unemployment, which in June 1980 was roughly the same as a year earlier.

Unless there is a moderation in wage demands and fewer industrial disputes it will be difficult to achieve a sustained reduction in unemployment.

The spread of work value claims and settlements - many on quite spurious grounds - together with other excuses for higher wages, such as the campaign for a 35 hour week, are utterly inconsistent with achieving a lasting reduction in unemployment.

The resultant growth in average weekly earnings over the course of 1 979-80, of almost 1 2 per cent, is a clear indication that the task of restoring wage and price stability is far from over.

page 35

OIL PRICING AND THE CRUDE OIL LEVY

One of the most important economic decisions taken by this Government has been the move in 1978 to import parity pricing for our crude oil.

The objectives of that decision are being achieved.

Reflecting the need to pay market prices for a scarce resource, this policy has greatly strengthened Australia’s capacity to withstand world energy problems.

Consumption of major petroleum products fell by 1 i per cent last year.

Energy exploration has accelerated.

Alternative energy sources have become more economic.

Projects like Rundle Shale Oil, which might involve the largest resource investment in Australia’s history, could not have been realistically contemplated without our crude oil pricing policy.

The crude oil levy enables the Government to distribute to the community generally a share of the proceeds of crude oil price rises.

The levy revenue has been used sensibly and to the benefit of the whole community.

Without it the deficit would not have been reduced so quickly nor, for example, would the personal income tax cuts which took effect on 1 July last have been possible.

It is also assisting us to provide additional funds for defence.

page 35

THE BUDGET OUTCOME

The Budget outcome for 1 979-80 was very close to projections.

Outlays were virtually the same as budgeted and reflected a slight reduction in real terms.

Overall receipts were largely as predicted except for the additional crude oil levy revenue which amounted to $204m.

The additional revenue was used to reduce the Budget deficit further.

Thus the deficit was ultimately $160m lower than originally estimated and $1 ,444m less than in the previous year - the largest ever reduction in a single year.

This greatly eased pressures which would otherwise have been reflected in higher interest rates.

page 36

THE SHAPE OF THE BUDGET

This year’s Budget again places prime importance on the fight against inflation.

Lower inflation remains fundamental to greater private sector growth and to international competitiveness.

Therefore, there will be a further sizable reduction in the Budget deficit.

This will be achieved despite the need for a faster rate of increase in outlays this year.

page 36

OUTLAYS

In 1980-81 outlays are projected to be $36,037m, an increase of 13.7 per cent on 1979-80. This represents a growth of just under three per cent in real terms in 1 980-81 , and an average annual growth of about one per cent in real terms over the five years to 1 980-8 1 .

As a proportion of Gross Domestic Product outlays this year are expected to be 27.9 per cent compared to 30.1 percent in 1975-76.

In summary, the Government’s decisions on outlays provide for much greater spending on defence, higher levels of support to areas of particular social need, increased payments to local government, and growing expenditures in areas of assistance to industry.

At the same time we have observed the continuing need to contain spending within a responsible overall economic package.

I now turn to the main expenditure provisions of the Budget.

More details are provided in accompanying Budget documents, particularly Statement No. 3 attached to the Treasurer’s Budget Speech.

page 36

DEFENCE

This Budget gives a high priority to the strengthening of our national security.

The $3,54 lm which we are providing for defence is $533m more than last year. This is an increase of 1 7.7 per cent in current prices, no less than 7 per cent in real terms.

The changed strategic circumstances in which Australia now finds herself require a much greater commitment to defence spending.

This is a priority which the Government believes commands the support of the vast majority of Australians.

Further large increases in later Budgets will be necessary, up to an expected 3 per cent of Gross Domestic Product for defence spending by 1984-85, to accomplish the improvements to defence capabilities announced by the Prime Minister earlier this year.

page 36

SOCIAL WELFARE

Total spending on social security and welfare in 1980-81 is estimated to be $9890m, a rise of 12.4 per cent over 1979-80.

It will account for over 27 per cent of all Commonwealth Budget outlays in 1 980-8 1 .

The size of present social welfare programs, their momentum and the need to achieve a responsible overall Budget outcome mean that little room exits for new initiatives or increases in those benefits which are not the subject of automatic adjustment.

The Government has decided that such additional funds as can be made available for social welfare without prejudicing the overall Budget outcome should be directed to those who need assistance most.

Indexation of Pensions and Benefits

The rates of relevant pensions and benefits will continue to be adjusted each November and May in accordance with the relevant movements in the Consumer Price Index.

In November, for example, the standard or single rate of social service pensions will rise by $3.05 to $ 64.10 a week, and the combined married rate will increase by $5. 1 0 to $ 1 06.80 a week.

Children with Special Needs

The Budget increases rates of assistance for children in situations of special need from the first relevant payday in November.

The handicapped child’s allowance will be increased by $8 to $73 a month, providing improved assistance in respect of an average of 26,000 handicapped children in 1980-81. The double orphan’s pension will also be increased by $8, bringing it to $55.70 a month. This will provide additional assistance to families caring for orphans.

Additional pension or benefit payable to eligible persons with dependent children will be increased by $2.50 to $10 a week for each child; on average 560,000 children are involved. Single pensioners with children and supporting parent beneficiaries will receive further increases in rates of assistance - the mother’s /guardian’s allowance will be increased by $2 a week. The new rate will be $8 a week where one child is aged under 6 or invalid and $6 a week in other cases. On average, 190,000 single parent families will benefit.

The cost of these measures is estimated at about $63m in the current year and $97m in a full year.

Sickness Beneficiaries

We have decided that fringe benefits will be extended to sickness beneficiaries in appropriate cases. Details will be announced by the Minister for Social Security.

This is in recognition of the additional costs faced by many people who are temporarily unable to work because of sickness.

Assistance to Supporting Parents

The Government has decided to remove the six-month waiting period for supporting parent’s benefit. This means that Commonwealth assistance will be available at uniform rates to all sole parents who meet the income test and other eligibility conditions. The States Grants (Deserted Wives) Act will be repealed.

Unemployment and Sickness Benefits

The Government has decided to relax the income test on eligibility for unemployment and sickness benefits.

This has been done to give greater encouragement to those out of work to undertake temporary part-time or casual work.

At present, people who receive more than small amounts of private income have their unemployment or sickness benefits reduced dollar for dollar.

Such a situation provides no real incentive for those receiving these benefits to seek temporary part-time or casual work.

In its concern to remove this disincentive, the Government considered a number of options, including a simple increase in the allowable income threshold.

It rejected this course in favour of one permitting recipents to undertake a more substantial amount of temporary part-time or casual work without losing the whole of each dollar earned.

We have accordingly decided that from the first benefit payday in November 1980 the benefits will be withdrawn only on a 50 per cent basis for private income within the following ranges. $3 to $40 a week for single persons aged 16 and 1 7 years with a parent living in Australia; and $6 to $50 a week in all other cases.

An unemployment benefit recipient over 21 years of age who earns $50 a week from casual work would currently have the benefit reduced by $44 a week.

Under the new proposal the benefit would be reduced by only half this amount providing an extra $22 a week.

Benefits will continue to be withdrawn on a dollar for dollar basis for all private income in excess of the upper limits of $40 and $50 a week respectively.

It has also been decided to increase by $2 a week from the first benefit payday in November the non-indexed rate of unemployment benefit payable to beneficiaries who are 1 8 years and over and who have no dependants.

Assistance to the Handicapped

Over the past five years, this Government has provided generous support for programs to assist the mentally and physically handicapped.

Again, in 1980-81, in addition to increasing the Handicapped Child’s Allowance we have - provided $1 lm in the first year of a three year program for the establishment of new services for handicapped children and adults; provided $300,000 to upgrade the quality and effectiveness of existing services for the handicapped; and decided to establish additional facilities within the Commonwealth Rehabilitation Service network.

Funds will be provided for administration and planning for the International Year of Disabled Persons and for a number of other new programs for the handicapped and disabled.

Full details will be announced by the Minister for Social Security.

Assistance to Veterans

The Budget provides for two measures of particular importance to veterans as well as increases in a range of supplementary repatriation benefits, and for certain extensions of eligibility for free repatriation medical treatment, with effect from November.

The Minister for Veterans’ Affairs will be announcing details in a separate statement.

The Government has decided that, from 1 January 1981, only half of any disability pension will be taken into account in determining eligibility for a Pensioner Health Benefits Card.

The Government has also decided that the maximum loan available through the Defence Service Homes Scheme will be increased from the present $ 1 5,000 to $25,000.

The additional $10,000 will carry a concessional interest rate of 10 per cent.

The estimated cost of this measure is $25m in 1980-81 rising to $59m in 1981-82.

The waiting period for a loan under the scheme will be reduced to 10 months, at an additional estimated cost of $ 1 9m in 1980-8 1 .

The cost of all the other measures is estimated to be $3.9m in 1 980-8 1 and $6.3m in a full year.

Other Welfare Measures

Further welfare measures in the Budget include: an increase in the rate of accommodation subsidy paid to services assisting the homeless, by 45c to $ 1 .20 per person a day; an increase of 1 5 cents in the rate of meal subsidy for non-resident homeless persons and in the rate of delivered meals subsidy; and the provision of the same pensions and benefits to inmates of mental hospitals as are already provided to inmates of other institutions.

page 38

HEALTH

Total expenditure on health services in 1980-81 is estimated to be $3,644m which is $475m more than last year.

Hospitals

For States and Territories hospitals, provision is made for Commonwealth expenditure of an estimated $ 1 ,3 1 6m in 1 980-8 1 , to allow services to be maintained at their existing levels.

Pharmaceutical Benefits

Pending final decisions on the Ralph Inquiry into the Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Industry, the Government has decided to grant pharmaceutical manufacturers an across-the-board increase in Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme drug prices of 20c per prescribed item, at price to chemist level, effective from 1 November 1980.

This increase in drug prices under the Scheme will not result in a rise in the cost of pharmaceutical benefits to patients.

The estimated additional cost is $9. 5m in 1 980-8 1 and $ 1 9m in a full year.

Domiciliary Nursing Care Benefits

The domiciliary nursing care benefit, provided to assist with the cost of home nursing care for relatives who are 16 years or over, will be increased from $2 a day to $3 a day with effect from 4 September 1980, at an additional cost of $4.7m in 1980-81 and $5.5m in a full year.

page 38

EDUCATION

Details of funding of the Tertiary Education and Schools Commissions programs in 1981 have already been announced.

In recent years there have been real increases in funding for schools in Australia.

All Government school systems have now reached, or passed, the resource use targets set by the Karmel Committee.

There is increased questioning and indeed concern about the extent to which many young people leaving school are equipped to enter the workforce.

For its part the Government has undertaken an imaginative program to facilitate the transition from school to work.

The Government will continue the higher priority given in recent years to technical and further education programs.

To cater for expected growth in enrolments in 1981 general recurrent grants to this sector are to rise by 4 per cent in real terms and the momentum of last year’s substantial increase in capital work will be maintained.

The Schools Commission programs will also provide added support to migrant education and to the least well endowed non-Government schools.

Student Assistance

Eligibility for student assistance benefits is to be expanded, and the rates of benefits are to be increased.

There will be a 1 0 per cent increase in tertiary education allowances and adult secondary education allowances.

To provide further help on a needs basis to students wishing to remain longer at school, there will be a 20 per cent increase in both the allowances and the means test limits under the Secondary Allowances Scheme.

Assistance under the Isolated Children Scheme will be extended and the level of allowances increased.

In all, these changes are estimated to cost $19m in 1980-81 and $38m in a full year.

Full details will be announced by the Minister for Education.

page 38

MANPOWER TRAINING

Effective manpower training is crucial to the employment prospects of the workforce.

More than 430,000 Australians have been assisted by our training programs over the last four years, including some 170,000 in 1979-80.

The Government will provide $126m in 1980-81 for training programs, $23m more than was spent in 1979-80.

The provision for the CRAFT Scheme totals $56m and the National Employment and Training System and other forms of training and retraining assistance are expected to cost $68m this year.

The funds provided in this Budget are expected to cover all those eligible for training in 1 980-8 1 .

The Government has also committed up to $150m for school to work transition programs over the five years starting in 1 980.

This Budget provides $34m in 1980-81 for this purpose, with the States being asked to contribute matching amounts up to $9. 9m for the 1981 calendar year.

page 39

ABORIGINAL ASSISTANCE

The Budget provides $138m for special assistance to Aboriginals, $1 5m more than in 1979-80.

The establishment of the Aboriginal Development Commission, which is to be provided with $23. 8m in 1980-81 , is a major initiative.

Of the total provision for the Commission, $10m will form an accumulating capital investment fund.

page 39

HOUSING

As announced previously, the Commonwealth will provide $285m to the States and the Northern Territory for welfare housing in 1 980-8 1 .

The Commonwealth has also offered to guarantee to provide a base level of $ 1 ,000m over the five years from July 1981 to assist the States and the Northern Territory in the provision of welfare housing.

Under this proposed arrangement, additional funds would be allocated each year as part of the normal budgetary process.

The value limits for the Homes Savings Grants Scheme will be increased substantially. At present, a full grant is paid on house and land valued at up to $35,000 with pro-rata grants being then paid on house and land valued to $40,000. The value limits will be increased to $45,000 for a full grant, phasing out to a nil grant for house and land exceeding $55,000, to persons who enter into contracts to buy or build homes on or after today.

Private sector housing activity strengthened during 1979-80, aided by record lending by major housing lenders.

The Government again desires a high priority for housing finance to be maintained consistent with overall monetary policy.

page 39

CULTURE AND RECREATION

The Budget provides some $383m for cultural and recreational activities in 1 980-8 1 , an increase of over 19 per cent on last year.

This includes $2 16m for the Australian Broadcasting Commission and associated activities, $28m more than in 1979-80.

The Budget provides also for the first stage of the rehabilitation of the Radio Australia transmitter at Darwin and for broadcasting equipment for the 1982 Commonwealth Games in Brisbane.

The Australia Council is to be provided with over $29m for assistance to the arts, and the National Gallery with $23m.

An amount of $21m is provided in 1980-81 for the new Multi-cultural Television Service, which is planned to commence in October, and for ethnic radio services.

page 39

IMMIGRATION

The migrant intake is expected to rise to 95,000 in 1980-81 compared with 82,000 last year.

Provision is made for the entry of 30,000 people under the Assisted Migration Program, an increase of nearly 8,000 on the 1979-80 numbers.

A total of $28m is allocated to continue the Adult Migrant Education Program.

Altogether more than $25m is being provided for programs and services for migrants under the recommendations of the Galbally Report.

page 39

FOREIGN AID

The Budget contains a large provision for aid to developing countries.

A total of $547m will be provided for foreign aid in 1980-81 which is $49m more than last year.

Earlier this year, Australia assumed an increased commitment for the small countries of the South Pacific region and a new three year program of support commencing in 1980-81 was announced.

We are continuing to provide generous support for the training of overseas students. Over 3,000 a year are directly assisted to study in Australia under the Aid Program, and some 8,000 more who study privately receive tuition either free or at less than a third of the estimated cost to the Government.

page 40

INDUSTRY PROGRAMS

Export Incentives

The importance attached by the Government to encouraging exports, particularly manufactured exports, is demonstrated by the provision in this Budget of $260m for export expansion and market development grants - a rise of $45m or 21 percent over 1979-80.

This will substantially reduce the carry-over of claims.

These programs have greatly helped Australian manfacturers in securing and developing markets abroad.

Rural Assistance

Existing measures supporting rural industry will continue.

In particular, we will increase the Commonwealth contribution to wool promotion by $6m to $20m for 1980-81.

The Nitrogenous Fertilizer Subsidy will be extended for a further year to the end of 1981 at a total cost of $5.5m.

Petroleum Products Freight Subsidy Scheme

Rural industry and country consumers generally will continue to benefit from the Petroleum Products Freight Subsidy Scheme on which there will be a total expenditure of approximately $123m in 1980-81.

This is some $5 2m greater than last year; the increase results largely from the extension of the scheme last April which had the effect of halving the maximum freight differential between metropolitan and country areas.

Research and Development

Expenditure on research and development is of long term significance to industry.

Funding under the Industrial Research and Development Scheme will rise by $19m or over 55 percent in 1980-81.

page 40

TRANSPORT

Roads

The Commonwealth has undertaken to provide the States and the Northern Territory with $3,650m in grants for roads over the next five years; $628m will be provided in 1980-81 which maintains the real level of our spending in this area.

Air Transport

The Budget provides $64m in 1980-81 for buildings, works and equipment at airports, $41m more than expenditure last year.

This includes work in line with our commitment to redevelop Brisbane airport by 1986 at a total cost of over $200m and to upgrade facilities at a number of other airports.

High on the list of priorities are a new international terminal at Perth, planning for new civil aviation facilities at Darwin, the development of Norfolk Island airport to medium jet standard, airport facilities for the operation of wide-bodied domestic jets, upgrading of Townsville airport for international services, and new terminal buildings at Canberra and Coolangatta.

The expected cost of all these additional facilities is some $ 145m.

The Government has decided that international sector air navigation charges will remain unchanged in 1980-81.

The Government has also decided that the target of full cost recovery in the domestic trunk airline sector should be achieved in 1980-81, a year earlier than previously announced.

Despite this, it will now be necessary to seek an increase of only 15 per cent in air navigation charges for that sector in 1980-81 compared with the 25 per cent increase previously announced.

The increase proposed will yield an additional $3min 1980-81.

page 40

ENERGY

Budget funding for energy research is to rise by almost 50 per cent to $ 1 3.5m in 1 980-8 1 .

A further $2. 5m will be provided for energy information and energy conservation programs.

These expenditures supplement the very significant taxation incentives which have already been provided to encourage greater energy exploration and development and the use of energy sources other than oil.

The total cost to revenue of those incentives in 1979-80 was at least $50m and this figure is expected to rise as industry takes increasing advantage of them.

This year the Pipeline Authority will be starting construction of natural gas pipelines from Young to Wagga Wagga and from Dalton to Canberra.

Studies will be undertaken on extending the natural gas pipeline from Wagga Wagga to Albury and on possible lines to Lithgow, Bathurst, Orange and Oberon.

The expected cost of construction and studies in 1980-81 is$26m.

The Pipeline Authority will fund such activities by borrowing from the private sector; interest on borrowings will be met from the Authority’s revenue and from the Budget.

page 41

MEDICAL AND SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH

This Budget provides a total of $ 18m for medical research which will be made available through the National Health and Medical Research Council.

This represents an increase of approximately 30 per cent and demonstrates the desire of the Government to provide substantial and ongoing support for medical research.

The Government recognises the high quality of medical research in Australia and wishes to build upon the past contributions of our researchers.

Significantly more support will be given to marine science this year. Specific funding for this research will rise from $650,000 to $3. 5m and further resources will be provided for research activities in the Great Barrier Reef area.

In the next few years, up to $80m will be spent on the rebuilding and upgrading of Australia’s Antarctic bases, the transfer of the CSIRO Division of Fisheries and Oceanography to Tasmania, and the acquisition of a $9m oceanographic ship for CSIRO and other national uses.

In the field of conservation, the Australian National Parks and Wildlife Service is to receive $6. 6m and funding for the Biological Resources Survey will more than double.

page 41

GOVERNMENT ADMINISTRATION

The Government will maintain strict restraint on its own administrative costs.

For 1980-81, provisional public service staff ceilings have been set to increase by less than 1 per cent and departments and authorities will again be required to live within the Budget allocation provided to them.

page 41

PAYMENTS TO THE STATES, NORTHERN TERRITORY AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Major decisions in this area have already been announced.

Payments to the States, the Northern Territory and local government are budgeted to increase by $1 ,263m or 1 1 per cent.

Growth in State and Northern Territory taxsharing entitlements accounts for $665m, or more than half of this increase.

In accordance with our 1977 election promise, local governments’ tax-sharing entitlements are now two per cent of personal income tax collections.

They will be $302m in 1980-81, an increase of 36 per cent.

page 41

RECEIPTS

I now turn to the Government’s revenue measures.

Additional details are provided in Statement No. 4 attached to the Treasurer’s Budget Speech.

page 41

PERSONAL INCOME TAX

The Government has already announced major changes in personal income tax which took effect from 1 July.

The standard rate for 1980-81 is reduced to 32 per cent and the income ranges in the scale have been indexed by 3.8 per cent so that the tax-free threshold is now $4,041 .

Dependant rebates have been increased by 34 per cent, with the rebate for a dependent spouse rising to $800 and that for a sole parent to $559.

These changes have an estimated revenue cost of $636m in 1980-81.

In recent years a loading has been added to normal rates in calculating the provisional tax payment of taxpayers who do not self-assess, in order to achieve reasonable comparability in the treatment of PA YE and all provisional taxpayers.

In 1980-81 this objective is to be achieved by applying the 1980-81 rate scale to 1979-80 incomes increased by a factor of 7i per cent and allowing dependant rebates at 1980-81 values.

Provisional taxpayers will of course continue to have the option to self-assess and provide an estimate of their 1980-81 incomes.

Where this option is exercised the new rates and rebates will apply to estimated 1980-81 incomes.

Superannuation Arrangements for Self-employed Persons and Unsupported Employees

The Government has decided to provide a significant new incentive through the taxation system to encourage self-employed persons and employees not covered by employer-sponsored arrangements to make greater provision for their retirement.

At present contributions by an individual for superannuation purposes are included in rebatable expenditure, within a limit of $1 ,200 for the sum of life insurance premiums and superannuation contributions.

This limit applies whether the contribution is by an employee contributing to an employersupported fund, an employee who is not supported by an employer-sponsored scheme but makes his own arrangements to contribute to a public superannuation fund, or a self-employed person.

However, whereas employee members of an employer-supported fund also have the advantage of employer contributions on their behalf, and are not taxed on those amounts, there is no corresponding benefit for self-employed persons or employees who are not supported by an employersponsored scheme.

The Government has therefore decided to extend to such people, where no other contributions are made on their behalf, a taxation benefit broadly comparable to the ‘matching employer’ contribution of supported employees.

We have decided that contributions - up to a limit of $1,200 per annum - made by selfemployed persons and employees after today to a qualifying fund to provide retirement benefits for themselves and their dependants will be deductible from their assessable income if the person is not covered by employer-sponsored arrangements.

Contributions in excess of $1,200 will remain rebatable expenditure, up to the present limit of $1,200 for life insurance premiums and superannuation contributions applicable to all taxpayers.

At the same time, 5 per cent of lump sums received by self-employed persons and unsupported employees after today from qualifying superannuation funds will count as assessable income, to the extent that those sums are derived from contributions made after today and from earnings of the fund from the investment of those contributions.

This will result in that part of the lump sums being taxed to the same extent as lump sums received on retirement by supported employees.

That part of the lump sums derived from earlier contributions, and the earnings on their investment, will remain tax free.

On the basis of assumptions about the likely response rate to such a measure, the full year cost is estimated at about $100m.

Taxation of Australians Working Overseas

We have decided to amend the law to provide some relief from Australian tax on certain foreign source income which Australian residents earn from their personal services overseas where that income is not taxed in the source country. Details are provided in Statement No. 4.

This measure is intended to enhance the ability of Australian consultants to obtain a greater share of the growing overseas consultancy services market. It will apply to income from services performed overseas on projects approved and entered into after today and is estimated to cost about $2m in a full year.

Deductibility of Gifts

We have decided to permit tax deductibility of gifts made to certain educational institutions and voluntary overseas aid organisations.

Gifts made after tonight to certified technical and further education institutions will be tax deductible where those gifts are for approved purposes.

In addition to the substantial outlays made direct from the Budget for overseas aid purposes, the Government permitted tax deductions in respect of donations made in 1 979-80 to the Kampuchea and East Timor appeals.

In recognition of the work performed by many of the voluntary bodies involved in the provision of overseas aid the Government has decided in principle to allow taxation deductions for gifts made to eligible non-government organisations extending assistance to approved programs and organisations in developing countries.

Eligible organisations will be determined by the Treasurer after consultation with the Minister for Foreign Affairs, who will be consulting relevant bodies including the Australian Council for Overseas Aid.

Inquiry into Zone Allowances

Income tax zone allowances for taxpayers living in remote localities were introduced in 1 945.

While the supplementary component of those allowances has since been adjusted to reflect increases in dependants’ allowances, the basic allowance has remained largely unchanged since 1958.

In the meanwhile, of course, circumstances have changed.

Against this background we have decided to establish a public inquiry to examine in detail the cost and other disabilities of living in remote areas and to make recommendations on possible changes to the present system of zone allowances.

I shall announce the terms of reference and composition of the inquiry as soon as practicable with a view to it reporting prior to next year’s Budget.

page 43

BRUCELLOSIS AND TUBERCULOSIS IN CATTLE

We shall amend the income tax law in certain respects to encourage further progress in eradicating brucellosis and tuberculosis in cattle.

In particular, for cattle properties certified as subject to those diseases and where herd control is difficult, expenditure by 30 June 1984 on internal fences and stockyards contracted for while a certificate is in force will be deductible in full in the year in which the expenditure is incurred.

page 43

ACCELERATED DEPRECIATION OF PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

There have been many suggestions in recent years that the present depreciation provisions do not provide a sufficiently fast rate of write-off for new plant during periods of rapid technological change.

We have therefore decided to apply a 20 per cent loading to existing depreciation rates; for example, an existing rate of 15 per cent will become 1 8 per cent and so on.

These new arrangements will apply to new and second-hand plant ordered after today, with the exceptions of motor vehicles of the type now excluded from the investment allowance and plant for which statutory concessional rates are already available.

There is, by definition, no objective way of adjusting depreciation rates for obsolescence occasioned by unpredictable technological change.

The proposed loading does, however, represent a significant aid to businesses confronted with that problem and will encourage updating of plant and equipment.

The cost of this measure will rise over a transitional period, from an estimated $60m in 1981-82 to more than $250m per annum in the mid-1980s.

page 43

DIVESTMENT OF ASSETS

The sale of the Commonwealth interest in the Ranger joint venture is expected to be finalised this year, yielding $ 147m.

Negotiations are proceeding for the disposal of the Government’s interest in the Ngalia Basin exploration venture and the Fawnmac group of pharmaceutical companies.

page 43

RECEIPTS IN SUMMARY

This year taxation receipts will rise by 1 6.4 per cent.

In particular, company tax receipts and crude oil levy collections will rise at a relatively high rate.

The increase in company tax receipts reflects greater company profitability, the phasing down of the investment allowance in 1979 and last year’s decision to withdraw the trading stock valuation adjustment.

Crude oil levy collections will be higher mainly on account of the full year effects of the rises in the price of oil which occurred last year.

Personal taxation reductions for the year have been in place since 1 July. The Budget provides some tax relief for businesses. There are also some particular areas where taxation incentives have been provided.

Given the expenditure priorities I described earlier, further general taxation concessions could only have been given at the cost of forgoing the major reduction in the Budget deficit.

In our view the anti-inflationary objectives of this Budget, and therefore the long term economic interests of Australia, will best be served by the reduction we have achieved in the Budget deficit.

page 43

BUDGET OVERVIEW

Total outlays in 1980-81 are estimated to increase by 1 3.7 per cent to $36,037m.

Total receipts, allowing for the cost of the measures I have outlined and of those previously announced, are estimated to increase by 16.2 per cent to $34,47 lm.

The overall Budget deficit is therefore estimated at $ 1,566m, a reduction of $468m on the outcome for 1979-80.

When allowance is made for transactions abroad, there will be an estimated Budget domestic surplus of $39m - the first such surplus since 1973-74.

Such an outcome will represent further substantial progress along the road to fiscal responsibility and monetary stability.

page 44

ECONOMIC OUTLOOK

The aim of this Budget is to maintain and develop a climate in which Australia’s high potential for growth in the 1 980s can be realised.

We also wish to see that development proceeds at a pace which is sustainable and that it provides benefits for all Australians.

Inflation and other economic difficulties which developed some years ago, though now reduced, threaten our growth potential.

For example, if the recent pattern of wage determinations continues in 1980-81, average weekly earnings would be likely to rise by around 1 2 per cent compared with 9i per cent in 1979-80.

Particularly at a time when overseas rates of inflation are showing signs of moderating, there is a real danger in this acceleration.

On the basis of the fiscal and monetary policies set forth in the Budget the rate of increase in the CPI over the year to June 1981 is likely to be around 10 per cent.

For 1980-81 the present outlook for the nonfarm sector of the Australian economy is for a somewhat faster rate of expansion than last year - 3+ per cent or more compared with a little over 3 per cent last year.

After allowance for the likely small reduction in farm products, overall growth could be 3 per cent or more, compared with the estimated 2.2 per cent last year.

This compares with the most recent OECD Outlook forecast of no real growth in aggregate in member countries.

Although the Australian economy and in particular our exports will be affected by slower economic growth overseas, the impact will be lessened by our better inflation performance and the nature and destination of our exports.

For example, over 50 per cent of our exports go to Asian and Middle Eastern countries which are among those less affected by the slowdown in world economic growth.

The current account deficit will nevertheless be considerably higher in 1980-81, perhaps about double last year’s abnormally low outcome of about $ 1,200m.

Against this, a much larger inflow of private capital is likely, leaving the overall balance of payments satisfactory, and a surplus on private external transactions of up to $ 1 ,500m.

Internally generated demand is expected to more than offset adverse international developments.

In particular, business fixed investment is set to show a real increase in 1980-81 of over 10 per cent.

The extent of the increase will be critically influenced by the availability of adequate supplies of labour and materials.

Dwelling investment should remain high in 1980-81, although growth is likely to be slower than last year.

The strengthening in private consumption expenditure during the course of last year should continue in 1980-81, reflecting further steady growth in employment of about 1 i per cent and stronger growth in real disposable income.

Overall, the outlook for 1980-81 is for strong expansion in activity led by private sector demand.

The Government believes this stronger outlook for activity can be achieved with slower growth in the monetary aggregates than last year.

The further reduction in the Budget deficit is seen as essential to achieving the Government’s monetary goals.

It will help to make room for financing the significant increase in corporate borrowing likely in 1980-81 as private investment expenditure rises.

The Government will again seek to have the large wheat harvest in prospect financed in a manner which will minimise its impact on the monetary aggregates.

Predicting the monetary outcome is always difficult because of the number and nature of the variables which underlie particular monetary aggregates, such as M3.

Despite the much reduced Budget deficit in 1979-80, the growth in the money supply (M3) was 1 2.9 per cent against the projection of about 10 per cent.

That outcome again illustrates the wide margins of error inherent in such projections.

In any case, M3 is not a totally definitive measure of monetary growth.

For example, building society deposits, which have experienced greater growth than bank deposits in recent years, are not included in the M3 measurement.

For its part, the Government will continue to monitor a whole range of monetary aggregates.

We nevertheless see merit in continuing the practice of recent years of specifying a range for M3.

We shall be aiming for a lower growth in M3 this year than the outcome last year.

On present economic assessments, an outcome for M3 of about 9-11 per cent over the year to June 1981 would be consistent with the requirements of the Government’s economic policy and would in particular exert appropriate downward pressure on inflation.

page 45

CONCLUSION

This Budget consolidates the economic gains of recent years.

It strengthens our attack upon inflation through a major reduction in the deficit.

It maximises our potential for economic growth and development.

Within responsible expenditure limits, the Budget provides more for defence, areas of need and excellence and assistance to industry.

It is a Budget which will further enhance the strength and competitiveness of the Australian economy.

I commend the Budget to the Senate.

Debate (on motion by Senator Wriedt) adjourned.

page 45

SOCIAL SECURITY PROGRAMS

Ministerial Statement

Senator Dame MARGARET GUILFOYLE:
Minister for Social Security · Victoria · LP

– by leave - The Treasurer (Mr Howard), in his Budget Speech, mentioned the major improvements to the social security and welfare system that will result from the 1980-81 Budget. I would like to elaborate on his statement and provide the Senate with additional information. Despite the economic circumstances and the need for expenditure restraint, the Government has again accorded high priority to its welfare programs and, in these, has shown greatest concern for those most in need. Social security and welfare outlays are estimated to increase by almost $900m in 1980-81 to about $9.9 billion.

Over 27 per cent of Budget outlays have been allocated to social security and welfare.

In the 1980-81 Budget, special priority has been given to improving support for children of pensioners and beneficiaries, for sole parents, the unemployed and the sick and disabled. We will extend and increase Commonwealth assistance for sole parents; increase meals-on-wheels subsidies and meals and accommodation subsidies for homeless people; increase rates of additional pension and benefit for children and mothers - guardians’ allowances; increase rates of handicapped children’s allowances and double orphans’ pensions; substantially relax the income test for unemployment and sickness benefits; increase the rate of unemployment benefit for those 18 and over without dependants; extend eligibility for pensioner fringe benefits to sickness beneficiaries; extend eligibility for pensions and benefits to patients in mental hospitals; expand the Commonwealth Rehabilitation Service; provide substantial funds for the first year of the new threeyear programs for facilities for aged and handicapped people; provide funds to assist the national response to the International Year of Disabled Persons; and increase rates of compensation for Commonwealth employees.

New Support for Sole Parents

An important initiative of the Fraser Government has been the progressive rationalisation of assistance for sole parents. In 1977 the Government extended assistance to sole fathers on the same basis as assistance to supporting mothers by introducing supporting parents’ benefits. In 1979 the Government extended pensioner health benefits to supporting parent beneficiaries on the same basis as for Class A widow pensioners. As a result, rates of direct Commonwealth assistance for sole parents, including fringe benefits, were made uniform.

During this session of Parliament, the Government will introduce legislation to remove the remaining major limitation on direct Commonwealth assistance for sole parents. The six months waiting period for supporting parent’s benefit will be removed. As a result, those sole parents who currently must wait six months for Class A widow’s pension or supporting parent’s benefit will be able to receive Commonwealth supporting parent’s benefit immediately.

The existing provisions relating to Class A, B and C widows’ pensions will remain unchanged. The decision by several State governments to withdraw support for sole parents during the six months waiting period for Class A widow’s pension or supporting parent’s benefit has created considerable anxiety and uncertainty amongst recipients. The Commonwealth’s action will remove that cause of concern.

Increased Basic Rates of Payments

Most basic rates of pensions and benefits are subject to automatic, twice-yearly indexation. As a result, the standard rate of pension and benefit will increase by $3.05 a week in November to $64.10 a week and the combined married rate by $5.10 a week to $106.80 a week. These rates will increase automatically again in May 1981 in line with the movement in the consumer price index between the June and December quarters of this year.

The following basic rates of pensions and benefits are indexed: Income-tested age pensions; invalid pensions; wives’ pensions; widows’ pensions; supporting parents’ benefits; sheltered employment allowances; unemployment benefit 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 people aged 16 or 17 years. In addition, unemployment benefit for those 1 8 or over without dependants will be increased from November by $2 a week to $53.45 a week. Rates of unemployment and sickness benefits for single people aged 16 or 17 without dependants will remain at $36 a week.

A fixed rate pension is payable to those aged 70 years and over free of income test. This provides additional pension income to people when they turn 70 if their entitlement had previously been less because of the income test. The rate of this income-test-free pension will remain at $51.45 a week for single people and $85.80 a week for married couples. With the concurrence of honourable senators, I seek leave to incorporate in Hansard a table which sets out the existing maximum rates of the basic pensions and benefits, together with the maximum rates that will apply from November 1980.

Leave granted.

The table read as follows -

I now turn to increased payments for children of pensioners and beneficiaries. In addition to the increases in basic pensions and benefits, payments for the children of pensioners and beneficiaries are to be substantially increased. Additional pension or benefit for each child will be increased from November by $2.50 to $10 a week. Mothers’/guardians’ allowances paid to single pensioners with children will be increased by $2 to $8 a week where there is at least one child under six or an invalid child, and to $6 a week in other cases.

As a result of these increases in payments, supporting parent beneficiaries and widow pensioners in particular, and other pensioners and beneficiaries with children, will receive substantial increases in assistance from November. For example, a widow with three children, one of whom is under six years of age, will have her fortnightly pension cheque increased from $179.10 to $204.20- an increase of $25.10 a fortnight. She will, of course, continue also to receive her monthly family allowance payment of $62.90.

I seek leave to incorporate a table which sets out the maximum rates of pensions and benefits for those with children together with the rates that will apply from November 1980.

Leave granted.

The table read as follows -

Senator Dame MARGARET GUILFOYLEI refer now to increased payments for other needy children. The Government will increase assistance for other children with special needs this year. The handicapped child’s allowance will be increased by $8 to $73 a month from the first payday in November. The double orphan’s pension will be increased by $8 to $55.70 a month.

Unemployment and Sickness Benefits Income Test

The unemployment and sickness benefits income test is to be significantly liberalised. As a result, unemployment beneficiaries, for example, will be able substantially to supplement their benefits through casual work. Under current arrangements, the maximum rate of benefit is reduced on a dollar for dollar basis for any other income received above the ‘free area’ of $3 a week for a single person aged under 21 with a parent living in Australia or $6 a week for all other people. From the first pay-day in November the free area’ of $6 a week will be extended to all beneficiaries aged 18 to 20 years and the income test which will be applied above the free areas will be liberalised in the following manner: For all single people aged 16 and 1 7 with a parent living in Australia, the maximum rate of benefit payable will be reduced by 50c for each dollar of income received in the range of $3 to $40 a week; the current reduction on a dollar for dollar basis will apply only to income above $40 a week; for all other beneficiaries, the maximum rate will be reduced by 50c for each dollar of income, including the income of a spouse, received in the range of $6 to $50 a week; the current reduction on a dollar for dollar basis will apply only to income above $50 a week. Let me illustrate the effect of this change. An unemployment beneficiary aged over 21 who earned $40 from casual employment would currently lose $34 in benefit. Under the new arrangement he will lose only $17 and will therefore have a total income of $76.45 a week, or $23 in excess of the maximum rate of benefit. The Government has also decided to exempt from the benefits income test pay and allowances received by Army, Navy and Air Force reservists. Such payments will also be excluded from the income tests on pensions payable under the Social Services Act.

Meals on Wheels and Other Programs for the Aged

The Government will increase the assistance it provides to enable aged people to remain in their own homes as long as possible as well as for those elderly people who can no longer live in their own homes. Subsidies will be increased for meals provided by meals-on-wheels services. The existing subsidies of 30c for every meal which has an approved vitamin C supplement and 25c for every other meal will be increased to 45c and 40c respectively. Subsidies under the Homeless Persons Assistance Program will be increased in line with the increases in delivered meals subsidies. The food and accommodation subsidy will be increased from 75c to $1.20 per person per day, and the meal only subsidy will be increased from 25c to 40c for each meal provided to non-residents.

Commonwealth expenditure on home care services for the aged will increase by 1 7 per cent to $ 12.1m in 1980-81. Subsidies are provided for housekeeping, home maintenance, gardening and other domiciliary services. The latest allocation represents a 1 1 3 per cent increase on the funding levels in 1975-76. In addition, $4m has been provided in 1980-81 for the first year of a new $12m 3-year program for construction of senior citizens centres. An amount of $52. 5m has been provided for the first year of a new $225m 3-year program for aged or disabled persons’ accommodation. To date over 400 priority projects have been approved for funding in the years 1980-81 and 1981-82.

Support for the Sick and Disabled

Assistance for the sick and disabled will be improved as a result of the 1980-81 Budget. The Government will extend eligibility for Commonwealth pensioner fringe benefits to sickness beneficiaries, subject to the normal fringe benefit income test. The discrimination that currently exists against certain mental hospital patients will be removed. From November 1 980, pensions and benefits will be available to these patients on the same basis as to other members of the community. Wives of mental hospital patients may then qualify for wives’ pensions or continue to receive their current entitlement to widows’ pensions.

The Commonwealth Rehabilitation Service will be expanded. A new rehabilitation facility will be planned jointly with the New South Wales authorities for the Newcastle and Hunter Valley area and new services planned for the western suburbs of Melbourne, in co-operation with the Victorian authorities. Two new work preparation centres for mildly intellectually handicapped people will be established; one in Sydney and one in Melbourne.

Some $51m has been allocated for 1980-81 for the first year of a new three-year program of assistance under the handicapped persons welfare program. Some $155m will be provided in total for this program over the next three years. Already about 200 new proposals have been approved for funding under this program. As a result, new sheltered workshops, activity therapy and training centres and residential accommodation will be provided for over 2000 disabled children and adults. Continuing strong support will also be provided for the maintenance of existing services. The Government’s commitment to the disabled is demonstrated by the allocations in this year’s Budget. Total spending on the disabled will be about $ 1,060m in 1980-81, 17.7 per cent more than in 1979-80 and 1 26 per cent more than in 1975-76.

International Year of Disabled Persons

International Year of Disabled Persons, 1 98 1 , will provide an impetus to all sections of the Australian community to review attitudes and services to ensure that disabled people have greater access to community life. Emphasis will also be given to the prevention of disability. The disabled themselves are, and must continue to be, closely involved in all planning associated with the Year. An amount of $900,000 has been provided in 1980-81 for national publicity and community information and for costs associated with the establishment and servicing of a National Committee of Non-Government Organisations and other major national events and reports. Funds have also been provided in the Budget for new proposals of other Ministers that will substantially benefit disabled people. 1 will report at a later date on the overall Commonwealth Government’s response to International Year of Disabled Persons.

Children’s Services

In addition to the various cash payments for children, the Government provides, through its Children’s Services Program, financial assistance to community organisations, local government bodies and the States for a range of services for children under 18 years and services to support their families. A block grant is also made to the States and the Northern Territory for pre-schools. An amount of $33.09m will be provided this year in the form of grants to the States and the Northern Territory for pre-schools. To assist with forward planning, these grants will, in the future, be made on a calendar year basis. A further $36. 1 3m has been allocated in 1980-81 for assistance for child care and other related services. Over recent years there have been significant changes in the overall pattern of grants made under the Children’s Services Program and in the services assisted by the grants. Many of the projects approved early in the Program were large capital-intensive child care centres, which have now been completed. Emphasis in new approvals has now moved away from large centres to smaller neighbourhood centres and other projects which require only minor modifications to existing buildings.

There has also been a considerable widening in the types of services available to disadvantaged children and their families. There are now clearly identified program components directed towards young handicapped children, Aboriginal children, isolated children, children of migrants and of working parents and also for homeless young people; support is also provided for the families of these children. This is evidenced by the fact that in 1 975-76 $ 1 7m was devoted to funding such services whereas, in 1980-81, over $36m will be allocated for them.

Assistance for Research and Welfare Co-ordination

During the past year, the independent Social Welfare Research Centre at the University of New South Wales came into operation. An amount of $410,000 has been provided in 1980-81 for the Centre’s operation; $583,000 has been provided for the Social Welfare Policy Secretariat. Grants for social welfare co-ordinating organisations have been maintained. The Australian Council of Social Service, Australian Council for Rehabilitation of Disabled and the Australian Council on the Ageing will receive grants of $160,000 in 1980-81 for activities associated with the co-ordination of services and the provision of advice to the Government. The Australian Council for Rehabilitation of Disabled will also receive $469,500, the balance of the $500,000 grant towards the establishment of its national headquarters; in addition it will also receive assistance for its activities in connection with International Year of Disabled Persons. The Australian Pre- school Association will receive $50,000, together with an additional sum for co-ordinating the activities of Lady Gowrie Centres.

Compensation Rates for Commonwealth Government Employees

Rates of workers’ compensation payable to Commonwealth employees will be increased, from 1 September 1980, by about 16.5 per cent. The same rates will apply to people covered by the Seamen’s Compensation Act. I seek leave to incorporate in Hansard a table which sets out the existing and proposed rates.

Leave granted.

The table read as follows -

Conclusion

Mr President, once again the Government has been able to introduce a compassionate yet responsible Budget. Benefits for the needy members of our community will be significantly improved. A high priority has continued to be given to social security and to welfare.

Senator GRIMES:
Tasmania

– by leave - I move:

In speaking briefly to the motion - that is all one can do in the circumstances in which documents are presented on Budget night in this place, not having had sufficient time to go through the Budget in any detail- I would like to do as honourable senators usually do, and that is to bring a different perspective to the statement and to bring things back into perspective generally.

On the figures given by the Minister for Social Security (Senator Dame Margaret Guilfoyle) and given by the Treasurer (Mr Howard) in the Budget Speech, social welfare and social security expenditure this year increases by 10.7 per cent. This figure happens to be the exact estimate of the Treasurer for this coming year’s inflation rate. So on the Minister’s and the Treasurer’s own figures, expenditure on social security and social welfare this year will be merely holding the line in real terms. There will be no increase in expenditure. If, as has happened in the past and as most people expect will happen in the future, the inflation rate in fact exceeds the inflation rate predicted by the Treasurer, social security expenditure will fall in the coming year.

There are selective increases in expenditure, particularly to children of pensioners and beneficiaries, to some single parents and to handicapped children. The single unemployed person will get a small increase in benefit. I point out that all of these increases fall far short of the level needed to compensate such people for inflationary increases in the last few years. Of course, if we are increasing expenditure in these sorts of areas, we must be decreasing expenditure in other areas of social security. One will find, on going through the Budget Papers, that the decrease in real expenditure occurs particularly in the fields of the aged, aged persons accommodation and services generally.

To demonstrate what I mean about the failure of the Government to increase expenditure on benefits, particularly those paid to children, about which it claims great advances in both the Minister’s statement and in the Budget speeches, I would like to point out just what has happened to these payments in past years and what will happen to them under this Budget. For instance, the allowance for pensioners’ children which at the moment is $7.50 a week has not been increased since November 1975. In that time the consumer price index has increased by 55.7 per cent. There has been an erosion of this benefit in real terms since last time the payment was increased of some $4.18 a week. That is a considerable amount of money to people with children dependant on fixed pension incomes. The increase will be 33 per cent, or $2.50 a week, so that these people still will be well behind the eight ball as far as the inflationary effects of this payment are concerned.

Similarly, the handicapped children’s allowance was last increased in November 1976. The erosion of that benefit has been $23.40 a month. It is to be increased by $8 a month. These people in fact have fallen behind the inflationary increases that have occurred. Even the daily subsidy per person for meals on wheels is some 6c less than would have been compensated for if the compensation had been one merely to keep up with inflationary costs. The same goes for homeless persons subsidies. The accommodation subsidy which has been eroded by 58c a day will be compensated by a payment of 45c a day. This sort of situation applies to all the benefits. Pensioners and beneficiaries with children have been given increases but those increases fall far short of the increased costs they have had to face due to inflation and increases in the consumer price index. If we add to that what has happened to family allowances we find that there is an even greater difference. That difference extends to low income earners with families, with children in this community, who will receive none of the benefits of the increases announced by the Minister for Social Security.

When the family allowances were introduced in July 1976 we predicted what would happen. We predicted that, in fact, there would be. no regular increase, there would be no compensation for inflation and the Government would allow these benefits to erode. Since July 1976 the consumer price index - the inflation rate - has gone up by 47.4 per cent. For instance, a family with one child is now $ 1 .66 a week worse off. A family with four children is $9.72 a week worse off. lt receives no increase at all from this Budget. In fact, the pensioner with children, the beneficiary with, say, four children, is $9.72 a week down on family allowances and down by similar amounts on other benefits and has been only partially compensated by the increases in this Budget. If such people happen to be low income earners with children they have no compensation at all and will continue to fall further and further behind the poverty line. If they are on very low incomes of $140 of $160 a week they will continue to fall further and further behind relatively in our community because of this failure to compensate in these payments for increases in inflation which have occurred in the last few years. As long as we continue to fail to compensate families with children for increases in inflation we are creating a group of people in the community - from whom our future citizens will develop - who are being discriminated against by this community, who are being treated unfairly and who will not have the opportunities of the better off in the community.

I think it is a pity that the Government again has not found it reasonable to increase payments to these very needy groups in the community. It has failed to do it again. I can see no justification - I repeat, no justification at all - for the continued discrimination against the unemployed who are single, who happen to have no dependants. These are not only 18-year-old, 19- year-old and 20-year-old unemployed. They are increasingly middle-aged unemployed who are displaced because of new technology and who, because of lack of training facilities, lack of need for the skills that they have, are unable to get work. Their numbers are increasing as a percentage of the unemployed, yet they are still discriminated against. They are still denied indexation. They are given an increase which is far below the increase in the inflation rate since they were last given an increase in May 1978. They are still singled out because of this obsession of honourable senators opposite that people who are single and unemployed are somehow unemployed because it is their own fault. So, from a first look at the social security area in the Budget we see that expenditure merely holds the line and the increase in expenditure is, in fact, exactly the amount the Treasurer estimates the inflation rate to be.

There have been small increases in some areas. There are token increases to disabled persons in the Budget. Therefore, to hold the line as the Government has, there must be decreases in other areas. As I have said, the glaring area concerns the aged pensioner in this community, particularly in relation to accommodation for the aged. I merely make one comment about the general statement made by the Minister in her report when she talked about the International Year of Disabled Persons. On page 1 0 of her report she stated:

The disabled themselves are, and must continue to be, closely involved in all planning associated with the Year.

A continual complaint of the disabled in the community now, and it will be a continual complaint for the rest of the year, is that they were not consulted in the initial planning for the International Year of the Disabled; that the bureaucrats who are running the International Year of the Disabled are the same people who ran the International Year of the Child; only at a later stage were consultative committees set up which included some of the disabled; they have met only a couple of times; and in some of the States they do not make up a majority of the people on the committee for this year that is supposed to be concerned with them. We will have more to say in detail about what is happening in the International Year of the Disabled and the lack of participation by the disabled in it. Having said that and having had such a limited time to look at the Budget Papers and the Minister’s statement, I seek leave to continue my remarks at a later date.

Leave granted; debate adjourned.

page 51

ASIA DAIRY INDUSTRIES (HONG KONG) LTD

Ministerial Statement

Senator Dame MARGARET GUILFOYLE:
Minister for Social Security · Victoria · LP

– by leave - 1 am making this statement on behalf of the Minister for Primary Industry (Mr Nixon) and, therefore, any personal pronoun which appears in the statement refers to the Minister for Primary Industry. Honourable senators will recall that on 1 7 April 1 980 1 undertook to make a statement once all investigations into the operations of Asia Dairy Industries (Hong Kong) Ltd had been completed. Regrettably, all investigations into this matter have not yet been completed, but I believe it is appropriate for me to advise the Senate as to the latest position.

As a result of a request by my predecessor in March last year, the accounts and records of ADI, which is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Australian Dairy Corporation, have been examined by the Commonwealth Auditor-General. The purpose of seeking the audit inspection was to assist the Government in its consideration of the future role and operations of ADI. The reports of the Auditor-General revealed certain deficiencies in the financial and managerial control of the company, and questioned the appropriateness of certain past expenditure. I have previously stated that the deficiencies in the financial and managerial control were examined by a committee established by the Australian Dairy Corporation. Action has been taken, or is being taken, to rectify the deficiencies and ensure that the company operates in a normal commercial fashion.

The only matter now outstanding in respect of the audit of ADI relates to the appropriateness of certain past expenditure by the former chairman of the company. This matter has been the subject of detailed examination by officials. 1 have received legal advice from the Commonwealth Crown Solicitor and the Attorney-General (Senator Durack) to the effect that certain matters arising out of this detailed examination should be reported to the police for further investigation. Upon receipt of that advice, and at my request, my Department has reported the matters in question to the Australian Federal Police for detailed investigation. In light of this, it would be improper to consider either tabling the AuditorGeneral’s reports, or comment further on the matter. As I have said in the past, I will make a statement on all aspects of the audit inspection when all investigations are completed. I present the following paper:

Asia Dairy Industries (Hong Kong) Ltd- Ministerial Statement, 19 August 1980.

Senator WALSH:
Western Australia

– by leave - I move:

No doubt the Government thinks it is very clever in bringing this matter into the Senate at 9.30 on Budget night. For the moment it might be but I can assure the Government that this matter will be raised again before the Parliament rises. The statement just put down by the Minister for Social Security (Senator Dame Margaret Guilfoyle) represents an attempt to bury some stinking fish until after the election. In the statement the Minister for Primary Industry (Mr Nixon) said: . . I will make a statement on all aspects of the audit inspection when all investigations are completed.

That means nothing more will be said by this Minister this side of the election about this matter if he can avoid it. We have made very little progress since he said on radio on 25 June:

I am getting legal advice at the moment on the report that came to me from the ADC who set up a management committee to look at the various matters involved in the AuditorGeneral’s report.

He is still considering legal advice. He has asked the Australian Federal Police to investigate the matter. The Minister is no closer to having this matter finalised than he was two months ago. The reason is that he does not want to get it finalised this side of the general election. He said:

The only matter now outstanding in respect of the audit of ADI relates to the appropriateness of certain past expenditure by the former chairman of the company.

There certainly is a great number of questions about past expenditure authorised by the former chairman of the company. Some of those questions have been discussed in the Senate. But I do not believe that is the only matter still outstanding. Perhaps it is the only matter outstanding and the Government has decided already what to do about all the other misappropriations detailed in the documents which I will seek leave to table very shortly. There are many matters other than those concerning the former management of the Australian Dairy Corporation and Asia Dairy Industries (Hong Kong) by Mr Tony Webster. For example, there is the matter of the $5,000. I quote from the documents:

Payment of a gratuity of approximately $A5,000 to E. G. McCartney in lieu of a facility to visit operating companies;

I stress those words ‘in lieu of a facility to visit operating countries’, lt appears from that statement, which is a quotation from the audit report, that Mr McCartney, who is a former director of ADI and a former director, perhaps also current director, of Petersville, was offered a trip to South East Asia or $5,000 in lieu of a trip to South East Asia: The money or the box and he took the money. Who authorised that expenditure? Has it been recovered from Mr McCartney? On what conceivable grounds could the granting of $5,000 to someone for not taking a trip to South East Asia have been justified?

The audit report notes also that in 1 978 all of the directors of Asia Dairy Industries made between two and five trips to South East Asia. Those visits may have been justified. On the face of it it seems highly unlikely that that is so, but if they were justified let us have the Minister’s report on it. If the Minister says that the only matter which is now outstanding relates to some of the expenditure incurred by the previous chairman, is he condoning the payment to Mr McCartney and the making of up to five trips to South East Asia in one year by all the other directors? I read another example:

Provision of medical expenses for staff based in Indonesia was duplicated by insurance payments and payment of a retainer to a local practitioner.

So ADI for its employees was paying a doctor and an insurance premium simultaneously. The report also states:

An overpayment of $A 10,000 to a former Thai Dairy expatriate staff member was written off without documented evidence of any attempts to effect recovery.

Senator Mulvihill:

– Did he shoot through?

Senator WALSH:

– We just do not know. We do not know because Mr Nixon is sitting on the stinking fish until after the general election. That statement is found in a letter of 24 July. The joint committee set up by Asia Dairy Industries and the Dairy Corporation reported on this matter and stated:

Contrary to the findings of Audit, recovery of this amount was sought from Mr Yetsenga in a letter dated 19 September 1977 . . . When Mr Yetsenga declined to make any refund, the amount involved was written-off on the authority of the Chairman of ADI.

Mr Yetsenga was overpaid by $10,000. Asia Dairy Industries wrote him a letter and asked: ‘Will you pay it back?’ He said ‘No thanks’. The Asia Dairy Industries management allowed the matter to rest at that point. 1 quote again from the AuditorGeneral’s report: lt is noted the Minister indicated in November 1977 when approving an allocation of $1.5m to the Australian Dairy Farmers Federation from the Fund—

That is, from the stabilisation fund, I think - that the payment represented the final claim by the Federation. However, various Federation activities have subsequently been funded by ADI.

What various Federation activities subsequently have been funded by ADI? Why was $1.5m made available to the Australian Dairy Farmers Federation in the first place? There may be a very good reason for that having been done, but a ministerial statement that it was done, let alone why it was done, has never been made. Neither the Opposition nor any of the six or seven agricultural journalists 1 have consulted on this matter have ever heard of that payment. The mystery remains. The report states also: lt is noted Thai Dairy financial statements show an item Receivables and loans to directors and employees’ in the balance sheet as at 3 1 December 1978- Baht 2,978.959.

I am not sure how that word ‘baht’ is pronounced, but it is the currency unit of Thailand. Almost 3 million baht or approximately $A 127,000 was involved. Nobody knows why those loans were made, whether they have been repaid, who authorised them, or whether the loans were legal. The report continues:

Certain consultancy services were carried out by firms associated with ADI Directors.

Audit has instanced two occasions on which ADI has reimbursed Thai Dairy for expenses incurred on behalf of two people (Mrs Stone and Mrs Kent) who are neither employees of ADI nor personally commercially associated with ADI. On neither occasion was the approval for such expenditure given by the Board of ADI.

I presume that approval was given by the then chairman of ADI, but that is not known either. The identities of Mrs Stone and Mrs Kent are interesting. Elsewhere it is stated that Mrs Stone was the wife of the consulting engineer at that stage employed by ADI. It was stated that Mrs Kent appeared to have been ‘just a tourist’. Why was Mrs Kent being duchessed by ADI? Who, indeed, is Mrs Kent? According to information supplied to me, I believe from a reliable source, the Mrs Kent in question is the wife of a dairy farming neighbour of Bill Pyle, Deputy Chairman of the Dairy Corporation, good friend of the former chairman of the Dairy Corporation, good friend and close associate of Ronald Anderson. Who is Mrs Kent? An alternative version is that Mrs Kent was the secretary of the student assistance scheme, of which, I must say, I have never heard. I do not know what ADI was doing running a student assistance scheme. I do know that from time to time certain rising stars in the dairy industry were duchessed by the oligarchy which has controlled ADI and used its money as a private slush fund. Certain journalists also were duchessed. Perhaps that was the student assistance scheme; I do not know.

Other highlights include travel and accommodation expenses paid at what the Auditor-General calls ‘tourist resorts’; transfer pricing arrangements which almost certainly breach Thai taxation laws; the bizarre story of the employee returning to Australia who brought back 81 tons of luggage; and so on.

Mr Webster, the former Chairman of the Corporation, has had very little to say on his own behalf. Others, close associates and friends of his, have said more on his behalf - it purports to have been on his behalf. The defence which is put up meanders along the lines of ‘nothing was done in ADI that is not standard practice in private business’. I did not know that in private business it was standard practice to pay employees’ doctors bills, to pay a doctor and to pay insurance premiums all at the same time. I would be surprised if that were standard practice in many private businesses, just to mention one of the many irregularities detailed in the documents. The report states further that Mr Webster did not regard himself as being covered by the Remuneration Tribunal or the Public Service Act. If he did not regard himself as being covered by the Remuneration Tribunal, it is extraordinary that he made submissions to it in 1976, 1977, 1978 and 1979. The line goes: ‘Well, this is common practice in private business. Were it not for a few nit-picking bureaucrats in Canberra nobody would ever have had the audacity to question anything that had been going on in ADI. lt is doing a magnificent job for the Australian dairy industry’, et cetera, ad nauseam, ad infinitum. This was a whitewash. The practices detailed in these documents are not normal commercial practices.

It has also been said - this has come back to me - that those people in the Parliament, of whom 1 have been one, who have been attempting to make the Government come clean on this issue have been damaging the Australian dairy industry. It has been asserted that the signing of lucrative contracts has been delayed since January because this matter has been politically controversial. I do not believe there is any truth at all in that story. It is fabricated and it is pure fiction. I challenge those who have peddled that story, including the President of the Australian Dairy Farmers Federation, to produce a scintilla of evidence that that is so. The people who have been damaged are those in that little oligarchy who have been misusing the dairy industrys funds for the benefit of themselves and their friends for a number of years. They have been discredited by the disclosure of their activities. To the best of my knowledge, the present President of the Australian Dairy Farmers Federation is not one of those who have misused those funds. I think, however, he is in a position where he will have to make a decision very quickly as to whether he will stand with those who are exposed as having misused funds or cut himself adrift from them.

Another somewhat curious aspect of this case concerns the Melbourne publisher Ronald Anderson. When the matter was first raised in Parliament he said how dreadful it was that it had come up, especially since there was absolutely no substance in it. He made references to all the malfeasance in the Corporation. In Primary Industry Newsletter of 5 September last year he wrote:

PIN found nothing in its investigation to suggest any wrongdoing let alone any misappropriation . . . PIN concluded that the allegations being made were without substance.

Mr Anderson has never amended that opinion. He is a man who prides himself on having excellent contacts with the dairy industry, which he has. He has very close contacts with both the former Chairman and the present Deputy Chairman of the Australian Dairy Corporation. I do not believe it is conceivable that Mr Anderson could have been entirely ignorant of the matters disclosed in the Audit report. I can therefore conclude only that Mr Anderson was willing and, perhaps, the deliberate instigator of an attempt to cover up everything that had been going on and to bluff those who were inclined to force the truth to be disgorged from continuing to do so. I invite Mr Anderson to put on the record whether he stands by that judgment that the allegations being made were without substance and that there is no evidence to suggest any wrongdoing, let alone misappropriation.

Mr Anderson has previously complained that I have defamed him in a highly damaging way under parliamentary privilege. I said that he was on a retainer from the Australian Dairy Corporation. He denies that. There has been a question on notice for three months seeking information on that matter among others, lt has not been answered. Whatever the answer to that question, Mr Anderson simultaneously asserts that there is nothing improper or irregular about his being retained by the Dairy Farmers Federation, the Victorian Grain Elevators Board and the Australian Wheat Board. It is quite proper for him to be retained by them and to write about them without disclosing his pecuniary association with them but to say that he is employed by the Australian Dairy Corporation when he claims he is not is, according to Mr Anderson, highly damaging to him. He cannot have it both ways. If his relationship with all these other bodies is innocent as he claims it is I invite him to make a full public disclosure of his various interests.

One of the things which the documents show is that in 1977 three journalists were sent on what was euphemistically called a study tour funded by Asia Dairy Industries around its Asian establishments. The journalists were Stuart Simson, then of the Australian Financial Review and now of the National Times, Alan Eager of the Australian Broadcasting Commission, and Ronald Anderson, lt appears that the purpose of this exercise was to defuse actual or potential criticism from agricultural journalists. I suppose it could be called public relations if anyone wanted to use the euphemism or duchessing if he wanted to be more realistic. The results were variable. Stuart Simson came back to Australia and immediately wrote a piece in the Australian Financial Review critical of Asia Dairy Industries and what he had seen. The Australian Broadcasting Commission’s rural department, of which Alan Eager was a senior member, until the last couple of months seemed to show absolutely no interest in the matter. Ronald Anderson, of course, became the chief apologist for Asia Dairy Industries. He either organised or was the front man in the attempt to whitewash the company and to intimidate those in the Parliament who would have all the malfeasance exposed.

The reports refer to various gifts made to persons overseas. By whom these gifts were made, to whom and for what purpose we do not know. Perhaps Mr Nixon knows. If so, it is time he told the Parliament. I do not wish to detain the Senate all night. This is not the last the Government will hear of this matter. 1 assure Government members that it will be raised again. I seek leave to table relevant extracts from a number of documents.

Senator Peter Baume:

– Sight unseen?

Senator WALSH:

– The honourable senator is quite welcome to look at them if he would like to do so. I will tell him what they are. They are extracts from a letter from the Auditor-General’s Office to the then Chairman of the Australian Dairy Corporation and ADI on 24 July 1979 and extracts from the Australian Dairy Corporation’s management committee report dated 12 March 1979. Members of the committee were Mr Norwood from the ADC, Mr Gillies from Asia Dairy Industries, Mr Kennedy from the ADC, Mr Wallace and later Mr Coutts from the Department of Primary Industry in Canberra. The extracts also include a letter from Mr Webster to the Auditor-General of 28 August 1979, a letter from the Auditor-General to Mr Webster of 19 September 1979 and a letter from the AuditorGeneral to Mr Sinclair of 3 August 1979. 1 put on the record that these are not photocopies of the original documents. They have been retyped. As 1 said, they are extracts. The only reason they are extracts is that the circumstances under which the documents were made available to me made it difficult to get complete copies of them. The extracts, which are copied are those which seemed to be the most relevant. The Minister, of course, should have tabled these and other documents long ago. He has not done so. I see that Senator Rae has joined us. I hope his committee will take up this matter some day. I wish it could do it before the election but I guess that would be asking too much even if the Government did not want to cover up the issue, but it does want to cover up. I seek leave to table about 30 pages of extracts from those various reports to which I have referred.

Leave granted.

Senator WALSH:

– That completes all I have to say for the present, except to observe that it is a rather sorry day for Australia when documents which have been leaked to the Opposition and which ought to have been tabled in the Parliament by the responsible Minister have to be first leaked and then tabled by the Opposition. It is a sorry day when an Opposition shadow Minister has to do what the Minister ought to be doing in the Parliament.

Question resolved in the affirmative.

page 55

AUSTRALIAN POSTAL COMMISSION

Senator CHANEY:
Western AustraliaMinister for Aboriginal Affairs · LP

– For the information of honourable senators I present a document entitled ‘Australian Postal Commission - Service and Business Outlook for 1980-81’.

page 55

AUSTRALIAN TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION

Senator CHANEY:
Western AustraliaMinister for Aboriginal Affairs · LP

– For the information of honourable senators I present a document entitled ‘Australian Telecommunications Commission - Service and Business Outlook for 1980-81’.

page 55

ADJOURNMENT

VIP Manifests

Motion (by Senator Dame Margaret Guilfoyle) proposed:

That the Senate do now adjourn.

Senator McLAREN:
South Australia

– I have a matter which I wish to raise briefly in the adjournment debate tonight. It relates to the failure of the Government to table in the Parliament the VIP manifest because of the undue haste with which the Senate was adjourned for the winter recess. It is usual practice for the manifest to be tabled twice yearly. Unfortunately, due to the way in which the Senate was brought to a sudden halt this year - it was because the Government did not want to face public criticism by the Opposition - we did not see the tabling of the VIP manifest. We on this side of the House have been unable to ascertain who has been travelling in VIP aircraft throughout the length and breadth of Australia.

During the recess I had occasion to note that the honourable member for Kalgoorlie (Mr Cotter) travelled throughout his electorate extensively in the VIP aircraft of the Prime Minister (Mr Malcolm Fraser). I have complained about this on previous occasions when I have been able to glean the information from the VIP manifest.

The last manifest which was tabled showed that certain Queensland members of the Government were able to travel throughout their electorates electioneering in the company of the Prime Minister. The same situation occurred again this year when the honourable member for Kalgoorlie was able to carry out an extensive election campaign in his electorate in the company of the Prime Minister in a VIP aircraft. I say no more at this time, except that I ask the Government to conform to usual policy and to see that the VIP manifest is tabled without delay in order that we can see who has been travelling the length and breadth of the country in VIP aircraft at the taxpayers’ expense.

Senator Walters:

– Was the member with the Prime Minister?

Senator McLAREN:

– It does not matter whom he was with. If Senator Walters looks at the instructions which are laid down by the Minister for Defence (Mr Killen) she will see what the position is. I have referred to this matter before. I ask Senator Walters to read Hansard in order to ascertain what instructions are laid down rather than to interject across the chamber. Another matter of concern to me is that National Country Party members can use VIP aircraft at a cost of something in the vicinity of $5,000 to travel from Rockhampton to Sydney to give evidence in a court of law for 10 minutes in support of a colleague. They have no qualms about using taxpayers’ money. Tonight Ministers have told us what they are doing to put the economy of this country back on the rails, yet quite openly, without any blushing at all, they wilfully waste the taxpayers’ money. The reason I rose tonight was to see that the VIP manifest is tabled. I will have more to say about this matter when it is tabled.

Senator CHANEY:
Western AustraliaMinister for Aboriginal Affairs · LP

– I will obtain some information about the position in regard to the tabling of the manifests and see that the usual procedures are adhered to.

Question resolved in the affirmative.

Senate adjourned at 9.55 p.m.

page 56

ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS

The following answers to questions were circulated:

Qantas Airways Ltd: Stage One Project, Sydney (Question No. 2171)

Senator Rocher:
WESTERN AUSTRALIA

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Transport, upon notice, on 7 November 1 979:

  1. 1 ) Has the planned height of the Qantas Airways Limited, Stage One Project, in Sydney, been recently increased by varying the contract works; if so: (a) why; (b) did this variation to the original design involve removing previously completed work; and (c) what is the estimated cost of the variation
  2. What is: (a) the estimated contract price of construction; and (b) the estimated total cost of the project.
Senator Chaney:
LP

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

  1. 1 ) Yes. (a) To overcome exposure of metal air conditioning and ventilation distribution ducts to excessive weather and to the possibility of earlier deterioration, (b) The architect for the project advises that no previously completed work gas removed, (c) The architect for the project advises that the estimated cost of the variation has not yet been established.
  2. (a) and (b). The estimated contract price and the estimated total cost have not been published by the Company.

Social Security: Alleged Frauds (Question No. 2277)

Senator Grimes:

asked the Attorney-General, upon notice, on 21 November 1979:

Were the 33 persons arrested in April 1 978, whose cases the police dropped over a year later in June 1979, offered compensation in respect of legal and other costs they had incurred while charged in connection with the alleged New South Wales social security frauds; if so: (a) when was such compensation offered; (b) what amounts were offered as compensation, and did they bear relation to incurred costs; (c) how many of those people no longer charged have been paid; and (d) what has caused delays in payment.

Senator Durack:
LP

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

Charges against 35 of the persons originally charged with conspiracy in connection with alleged social security frauds have been dropped. 1 3 of those 35 persons were discharged by the Court on 3 1 January 1979, I was discharged on 28 March 1979, 4 were discharged on 30 March 1979 and 17. were discharged on 8 June 1979. Amounts in settlement of claims for costs have been offered to those discharged defendants who were represented by lawyers but who were not awarded costs by the Magistrate when they were discharged. The offers were made on or about 24 October 1 979. The amounts offered were determined after taking into account various matters of which perhaps the most important was the number of days on which a discharged defendant had been legally represented in Court in relation to the charge against him. 1 defendant was offered $500.00, I defendant was offered $300.00, 9 defendants were offered $250.00, 1 defendant was offered $188.00 and 1 defendant was offered $ 1 25.00. Of those persons to whom offers were made, claims for payment have been processed by officers of my Department in respect of 6 persons. I believe that these claims have been paid. In the other cases, I am informed that acceptances of the offers have not been received but that none of the offers has been rejected. I understand, however, that in some cases the persons concerned have returned to Greece and t heir solicitors may have been unable to contact them.

Loans to Co-operative Farmers and Graziers Direct Meat Supply Ltd (Question No. 2327)

Senator Wriedt:

asked the Minister representing the Treasurer, upon notice, on 22 November 1979:

  1. Did the Australian Government receive complete financial details of the Co-operative Farmers’ and Graziers’ Co-operative Meatworks prior to approving the joint guarantee with the Government of Victoria for $9.0m; if so, when were those details received.
  2. Was the Treasurer, or were officers of his Department shown all the correspondence between the Victorian Government and the Directors of the Co-operative Farmers’ and Graziers’ Meatworks; if so, on what date or dates was the Australian Government informed about the contents of the correspondence.
  3. Did the Victorian Premier, Mr Hamer, indicate at any stage that his Government would not be prepared to lend funds to, or guarantee loans made to, Co-operative Farmers’ and Graziers’ Meatworks; if so, at what stage.
  4. On what date did the Australian Government decide to proceed with making the guarantee of the loan made to the Co-operative Farmers’ and Graziers’ Meatworks by Barclays Bank Limited.
Senator Carrick:
LP

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

  1. The Commonwealth Government had access to sufficient financial details on the Co-operative Farmers and Graziers Direct Meat Supply Limited to enable it to decide to provide a guarantee in conjunction with the Victorian Government. This included a copy of the audited accounts of the Co-operative for the financial year to 28 June 1977 which was received by the Prime Minister on 17 November 1977. Additional and updated financial information was subsequently provided. This included the unaudited accounts for the six months ended 3 January 1 978 which, together with the financial accounts for 1976-77, were tabled in Parliament on 1 3 April 1 978 at Senator Wriedt s request.
  2. Representations for assistance were made by the Directors of the Co-operative and others to Ministers of both the Commonwealth and Victorian Governments. The Commonwealth and the Victorian Governments liaised closely on this matter. I am not aware of any correspondence of a substantive nature between the Victorian Government and the Directors of the Co-operative relevant to the Commonwealth’s consideration of the question of possible government assistance to CF&G which was not shown to me or to officers of my Department during the time the matter was being considered and the guarantees being put into effect from about January to early May 1978.
  3. I am not aware of there having been any communication from the Victorian Premier, Mr Hamer, to the Commonwealth Government or to Commonwealth Ministers with respect to the representations Tor assistance of Co-operative Farmers and Graziers Direct Meat Supply Ltd to the effect that his Government would not be prepared to guarantee any loan made to that Co-operative.
  4. On 7 March 1978 the Prime Minister announced in Parliament the decision that, provided the Victorian Government agreed to do likewise, the Commonwealth would be prepared to guarantee half of the loan made to the Co-operative by Barclays Australia Ltd. This was followed on 10 March 1978 by a joint announcement of agreement to guarantee by the Prime Minister and the Premier of Victoria.

Use of Tactical Nuclear Weapons in the Persian Gulf (Question No. 2453)

Senator Wriedt:

asked the Minister representing the Prime Minister, upon notice, on 26 February 1980:

  1. Has the Australian Government received any official advice that the United States Government considers the use of tactical nuclear weapons in the Persian Gulf area to be an option in the event of hostilities in that area; if so were alleged briefings of the Prime Minister’s advisers to that effect correct.
  2. If the Government has been so advised, what is its view on the use of such an option, and has it advised the United States Government of that view.
Senator Carrick:
LP

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

  1. and (2) The Australian Government has not received any official advice on the matter. lt would be imprudent to speculate on what types of weapons may or may not be used in defence against an attack in that or any other area as such speculation could assist those hostile to Western interests.

Membership of Administrative Review Council (Question No. 2456)

Senator Mulvihill:

asked the Attorney-General the following question, upon notice, on 27 February 1980:

Who are the appointed members of the Administrative Review Council and what are their qualifications?

Senator Durack:
LP

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

The Administrative Review Council is constituted by three ex officio members and not less than three and not more than ten appointed members. The Chairman is Mr E. J. L. Tucker, an appointed member.

The ex officio members are:

The Hon. Mr Justice J. D. Davies- President, Administrative Appeals Tribunal

Professor J. E. Richardson - Commonwealth Ombudsman

The Hon. Mr Justice M. D. Kirby- Chairman, Law Reform Commission

The appointed members and their qualifications are:

Mr M. H. Codd ; B.Ec, Under-Secretary, Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet

Mr L. J. Daniels, CB., O.B.E.- B.Ec, Secretary, Department of the Capital Territory, formerly DirectorGeneral of Social Services, Department of Social Security

Sir Frederick Deer, C.M.G.; B.A., LL.B., B.Ec, retired, formerly General Manager, Mutual Life and Citizens’ Assurance Co. Ltd

Mr R. V. Gyles, Q.C.; B.A., LL.B., Barrister of the Supreme Court of New South Wales

Sir William Keys, O.B.E., M.C.- National President of the Returned Services League of Australia

Mr G. K. Kolts, O.B.E.; B.A., LL.B., Acting First Parliamentary Counsel

Mr A. R. Neaves ; LL.B., Secretary, Attorney-General’s Department

Professor R. N. Spann - M.A., Professor of Government and Public Administration, University of Sydney

Mr E. J. L. Tucker (Chairman) ; B. Comm., formerly Managing Director and Chief Executive of A.U.C. Holdings Ltd. (1977-78), Treasurer of Comalco Ltd. (1969-76) and member of the Tariff Board ( 1 96 1 -68)

Mr R J Young:
SOUTH AUSTRALIA

ng- B. Comm., Diploma of Public Administration, Commissioner, Public Service Board

Independent and Multicultural Broadcasting Corporation (Question No. 2473)

Senator Douglas McClelland:
NEW SOUTH WALES · ALP

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Post and Telecommunications, upon notice, on 27 February 1980:

Has the decision been made to use the ultra-high frequency band for the purpose of establishing the Independent and Multicultural Broadcasting Corporation; if so, what consideration, if any, has been given to making another channel available to the Australian Broadcasting Commission.

Senator Chaney:
LP

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

The Government decided on 22 January 1 980 that the Minister for Post and Telecommunications should arrange for the programs of the multicultural television services of the Independent and Multicultural Broadcasting Corporation to be transmitted on both UHF and VHF frequencies.

The continued utilisation of the VHF frequency by the I & MBC will be reviewed after an appropriate period of time having regard to the level of penetration of home television receivers capable of receiving UHF transmissions and the adequacy of coverage of the Sydney and Melbourne service areas. As the ability of audiences in both cities to receive adequate quality signals will have a significant bearing on the acceptance and revenue potential of the service, this matter will be the subject of progressive evaluation.

Further consideration of proposals for a second television network for the Australian Broadcasting Commission has been deferred until the Government has received and considered the Report of the ABC Committee of Review, which Report is expected to become available about March 1 98 1 .

Independent and Multicultural Broadcasting Corporation (Question No. 2476)

Senator Douglas McClelland:
NEW SOUTH WALES · ALP

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Post and Telecommunications, upon notice, on 27 February 1980:

  1. Has any staff ceiling been set for the Independent and Multicultural Broadcasting Corporation (IMBC).
  2. What branches is it intended to establish within the framework of the Corporation, and what is the estimated staffing arrangement of each branch.
  3. ls it intended to allow advertisements to be telecast; if so, who will be responsible within the Corporation for handling the advertising arrangements, and to whom will the network be responsible for standards.
  4. ls it intended that the staff of the Special Broadcasting Service will automatically be transferred to IMBC.
  5. What has been the extent of staff turnover in the Special Broadcasting Service.
  6. Will the staff of IMBC be covered by the provision of the Public Service Act 1922.
Senator Chaney:
LP

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

The Government has announced its intention to establish an Independent and Multicultural Broadcasting Corporation (IMBC). A Bill to amend the Broadcasting and Television Act enabling ils establishment has now been referred to the Senate Standing Committee on Education and the Arts for consideration and report. In advance of the establishment of the IMBC a Task Force responsible to an Implementation Committee has been oversighting the preliminary works associated with the planned transmissions commencing in October 1980.

Against that background, the answer to the honourable senator’s question is as follows.

and (2) These are matters for consideration in the first instance by the IMBC when established.

Advertisements will be telecast; the further aspects of staff responsibility for handling the advertising arrangements are matters for the future IMBC; the Bill referred to above requires the IMBC to comply with the standards and conditions determined by the Australian Broadcasting Tribunal in relation to the broadcasting and televising of advertisements by licensees, so far as those standards and conditions are capable of application in relation to the broadcasting and televising of advertisements by the Corporation.

Yes.

Since January 1978, 150 officers and employees commenced with the SBS, of which 52 have since ceased duty, leaving a balance of 98 officers and employees currently employed.

No.

Independent and Multicultural Broadcasting Corporation (Question No. 2477)

Senator Douglas McClelland:
NEW SOUTH WALES · ALP

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Post and Telecommunications, upon notice, on 27 February 1980:

Is it intended that the Independent and Multicultural Broadcasting Corporation will hire, lease or build studios for the purpose of live programming.

Senator Chaney:
LP

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

The Independent and Multicultural Broadcasting Corporation (IMBC) wherever possible and economical, will work with production houses in Australia rather than seeking itself to engage in direct production. It will nevertheless be necessary for the IMBC to make arrangements for its own presentation studio, including provision for a news service.

Distinguishing of Coins by Blind People (Question No. 2508)

Senator Mason:
NEW SOUTH WALES

asked the Minister representing the Treasurer, upon notice, on 5 March 1 980: ls the major feature used by blind people to differentiate between 10c coins and 2c coins the milling of the edge of the 10c coin and does this milling wear off most 10c coins considerably before they are taken out of circulation, thus making such differentiation extremely difficult; if so, will the Treasurer consider the use of a deeper milling on the 10c coin to alleviate this problem.

Senator Carrick:
LP

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

The Controller of the Royal Australian Mint has been consulted on this matter. While it is considered that the milling of the 10c coin could be a major feature used by blind people to distinguish it from the 2c coin, the Mint has received very little indication from the public that this is so. Deeper milling might temporarily alleviate any problem felt to exist in this quarter but would not eliminate it because the coins will still wear down over time.

When the designs of the Australian decimal coins were announced in 1964 it was pointed out by the then Treasurer that the use of large numerals in the reverse designs should be of great advantage to blind people, and other people with impaired eye-sight, as such numerals would be more readily distinguishable by touch. Nevertheless, if a substantial problem is thought to exist, I am of course willing in principle to consider any submission of proposals designed to meet such a problem, within the context of the wider considerations involved in the production of coinage.

Office of National Assessments: Advice on Afghanistan (Question No. 2532)

Senator Button:

asked the Minister representing the Prime Minister, upon notice, on 6 March 1980:

Did the Office of National Assessments (ONA) give the following advice to the Prime Minister regarding the Soviet Union’s invasion of Afghanistan: (a) that the Soviet move was defensive; (b) that Afghanistan was not a non-aligned nation; (c) the Soviets were not aiming for the oil fields,” (d) the real danger in the region was not the Soviet Union but the internal instability of countries; and (e) that the invasion reflected Soviet military arrogance and its defence paranoia; if so, on what grounds did the Prime Minister reject the ONA’s advice.

Senator Carrick:
LP

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

Assessments made by the Office of National Assessments are based on intelligence material drawn from many confidential sources. Although the Government and the Leader of the Opposition have access to ONA views it is not proper or appropriate for those views to be made public in the way suggested in the honourable senator’s question. He might however wish to remind himself of what was said in the House of Representatives in answer to a question without notice on 5 March 1 980 on this subject. lt is the Australian Government’s view that the USSR has so far gained among others the following military advantages by its invasion of Afghanistan:

the creation of a buffer state;

a closer proximity to the Persian Gulf and the Indian Ocean;

access to alternative bases for strategic aircraft, should the USSR wish to do so;

an ability to deploy troops across the Pakistani border;

an enhanced ability, depending on the type of aircraft that may be deployed, to provide tactical air support over the Persian Gulf, the Arabian Sea and the eastern half of Saudi Arabia;

an enhanced ability to provide limited air support to the Soviet Indian Ocean Squadron.

Foreign Investment in Australian Hospitals (Question No. 25S1)

Senator O’Byrne:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 6 March 1980:

  1. 1 ) ls there any reason for the delay in answering Question No. 2023 in the name of Senator O’Byrne which was placed on the Notice Paper on 9 October 1979.
  2. Have any applications for investment in Australian private hospitals been received nad not approved since that date.
Senator Dame Margaret Guilfoyle:
LP

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

  1. 1 ) The question was answered on 19 March 1 980. 1 am advised that the answer required a detailed examination of Foreign Investment Review Board records.
  2. I am further advised that no applications for investment in Australian private hospitals by foreign companies have been rejected by the Government under its foreign investment policy since 9 October 1 979.

Foreign Investment in Australian Hospitals (Question No. 2597)

Senator O’Byrne:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 20 March 1980:

  1. Who are the owners of Como Private Hospital, Melbourne.
  2. Has Hospital Corporation of America received Foreign Investment Review Board approval to invest in this hospital.
Senator Dame Margaret Guilfoyle:
LP

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

  1. Commonwealth involvement in this area is limited to approval of premises as a hospital under the Health Insurance Act for the payment of hospital benefits, upon application by the proprietor of premises, that is, the authority or body of persons that has lawful control of the premises. My Department does not have records of owners of private hospitals as such. The proprietor of Como Private Hospital is St. Andrew’s Management Pty Ltd and the Directors of that company are recorded as H. J. Levy and H. I. Beaconsfield.
  2. The Department of the Treasury has advised that the Foreign Investment Review Board has not received any proposal from foreign companies (including Hospital Corporation of America) concerning the Como Private Hospital.

Superannuation: Election for Lower Rate (Question No. 2617)

Senator Grimes:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, upon notice, on 26 March 1 980:

Has a directive been issued that it is no longer optional for a superannuation increase to be taken so that a person can no longer choose to remain at the lower rate and retain eligibility for fringe benefits; if so, when and why was this directive issued.

Senator Dame Margaret Guilfoyle:
LP

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

Section 91 of the Repatriation Act provides that where an applicant or service pensioner deprives himself of income in order to obtain a pension or a pension at a higher rate that income may continue to be maintained in the assessment. A similar provision exists under the Social Services Act.

The Repatriation Commission has always applied this provision and has maintained as part of the assessed income any income foregone when determining eligibility for pension and fringe benefits. This policy has been applied for many years and State Officers of the Department were advised on 21 March 1980 that this policy also applied where Superannuation Boards withheld superannuation increases.

Following recent criticism the Commission reviewed its policy and decided that if a pensioner did not himself institute the necessary step to deprive himself of income the provisions of section 91 should not apply. Both my Department and the Department of Social Security now apply an identical policy toward pensioner recipients of superannuation payments.

Any service pensioner who had lost fringe benefits when a Superannuation Board did not grant a superannuation increase should contact the Department of Veterans’ Affairs in his State, so that benefits can be restored.

Alleged Social Security Fraud Cases (Question No. 2629)

Senator Button:

asked the Attorney-General, upon notice, on 26 March 1980:

  1. Have 100 of the persons charged in April 1978 in connection with an alleged conspiracy to defraud the Department of Social Security of benefit payments, yet to be given a date for the commencement of committal proceedings.
  2. Did the Magistrate dealing with the committal proceedings, on 21 March 1980, adjourn the cases of these 100 persons for mention only until October 1980.
  3. Has it been the past practice of the Crown Solicitor to expedite criminal proceedings as quickly as possible in the interests of justice; if so, what are the reasons for this past practice being departed from in this case.
Senator Durack:
LP

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

  1. A date for the commencement of committal proceedings has yet to be given in respect of 1 23 persons charged with conspiracy in connection with alleged Social Security frauds.
  2. The charges against 114 of those persons were adjourned on 20 March 1980 to 30 October 1980 Tor mention only. The charges against 9 of the persons were adjourned on 20 March 1 980 to 3 1 July 1 980 for mention only.
  3. The persons who have been charged but whose committal proceedings have not yet commenced have appeared before the committing Magistrate who is aware of the position. On 20 March 1980 applications were made to the Magistrate on behalf of a number of the defendants for a permanent stay of the proceedings against them. After considerable argument by Counsel, those applications were refused. It has been and continues to be our practice to expedite criminal proceedings as far as practicable. The particular circumstances of this case are such that it is not reasonably feasible for the charges against the persons referred to in paragraph ( I ) of this answer to proceed at present.

All Australian Calendar 1980’: Deletion of Entry (Question No. 2645)

Senator Evans:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Immigration and Ethnic Affairs, upon notice, on 15 April 1980:

  1. 1 ) ls the Minister aware that the All Australian Calendar 1 980 contains the entry ‘National Day Croats’, under the date 10 April.
  2. ls the significance of this date that on 10 April 1941 Ante Pavelic was installed as leader of the State of ‘Croatia’ by Hitler and Mussolini who had invaded Yugoslavia some four days earlier.
  3. Were many atrocities alleged to have been committed under Pavelic’s leadership against Jews, Gypsies, Serbs, Croats and captured Allied air crews, which included Australians.
  4. Will the Minister consider taking steps to have the entry deleted from the calendar.
Senator Dame Margaret Guilfoyle:
LP

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

  1. The calendar contains that reference for the date 10 April.
  2. to (4) The calendar was not produced by the Commonwealth Department of Immigration and Ethnic Affairs.

It was produced as a co-operative effort by the Ethnic Education Services of the Victorian Education Department, the Productivity Promotion Council of Australia and the Victorian Ministry of Immigration and Ethnic Affairs, with additional financial and consultancy support from Australian Consolidated Industries Ltd. lt has generally been seen as a commendable initiative. If it is decided to proceed with further editions no doubt there will be additions and deletions.

Instruction in Procedures for Postal Voting (Question No. 2658)

Senator Walsh:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Administrative Services, upon notice, on 16 April 1980:

  1. Do Australian Electoral Office Mobile Education Teams instruct potential voters in procedures for postal voting.
  2. Is instruction given for postal voting in State elections as well as Federal elections in those States which have separate electoral rolls and different electoral laws; if so, what form does this instruction take in such States.
Senator Scott:
Minister Assisting the Minister for Trade and Resources · NEW SOUTH WALES · NCP/NP

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

  1. Yes.
  2. Yes. The Aboriginal electoral education program under which these mobile teams operate has been set up by the Commonwealth in collaboration with the governments of South Australia, Western Australia and the Northern Territory and instruction is given about both Commonwealth and State/Territory electoral laws. One section of this instruction deals with voting procedures.

While in practice the teams spend the majority of the time devoted to this section of work explaining the procedures for casting an ordinary vote, some attention is also given to other procedures such as postal voting, absent voting and section voting. In the case of these latter procedures the teams have found that the only times they have been able to deal with them are a relatively few occasions when the teams have been instructing younger groups who understand the more complex concepts involved. Even then the teams are unable to deal with the fine distinctions between the respective Commonwealth and Slate/Territory laws.

In the case of postal voting, instruction is limited to an explanation of the qualifications and procedures for obtaining a postal vote, lt is worth noting that in respect of postal voting under the various electoral laws, with some small differences, the qualifications and procedures are essentially the same. For this reason any explanation given by the teams covers in a general way the common principles and does not highlight the fine points of difference.

Fishing Permits (Question No. 2659)

Senator Walsh:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Primary Industry, upon notice, on 16 April 1980:

  1. What permits are required by fishermen from: (a) the Commonwealth Government; and (b) the New South Wales Government, for fishing in Australian waters adjacent to New South Wales.
  2. What rights, obligations and conditions attach to each permit.
  3. Are there any special conditions applied to net fishing by either Government.
  4. Are Australian fishermen who apply for permits given any greater priority or treated differently in any way to foreign applicants.
  5. How many permits are presently held by: (a) New South Wales residents; and (b) foreigners.
Senator Scott:
NCP/NP

– The Minister for Primary Industry has provided the following answers to the honourable senator’s question:

  1. A fisherman fishing in Australian waters adjacent to New South Wales requires to hold whatever licences, permits or authorities may be specified in the fishery law of that State in respect of persons fishing and their boats in waters within territorial limits. As well, New South Wales fishery law provides for issue of an ‘extra-territorial’ boat licence purporting to be valid in waters adjacent to New South Wales and beyond territorial limits.

A fisherman in proclaimed waters adjacent to New South Wales (i.e. waters beyond territorial limits and less than 200 nautical miles offshore) is required to hold a licence to engage in fishing under sub-section 9 (I) of the Fisheries Act 1952; the operator of a boat used for fishing in those waters is required lo hold a licence in respect of the boat under subsection 9 (2). Once issued, those licences when held by Australians are valid Tor all fisheries in all proclaimed waters except where prohibited by a notice under section 8 or a condition of the licence. When held by foreigners the licences are restricted as to fishing area, species, method and catch quota and subject to reporting requirements of their position in the Australian fishing zone and their catch.

There arc no controlled areas on the continental shelf of New South Wales for any species of sedentary organism so that no licences are required under the Continental Shelf (Living Natural Resources) Act 1968.

  1. Since the fishery laws of New South Wales do not come under my administration, it would not be proper for me to provide detailed comment on their provisions. The responsible Minister for the New South Wales Government is the Minister for Agriculture, to whom I suggest the honourable senator direct his questions on New South Wales fishery laws. Under Commonwealth law, licensees enjoy the right to fish in proclaimed waters as outlined above; they are subject to the provisions of the Fisheries Act 1 952 and the notices under section 8 of that Act; their licences may or may not be subject to conditions, depending on the fishery in which they are engaging and using their boats.
  2. Notices are in force under section 8 of the Fisheries Act 1952, prohibiting taking of fish in waters adjacent to New South Wales:

    1. by use of otter trawl or Danish seine nets with mesh of less than specified size (Gazette No. S7E, 15 July 1974).
    2. in respect of southern bluefin tuna, by means of a purse seine net except with the use of a boat for which the license is endorsed to authorise taking of that species (Gazelle No. S 1 52, 23 July 1 975).
    3. by use of trawling equipment:
    4. from a boat of length 32 metres or more but less than 45.7 metres unless the licence for the boat is endorsed to authorise such use; or
    1. from a boat of 45.7 metres or more. (Gazette No. G30, 2 August 1977; amended in Gazette No. S79, 2 May 1979)
    2. by the use of trammel, tangle or gill nets in three specified areas (Gazette No. SI44, 19 July 1979).

For the same reasons as in (2) above, I am unable to comment on the provisions of New South Wales law with respect to special conditions applied to net fishing.

  1. Australian residents can obtain licences under the Commonwealth Act as of right. Foreign fishermen and their boats generally are not permitted to operate in the Australian fishing zone. They may be, and in certain cases are, licensed to fish in the zone subject to either agreement between Australia and their country or under special arrangements, e.g. short term feasibility fishing ventures. Licences are subject lo strict conditions, in particular they are not permitted to operate in areas or fish for fish that are fully or substantially harvested by Australians.
    1. I am unable for the reasons stated in (2) to comment on the number of licences issued under New South Wales law. To date, licences have been granted in New South Wales under the Commonwealth Fisheries Act 1952 for 1040 boats in 1980. As I pointed out in (1), boats from other states with Commonwealth licences may fish in proclaimed waters adjacent to New South Wales or vice versa so that that figure does not necessarily represent the number of boats actually fishing there.
    2. At present 274 foreign boats are licensed to fish in the Australian fishing zone adjacent to New South Wales. These licences are valid for waters around most of Australia and it does not necessarily follow that all 274 boats will fish in waters adjacent to New South Wales. Only one of those licences authorises fishing with a net.

High Court Building: Cost of Royal Visit (Question No. 2664)

Senator Evans:

asked the Minister representing the Prime Minister, upon notice, on 15 April 1980:

  1. Between what dates will The Queen be in Australia during the forthcoming visit to open the High Court Building.
  2. What is her program.
  3. How many people will be travelling in her party.
  4. What costs will be incurred by the Commonwealth for the visit in respect to: (a) travel by Boeing 707 VIP aircraft: (b) other travel; (c) accommodation: (d) hospitality (including receptions and dinners): (e) security arrangements: and (0 otherwise.
Senator Carrick:
LP

– The Prime Minister has provided the following answers lo the honourable senator’s questions:

  1. and (2) Saturday 24 May, 6.50 p.m. ar. Canberra; Sunday 25 May, in Canberra; Monday 26 May, in Canberra (Opening of the High Court Building); Tuesday 27 May. Day visit to Sydney; Wednesday 28 May, Day visit to Melbourne; 10.30 p.m. Lv. for London.

    1. There were 24 persons who travelled in the Royal Parly from London.
    2. The final costs for the visit are not yet determined. $371,000 was appropriated in Appropriation Act No. 3 1979-80 and it has been indicated to the Parliament that some further funds will be sought in the 1980-81 Budget. As is the practice, the final costs of the visit will be indicated in the respective Budget papers.

Qantas Airways Ltd: Stage One Project, Sydney (Question No. 2676)

Senator Rocher:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Transport, upon notice, on 1 5 April 1980:

  1. How could disclosure of fees incurred by Arbitrators hearing disputes concerning the Qantas Airline Limited, Stage One Project, in Sydney, prejudice the continuance of proceedings before the Arbitrators, as indicated in the reply to Question No. 2401.
  2. Do the parties know the amount of fees paid or payable to the Arbitrators.
  3. Do the Arbitrators know the amount of fees paid or due to them.
  4. Are the parties to the dispute not entitled to arbitrate as of right, under provisions of the building contract; if so, how can disclosure of Arbitrators’ fees prejudice continuation of the arbitration.
  5. While Dillingham Australia Ltd may claim that material before the Arbitrators should nol be made public, does the builder also claim that the amount claimed, counterclaimed or offset should not be made public.
Senator Chaney:
LP

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

  1. 1 ) Senior Counsel has advised that any act by one party to an arbitration which could embarrass the Arbitrators, gives rise to a situation in which the opposing party can seek to have the Arbitrators discharge themselves and not further hear the arbitration in question.
  2. Yes.
  3. Yes.
  4. Yes - See also 1 above.
  5. The claim made by Dillingham Australia Ltd was general in its form.

Australia Post: Private Box Charges (Question No. 2677)

Senator Colston:
QUEENSLAND

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Post and Telecommunications, upon notice, on 15 April 1980:

Does Australia Post take into account the savings in providing a delivery service for post office private box holders when setting private box charges; if so, by what percentage is the actual cost of providing and maintaining the private boxes reduced.

Senator Chaney:
LP

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

Generally, in areas where postman or contract deliveries are available, there are no significant savings to Australia Post, as a result of customers electing to receive their mail through private boxes at the post office rather than by delivery to their residential or business address. Little adjustment can be made to delivery rounds to take account of the fact that mail deliveries need not be made to particular premises and, where an address is shared, unless all occupants have private boxes, the postman may still be required to deliver mail even to that address. There is, therefore, little or no offset to the substantial costs incurred in the purchase, installation, maintenance and administration of private boxes.

In areas where a delivery service is not available, Australia Post does offer reduced rates for the rental of a private box. Those rates vary according to the size of the box. The current annual rental charges for private boxes at post offices in areas without delivery services are $20 (Large box), $12 (Medium box) and $6 (Small box). The lowest equivalent rates available in areas where delivery services are also provided are $45, $26 and $16 respectively. The reduction in these cases is thus currently of the order of 55-60 per cent.

Australia Post: Cost of Private Boxes (Question No. 2678)

Senator Colston:

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Post and Telecommunications, upon notice, on 1 5 April 1 980:

What has been: (a) the cost of private boxes at post offices; and (b) the number of box holders as at 3 1 December for each year since 1 960.

Senator Chaney:
LP

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

  1. The rental charges for private boxes at post offices as at 31 December for each year since 1960 are listed in the following table. The charges vary, according to the size of the box, and are shown as (a) Large, (b) Medium, (c) Small.
Notes: (I) In 1974, the basis of charging was changed to include a separate rental charge for private boxes at 'specified offices', these being Canberra and Darwin Post Offices and selected inner city post offices in State capitals. This change, from a two-tier to a three-tier charging structure, was designed to meet the growing demand for private boxes, shifting the demand from offices which already had extensive private box installations, to nearby offices which had spare capacity. {: type="1" start="2"} 0. In 1 969, a concessional rate was introduced for the rental of a small private box at post offices in areas where no delivery service by postman or mailman was available. 1. In 1 976, the concessional rental rate, which applied previously only to small boxes, was extended to each size of box. {: type="a" start="b"} 0. Australia Post's private box statistics are maintained on a financial year basis. The numbers of private boxes let, as at 30 June each year, are shown in the following table: {:#subdebate-65-14} #### Flights to Antarctica (Question No. 2698) {: #subdebate-65-14-s0 .speaker-KPG} ##### Senator Keeffe:
QUEENSLAND asked the Minister representing the Minister for Transport, upon notice, on 21 April 1980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. Following the crash of an Air New Zealand DC10 on Mount Erebus, Antarctica, on Wednesday, 28 November 1979 in which 237 lives were lost, does Qantas or any other airline under the jurisdiction of Australia's Department of Transport propose any future flights to Antarctica. 1. What is the total distance covered by a flight from Sydney to Antarctica and return to Sydney. 2. What fuel load in kilograms is carried and what is (a) the flight planned endurance; and (b) reserve expressed in minutes, for such a flight. 3. What is the: (a) engine out; and (b) all engines operating critical point, in nil wind conditions on a Qantas flight using Boeing 747 aircraft departing Sydney for Antarctica. 4. Should an engine fail or the cabin become depressurised at the destination could the aircraft return to Sydney; if so, what fuel reserves in minutes would remain on the aircraft's return to Sydney in nil wind conditions; if not, to what airport would the aircraft go. {: #subdebate-65-14-s1 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- The Minister for Transport has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. ) I am advised that Qantas has no operations planned at this time nor does any other Australian airline have any such plans. 1. There are two routes used by Qantas. The route selected for a particular flight is that which, on the basis of the weather forecast, offers the better viewing prospects. The first route is via Dumont D'Urville a distance of 4484 nm (8306k) and the second is via Cape Washington and Hallet a distance of 5 187 nm (9609 k). 2. The aircraft carry full fuel which is normally 152,000 kg. The flight planned endurance is approximately 800 minutes and the reserve for the first route is 220 minutes and for the second route 1 55 minutes. 3. (a) The engine out critical point is 280 minutes for the first route and 340 minutes for the second; and {: type="a" start="b"} 0. The all engines operating critical point is 260 minutes from Sydney for the first route and 320 minutes from Sydney for the second. 4. Yes. In the case of the first route there would be 165 minutes fuel remaining in the engine failure case and 80 minutes remaining in the depressurised case while with respect to the second route these times would be 95 minutes and 40 minutes respectively. In these particular cases the following airports would be available if required {: type="a" start="a"} 0. in respect of the first route Hobart and Christchurch; and 1. in respect of the second route Christchurch, Hobart and Melbourne. {:#subdebate-65-15} #### Pesticides and Agricultural Chemicals (Question No. 2700) {: #subdebate-65-15-s0 .speaker-KUU} ##### Senator Missen: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 17 April 1980: {: type="A" start="I"} 0. From what source does the Poisons Schedule Committee obtain the extensive toxicological data upon which it bases its recommendations for the scheduling, the safety directions and the first aid of pesticides and agricultural chemicals. {: type="1" start="2"} 0. Are pesticides and agricultural chemicals kept under review by the Committee, once they are on the market. 1. What standards are used by the Poisons Schedule Committee in its evaluation of pesticides and agricultural chemicals and how do these compare with other countries. {: #subdebate-65-15-s1 .speaker-C7D} ##### Senator Dame Margaret Guilfoyle:
LP -- The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. 1 ) The Poisons Schedule Committee requires companies making submissions to it to provide data in accordance with document PB3I0 'Requirements for Clearance of Agricultural Chemicals'. For the information of honourable senators a copy of this has been placed in the Parliamentary Library. These data include extensive toxicological details, such as feeding studies extending over two years and all relevant scientific investigations carried out by the company or on its behalf by specialist toxicological laboratories, under contract to the particular section of industry concerned. The expert members of the Poisons Schedule Committee also carry out a review of the relevant material in the scientific literature both in Australia and overseas. Further information is obtained from such bodies as the Environmental Protection Agency and the Food & Drug Administration of the USA; the Food & Agriculture Organization; the World Health Organization; the International Agency for Research on Cancer, the British Industrial Biological Research Association (BIBRA) and other bodies and academic institutions and research workers throughout the world. {: type="1" start="2"} 0. Yes. The Poisons Schedule Committee and other appropriate Committees of the National Health & Medical Research Council keep all such substances under continual review. 1. Registration and clearance procedures in Australia are generally regarded as being stricter than those in most other western countries and at least comparable to the US requirements. However the Committee does not automatically follow the lead given by other countries but assesses each application on its merits and in the light of the most extensive and up-to-date toxicological information available. {:#subdebate-65-16} #### Imports of Petroleum Products (Question No. 2702) {: #subdebate-65-16-s0 .speaker-K1M} ##### Senator Primmer: asked the Minister for National Development and Energy, upon notice, on 21 April 1980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. 1 ) What was the value of imports of: (a) aviation gasolene: (b) motor spirit; (c) aviation turbine fuel: (d) lighting kerosene; (e) power kerosene; (f) automotive distillate: (g) industrial diesel fuel; (h) fuel oil and other heavy oils; (i) lubricants; (j) bitumen and (k) other crude oil and petroleum products, including solvents, for the year 1978-79. 1. What was the value of exports of: (a) aviation gasolene; (b) motor spirit; (c) aviation turbine fuel; (d) lighting kerosene; (e) power kerosene; (f) automotive distillate: (g) industrial fuel oil; (h) fuel oil; (i) lubricants; and (j) other crude oil and petroleum products, including liquefied petroleum gas, for the year 1978-79. {: #subdebate-65-16-s1 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- The answer to the honourable senator's question is as follows: {:#subdebate-65-17} #### Customs Officers, Sydney Airport (Question No. 2706) {: #subdebate-65-17-s0 .speaker-K6F} ##### Senator Cavanagh: asked the AttorneyGeneral, upon notice, on 22 April 1 980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. Was advice given to the Deputy Crown Solicitor, relating to the incident of two customs officers who retained jewellery from a passenger's luggage (see Senate *Hansard,* page 1 542), to the effect that a witness was available who was prepared to testify that he saw and heard both officers during the search pick up and examine expensive jewellery from the luggage and while putting some article in their respective pockets say 'this will do for my wife'. 1. Was the Deputy Crown Solicitor advised that some of the articles of jewellery were found at the homes of each officer. {: #subdebate-65-17-s1 .speaker-8G4} ##### Senator Durack:
LP -- The answer to the honourable senator's question is as follows: {: type="A" start="1"} 0. I ) The papers which were referred to the office of the Deputy Crown Solicitor, Sydney, contained a copy of a record of interview with a **Mr VVacyk** dated 6 July 1979, a copy of a subsequent statement made by **Mr Wacyk** dated 25 July 1 979 and a copy of a report dated 24 August 1979 from **Mr R.** A. Wilson, Internal Affairs Section, Department of Business and Consumer Affairs. lc is in his statement dated 25 July 1979 that **Mr Wacyk** makes the allegation referred to in this question. The report of **Mr R.** A. Wilson indicates that **Mr Wacyk** is prepared to testify on the basis of the allegation which he makes. {: type="1" start="2"} 0. It appears from the report of **Mr R.** A. Wilson that certain property was recovered from the home of one of the Customs officers. It also appears from that report that a search was made of the other Customs officer's home, his vehicle and his locker but no jewellery was *found* {:#subdebate-65-18} #### New Zealand Cheese: Access to Australian Market (Question No. 2708) {: #subdebate-65-18-s0 .speaker-TJ4} ##### Senator Walsh: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Primary Industry, upon notice, on 22 April 1980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. Did the Minister for Primary Industry state in Warragul on 21 March 1980: 'Let me assure you that the Government will not allow the Australian dairy industry to be adversely affected by economic co-operation, and that we are making this point most plain in our negotiations with New Zealand'. 1. Does the statement mean that New Zealand cheese will not be given easier access to the Australian market; if not, what did he mean; if so, how does the Minister reconcile that with the joint declaration on 21 March 1980 by the Prime Ministers of Australia and New Zealand: 'the Prime Ministers endorsed the following principles: (a) the freest possible movement of goods between the two countries'. {: #subdebate-65-18-s1 .speaker-K5H} ##### Senator Scott:
NCP/NP -- The Minister for Primary Industry has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. Yes. 1. See reply to Question No. 2707 on 23 May 1980 *(Hansard,* page 2906). Inquiry into Electricity Generation and the Sharing of Power Resources in South-East Australia (Question No. 2711) {: #subdebate-65-18-s2 .speaker-ISW} ##### Senator Wriedt: asked the Minister representing the Prime Minister, upon notice, on 21 April 1980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. When will the Commonwealth inquiry into electricity distribution in south-east Australia commence. 1. What are the terms of reference for the proposed inquiry. 2. From whom are submissions being sought, and will they be made public. 3. Does the Committee propose to conduct public inquiries. 4. By what date is the Committee expected to report. {: #subdebate-65-18-s3 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- The Prime Minister has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. The Committee of Inquiry into Electricity Generation and the Sharing of Power Resources in South-East Australia held its inaugural meeting on 2 May 1980. 1. The Terms of Reference for the Inquiry are as follows: Whereas the Governments of New South Wales, Victoria and the Commonwealth developed, in co-operation, arrangements for the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electricity Scheme, the Commonwealth Government and the Government of New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania have agreed that a Committee of Inquiry should be appointed: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. 1 ) to inquire into the feasibility of establishing a strongly integrated South-East Australia Electricity power grid through further co-operative governmental arrangements; 1. to examine the provision of increased capacity for the exchange of power across State borders to ensure continuity of power supplies and optimum use of fuel resources; and 2. to examine the need for possible location and type of new power stations to support the establishment of the proposed grid. In carrying out its functions the Committee should have regard to: {: type="a" start="a"} 0. all alternative sources of primary energy for electricity generation; and 1. the technical feasibility, the economics and the social and environmental impacts of the possible alternatives'. {: type="1" start="3"} 0. Submissions will be invited from Commonwealth and State Government departments, statutory authorities, professional institutions, private corporations and public interest groups. Publication of submissions will depend upon their content and confidentiality provisions. 1. 1 understand that the Committee decided that in view of the highly specialised technical nature of the Inquiry it was considered unlikely that public inquiries would be of significant assistance at this stage. 2. The Committee will endeavour to complete its report within one year from its establishment. {:#subdebate-65-19} #### Energy Saving (Question No. 2742) {: #subdebate-65-19-s0 .speaker-KTJ} ##### Senator Mcintosh:
WESTERN AUSTRALIA asked the Minister for National Development and Energy, upon notice, on 29 April 1980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. Has the Minister for National Development and Energy seen an article entitled 'Energy- Crisis of Unused Technology', which appeared in *The Australian Consulting Engineer* (Volume 9, No. I), dated February 1980, in which the author, **Mr M.** H. Thomas, suggests that the technology is available to enable Australia to realistically target for an energy saving in industry of between 1 5 per cent and 25 per cent. 1. ls **Mr Thomas** a partner in Merz and McLellan and Partners and was he a member of the task force on energy of the Institute of Engineers of Australia. 2. Would an energy saving of between 15 per cent and 25 per cent in manufacturing industry amount to a saving, based on imported oil prices as at 28 April 1980, of approximately $l,000m. 3. Do the statements contained in the article relating to energy savings, have any basis in fact. {: #subdebate-65-19-s1 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- The answer to the honourable senator's question is as follows: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. Yes. 1. **Mr M.** H. Thomas is a partner in Merz and McLellan and Partners. Whilst he was not a member of the Task Force on Energy set up by the Council of the Institution of Engineers, he was a member of Working Party 10 on Energy Use and Conservation in Industry appointed by the Task Force. 2. An energy saving of 20 per cent in manufacturing industry would amount to a saving, based on current imported crude oil prices and estimated 1979-80 energy consumption in industry, of approximately $900m. However, actual oil savings would approximate $200m since oil represents only about 24 per cent of total manufacturing industry energy use. Savings in other fuels, based on their estimated respective prices, would amount to around $350m. These estimates assume, of course, a 20 per cent saving in each fuel. {: type="1" start="4"} 0. Yes. Several studies in other countries have come to similar conclusions to those reached in the report of Working Party No. 1 0 of which **Mr Thomas** was a member; that is, that the scope for conservation in industry is between 15 per cent and 25 per cent, that such saving is viable at current prices, and that the major barrier to effecting these savings is the consumers' ignorance or lack of information both on the opportunities that exist and on the methods of achieving more efficient energy use. As part of the National Energy Conservation Program, provision has been made for advisory services. An introductory information bulletin *Using Energy Wisely in Industry* has already been released. In addition a set of 12 Advisory Booklets aimed at energy managers of small to medium-sized firms are to be published. Four of these booklets introduce energy management, the rest deal with specific process or equipment. The first booklets should be published by mid-1980. {:#subdebate-65-20} #### Oil Spillage (Question No. 2750) {: #subdebate-65-20-s0 .speaker-KVK} ##### Senator Mulvihill: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Transport, upon notice, on 24 April 1 980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. How many instances of oil spillage occurred off the Australian coastline during the period 1 September 1 979 to 3 1 March 1980. 1. Where did the spillages occur. 2. In each spillage: {: type="a" start="a"} 0. what were the names of the vessels involved; 1. under what flag did they operate: and 2. in what cases were penalties imposed. {: #subdebate-65-20-s1 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- The Minister for Transport has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question. {: type="1" start="1"} 0. During the period from 1 September 1979 to 31 March 1980, 93 marine pollution reports were made to my Department. Of these 41 were classified as possible oil slicks. For a number of reasons it was not possible to confirm the presence of oil either because no sample could be obtained for analysis or the slick could not subsequently be relocated. In one of these incidents it is almost certain that an oil spillage was involved. 1. This incident occurred 100 nautical miles south of Kangaroo Island, South Australia. 2. (a) M.V. *Farid Fares* caught fire and sank. {: type="a" start="b"} 0. Lebanese registry. 1. No penalty imposed. {:#subdebate-65-21} #### Qantas Airways Ltd: Sydney Stages 1 and 2 Project (Question No. 2752) {: #subdebate-65-21-s0 .speaker-ZI4} ##### Senator Rocher: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Transport, upon notice, on 29 April 1980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. 1 ) When was development consent for the Qantas Airways Ltd Stages 1 and 2 project granted by the Sydney City Council. 1. What were the estimated costs of developing each of Stages I and 2 set out in the original or any subsequent application requiring Council approval. 2. Did any applications for building or development approval include an estimated completion date for either of Stages I or 2; if so, what were the dates. {: #subdebate-65-21-s1 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- The Minister for Transport has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. 19 August 1968. 1. $2Sm for Stage I in the building application made in 1971. 2. 1973 for Stage 1. {:#subdebate-65-22} #### Qantas Airways Ltd: Sydney Stage 1 Project (Question No. 2751) {: #subdebate-65-22-s0 .speaker-ZI4} ##### Senator Rocher: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Transport, upon notice, on 29 April 1980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. ) What areas of (a) office accommodation; (b) other accommodation; and (c) car parking space will be required by Qantas Airways Ltd on completion of its Sydney Stage 1 project. 1. Which levels of the building will be occupied by Qantas. 2. What is the estimated date for (a) completion; and (b) occupation by Qantas. {: #subdebate-65-22-s1 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- The Minister for Transport has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="A" start="I"} 0. and (2) The precise areas have not yet been finally determined. {: type="1" start="3"} 0. This is dependent upon the performance of the builder. Dillingham Australia Ltd, in view of whose past performance, and the delays in which it has been involved it would be imprudent to state a completion date. The extended date for practical completion under the contract is 3 1 March 1 98 1 . Public Telephones in Northern Territory (Question No. 2753) {: #subdebate-65-22-s2 .speaker-K2U} ##### Senator Robertson: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Post and Telecommunications, upon notice, on 29 April 1 980: >What criteria are used in the placement of public telephones, especially in regard to suburban and rural areas of the Northern Territory. {: #subdebate-65-22-s3 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- The Minister for Post and Telecommunications has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >Telecom advises that the criteria used in determining the placement of public telephones in the Northern Territory are the same as those applied elsewhere, namely: the revenue earning potential of the proposed site; the degree of need by the public for the facility (i.e. special service needs); the conspicuous nature of the location, and the proximity of other public and private telephone facilities; and the availability of line plant and power supply. > >There are settled areas away from the main highways in the Northern Territory which cannot be served by public telephones at this stage because of the lack of suitable communications links. {:#subdebate-65-23} #### Hexachlorophane (Question No. 2762) {: #subdebate-65-23-s0 .speaker-L8O} ##### Senator Mason: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 29 April 1980: >Will the Minister for Health immediately set standards for non-phenolic substances which include dioxin, limiting permissible dioxin levels in hexachlorophane used in Australia; if not, why not. {: #subdebate-65-23-s1 .speaker-C7D} ##### Senator Dame Margaret Guilfoyle:
LP -- The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >On 23 April 1 980 in answer to Question No. 2037 *(Hansard* page 1794), I advised that the current standard for hexachlorophane does not include a test for dioxin content and the 1980 British Pharmacopoeia (B.P.) monograph will contain a limit for non-phenolic substances, which include dioxin. > >Examination of this new B.P. monograph now to hand indicates that this may not be sufficiently precise to limit the dioxin in hexachlorophane to a specific level. > >Hexachlorophane imported into Australia at the present time is claimed to contain less than 2 parts per thousand million of dioxin (0.002 ppm). This is well below the limit of determination of any methodology currently available in Australia. {:#subdebate-65-24} #### Commemorative Stamps: 1980 Olympic Games (Question No. 2763) {: #subdebate-65-24-s0 .speaker-PF4} ##### Senator Colston: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Post and Telecommunications, upon notice, on 29 April 1 980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. Did the Minister for Post and Telecommunications 'inform' or 'advise' the Chairman of the Australian Postal Commission of the Government's view of the possible issue of stamps in relation to the Moscow Games (vide Question No. 26 10, Senate *Hansard,* 28 April 1980, page 1867). 1. If the Minister 'informed' the Chairman, why was it said in the answer to Question No. 2610 that the Commission considered the Minister's 'advice'. 2. What are the full details of the 'information' or 'advice' which the Minister gave to the Chairman of the Australian Postal Commission. {: #subdebate-65-24-s1 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- The Minister for Post and Telecommunications has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. I informed the Chairman, Australian Postal Commission of the Government's view. 1. The word 'advice' was used in the sense of informing. 2. I told the Commission of the Government's view that Australia Post should not proceed with the issue of the special series of postage stamps to commemorate the 1980 Olympics. I told the Commission that the Government would appreciate the agreement of the Postal Commission that it would abandon completely its planning for a special stamps issue, and I said that it would be helpful if the Chairman could advise me of the Commission's decision as soon as practicable. On 18 March, the Chairman of the Commission informed me that at its 1 1 March meeting, the Commission had decided to abandon completely and irrevocably its proposed stamps issue for the Moscow Olympic Games. Research on Dingoes (Question No. 2777) {: #subdebate-65-24-s2 .speaker-KVK} ##### Senator Mulvihill: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Science and the Environment, upon notice, on 1 3 May 1980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. Has the Minister for Science and the Environment noted the statement made by **Mr L.** Harris, the President of the Dingo Foundation that the mountain dingo faces extinction in twenty years. 1. What research is being done at present on dingoes by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation with particular reference to the mountain dingo. {: #subdebate-65-24-s3 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- The Minister for Science and the Environment has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. The Dingo Foundation is a private organisation concerned with promoting the dingo as a domestic breed in its own right, and with conservation of wild stocks. It is especially concerned about dingoes which inhabit the mountainous regions of Victoria, (and New South Wales) which it sees as a distinct species - the 'alpine dingo'. I am advised by CSIRO that there is no scientific evidence for this distinction. No authoritative data are available as to whether the dingo population is increasing, decreasing or remaining static in those regions. 1. The CSIRO's Division of Wildlife Research completed a large-scale, ten-year field study of the dingo in 1976. Analysis of results and publication continues, and includes papers on the identity of the dingo. Most 'dingoes' from Gippsland, examined by CSIRO, were classified as cross breeds after rigorous statistical testing. Further work on the dingo has begun in Arnhem Land as part of an overall study of natural predators. This will complement the previous intensive studies which were conducted in central and south-eastern Australia. {:#subdebate-65-25} #### Australian Motor Vehicle Industry (Question No. 2786) {: #subdebate-65-25-s0 .speaker-PF4} ##### Senator Colston: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Industry and Commerce, upon notice, on 13 May 1980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. 1 ) Has the Minister for Industry and Commerce been provided with or sought evidence of staff dismissals by the Ford Motor Company of Australia Ltd throughout Australia. 1. Has the Government announced an overall strategy in relation to the Australian motor vehicle industry: if so, what is that strategy. 2. Does the Ford Motor Company of Australia Ltd continue to produce heavier type vehicles in preference to smaller four cylinder vehicles. {: #subdebate-65-25-s1 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- The Minister for Industry and Commerce has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. Yes. 1. Yes. The intention of the Government's policies for the passenger motor vehicle industry is to achieve an appropriate balance between the competing objectives of maintaining a viable industry producing at high levels of local content and ensuring consumers access to reliable, economical and reasonably priced vehicles. The principle instruments for carrying out this policy are: The Motor Vehicle Manufacturing Plan which requires manufacturers entering into the Plan to maintain local content of 85 per cent on.a.weighted average basis; The incorporation within the Plan, as from March 1982, of export facilitation arrangements; and Adoption of arrangements aimed at enabling local producers to achieve about 80 per cent of the Australian market for passenger motor vehicles. Additionally the Government has indicated that it would not favour any significant expansion of investment in assembly operations outside the Plan. For further elaboration of the Government's policy I refer the honourable **Senator to** the following papers: Ministerial Statement of 31 March 1976 (Senate *Hansard,* page 1128) by the Minister for Industry and Commerce, following review of motor vehicle industry policy Statement by the Minister for Industry and Commerce of 9 June 1976, following the Government's approval for Nissan and Toyota to enter the Motor Vehicle Manufacturing Plan Opening address by the Minister for Industry and Commerce to the 1978 Convention of the Federation of Automotive Products Manufacturers (Canberra, 13 November 1978) Ministerial statement of 22 February 1 979 (House of Representatives *Hansard,* page 315) by the Minister for Industry and Commerce announcing introduction of export facilitation provisions in the Motor Vehicle Manufacturing Plan Opening address by the Minister for Industry and Commerce to the 1979 Convention of the Federation of Automotive Products Manufacturers (Canberra, 12 November 1979) Statement of 18 December 1979 by the Minister for Industry and Commerce and the Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs, announcing the Government's decision on the final details of the Export Facilitation arrangements to be introduced into the Motor Vehicle Manufacturing Plan. The Government has referred to the Industries Assistance Commission for inquiry and report appropriate assistance measures for the industry after December 1984 when the present Motor Vehicle Manufacturing Plan expires. The IAC is required to report by 31 December 1980. {: type="1" start="3"} 0. The Ford Motor Company of Australia Limited produces a range of passenger motor vehicles which includes four cylinder vehicles as well as six and eight cylinder vehicles. Decisions as to product mix are matters for the commercial judgment of the company. Figures published by ADAPS for new vehicle registrations indicate that about 26 per cent of all Ford passenger vehicles registered in 1 979 and to date in 1 980 were four cylinder vehicles. Libyan Citizens in Australia (Question No. 2795) {: #subdebate-65-25-s2 .speaker-ZI4} ##### Senator Rocher: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Immigration and Ethnic Affairs, upon notice, on 1 3 May 1 980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. ) How many Libyan citizens are there in Australia. 1. How many of these are: (a) diplomatic personnel with diplomatic immunity; (b) employed by the Libyan Government or its agencies and without diplomatic immunity; and (c) members of the families of such employees. 2. How many naturalised Australian citizens were formerly Libyan citizens. {: #subdebate-65-25-s3 .speaker-C7D} ##### Senator Dame Margaret Guilfoyle:
LP -- The Minister for Immigration and Ethnic Affairs has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. 1 ) Statistics indicating the number of Libyan citizens in Australia are not available. They would be contained in the Other Africa' category in the 1976 statistics for birthplace. In the 1 976 Census that category totalled 6,884. 1. (a) Four, (b) nil, (c) fourteen (four wives and 10 children). 2. Between 1 January 1973 and 31 December 1979 18 persons who claimed to be Libyan citizens were granted Australian citizenship. Statistics prior to this period do not record separately any Libyan citizens who may have been granted Australian citizenship. {:#subdebate-65-26} #### Libyan Government Support to Separatist Movements (Question No. 2796) {: #subdebate-65-26-s0 .speaker-ZI4} ##### Senator Rocher: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Foreign Affairs, upon notice, on 1 4 May 1 980: >Are separatist movements in the Basque area of France, and in the French overseas departments including Australia's neighbour New Caledonia, given moral, financial and material support by the Libyan Government. {: #subdebate-65-26-s1 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- The Foreign Minister has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >Advice received from the French Government indicates that there is no concrete evidence or indication of Libyan support of any significance to separatist movements in the Basque area of France or in French overseas departments including New Caledonia. Non-official Post Offices in Queensland (Question No. 2799) {: #subdebate-65-26-s2 .speaker-PF4} ##### Senator Colston: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Post and Telecommunications, upon notice, on 13 May 1980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. How many mail services originate from non-official Post Offices in Queensland. 1. Is it proposed to transfer any of those services to another office; if so, (a) which services: and (b) for what reason. 2. Is consideration being given to the transfer of any of those services to another office; if so, (a) which services; and (b) for what reason. {: #subdebate-65-26-s3 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- The Minister for Post and Telecommunications has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. 292. 1. No. (a) and (b) Not applicable. 2. Yes. (a) MSF282- Coominya Non-official Post Office to Buaraba and Bauer's Box, MSF240 - Fernvale Non-official Post Office to North's Box, MSI 1068- Samford Non-official Post Office to Camp Mountain, MSI1063- Samford Nonofficial Post Office to Dayboro, MSI 1 259- Samford Nonofficial Post Office to Mt Glorious. {: type="a" start="b"} 0. Under the terms of section 7 of the Postal Services Act 1975, Australia Post is required to operate its services as efficiently and economically as practicable. In accordance with this requirement, it is Australia Post's practice, prior to the termination date of each road mail contract, to review the service provided under the contract to confirm the continuing need for the service and to determine whether the same standard of service could be provided more economically by a rearrangement of existing services. In this context, mail services MSF282 and MSF240, originating from Coominya and Fernvale Non-official Post Offices respectively, are to be reviewed early in 1981 , along with several other mail services which operate from the Lowood Post Office. If the reviews show that some form of re-arrangement or amalgamation of mail services would result in financial savings being achieved, without an adverse effect on the services being provided, both services may then be changed to operate from Lowood. Mail services MSI 1 068, MSI 1 063 and MSI 1 259, which currently operate from the Samford Non-official Post Office, will be subject to a similar review early in 1981. If the results of the review indicate that some re-arrangement of the services would result in financial savings, without an adverse effect on the service provided, such a re-arrangement may be made. Any changes proposed to the above mail services would be unlikely to be implemented before 1 July 1981. Swedish Companies in Australia (Question No. 2800) {: #subdebate-65-26-s4 .speaker-IE4} ##### Senator Archer: asked the Minister representing the Treasurer, upon notice, on 14 May 1980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. What wholly owned Swedish companies operate in Australia. 1. What is the extent of the Swedish capital invested in each of these companies. 2. What has been the capital inflow and outflow from each such company in each year from 1 974-75 to 1 979-80. 3. Has there been any move to secure an Australian participation in any of these companies; if so, which companies, and to what extent. {: #subdebate-65-26-s5 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- The Treasurer has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. Some information on Swedish companies operating in Australia is provided in the Department of Industry and Commerce publication *Directory of Overseas Investment in Australian Manufacturing Industry 1976* which indicates that the following Swedish companies have wholly owned subsidiaries in Australia: Aktiebolaget Volvo Alfa-LavalAB9 Allmana Svenska Elecktriska AB AB Bofors LM Ericsson Telephone Co. Kockum Industries AB Svenska Flaktfabriken AB Svenska Kullagerfabriken In addition, the Directory indicates that overseas subsidiaries of the following other Swedish companies have wholly owned subsidiaries in Australia: Atlas Copco AB Axel Johnson Group AB Electrolux Sandvik AV Tetra Pak International AB Trelleborgs Gummifabriks Aktiebolag {: type="1" start="2"} 0. Statistics on total investment by foreign residents in enterprises in Australia are collected and published by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). Due to confidentiality requirements, ABS does not release information on individual companies. However, ABS statistics indicate that at 30 June 1978 the level of foreign investment in corporate equities in companies in Australia that were reported as wholly owned by individuals or companies resident in Sweden was$A22.5 million. This figure is subject to significant qualification. Foreign investment in corporate equities is calculated on paid-up value only and this results in an understatement of the total real stock value. Moreover, because the ABS country classification reflects the country of domicile of the foreign investor to whom the enterprises in Australia have the immediate liability, the figure above excludes enterprises in Australia wholly owned by companies from third countries which are ultimately owned by companies resident in Sweden and include enterprises in Australia wholly owned by Swedish companies which are ultimately owned by companies from third countries. 1. Due to confidentiality requirements, ABS does not release information on individual companies. However, ABS statistics indicate that between 1974-75 and 1978-79 (1979-80 data are not yet available) the inflow of direct investment in enterprises in Australia from Sweden amounted to$A60.8 million. There were 53 enterprises in Australia recording direct investment from Sweden at 30 June 1978. This figure covers a number of transactions in addition to those involving wholly owned subsidiaries of Swedish companies. Figures for inflow of direct foreign investment in Australia record the net amounts of transactions between Australian subsidiaries and branches and their foreign parents and related enterprises and head offices with, for example, a loan by an Australian subsidiary to its foreign parent being recorded as a negative inflow. Also, because the ABS country classification reflects the country of domicile of the foreign investor to whom the enterprises in Australia have the immediate liability, the figure of$A60.8 million excludes any direct investment in enterprises in Australia by companies from third countries which are ultimately owned by companies resident in Sweden and includes any direct investment in enterprises in Australia by Swedish companies which are ultimately owned by companies from third countries. 2. All proposals submitted for examination under the Government's foreign investment policy are considered in the light of the general objective of seeking Australian participation to the extent appropriate to the particular circumstances of each proposal, with specific guidelines for Australian involvement being set down for new natural resource projects. However, I am unable to advise which Swedish companies may have been involved as information received by the Government in connection with foreign investment proposals is treated in confidence. Foreign Investment Review Board statistics indicate that over the period between the establishment of the Board on 8 April 1 976 and 3 1 March 1 980 one proposal by Swedish interests to form a wholly owned subsidiary or branch in Australia was approved by the Government on the condition that they introduce a specified level of Australian participation in their local operations over a specified period. {:#subdebate-65-27} #### High Court: Legal Volumes for Chief Justice (Question No. 2802) {: #subdebate-65-27-s0 .speaker-TJ4} ##### Senator Walsh: asked the Attorney-General, upon notice, on 14 May 1980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. ) Did the Chief Justice of the High Court of Australia request a legal publishing firm to supply him with hand-tooled morocco leather bound legal volumes; if so: (a) when was the request made; (b) when was the material supplied; (c) what was the name of the publisher; (d) what was the value of the material supplied; (e) where is it presently kept; and (f) where will it be kept after the retirement of **Sir Garfield** Barwick. 1. Was any payment made or offered to the publisher; if not, why not. {: #subdebate-65-27-s1 .speaker-8G4} ##### Senator Durack:
LP -- The answer to the honourable senator's question is as follows: >I am advised by the Chief Justice of Australia that no such request was made. The Chief Justice is the General Editor of the Australian Commentary on the Fourth Edition of *Halsbury.* In that capacity he was supplied personally with the volumes of that work as it was progressively published. {:#subdebate-65-28} #### Alternative Funding for Fire Brigades (Question No. 2810) {: #subdebate-65-28-s0 .speaker-IE4} ##### Senator Archer: asked the Minister representing the Treasurer, upon notice, on 1 3 May 1 980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. 1 ) Has the Government received representations from the Insurance Council of Australia on alternative funding proposals for fire brigades. 1. Has the Government given consideration to these proposals, and has there been any discussion with those authorities currently responsible for consideration of some alternatives that may be both more equitable to the whole community, and less of a burden to those people who currently take full insurance. {: #subdebate-65-28-s1 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- The Treasurer has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. Yes. Over the past few years the Government has received a number of representations from the Insurance Council of Australia on matters relating to financing and coordination of State fire brigade services including proposals for alternative funding of such services. 1. In responding to these representations it was indicated to the Council that the funding of State fire brigade services is a matter which traditionally and constitutionally rests with the States and that it would not be appropriate for the Government to intervene in the funding arrangements of the States in this area. More recently the Council has raised these matters with the States and it is understood that some States have made, or have under consideration, changes to arrangements for funding of fire brigade services. The Council is keeping the Government informed of developments in a number of States. {:#subdebate-65-29} #### Australian Dairy Corporation: Provision of Car to Chairman (Question No. 2811) {: #subdebate-65-29-s0 .speaker-KTZ} ##### Senator McLaren: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Primary Industry, upon notice, on 14 May 1 980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. Are statutory authorities such as the Australian Dairy Corporation (ADC) required to conform with Government policy directives on the provision of cars to board members and staff and to the country of origin of those vehicles. 1. Was a car provided in 1 979 by the then Chairman of the Australian Dairy Corporation for the exclusive use of the Deputy Chairman, without the concurrence or knowledge of the ADC Board; if so, was the vehicle of foreign make, contrary to Government policy. 2. Did the ADC meet all running expenses of this vehicle during 1979 and were payments made to the Deputy Chairman during 1979 as President of the United Dairyfarmers of Victoria which included payment for motor vehicle running expenses: if so, will the Minister for Primary Industry undertake to ensure that funds provided by dairy farmers have not been paid twice to meet the same expense. {: #subdebate-65-29-s1 .speaker-K5H} ##### Senator Scott:
NCP/NP -- The Minister for Primary Industry has provided the following answers to the honourable senator's questions: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. 1 ) The Australian Dairy Corporation is required to conform with the directions of the Government relating to provision of motor cars for members and staff and also to Government purchasing policy. 1. A Toyota Crown 2600, imported in knocked down form and assembled in Australia, was purchased by the Australian Dairy Corporation on the instruction of its then Chairman in November 1978. From that date until 31 December 1979 the vehicle was used by the Deputy Chairman of the Corporation. I have been informed that this arrangement first came to the notice or the Board of the Corporation in August 1979. Following consideration of the subject by the Board of the Corporation, the then Chairman wrote to me on 8 October 1979 concerning the matter. In my reply, I advised him that vehicles could be purchased for a car pool for use, but not exclusive use, by members and staff of the Corporation. I also indicated that it was long standing Government policy that a car of suitable standard may be provided for official use primarily, but not exclusively, by Permanent Heads and their equivalents in statutory authorities, that is, on a 'first call' basis. {: type="1" start="3"} 0. In 1979 the Australian Dairy Corporation paid a total of $ 1 ,609 for repairs and maintenance; petrol; and registration and insurance in connection with the vehicle. I understand that the President of the United Dairyfarmers of Victoria is entitled to an allowance when using a car on business associated with that body. Details of any such payments made to the President are, however, a matter between him and the organisation and accordingly, I am not in a position to comment on the inference contained in the final part of the question. CSIRO Division of Fisheries and Oceanography (Question No. 2822) {: #subdebate-65-29-s2 .speaker-4F4} ##### Senator Button: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Science and the Environment, upon notice, on 1 5 May 1 980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. 1 ) What is the estimated capital cost of all expenditure associated with establishing the new facilities of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CS RO) Division of Fisheries and Oceanography at Hobart. 1. What is to be constructed, and what is the proposed timetable of construction. 2. What is the estimated cost of transferring facilities and staff from Sydney to Hobart. 3. Will the proposed research vessel be considered a national facility available for other marine research, or will it be used exclusively by CSIRO. 4. Will the vessel be operated in addition to those presently chartered by CSIRO, or will it replace chartered vessels. 5. Will extra recurrent funding be supplied to increase the CSIRO marine science effort, over and above funds needed for the transfer, or will the level of activity be identical to that presently applying to Sydney. {: #subdebate-65-29-s3 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- The Minister for Science and the Environment has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. $25m at 1 980 prices. 1. Laboratories, site and research vessel facilities for the CSIRO Divisions of Oceanography and Fisheries Research. Subject to approval by the Parliamentary Public Works Committee later this year it is planned to let the main contract for construction of laboratories and facilities in the 1 98 1 -82 financial year, lt is estimated that the construction phase of the project will be about three years. 2. The estimated cost of transferring facilities and staff is $2. 6m, some of which will be required on a recurring basis to meet additional operating costs. 3. The proposed oceanographic research vessel will be operated by CSIRO as a national facility. 4. The new vessel will replace the existing oceanographic research vessel *Sprightly,* a converted ocean tug which is operated by CSIRO on charter. CSIRO will continue to charter a fisheries research vessel, currently the *Soela,* for fisheries research including commitments in the Australian Fishing Zone. 5. The matter of resources required for CSIRO's marine science effort is under consideration at present. {:#subdebate-65-30} #### Recurrent Mouse Plagues (Question No. 2824) {: #subdebate-65-30-s0 .speaker-JXG} ##### Senator Neal: asked the Minister for Science and the Environment, upon notice, on 15 May 1980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. What work has been done and is currently being done by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO) on the control of recurrent mouse plagues. 1. What financial and human resources are involved in the CSIRO's program. 2. Do any of the areas being researched indicate the possibility of control by biological or other means. 3. Will additional funding be provided for the CSIRO for the program; if so, what order and time scale is envisaged. {: #subdebate-65-30-s1 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- The Minister for Science and the Environment has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. Studies by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO) are aimed primarily towards understanding the mechanisms causing the build-up of plagues. This work involves accurate assessments of lasses caused by mice in both plague and non-plague years; a study of the ecology of mice in rural districts; and examination of farming practices, such as burning or grazing of stubble, as possible means of mouse control; and the development of a predictive model of mouse plagues using data from a study which began in the University of Adelaide in 1963 and was later taken up by the CSIRO Division of Wildlife Research. The preliminary results are encouraging, the level of prediction - based on seasonal conditions up to twelve months prior to an outbreak - being around 70 per cent. 1. The current program is undertaken by two professional staff and two technical assistants who are funded from CSIRO's Appropriation allocation, together with another staff member who is supported by external funds. The following table shows the expenditure during 1978-79 and the anticipated expenditure on this work for the current year. {: type="1" start="3"} 0. No work is currently being done on biological or other control. The program is aimed at understanding the causes or eruptions to provide prior warning, so that conventional control methods can be applied to have maximum effect while populations are low. 1. No expansion of resources allocated to the mouse plague is envisaged on current budget projections. The program will be maintained at its present level. {:#subdebate-65-31} #### Electoral: Informal Votes (Question No. 2827) {: #subdebate-65-31-s0 .speaker-L8O} ##### Senator Mason: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Administrative Services, upon notice, on 14 May 1980: >What is the text of the internal working document referred to by the Minister in answer to **Senator Mason's** Question No. 2493 (see Senate *Hansard* dated 14 May 1980). {: #subdebate-65-31-s1 .speaker-K5H} ##### Senator Scott:
NCP/NP -- The Minister for Administrative Services has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >As I said in answer to Question No. 2493 the paper is an internal working document. As such, I do not propose to table it, or make it otherwise available. {:#subdebate-65-32} #### Department of Primary Industry: Appointments of Senior Staff (Question No. 2834) {: #subdebate-65-32-s0 .speaker-TJ4} ##### Senator Walsh: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Primary Industry, upon notice: {: type="A" start="I"} 0. ) What are the names and employment classifications of all persons who have been appointed to positions in the Second Division and above within the Department of Primary Industry since December, 1975 who were not previously public servants. {: #subdebate-65-32-s1 .speaker-K5H} ##### Senator Scott:
NCP/NP -- The Minister for Primary Industry has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="A" start="I"} 0. There have been the following three permanent appointments to the Second Division and above since December, 1 975 of persons who were not previously public servants: **Dr W.** J. Pryor, Assistant Director, Bureau of Animal Health **Dr R.** S. Morris, Veterinary Specialist, Bureau of Animal Health **Mr J.** G. Digby, Assistant Director, Bureau of Animal Health. {:#subdebate-65-33} #### Department of National Development and Energy: Appointments of Senior Staff (Question No. 2835) {: #subdebate-65-33-s0 .speaker-TJ4} ##### Senator Walsh: asked the Minister for National Development and Energy, upon notice, on 16 May 1980: >What are the names and employment classifications of all persons who have been appointed to positions in the Second Division and above within the Department of National Development and Energy since December 1975 who were not previously public servants. {: #subdebate-65-33-s1 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- The answer to the honourable senator's question is: >No persons have been appointed to positions in the Second Division and above within the Department of National Development and Energy who were not previously public servants. {:#subdebate-65-34} #### Department of Industrial Relations: Appointments of Senior Staff (Question No. 2836) {: #subdebate-65-34-s0 .speaker-TJ4} ##### Senator Walsh: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Industrial Relations, upon notice, on 16 May 1980: >What are the names and employment classifications of all persons who have been appointed to positions in the Second Division and above within the Department of Industrial Relations since December 1 975 who were not previously public servants. {: #subdebate-65-34-s1 .speaker-8G4} ##### Senator Durack:
LP -- The Minister for Industrial Relations has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >There have been no appointments made in the Second Division or above within the Department of Industrial Relations involving persons who were not previously members of the Australian Public Service. Department of the Treasury: Appointments of Senior Staff (Question No. 2837) {: #subdebate-65-34-s2 .speaker-TJ4} ##### Senator Walsh: asked the Minister representing the Treasurer, upon notice, on 1 6 May 1 980: >What are the names and employment classifications of all persons who have been appointed to positions in the Second Division and above within the Department of the Treasury since December 1975 who were not previously public servants. {: #subdebate-65-34-s3 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- The Treasurer has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >The following details are provided in relation to persons appointed to positions in the Second Division and above in my Department since December 1975. The information is supplied in relation to appointments to the Second Division under Section 33 of the Public Service Act and in relation to persons who were not previously permanent officers of the Australian Public Service at the time of their appointment. The employment classification is that to which appointment was effected. > > **Mr J.** R. Ford, O.B.E. was appointed as the Australian Government Actuary (Level 4), Office of the Australian Government Actuary, under Sections 33 and 37 of the Public Service Act, on 27 June 1 978. {:#subdebate-65-35} #### Department of Finance: Appointments of Senior Staff (Question No. 2841) {: #subdebate-65-35-s0 .speaker-TJ4} ##### Senator Walsh: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Finance, upon notice: >What are the names and employment classifications of all persons who have been appointed to positions in the Second Division and above within the Department of Finance since December 1 975 who were not previously public servants. {: #subdebate-65-35-s1 .speaker-C7D} ##### Senator Dame Margaret Guilfoyle:
LP -- The Minister for Finance has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >Since the Department of Finance was created in December 1976 there have not been any appointments to the Second Division under section 33 of the Public Service Act or as Permanent Head under section 54 of the Public Service Act that involved persons who were not public servants at the time of their appointment. > >There has, however, been such an appointment to a statutory office. **Mr R.** A. Hammond was appointed as Chairman, Superannuation Fund Investment Trust, on 3 April 1 978 for 7 years under section 30 of the Superannuation Act 1976. **Mr Hammond** was not a public servant prior to his appointment. {:#subdebate-65-36} #### Attorney-General's Department: Appointments of Senior Staff (Question No. 2843) {: #subdebate-65-36-s0 .speaker-TJ4} ##### Senator Walsh: asked the Attorney-General, upon notice, on 1 6 May 1 980: >What are the names and employment classifications of all persons who have been appointed in positions in the Second Division and above within the Attorney-General's Department since December 1975 who were not previously public servants. {: #subdebate-65-36-s1 .speaker-8G4} ##### Senator Durack:
LP -- The answer to the honourable senator's question is as follows: >The following details are provided in relation to persons appointed to positions in the Second Division and above in my Department since December 1975. The information is supplied in relation to appointments to the Second Division under Section 33 and as Permanent Head under Section 54 of the Public Service Act and in relation to persons who were not permanent officers of the APS at the time of their appointment. The employment classification is that to which appointments were effected. The information also includes the position held immediately prior to the date of appointment. > >Gerard A. Brennan - appointed as Senior Assistant Secretary, Level 2 on 19 May 1976. previously Senior Lecturer in International Law at Melbourne University. {:#subdebate-65-37} #### Department of Transport: Appointments of Senior Staff (Question No. 2844) {: #subdebate-65-37-s0 .speaker-TJ4} ##### Senator Walsh: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Transport, upon notice, on 16 May 1980: >What are the names and employment classifications of all persons who have been appointed to positions in the Second Division and above within the Department of Transport since December 1 975 who were not previously public servants. {: #subdebate-65-37-s1 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- The Minister for Transport has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >There are no persons in this category in the Department of Transport. {:#subdebate-65-38} #### Department of Health: Appointments of Senior Staff (Question No. 2845) {: #subdebate-65-38-s0 .speaker-TJ4} ##### Senator Walsh: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 1 5 May 1980: >What are the names and employment classifications of all persons who have been appointed to positions in the Second Division and above within the Department of Health since December 1 975 who were not previously public servants. {: #subdebate-65-38-s1 .speaker-C7D} ##### Senator Dame Margaret Guilfoyle:
LP -- The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >The following details are provided in relation to appointments to positions in the Second Division and above in the Department of Health since December 1975 of persons who were not at the time of their appointment permanent public servants in the Australian Public Service. The information is supplied in relation to appointments to the Second Division under Section 33 of the Public Service Act. The employment classification is that to which appointment was effected. The information also includes the position held immediately prior to the date of appointment. > > **Dr K.** Lokan Director, Level 1, Australian Radiation Laboratory. (Previously - Head of Electron Linear Accelerator Laboratory, Division of Physics, Canadian National Research Council, Ottawa.) > >Sister Paulina Pilkington, Assistant Director-General, Level 1, Nursing Branch, Medical Services Division (Previously - Temporarily employed as Director, Class 1 1 , Nursing Section, Medical Services Division. Prior to this temporary employment Sister Paulina was the Director of Nursing Education, School of Nursing, St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney.) {:#subdebate-65-39} #### Department of Veterans' Affairs: Appointments of Senior Staff (Question No. 2846) {: #subdebate-65-39-s0 .speaker-TJ4} ##### Senator Walsh: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Veterans' Affairs, upon notice, on 15 May 1980: >What are the names and employment classifications of all persons who have been appointed to positions in the Second Division and above within the Department of Veterans' Affairs since December 1975 who were not previously public servants. {: #subdebate-65-39-s1 .speaker-C7D} ##### Senator Dame Margaret Guilfoyle:
LP -- The Minister for Veterans' Affairs has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >There have been no such appointments. {:#subdebate-65-40} #### Department of Administrative Services: Appointments of Senior Staff (Question No. 2847) {: #subdebate-65-40-s0 .speaker-TJ4} ##### Senator Walsh: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Administrative Services, upon notice, on 16 May 1980: >What are the names and employment classifications of all persons who have been appointed to positions in the Second Division and above within the Department of Administrative Services since December 1975 who were not previously public servants. {: #subdebate-65-40-s1 .speaker-K5H} ##### Senator Scott:
NCP/NP -- The Minister for Administrative Services has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >No person who was not already a public servant has been appointed to a position in the Second Division or above within the Department of Administrative Services since December 1975. Department of the Capital Territory: Appointments of Senior Staff (Question No. 2854) {: #subdebate-65-40-s2 .speaker-TJ4} ##### Senator Walsh: asked the Minister representing the Minister for the Capital Territory, upon notice, on 16 May 1980: >What are the names and employment classifications of all persons who have been appointed to positions in the Second Division and above within the Department of the Capital Territory since December 1975 who were not previously public servants. {: #subdebate-65-40-s3 .speaker-K5H} ##### Senator Scott:
NCP/NP -- The Minister for the Capital Territory has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >I am informed by my Department that - > >There has been no person appointed to a Second Division position or above in the Department of the Capital Territory since December 1975 who was not previously a public servant. Department of Science and the Environment: Appointments of Senior Staff (Question No. 2858) {: #subdebate-65-40-s4 .speaker-TJ4} ##### Senator Walsh: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Science and the Environment, upon notice, on 16 May 1980: >What are the names and employment classifications of all persons who have been appointed to positions in the Second Division and above within the Department of Science and the Environment since December 1 975 who were not previously public servants. {: #subdebate-65-40-s5 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- The Minister for Science and the Environment has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >The following details are provided in relation to persons appointed to positions in the Second Division and above in my Department since December 1975. The information is supplied in relation to appointments to the Second Division under Section 33 and as Permanent Head under Section 54 of the Public Service Act and in relation to persons who were not permanent officers of the APS at the time of their appointment. > > **Mr Thomas** John Petry was appointed from the Overseas Telecommunications Commission to the position of Assistant Director (Level 1) Engineering and Operations Branch, Antarctic Division on 15 December 1976. **Mr Petry** was appointed under Section 33 of the Public Service Act. {:#subdebate-65-41} #### Minister for Finance: Appointments to Statutory Authorities (Question No. 2866) {: #subdebate-65-41-s0 .speaker-TJ4} ##### Senator Walsh: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Finance, upon notice: >What are the names, dates and terms of appointment and salaries of all persons appointed to the boards and commissions of statutory authorities under the jurisdiction of the Minister for Finance. {: #subdebate-65-41-s1 .speaker-C7D} ##### Senator Dame Margaret Guilfoyle:
LP -- The Minister for Finance has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {:#subdebate-65-42} #### Department of Housing and Construction: Appointments of Senior Staff (Question No. 2855) {: #subdebate-65-42-s0 .speaker-TJ4} ##### Senator Walsh: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Housing and Construction, upon notice, on 16 May 1980: >What are the names and employment classifications of all persons who have been appointed to positions in the Second Division and above within the Department of Housing and Construction since December 1975 who were not previously public servants. {: #subdebate-65-42-s1 .speaker-K5H} ##### Senator Scott:
NCP/NP -- The Minister for Housing and Construction has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >There have been no Second Division appointments under Section 33 of the Public Service Act to the Department of Housing and Construction since 1975. {:#subdebate-65-43} #### Minister for Transport: Appointments to Statutory Authorities (Question No. 2869) {: #subdebate-65-43-s0 .speaker-TJ4} ##### Senator Walsh: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Transport, upon notice, on 16 May 1980: >What are the names, dates and terms of appointment and salaries of all persons appointed to the boards and commissions of statutory authorities under the jurisdiction of the Minister for Transport. {: #subdebate-65-43-s1 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- The Minister for Transport has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >See table below. {:#subdebate-65-44} #### Minister for Housing and Construction: Appointments to Statutory Authorities (Question No. 2882) {: #subdebate-65-44-s0 .speaker-TJ4} ##### Senator Walsh: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Housing and Construction, upon notice, on 16 May 1980: >What are the names, dates and terms of appointment and salaries of all persons appointed to the boards and commissions or statutory authorities under the jurisdiction of the Minister for Housing and Construction. {: #subdebate-65-44-s1 .speaker-K5H} ##### Senator Scott:
NCP/NP -- The Minister for Housing and Construction has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >There are two statutory authorities under my jurisdiction: the Snowy Mountains Engineering Corporation and the Housing Loans Insurance Corporation. > >The persons appointed to the Snowy Mountains Engineering Corporation and their dates, terms of appointment and salaries are as follows: > > **Mr D.** G. Price (Director) ; Appointed as Assistant Director 19.1 1.70, appointed as Director 18.4.75, 7 year term, $44,000 plus $2,700 allowance per annum. > > **Mr R.** R. Neal (Assistant Director) ; Appointed as Assistant Director 30.7.76, 7 year term, $36,550 plus $1,300 allowance per annum. > > **Mr T.** E. Lewis (Assistant Director) Appointed as Assistant Director 20.7.78, 7 year term, $36,550 plus $1,300 allowance per annum. > >The persons appointed to the Housing Loans Insurance Corporation and their dates, terms of appointment and salaries are as follows: {: #subdebate-65-44-s2 .speaker-10000} ##### Mr J M Fitzpatrick (Chairman: an)- Appointed as Chairman 8.6.78, 7 year term, $39,424 per annum. **Mr F.** M. Blundell (Deputy Chairman)- Appointed as Deputy Chairman 8.6.78, 7 year term, $3 1 ,367 per annum **Mr P.** Pearson (Part Time Member)- Appointed 9.3.78, 3 year term, $3,825 per annum. **Mr A.** G. Shepherd (Part Time Member)- Appointed 2 1 .2.79, 3 year term, $3,825 per annum. **Mr S.** W. Begg, (Part Time Member) - Appointed 6.2.80, I year term, $3,825 per annum. {:#subdebate-65-45} #### High Court Justices: Overseas Travel (Question No. 2886) {: #subdebate-65-45-s0 .speaker-K6F} ##### Senator Cavanagh: asked the AttorneyGeneral, upon notice, on 16 May 1980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. ls a Judge of the High Court, including the Chief Justice, required to seek permission from the Prime Minister, another Minister or some other authority to proceed overseas on official business; if so, from whom is the permission sought in each case. 1. Have any members of the High Court travelled overseas on official business during the five years to May 1980: if so, (a) which members; (b) on how many occasions; (c) for what duration: (d) for what purposes; and (e) on what dates was each member overseas. 2. What is the daily travelling allowance paid to a Judge of the High Court while travelling outside Australia. 3. ls a Judge of the High Court, including the Chief Justice, required to seek leave of absence when proceeding in a private capacity; if so, to whom is the application made. 4. Have any members of the High Court sought leave to travel overseas privately during the five years to May 1980: if so, (a) which members: (b) for what duration; and (c) on what dates was each member overseas. 5. ls each Judge of the High Court provided with a car and driver for his exclusive use; if so, what is the type and model of car provided to each member of the Court. 6. What has been the annual cost of providing motor transport plus a driver to each member of the High Court for each year from 1974-75 to 1979-80. {: #subdebate-65-45-s1 .speaker-8G4} ##### Senator Durack:
LP -- The answer to the honourable senator's question is as follows: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. It is the normal practice for the Chief Justice to advise the Prime Minister and the Attorney-General of intended overseas travel on official duties for himself or other Justices. 1. Yes. {: type="a" start="a"} 0. **Sir Garfield** Barwick {: type="i" start="i"} 0. 13 September-I6 October 1976. Attend Centenary Celebrations in Ghana. 1. 9 July-10 August 1977. Attend Commonwealth Law Conference, Edinburgh and sit in Privy Council, London. 2. 7 March 1978-28 May 1978. Attend National Conference on State Courts, Williamsburg, USA. Hold discussions with Chief Justice. Proceed to London to sit in Privy Council. 3. 18 June-27 June 1978. Attend Conference of Asian Chief Justices, Djakarta. 4. 12 July-28 July 1979. Attend Privy Council, London. 1. **Sir Harry** Gibbs {: type="i" start="i"} 0. 12 July-26 July 1975. Attend South Pacific Judicial Conference, Honolulu and Judicial Conference of the Ninth Circuit, San Francisco. 1. 17 October-2 November 1977. Sit in Privy Council, London. 2. 26 August-31 October 1979. Attend Law Convention, Colombo, and Law Convention, Madrid. Sit in Privy Council, London. 2. **Sir Ninian** Stephen 3. 5 January-19 January 1977. Attend International Convention of Appellate Judges, Manila. 2. Justices have been paid travelling allowance at the rate applicable to Ministers travelling overseas, currently $ 1 00 per day if travelling alone, $ 1 50 per day if accompanied by spouse, or $50 per day for incidental expenditure where costs for accommodation and meals are met by Embassies, Commissions or Consulates. 3. No. Leave of absence is a matter of arrangement between the Justices and the Chief Justice. In the case of the Chief Justice it is customary for the Attorney-General to be informed. 4. In view of (4) above I do not have access to details of private overseas travel. 5. No. The Chief Justice does, however, have a driver permanently allocated to him who does other work when not required by the Chief Justice. 6. Details for each Justice are not available. Figures shown with the exception of 1974-75 and 1975-76 relate to total cost of car transport for Justices. The figures relating to 1974-75 and 1975-76 include costs for Justices and High Court staff. {: type="i" start="i"} 0. 1974-75- $67,545 1. 1975-76- $95,613 2. 1976-77- $86,717 3. 1977-78- $92,078 4. 1978-79- $98,230 5. 1979-80- $56,149 (to31.3.80) {:#subdebate-65-46} #### Special Youth Employment Training Program (Question No. 2890) {: #subdebate-65-46-s0 .speaker-PF4} ##### Senator Colston: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Employment and Youth Affairs, upon notice, on 20 May 1980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. How many people in: (a) Australia, and (b) Queensland were working under the Special Youth Employment Training Program (SYETP) at the end of each month from July 1979 to April 1980. 1. Does the Department of Employment and Youth Affairs keep records of the number of young people who, after completing SYETP are placed in permanent employment; if so, what are the details; and if not, how does the Department evaluate the success or otherwise of SYETP. {: #subdebate-65-46-s1 .speaker-8G4} ##### Senator Durack:
LP -- The Minister for Employment and Youth Affairs has supplied the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. (a) and (b) The number in training under SYETP in Australia and Queensland at the end of each month from July 1979 to April 1980 was: 1. lt would be impracticable for my Department to attempt to maintain records on all former SYETP trainees. However, surveys of former trainees are undertaken to determine their employment status. The most recent survey of private sector trainees involved a group who commenced under SYETP during April 1979. The trainees were surveyed 4 months after the scheduled completion of the training period, that is, in November-December 1979. The results showed that 69.1% of former trainees were in employment. A survey of trainees placed in Commonwealth establishments during 1979 has also been conducted which showed that 51.6% of former trainees were in employment 8-12 weeks after they had completed training. {:#subdebate-65-47} #### National Youth Advisory Group (Question No. 2891) {: #subdebate-65-47-s0 .speaker-KVK} ##### Senator Mulvihill: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Employment and Youth Affairs, upon notice, on 20 May 1 980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. How did the four vacancies occur in the National Youth Advisory Group mentioned by the Minister for Employment and Youth Affairs in his Press release No. 34-80. 1. Who were the persons previously appointed to these positions and what were their backgrounds. 2. What was their attendance record at meetings of the National Youth Advisory Group in comparison with the reappointed members. 3. Did any of the four people excluded from reappointment resign or did they have any differences with their colleagues on the 'modus operandi' to be followed by the National Youth Advisory Group. 4. How were they advised of their exclusion from the future operations of the National Youth Advisory Group. {: #subdebate-65-47-s1 .speaker-8G4} ##### Senator Durack:
LP -- The Minister for Employment and Youth Affairs has supplied the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. The vacancies in the membership of the National Youth Advisory Group occurred following the resignation of four members owing to business and personal commitments. 1. **Mr Gatjil** Djerrkura is the Superintendent, Aboriginal Advisory and Development Services, Uniting Church, Darwin. He has previously worked with the Uniting Church as a social worker in Darwin and as a community worker at Yirrkala. **Mrs Jan** Marsh is an Economics graduate from Monash University. She is a research officer and industrial advocate with the ACTU and is also a member of the National Women's Advisory Council. **Mr Roger** Woolley is an insurance broker employed with John Forsaith in Hobart. He represented Tasmania in Sheffield Shield cricket in 1977-78, 1978-79 and 1979-80. **Mr James** Bilios is studying for a BSc Degree at the University of New South Wales. He is a member of the Australian Hellenic Educational Progressive Association, the Community of Belmore Youth Society and the Sydney Kytheriar Youth Organisation. He is also Chairman of the Combined Greek Youth of Sydney. {: type="1" start="3"} 0. **Mr Djerrkura** and **Mrs Marsh** were not able to attend any meetings. Their resignations were tendered early in the Group's history; **Mr Bilios** attended the first and third meetings; **Mr Woolley** attended the first, fourth, fifth and seventh meetings. 1. All four people resigned from the National Youth Advisory Group. 2. All four people advised the Minister for Employment and Youth Affairs by letter of their inability to continue with the National Youth Advisory Group. {:#subdebate-65-48} #### Forests (Question No. 2892) {: #subdebate-65-48-s0 .speaker-KVK} ##### Senator Mulvihill: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Primary Industry, upon notice, on 21 May 1980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. What is the area of forests planted on: (a) land purchased by Commonwealth and State Governments and (b) other public land. {: #subdebate-65-48-s1 .speaker-K5H} ##### Senator Scott:
NCP/NP -- The Minister for Primary Industry has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. (a) I am advised that comprehensive statistics of the area of forests planted on land purchased by Governments in Australia are not available. The area of land purchased by the States during the currency of the Softwood Forestry Agreements of 1967, 1972 and 1976 between the Commonwealth and the States was 103,548 hectares. The total area planted by the States during this period was 250, 1 84 hectares. {: type="a" start="b"} 0. The total area of forests planted on all categories of public lands as at 3 1 March 1 979 was approximately 525,000 hectares. Overseas Investment in Australia (Question No. 2897) {: #subdebate-65-48-s2 .speaker-ISW} ##### Senator Wriedt: asked the Minister representing the Treasurer, upon notice, on 22 May 1980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. 1 ) What have been the total of remittances of dividends overseas for each year from 1974 to 1979 by foreign owned corporations operating in Australia. 1. What have been the total loan repayments by foreign owned companies operating in Australia to overseas parent companies or financial institutions. 2. What is the total amount of withholding tax paid by overseas owned companies for each year from 1 974 to 1 979. {: #subdebate-65-48-s3 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- The Treasurer has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. 1 ) Data prepared by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) show that dividends payable abroad on foreign direct investment in enterprises in Australia, as defined by the ABS, over the period 1 973-74 to 1 978-79 were as follows: It should be noted that the data relate to dividends credited to foreign shareholders during the particular financial year, rather than to actual remittances of dividends during those years. In normal circumstances dividends credited in any financial year would be remitted by the end of the following year. The data do not include dividends payable by foreign direct investment enterprises in Australia to foreign portfolio investors, as such data are unavailable. {: type="1" start="2"} 0. ABS data show that repayments of foreign borrowings by foreign direct investment enterprises in Australia for each year since 1 973-74 were: {: type="1" start="3"} 0. Collections of interest and dividend withholding tax paid by Australian and foreign-owned companies for each year since 1 973-74 were: Information on the proportion of these amounts that relates to tax collected on dividend and interest payments by foreignowned companies is not available. It would be expected, however, that the majority of the collections would be in respect of such payments. {:#subdebate-65-49} #### Income Tax Deductions (Question No. 2898) {: #subdebate-65-49-s0 .speaker-ISW} ##### Senator Wriedt: asked the Minister representing the Treasurer, upon notice, on 23 May 1 980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. What are the organisations approved by the Government to whom gifts of $2 or more are allowable deductions for tax purposes. 1. On what date was approval given for each such organisation to be regarded as an organisation to which gifts of $2 or more be allowable as tax deductions. 2. What is the total amount of donations of $2 or more claimed each year for tax deduction purposes. 3. What is the total amount of donations of $2 or more claimed for each organisation. {: #subdebate-65-49-s1 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- The Treasurer has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. and (2) Section 78 of the Income Tax Assessment Act lists the bodies and classes of bodies in respect of which gifts may be allowed as deductions for income tax purposes. Over the years very many bodies have been accepted as falling within the classes of bodies specified in the section, e.g. public benevolent institutions (section 78 (l)(a)(ii)). school building funds (section 78 (l)(a)(xv)), etc. The numbers of eligible bodies would run into thousands. It would not be practicable to list them all here. If the Honourable **Senator is** interested in a particular body, I can arrange for its status to be advised to him. {: type="1" start="3"} 0. Comprehensive statistics of deductions allowed under section 78 (l)(a) are not compiled every year. For the 1977-78 year deductions allowed to individual taxpayers exceeded $55.0m. The latest statistics of deductions for gifts allowed to companies under section 78 (1)(a) related to the 1971-72 income year. Deductions allowed approximated $7.0m. 1. This information is not available. {:#subdebate-65-50} #### Community Development Employment Projects (Question No. 2901) {: #subdebate-65-50-s0 .speaker-9V4} ##### Senator Grimes: asked the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, upon notice, on 23 May 1980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. How many Aborigines in each Aboriginal community are paid under the Community Development Employment Projects (CDEP) Scheme, with the unemployment benefit going directly to the community. 1. How does the Government test eligibility in each community. 2. How often is this eligibility tested: (a) fortnightly; (b) monthly; or (c) six-monthly. 3. What measures does the Department of Social Security employ to ensure that it pays accurately on behalf of all eligible people in each community. 4. Have any appeals been received from communities under CDEP against decisions by the Department of Social Security to pay fewer people than are eligible. 5. Are communities made aware of the provision of an appeals system to ensure that they receive full payments on benair of all eligible unemployed. {: #subdebate-65-50-s1 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- The answer to the honourable senator's question is as follows: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. Community Development Employment Projects (CDEPs) do not pay unemployment benefit. CDEPs are a response to specific requests from remote Aboriginal communities for an alternative to unemployment benefit. The scheme provides for grants to a community at a level approximating unemployment benefit otherwise payable to individuals within the community together with additional amounts for materials and other costs. The grants finance worthwhile employment projects in communities. The grants are at present being paid, in the form of grants-in-aid through my Department, to 17 remote Aboriginal communities. The total number of Aboriginals currently employed on CDEP programs is approximately 950. The number is not constant as it depends on factors such as community decisions and priorities, and population movements between communities. 1. , (3), (4), (5) and (6) The Department of Employment and Youth Affairs has a responsibility to assess the total number of persons in communities who would be eligible for unemployment benefits, were CDEP programs not operating in those communities. This is done at varying periods, depending on staff availability. The number so assessed provides the basis for calculating my Department's grant to each CDEP community. {:#subdebate-65-51} #### Employment of Paraplegics and Quadriplegics (Question No. 2904) {: #subdebate-65-51-s0 .speaker-9V4} ##### Senator Grimes: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Industry and Commerce, upon notice, on 21 May 1980: >How many paraplegics and quadriplegics are employed in: (a) the Head Office; and (b) Stale offices of the Department of Industry and Commerce. {: #subdebate-65-51-s1 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- The Minister for Industry and Commerce has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="a" start="a"} 0. Nil employed in Head Office. 1. Nil employed in State Office. {:#subdebate-65-52} #### Employment of Paraplegics and Quadriplegics (Question No. 2905) {: #subdebate-65-52-s0 .speaker-9V4} ##### Senator Grimes: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Primary Industry, upon notice: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. ) How many paraplegics and quadriplegics are employed in: (a) the Head Office; and (b) States Offices of the Department of Primary Industry. {: #subdebate-65-52-s1 .speaker-K5H} ##### Senator Scott:
NCP/NP -- The Minister for Primary Industry has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. There are no paraplegics or quadriplegics employed in the Head Office or the State Offices of the Department of Primary Industry. {:#subdebate-65-53} #### Employment of Paraplegics and Quadriplegics (Question No. 2906) {: #subdebate-65-53-s0 .speaker-9V4} ##### Senator Grimes: asked the Minister for National Development and Energy, upon notice, on 23 May 1980: >How many paraplegics and quardiplegics are employed in: > >the Head Office; and > >State Offices of the Department of National Development and Energy. {: #subdebate-65-53-s1 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- The answer to the honourable senator's question is: {: type="a" start="a"} 0. and (b) No such persons are currently employed. {:#subdebate-65-54} #### Employment of Paraplegics and Quadriplegics (Question No. 2908) {: #subdebate-65-54-s0 .speaker-9V4} ##### Senator Grimes: asked the Minister representing the Treasurer, upon notice, on 22 May 1980: >How many paraplegics and quadriplegics are employed in (a) the Head Office; and (b) State Offices of the Department of the Treasury. {: #subdebate-65-54-s1 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- The Treasurer has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="a" start="a"} 0. Nil. 1. The Department of the Treasury does not have any State offices. {:#subdebate-65-55} #### Employment of Paraplegics and Quadriplegics (Question No. 2911) {: #subdebate-65-55-s0 .speaker-9V4} ##### Senator Grimes: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Finance, upon notice: >How many paraplegics and quadriplegics are employed in: (a) the Head Office: and (b) State Offices of the Department of Finance. {: #subdebate-65-55-s1 .speaker-C7D} ##### Senator Dame Margaret Guilfoyle:
LP -- The Minister for Finance has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="a" start="a"} 0. Nil. 1. Nil. One paraplegic is employed in the Australian Government Retirement Benefits Office in Canberra. {:#subdebate-65-56} #### Employment of Paraplegics and Quadriplegics (Question No. 2912) {: #subdebate-65-56-s0 .speaker-9V4} ##### Senator Grimes: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Employment and Youth Affairs, upon notice, on 21 May 1980: >How many paraplegics and quadriplegics are employed in: (a) the Head Office; and (b) State Offices of the Department of Employment and Youth Affairs. {: #subdebate-65-56-s1 .speaker-8G4} ##### Senator Durack:
LP -- The Minister for Employment and Youth Affairs has supplied the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="a" start="a"} 0. Two paraplegics, no quadriplegics; (b) four paraplegics, no quadriplegics. {:#subdebate-65-57} #### Employment of Paraplegics and Quadriplegics (Question No. 2913) {: #subdebate-65-57-s0 .speaker-9V4} ##### Senator Grimes: asked the Attorney-General the following question, upon notice, on 23 May 1980: >How many paraplegics and quadriplegics are employed in (a) the Head Office; and (b) State Offices of the AttorneyGeneral's Department. {: #subdebate-65-57-s1 .speaker-8G4} ##### Senator Durack:
LP -- The answer to the honourable senator's question is as follows: >There are no paraplegics or quadriplegics employed in either (a) the Head Office, or (b) the State Offices of the Attorney-General's Department. Employment of Paraplegics and Quadriplegics (Question Nc. 2917) {: #subdebate-65-57-s2 .speaker-9V4} ##### Senator Grimes: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Administrative Services, upon notice, on 23 May 1980: >How many paraplegics and quadriplegics are employed in: (a) the Head Office; and (b) State Offices of the Department of Administrative Services. {: #subdebate-65-57-s3 .speaker-K5H} ##### Senator Scott:
NCP/NP -- The Minister for Administrative Services has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="a" start="a"} 0. Nil. 1. South Australia- one paraplegic; Northern Territory -one quadriplegic. {:#subdebate-65-58} #### Employment of Paraplegics and Quadriplegics (Question No. 2918) {: #subdebate-65-58-s0 .speaker-9V4} ##### Senator Grimes: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Productivity, upon notice, on 21 May 1980: >How many paraplegics and quadriplegics are employed in: > >the Head Office; and > >State offices of the Department of Productivity. {: #subdebate-65-58-s1 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- The Minister for Productivity has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="a" start="a"} 0. None. 1. One, in the Sydney Office. There are also four others employed at departmental factories. {:#subdebate-65-59} #### Employment of Paraplegics and Quadriplegics (Question No. 2923) {: #subdebate-65-59-s0 .speaker-9V4} ##### Senator Grimes: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Home Affairs, upon notice, on 21 May 1980: >How many paraplegics and quadriplegics are employed in: (a) the Head Office; and (b) State offices of the Department of Home Affairs. {: #subdebate-65-59-s1 .speaker-K5H} ##### Senator Scott:
NCP/NP -- The Minister for Home Affairs has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="a" start="a"} 0. and (b) Nil. {:#subdebate-65-60} #### Employment of Paraplegics and Quadriplegics (Question No. 2924) {: #subdebate-65-60-s0 .speaker-9V4} ##### Senator Grimes: asked the Minister representing the Minister for the Capital Territory, upon notice, on 23 May 1980: >How many paraplegics and quadriplegics are employed in (a) the Head Office; and (b) Stale offices of the Department of the Capital Territory. {: #subdebate-65-60-s1 .speaker-K5H} ##### Senator Scott:
NCP/NP -- The Minister for the Capital Territory has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >There are currently no paraplegics or quadriplegics employed in the Department of the Capital Territory. {:#subdebate-65-61} #### Employment of Paraplegics and Quadriplegics (Question No. 2925) {: #subdebate-65-61-s0 .speaker-9V4} ##### Senator Grimes: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Housing and Construction, upon notice, on 23 May 1 980: >How many paraplegics and quadriplegics are employed in: (a) the Head Office; and (b) State offices of the Department of Housing and Construction. {: #subdebate-65-61-s1 .speaker-K5H} ##### Senator Scott:
NCP/NP -- The Minister for Housing and Construction has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >In accordance with the suggestion of the Public Service Board, which consulted with the Paraplegics and Handicapped Association in the ACT on this matter, paraplegic and quadriplegic employees have been identified as those who are confined to wheelchairs. > >The Department of Housing and Construction employs no persons confined to wheelchairs in its Central Office. The only State Office of the Department to employ persons confined to wheelchairs is the Victorian Office where two such persons are employed. > >As part of its program of activities for International Year of Disabled Persons, the Department of Housing and Construction plans to conduct a survey to identify in more detail what disabilities its employees may have. {:#subdebate-65-62} #### Employment of Paraplegics and Quadriplegics (Question No. 2926) {: #subdebate-65-62-s0 .speaker-9V4} ##### Senator Grimes: asked the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, upon notice, on 23 May 1 980: >How many paraplegics and quadriplegics are employed in: (a) the Head Office; and (b) State offices of the Department of Aboriginal Affairs. {: #subdebate-65-62-s1 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- The answer to the honourable senator's question is as follows: {: type="a" start="a"} 0. None. 1. None. {:#subdebate-65-63} #### Employment of Paraplegics and Quadriplegics (Question No. 2927) {: #subdebate-65-63-s0 .speaker-9V4} ##### Senator Grimes: asked the Minister for Special Trade Representations, upon notice, on 23 May 1980: >How many paraplegics and quadriplegics are employed in: (a) the Head Office; and (b) State offices of the Department of the Special Trade Representative. {: #subdebate-65-63-s1 .speaker-K5H} ##### Senator Scott:
NCP/NP -- The answer to the honourable senator's question is as follows: {: type="a" start="a"} 0. None. 1. The Department of the Special Trade Representative does not have any State offices. {:#subdebate-65-64} #### Employment of Paraplegics and Quadriplegics (Question No. 2928) {: #subdebate-65-64-s0 .speaker-9V4} ##### Senator Grimes: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Trade and Resources, upon notice, on 23 May 1980: >How many paraplegics and quadriplegics are employed in; (a) the Head Office; and (b) State Offices of the Department of Trade and Resources. {: #subdebate-65-64-s1 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- The Minister for Trade and Resources has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >The Department of Trade and Resources employs one paraplegic in Head Office. There are no paraplegics or quadriplegics employed in the State Offices of the Department. {:#subdebate-65-65} #### Employment of Paraplegics and Quadriplegics (Question No. 2929) {: #subdebate-65-65-s0 .speaker-9V4} ##### Senator Grimes: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Science and the Environment, upon notice, on 23 May 1 980: >How many paraplegics and quadriplegics are employed in (a) the Head Office and (b) State offices of the Department of Science and the Environment. {: #subdebate-65-65-s1 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- The Minister for Science and the Environment has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >No quadriplegics or paraplegics are at present employed in the Head Office or State offices of the Department of Science and the Environment. {:#subdebate-65-66} #### Australian Dairy Industry Conference (Question No. 2942) {: #subdebate-65-66-s0 .speaker-JXG} ##### Senator Neal: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Primary Industry, upon notice, on 23 May 1980: >Did the Minister for Primary Industry receive a submission, several weeks ago, from the Australian Dairy Industry Conference requesting a $2.20 per kg underwriting guarantee for butterfat in milk for the 1980-81 dairy season; if so, as this season commences on I July and dairy factories require time to set prices for that date, will the Minister give the industry an early answer to the submission. {: #subdebate-65-66-s1 .speaker-K5H} ##### Senator Scott:
NCP/NP -- The Minister for Primary Industry has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >The Australian Dairy Industry Conference, along with other industry bodies, did make submissions to me requesting a $2.20 per kg butterfat underwriting guarantee of the 1980-81 season. > >On 26 June 1980 I announced details of the Government's decision to underwrite the 1980-81 season's production of all prescribed dairy products - butter, skim milk powder, casein, cheese and wholemilk powder- under the dairy industry marketing arrangements at the equivalent of $2.10 per kg butterfat at the farm gate. {:#subdebate-65-67} #### Commonwealth Superannuation Fund Investment Trust (Question No. 2945) {: #subdebate-65-67-s0 .speaker-GD5} ##### Senator Ryan: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Finance, upon notice, on 23 May 1980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. ) Did the Parliament of South Australia recently pass the Victoria Square (International Hotel) Act 1980. 1. Was the Commonwealth Superannuation Fund Investment Trust named in that legislation as one of the 'contracting parties' who will be involved in that project. 2. Did members of both Government and Opposition in South Australia express considerable reservations about the viability of the project during the debate of the Bill. 3. What commitments have been made by the Superannuation Fund Investment Trust in relation to this project, and will the Minister for Finance publish in full the text of any agreements or commitments made by the Fund. 4. Is the Minister for Finance satisfied that the arrangement made will secure a return on investment comparable to market returns generally; if so, what rate of return is expected. 5. Is the Minister for Finance satisfied that these arrangements properly protect the superannuation benefits of public servants. {: #subdebate-65-67-s1 .speaker-C7D} ##### Senator Dame Margaret Guilfoyle:
LP -- The Minister for Finance has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >The Superannuation Fund Investment Trust is an independent corporate body established under the Superannuation Act 1 976. As such, the Trust has sole responsibility under the Act for the management and investment of the Superannuation Fund, being required only to report annually on the management of the Fund to the Parliament through the Minister for Finance. The Chairman of the Trust has, however, provided me with the following answers to the honourable senator's questions ( 1 ) to (4). > >Yes. > >Yes. > >The Bill was supported by both the Government and the Opposition parties, although some individual members expressed reservations about the viability of the project. > >This question relates to confidential details of investor/client arrangements and disclosure of such details would constitute a breach of commercial confidentiality. > >In reply to questions (S) and (6), I have no reason to believe that any arrangements made by the Trust would be inconsistent with the interests of contributors to the Superannuation Fund. {:#subdebate-65-68} #### Australian Public Service and Northern Territory Public Service: Salaries and Allowances (Question No. 2973) {: #subdebate-65-68-s0 .speaker-K2U} ##### Senator Robertson: asked the Minister representing the Minister Assisting the Prime Minister, upon notice, on 23 May 1980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. Have District Allowance rates for employees of the Northern Territory Public Service (NTPS) based in Alice Springs been increased by 87 per cent over the current rates payable to employees of the Commonwealth Public Service (CPS) based in that town and have salary rates for officers of the NTPS in Alice Springs been increased by 6.5 per cent as a result of recent negotiations with the NTPS Commissioner. 1. Have these increases created anomalies, by unbalancing the relativity of CPS officers and employees of the NTPS, which are causing serious concern to members of the CPS. 2. Will the Minister instruct the Public Service Board to rectify these anomalies or, is the Minister satisfied that the rates of pay of the CPS officers satisfy the current work study evaluation of these officers. {: #subdebate-65-68-s1 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- The Minister Assisting the Prime Minister has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. ) and (2) The fixation of pay rates and conditions of employment including District Allowance of staff of the Australian Public Service employed in the Northern Territory is part of the statutory responsibilities of the Australian Public Service Board. Similarly, the Public Service Commissioner for the Northern Territory is responsible for staff of the separate Northern Territory Public Service. I am informed that staff of the Northern Territory Public Service at Alice Springs are now receiving rates of District Allowance which are higher by 70 per cent (officer with dependants) and by 80 per cent (officer without dependants) than the comparable rates payable to Australian Public Servants at Alice Springs. The actual rates are: APS- (effective 5 December 1979): with dependants $680 p.a.; without dependants $350 p.a. NTPS- (effective1 January 1980): with dependants $1 160 p.a.: without dependants $630 p.a. This changed relationship between the conditions of the two Services resulted from a deliberate decision of the Public Service Commissioner for the Northern Territory to break the nexus which formerly existed with the Australian Public Service District Allowance principles which, of course, apply throughout the Commonwealth. In granting general increases in District Allowance, the Commissioner also placed Alice Springs in a significantly higher grade. A further review of District Allowance rates in the Australian Public Service has recently been completed and there have been discussions with the Peak Councils. However, I understand that no change in the grading of Alice Springs is to be made. As regards pay rates, I am informed that the Commission and the staff organisations have recently agreed that a 6.5 per cent increase would be appropriate for the majority of staff of the Northern Territory Public Service in accordance with Principle 7 (a) of the wage fixation principles of the Conciliation and Arbitration Commission. This increase in pay rates is subject to acceptance by the Public Service Arbitrator that it would be appropriate under Principle 7 (a) and if so, it will be effective from 10 April 1980. In the case of the Australian Public Service, consideration is not being given to the general adequacy of pay rates throughout the Service as was the case in the Northern Territory Public Service. Rather, the Public Service Board is considering a large number of salary claims on a group by group basis. Some of these claims have already been resolved while others are still under consideration. Any resulting increases would also require acceptance by the Public Service Arbitrator that they are appropriate under Principle 7 (a). {: type="1" start="3"} 0. The Public Service Board, the responsible body under the Public Service Act 1922, is aware of the changed District Allowance arrangements applicable to staff of the Northern Territory Public Service and to the proposed increase in the salary rates of members of this Service. Defence {: #subdebate-65-68-s2 .speaker-8G4} ##### Senator Durack:
LP -- On 19 February 1980 *(Hansard,* page 11) **Senator Sibraa** asked me a question without notice concerning the 1976 defence White Paper and what he referred to as the doctrine of perceived threat to Australia. The Minister for Defence has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >There is no 'doctrine of perceived threat to Australia'. The review of Australia's strategic circumstances contained in the 1976 defence White Paper extended beyond an examination of perceptions at that time regarding military threat to Australia. It embraced as well assessments of trends and potentialities in the strategic environment which might govern the emergence of such threats in the future or sustain conditions favourable to Australia's security. The policy judgments on which that review was based had been the subject of advice to, and agreement by, Government. Army Reserve: Alleged Discrimination against Women {: #subdebate-65-68-s3 .speaker-8G4} ##### Senator Durack:
LP -- On 27 February 1980 *(Hansard,* page 322) **Senator Missen** asked me a question without notice concerning the alleged discrimination against women in the Australian Army reserve forces. The Minister for Defence has now provided the following information: >I have had the opportunity to consider the several questions asked by **Senator Missen** concerning the employment of women in the Defence Force; first, regarding co-operation between Commonwealth and State Government agencies in ensuring equal opportunity and removal of sex discrimination; second, regarding the allegation that the Australian Army could be discriminating against women in its Reserve Forces; and third, the claim by three women musicians that they have been denied promotion and barred from promotion courses and from joining the Regular Army as musicians. > >The honourable senator will be aware of the Commonwealth and State authorities and agencies set up to investigate and resolve complaints of discrimination in employment. 1 need not emphasise here the important function these bodies are performing and the co-operation that exists between them. > >The policy on the employment of women in the Defence Force is that women may be employed on active service both in Australia and overseas but not on combat duties. > >The Government believes that this policy reflects the generally held view in our society at this time. > >The employment of women relies on the principle of equal opportunity with men in similar employment wherever possible, having regard to the essential maintenance of the operational effectiveness of the Services. Of course, women may be excluded from or men preferred for particular jobs because of the inherent requirements of these jobs. > >This is consistent with the provisions of Convention III of the International Labour Organisation. > >As to the particular case of the three women in Army Reserve bands, I have directed that any discrimination as to their opportunities for advancement or to attend promotion courses is to be removed as soon as possible. > >At the present time, no women are employed in bands of the Regular Forces. However, the Services are progressively widening the range of employments open to women. Obviously, this must be an evolutionary process. Involved is a series of complex factors including the career potentiality of female members, the balance of female to male members essential to the ability of the Defence Force to discharge its primary role and the provision, including cost considerations, of appropriate facilities. > >What has to be remembered is that, unlike the general run of civilian employment, the degree of absorption of females into the Defence Force must be governed by considerations which bear directly upon the maintenance of the requisite standard of operational effectiveness. > >In short, employment opportunities for women in the Defence Force have been widened over recent years and this process will continue in the future. Babies' Dummies {: #subdebate-65-68-s4 .speaker-8G4} ##### Senator Durack:
LP -- On 5 March 1 980 *(Hansard,* p. 545) **Senator Justin** O'Byrne asked me a question without notice in my capacity as Minister representing the Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs. The question concerned the import and export of products unsafe for children and infants, and followed a report in the *Australian* which claimed that a particular babies dummy was being dumped in Australia after being banned in the USA. The Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs has supplied the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >When mandatory safety requirements for infants' pacifiers/dummies were introduced in the USA the Nuk Cooling Soother No. 02532 was withdrawn from sale in that country for re-design to comply with the specifications set out in the new US standard. The supply to Australia of the superseded version of the Nuk Cooling Soother continued and the US Consumer Product Safety Commission notified Australian Government authorities that the Reliance Corporation of the USA intended to export 120,000 of the superseded cooling soothers to Australia during 1979. It appears that less than 6,000 of this intended quantity of soothers was, in fact, imported before the revised model was introduced into Australia. > >Following the US advice, an officer of the Department of Business and Consumer Affairs discussed the safety aspects of the superseded soother with the Australian importers of the product. The Department also examined and considered the safety aspects of this particular soother in conjunction with the Technical Committee of the Standards Association of > >Australia which is developing an Australian Standard for infants' dummies. The advice of State Health officials was also sought. > >Following this careful examination the view of officials was that on the evidence available the superseded soother did not appear to be unsafe or pose a significant risk of injury to infants. Furthermore, no evidence has yet been obtained that the superseded soother in question has resulted in the death or injury of infants either in the US or Australia. > >I am concerned, however, to ensure that all infants' dummies meet reasonable standards of safety and an Australian Standard for infants' dummies is being developed in respect of the safety aspects of materials, design, construction and performance. The Department of Business and Consumer Affairs is participating in the preparation of this Standard which, when completed, will be examined by the Commonwealth/State Consumer Products Advisory Committee (CSCPAC). It is the task of this Committee to make recommendations to Ministers for Consumer Affairs on proposed consumer product safety standards under the Trade Practices Act and complementary State and Territory legislation. > >Section 62 of the Trade Practices Act enables the Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs to declare mandatory consumer product safety standards and to ban the supply of unsafe children's or infants' products. The Minister may also take action to ban imports of unsafe goods under the Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations. The Customs (Prohibited Exports) Regulations do not presently provide for a ban on the export of consumer products which have been banned from supply in Australia. Section 62 (2AA) of the Trade Practices Act states that goods which are intended to be used outside Australia are not subject to safety standards declared under Section 62. > >As there is a huge volume of products, both imported and domestically produced, which might be used by children it is not possible to undertake safety checks on each product. Nevertheless, any consumer product which is suspected of posing a safety hazard is examined by the Department of Business and Consumer Affairs. Co-ordinated advice and action is undertaken throughout Australia by CSCPAC which comprises representatives of State and Territory Consumer Affairs authorities under the chairmanship of the Department. > >Steps to control safety defects in products may be adopted on a voluntary basis by suppliers in Australia or, if necessary, action may be taken under the Trade Practices Act and the Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations. > >Safety standards which have been declared under the Trade Practices Act for children's products include: > >The Flammability Standard of Children's Night Garments; Motor Vehicle Child Restraining Devices; > >Pedal Bicycles and Reflectors for Pedal Bicycles: > >Buoyancy Aids; > >TRIS Treated Apparel; and > >Self Re-Lighting Novelty Candles. > >Goods recently banned from sale under the Trade Practices Act include: > >Children's Whistle Bottles; > >Novelties for Blowing Balloons which contain Toxic Substances; and > >Toys coated with Toxic Chemicals. > >CSCPAC is currently examining the safety aspects of a number of children's products in addition to infants' dummies including: > >Children's Toys; > >Domestic Trampolines; > >Portable Cots and Stands; > >Flammability labelling of Children's Furniture: > >Swimming Pool Chemicals; and > >Collapsible Wooden Tables. Membership of Student Unions {: #subdebate-65-68-s5 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- On 5 March 1980 *(Hansard,* page 545) **Senator Walters** asked me in my capacity as Minister representing the Minister for Education the following question without notice: >Can the Leader of the Government in the Senate say what was the response from the various State governments following the approach made to them last year on the subject of voluntary membership of student unions at universities and colleges of advanced education in the States? The Minister for Education has provided the following information: >On 29 May 1978 the Prime Minister wrote to the Premiers of New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia and Tasmania recommending that their States introduce legislation in respect of student union membership at universities and colleges of advanced education similar to that which was then proposed for the Australian National University and the Canberra College of Advanced Education. The ACT legislation, passed in 1 979 and effective from 1 January 1 980, ensures that membership of student organisations at these institutions is voluntary and that fees compulsorily collected for provision of amenities and services are used only for approved purposes. The letters to the Premiers of Victoria and Western Australia took into account that in those two States, certain action had already been taken. > >Prior to the Prime Minister's letter, the Governments of Victoria in relation to the University of Melbourne, and Western Australia in relation to all tertiary education institutions in that Slate, had already acted to make membership of student organisations voluntary and to prevent funds collected for the provision of amenities and services from being used for other purposes. > >The response to the Prime Minister's letter was as follows: > >In his reply of 20 June 1978 the Premier of New South Wales outlined his Government's action to legislate in relation to the levying and use of student fees. The legislation confirmed the universities' powers to collect fees on behalf of student associations and to exempt individuals from payment on the ground of conscientious objection. The legislation was introduced in March 1978 and passed in December of that year. > >The Premier of Victoria responded to the Prime Minister's letter on 3 July 1978 by saying his Government was considering the general question of extending to other tertiary institutions legislation along the lines of that applying to Melbourne University. > >The Acting Premier of Queensland indicated in a letter dated 25 July 1978 that the Queensland Government, while keeping the question of compulsory student unionism and use of fees under consideration, had opted to attain its objectives in ways other than by invoking major legislative sanctions. > >The Premier of South Australia advised on 1 2 July 1 978 that his Government did not propose to introduce legislation along the lines suggested in the Prime Minister's letter. Since the change of Government in that State, the Minister for Education has recently indicated he would be pleased to consider submissions on the matter. > >In Western Australia there has been no change since the passing of the Acts Amendment (Student Guilds and Associations) Act 1977 which made membership of the Student Guilds voluntary. Students must still pay a compulsory amenities and services fee. > >The Premier of Tasmania in his letter of 25 September 1978 stated that the matters raised by the Prime Minister had been considered by the State Minister for Education, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Tasmania and the Acting Principal of the Tasmanian College of Advanced Education, who concluded there were no grounds to justify legislative action of the kind recommended. The Premier added that there is provision for exemption from (student) Union membership on the grounds of conscientious objection in the Statutes of the Council of the University of Tasmania. Parliamentary Triangle {: #subdebate-65-68-s6 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- On 6 March 1980 *(Hansard,* page 615) **Senator Young** asked me, as Minister representing the Prime Minister, a question without notice concerning proposals for works within the parliamentary zone. The Minister Assisting the Prime Minister has supplied the following information for answer to the honourable senator's question: >The terms of reference of the Joint Committee on the New and Permanent Parliament House provide that it may consider and report on such matters as may be referred to it either by the Minister (for the Capital Territory) or by resolution of either House of the Parliament. Having regard to the minor nature of the works they were not referred to the Committee by the Minister; nor did any senator or member move for their referral. > >The practice has been to give each House prior notice of proposals before a motion for approval of them is moved. This procedure provides all senators and members with an opportunity to scrutinise the proposals and, if they wish, to move for their referral to the Committee if the Committee has not already considered them. 2,4,5-T {: #subdebate-65-68-s7 .speaker-C7D} ##### Senator Dame Margaret Guilfoyle:
LP -- On 19 March 1980 *(Hansard,* page 776), **Senator Jessop** asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice concerning a survey by Coalite Ltd into the effects of herbicide 2, 4, 5-T and requesting that the report of the survey be considered by the National Health and Medical Research Council. The Minister for Health has provided the following information: >The report of the Coalite Ltd survey as published in *Nature* on 6 March 1980 has been referred, together with further relevant information from the scientific literature, to experts within the National Health and Medical Research Council for their evaluation and comment. I shall notify the honourable senator of the results of these deliberations. ANZUS Treaty {: #subdebate-65-68-s8 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- On 20 March 1980 *(Hansard,* page 873) **Senator Chipp** asked the Minister representing the Prime Minister a further question without notice concerning the ANZUS Treaty. The Prime Minister has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >There is no contradiction between my answer to **Senator Chipp's** Question Without Notice on 4 March 1980 *(Hansard,* page 479) and my statement in answer to **Mr Howe's** Question Without Notice on 19 March (House of Representatives, *Hansard,* page 909). > >I have never implied that any or all military activity in the Indian Ocean would necessarily occur under ANZUS or that the ANZUS Treaty would necessarily cover events anywhere in the Indian Ocean. Nor have I implied that no military activity in the Indian Ocean could attract the provisions of the ANZUS Treaty. Given that the ANZUS Treaty does not discriminate between the Australian States, and since Western Australia has a long Indian Ocean coastline, the ANZUS Treaty obviously has a relevance to the Indian Ocean. Air Fares {: #subdebate-65-68-s9 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- On 25 March 1980 *(Hansard,* page 944) **Senator Mason** asked a question without notice concerning the effect on air fares of the Ansett decision to acquire Boeing aircraft and whether the Government will investigate the situation. The Minister for Transport has provided me with the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >The decision by Ansett Airlines of Australia to acquire Boeing aircraft was a commercial judgment based on its assessment of market demand and suitability of the aircraft to Australia's operating conditions. > >The decisions by the major domestic airlines to acquire different types of aircraft reflects the current increased competitive spirit in the domestic aviation industry which I'm sure all will welcome. However, in the initial stages of operation the decisions may involve some additional costs. > >Generally, however, the introduction of new generation aircraft provides productivity gains which are reflected in the containment of fares for a period after the introduction. This occurred for example when jet aircraft were first introduced into Australian service in 1964 and with the introduction of wide bodied aircraft onto international services. The new wide bodied aircraft chosen by TAA and Ansett offer a number of advantages over the existing aircraft, not the least of which is their improved fuel efficiency. Any proposed fare increase which may be based on the costs associated with the acquisition of these aircraft would be fully investigated. Trans-Australia Airlines {: #subdebate-65-68-s10 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- On 25 March 1980 *(Hansard,* page 945) **Senator Gietzelt** asked a question without notice concerning TAA's financial situation. The Minister for Transport has provided me with the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >The Government is aware of the remarks made by the Chairman of the Senate Standing Committee on Finance and Government Operations relating to the financial situation of TAA. There is no substance in the assertion that TAA is on the brink of bankruptcy and this can be evidenced by the profit of $7.4m earned during 1978-79 and the payment of a $6m dividend from these profits. > >As has been previously acknowledged annual indexation of pensions together with the new superannuation arrangements introduced in 1976 have resulted in a substantial increase in the employers' potential liability to the pension payments. The Government is discussing with TAA possible arrangements to resolve this issue. Trans-Australia Airlines {: #subdebate-65-68-s11 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- On 26 March 1980 *(Hansard,* page 1014) **Senator O'Byrne** asked a question without notice concerning certain matters relating to TAA. The Minister for Transport has provided me with the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >I have no knowledge of any ulterior motive in any rumour that TAA is bankrupt. > >Of the senior management of TAA, there has been the retirement at age 65 of the General Manager, **Mr L.** Mackenzie and the appointment of **Mr F.** Ball to fill that vacancy. **Mr Ball** was previously one of the two Assistant General Managers of TAA. TAA's preference in choosing the Airbus 300 aircraft has been publicly announced and orders have been placed. > >Following presentation of the Actuary's report the deficit in TAA's superannuation arrangements has been discussed with the Chairman of TAA and the Minister for Finance. Resulting from these discussions the Government made a proposal to TAA in order to resolve the problems which were initially caused through the annual indexation of pensions. > >The Commission is currently giving consideration to these proposals. Mistakes in Telephone Directories {: #subdebate-65-68-s12 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- On 27 March 1980 *(Hansard,* page 1078) **Senator Townley** asked me as Minister representing the Minister for Post and Telecommunications the following question without notice: >I preface this question by saying that on occasions some telephone numbers listed in telephone directories are incorrect and sometimes names that are listed are under the wrong heading in the business section in the Yellow Pages. Sometimes names are omitted. I give the Minister the example of Hertz Rent-A-Car Pty Ltd a subsidiary of Trans-Australia Airlines, which is incorrectly listed under Kay-Hertz in the 004 directory for Tasmania. Obviously this mistake must cause Hertz some loss of business. Has Telecom Australia considered making directory correction lists available to subscribers so that they will be better served and. if not, will Telecom consider such a move? The Minister for Post and Telecommunications has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >Telecom Australia has advised that all entries for Hertz Rent-A-Car and Kay Hertz Rent-A-Car which appear in the 004 telephone directory are correct. However, an entry in the Alphabetical Section for Hertz Rent-A-Car was inadvertently omitted. > >Past experience has shown that the issue of directory correction lists is ineffectual. When supplementary correction lists were issued some years ago, surveys revealed that the lists were seldom consulted by subscribers and there was no Tailing off in the numbers of enquiries to Directory Assistance Operators. > >Up-to-date details of all telephone numbers are available from Directory Assistance, which is a free service, and, in the circumstances, Telecom considers the costs that would be involved in producing and distributing supplementary directory lists could not be justified. > >Telecom apologises for this error, and has taken action to ensure that the entry is included in the next issue of the directory. Voting in Union Ballots {: #subdebate-65-68-s13 .speaker-8G4} ##### Senator Durack:
LP -- On 27 March 1980 *(Hansard,* pages 1077-1078), in response to a question without notice by **Senator Mulvihill** concerning a decision of the Federal Court of Australia in re Gleghorn, I indicated that I would give further consideration to so much of the question as related to the possible effect of the decision upon Federal elections. Having considered the matter with the assistance of advice from the Solicitor-General, I can now advise the honourable senator that, in my opinion, the decision in re Gleghorn does not make it necessary to depart from the practice of treating as informal any ballot papers in a Federal election that are marked only with a cross or tick. The Federal Court decision referred to by **Senator Mulvihill** related to an optional-preferential ballot where there was only one position to be filled and only two candidates. It sufficed there to give a vote to one candidate and the Federal Court held that such a vote was sufficiently indicated by a cross or tick opposite the candidate's name. In an election of senators for a State or Territory there is now always more than one position to be filled and hence there are always more than two candidates. Accordingly the decision in re Gleghorn is not applicable to Senate elections. A House of Representatives election may, of course, involve only two candidates, and it is an election by preferential ballot. The question whether a ballot paper in such an election is informal is governed by section 1 33 of the Commonwealth Electoral Act 1918. In my view, a House of Representatives ballot paper marked in a way that was held to be sufficient under the union rules applicable to the ballot considered in re Gleghorn would be informal by reason of section 1 33. Recalling of Products by Manufacturers {: #subdebate-65-68-s14 .speaker-8G4} ##### Senator Durack:
LP -- On 27 March 1980 *(Hansard,* page 1080) **Senator Walters** asked me a question without notice in my capacity as Minister representing the Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs. The question concerned a report that an Australian manufacturing company had recalled its product for modification of a possible safety hazard although the product was carrying the seal of approval of the Standards Association of Australia (SAA). The Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >The Department of Business and Consumer Affairs has investigated this matter in conjunction with the SAA and the Minister is advised that the product in question was a child restraining device used in motor vehicles. > >The company manufacturing this particular child restraining device had obtained the necessary safety approvals from the SAA which are a mandatory requirement under the consumer product safety standard under the Trade Practices Act for child restraining devices for use in motor vehicles. After the SAA had issued these approvals, it was found that this particular device developed cracks in the seat when the device was installed incorrectly in an automobile and not in accordance with the instructions provided. Modifications have now been made which should overcome this problem of the device cracking if inadvertently over-tensioned. > >Companies involved in the supply of this child restraining device published public notices in the national Press warning of the dangers that might be caused by incorrect installation, and modification of the device was recommended. > >Although every effort is made to ensure reasonable standards of safety before products are approved by the SAA, some defects in a product do not become apparent until the product is in widespread use by the public. > >In this particular case the Minister has been informed that satisfactory arrangements were immediately instituted to overcome the possible safety hazard which arose. > >Both the Department of Business and Consumer Affairs and the Standards Association of Australia will continue to monitor closely the safety aspect of all consumer products. Use of Chemicals in Vietnam {: #subdebate-65-68-s15 .speaker-8G4} ##### Senator Durack:
LP -- On 1 April 1980 *(Hansard.* page 1248) **Senator Melzer** asked me a question without notice in my capacity as Minister representing the Minister for Defence in the Senate. The question concerned the names of the firms from which herbicides used in Vietnam were purchased, the amounts purchased and the use in Australia for which these materials were produced. The Minister for Defence has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >A search through Army records of the late 1960s has identified purchases of some 473 drums of herbicides. The detailed breakdown is as follows: > >Reglone, 1 25 x 45-gallon drums; > >Tordon 50D, 1 3 x 45-gallon drums: > >Grammoxone,1 x 45-gallon drum; > >Hyvar X-W-S, 234 x 50 lb drums. > >The suppliers were Amalgamated Chemicals, Bankstown: Shell Chemicals: ICI Sydney; and Dow Chemicals, Sydney. These brand-name products and various similar herbicides were and remain in use in Australia for a number of agricultural and industrial purposes. Use of Herbicides in Vietnam {: #subdebate-65-68-s16 .speaker-8G4} ##### Senator Durack:
LP -- On 2 April 1980 *(Hansard,* page 1335), **Senator Melzer** asked me a question without notice in my capacity as Minister representing the Minister for Defence. The question concerned an operation by the RAAF in Vietnam in 1967 to deny the rice harvest to the enemy. The Minister for Defence has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >The purpose of the operation was not the destruction of the crop, but its denial to the Viet Cong. Stated briefly, the objective was to keep the Viet Cong out of the area concerned. The means involved the deployment of ground forces. Army and Air Force helicopters, as well as other means of transportation, were used from time to time to move ground forces in and out of the area of operations. The objective having been to protect the crop, the question of its destruction naturally did not arise. Tranquilliser Drugs {: #subdebate-65-68-s17 .speaker-C7D} ##### Senator Dame Margaret Guilfoyle:
LP -- On 2 April 1980 *(Hansard,* pages 1331-1332), **Senator Watson** asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice concerning the findings of a British Government committee relating to the use of tranquilliser drugs, particularly Valium, Librium and Mogadon. The Minister for Health has provided the following information: >I am aware of a recent review of benzodiazepines by the UK Committee on the Review of Medicines (CRM) as reported in the British Medical Journal of 29 March 1980. > >There is evidence to support the proposition that most hypnotics (not only Mogadon) lose some of their effectiveness after a comparatively brief period of continuous use. However, my Department is not in possession of data supporting the suggestion that Valium and Librium are ineffective, for treatment of anxiety, after four months' use. > >My Department has already developed class statements for benzodiazepines and these are utilised by the National Drug Information Service for preparation of individual Drug Profiles on these drugs. > >A basic Product Information document is required as part of a general marketing submission and this is evaluated by my Department before the release of any new drug which is subject to its control. Amendment and/or updating of this document may be required at any time in the light of progressively available information. > >Mogadon and Valium are included in the Pharmaceutical Benefits list. The maximum number of tablets permissible on a single prescription in the case of Mogadon is 25 (no repeats), and for Valium 50 tablets (no repeats). These limits act against excessive usage. Librium is not available on the subsidised list at all, and thus is not widely prescribed in Australia. Trade Commissioner in Moscow {: #subdebate-65-68-s18 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- On 16 April 1980 *(Hansard,* page 1467), **Senator Sibraa** asked me, as the Minister representing the Minister for Trade and Resources, the following question, without notice: >Does the Government maintain a Trade Commissioner in Moscow? In view of the Government's objective of boycotting the Olympic Games, has the Government also considered recalling the Trade Commissioner for Moscow. The Minister for Trade and Resources has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >I confirm that the Government does maintain a Trade Commissioner in Moscow. > >The Government has not considered withdrawing the Trade Commissioner in the context of its objective of having the Olympic Games boycotted. > >The campaign for an effective boycott of the Olympic Games is one - an important one- of a range of comprehensive measures the Government has taken after a thorough review of Australia's total relationship with the Soviet Union. Air Navigation Equipment {: #subdebate-65-68-s19 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- On 1 6 April 1 980 *(Hansard,* page 1466), **Senator Lajovic** asked me a question without notice concerning the efficiency and reliability of communications equipment at Australian airports. The Minister for Transport has provided me with the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >The Department of Transport will ensure that aviation safety levels are maintained and in this respect I refer the honourable senator to my answer previously given in response to Question No. 2342 from **Senator Kilgariff** on 23 November 1979. > >With regard to the substance of the press reports of failures at Canberra radar, Alice Springs and Darwin, the following comments apply. > >As a result of an industrial dispute, the Canberra radar was withdrawn from service from 7 p.m. Thursday, 1 0 April 1 980 until 7 a.m. Tuesday, 15 April 1980. During this period air traffic movements affected by the non-availability of Canberra radar reverted to procedural control. > >At Alice Springs there was a loss of communications for approximately 6 minutes on 27 February 1980, as a result of technician error. Again I would refer the honourable senator to the answer given in response to a question raised on 30 April 1 980 by **Senator Kilgariff** > >The Department of Transport is unaware of any recent major failure at Darwin airport. However, on 22 November 1978, there was a major failure involving loss of communication, air traffic control, navigation and power supply systems as a result of extreme thunderstorm activity. Difficulties were experienced in quickly returning facilities to service because of the extensive nature of the faults and failure of the emergency supply system. > >For some years the reliability of the power supply system at Darwin airport has been of concern to the Department of Transport and also to the Department of Defence which has the prime responsibility for this joint-user airport, including the operation and maintenance of a major portion of the airport electrical system. During 1978 and 1979, the Department of Transport in conjunction with the Department of Defence undertook a review of the civil aviation operating and serviceability requirements of the power supply system at Darwin airport. As a consequence action is in hand by the Department of Defence to progressively upgrade the system. Druids Hospital and Medical Benefits Fund **Senator Dame** Margaret Guilfoyle - On 16 April 1980 *(Hansard,* page 1466) **Senator O'Byrne** asked the Leader of the Government in the Senate a question without notice concerning the closure of the Druids Friendly Society of Tasmania. **Senator Carrick** subsequently referred the question to the Minister for Health. On 14 May 1980, *(Hansard,* page 2183) **Senator O'Byrne** asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health a further question without notice dealing with the same subject. The Minister for Health has provided the following information: >There is no requirement under the National Health Act for cyclical reviews of the operations of the registered health insurance organisations to be carried out. However, a cyclical review program has been implemented as far as possible, given the changes in the health insurance arrangements, to facilitate the administration of Part VI of the Act. > >While this program is aimed at monitoring the financial position of health funds, the effectiveness of the program depends on the health funds providing timely and adequate information in order that an assessment of the financial situation can be made, lt is the responsibility of organisations to apply efficient management techniques and proper auditing procedures in order to detect any adverse trends that may develop and take appropriate steps to remedy the situation. The internal management of funds, which is a major cause of difficulties particularly with smaller funds, is outside the ambit of my Department in administering the National Health Act. In the normal course of events, it would have been appropriate for the management committee of Druids, having reviewed its financial situation, to have applied for an increase in contribution rates to compensate for any deterioration in the financial position. The decision to cease operations was taken by Druids' board of management. > >To assist contributors to this Society who have outstanding claims the following action has been taken > >Commonwealth medical benefits are being paid direct to contributors by the Commonwealth Department of Health. Some payments have already been made and contributors who have not already done so have been advised to lodge claims promptly with Druids so that my Department can finalise those claims without delay. > >The President of the Tasmanian Branch of the Australian Medical Association has been asked to encourage doctors to accept Commonwealth medical benefits in full settlement of medical claims outstanding at 29 February 1 980. A favourable response to this request has since been received. > >The Tasmanian Minister for Health was asked to consider waiving accounts for services given in public hospitals. The Minister has subsequently agreed to the waiver of charges. The Commonwealth will share with the State the resulting loss in revenue. > >In addition to the above, and as required by the National Health Act, I have appointed an inspector to investigate and report to me on the affairs of the Druids Society. > >As a preliminary step, an application to the Federal Court for winding up of a fund must be accompanied by a scheme for winding up and would need to include accurate details of the financial position of the Society and its ability to meet any outstanding claims. > >The inspector is working in conjunction with the Society's legal representatives and accountants in an endeavour to establish the financial position as quickly as possible. Until such time as this can be done, I am unable to indicate when the application to the Federal Court to have the Society wound up under section 82ZK of the National Health Act will be lodged. > >I have arranged for a copy of a press statement I issued on 23 April 1 980 in respect of this matter, to be placed in the Parliamentary Library. Overseas Air Services {: #subdebate-65-68-s20 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- On 16 April 1980 *(Hansard,* page 1471) **Senator Lewis** asked me a question without notice concerning regional overseas air services. The Minister for Transport has provided me with the following answer to the honourable senator's question: 1 announced on 6 May the Government's decision to reaffirm the policy that Qantas should continue at least until 1981 as Australia's sole international airline authorised to operate overseas air services in its own right. In view of this, the Government will not be considering applications by Ansett or other domestic carriers to operate international air services in their own right before the review of this policy proposed for next year has been completed. I am not aware that Qantas has suffered any competitive disadvantage through its acquisition of an all B747 aircraft fleet. Agent Orange **Senator Dame** Margaret Guilfoyle - On 17 April 1980 *(Hansard,* page 1555) **Senator Mason** asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice concerning research at Hanoi University into the effects of Agent Orange and the possibility of the Government sending a medical team to Hanoi to investigate this research. The Minister for Health has provided the following information: 1 am aware that the media has given much publicity to the allegations that Agent Orange had the potential for producing mutagenic effects in males exposed to it in South Vietnam. I am aware that such publicity has indicated the possibility that men exposed to this substance during the hostilities, and subsequently returning to areas where Agent Orange had not been used, had fathered children with congenital abnormalities. Work on mutagenicity, with particular reference to the male potential for the subsequent production of malformed children, has only recently attracted much attention. In relation to Agent Orange it is clear that retrospective studies, with the large number of potential causative factors, may fail to determine the precise role of any particular one when subsequent foetal abnormality studies are being conducted. However, you will be aware that a serious attempt is being made to resolve this by the epidemiological study on returned Vietnam veterans proposed by the Department of Veterans' Affairs. This study will be undertaken by the Commonwealth Institute of Health within the University of Sydney. Any material which could be supplied by the Vietnamese which would be capable of subjection to scientific assessment, would be welcomed by Australian authorities. To this end I understand that our Embassy in Hanoi has been requested to approach medical researchers in Vietnam to obtain any material they have on the effects of herbicides. In reply to a question without notice asked by **Senator Knight** on 14 May 1980 *(Hansard,* page 2186) **Senator Guilfoyle** indicated that the Government had decided not to send a medical or research team to Vietnam to study the problem. Casual Workers at Darwin Wharf {: #subdebate-65-68-s21 .speaker-8G4} ##### Senator Durack:
LP -- On 17 April 1980, *(Hansard,* page 1552) **Senator Robertson** asked me, as the Attorney-General, the following question without notice: >My question is directed to the Attorney-General. Is it a fact that two Queen's Counsel are being briefed to handle the prosecution of seven persons accused of undertaking casual work in the Darwin wharf while in receipt of the unemployment benefit? Is it a fact that these expensive arrangements were made only after the defendants had secured the legal aid which previously had been denied them because they refused to plead guilty? The response given to that question was: >I am not aware of the details relating to the matter raised by **Senator Robertson.** I will take up the matter immediately with the Crown Solicitor and endeavour to get an early answer for him. I have now received a report on the cases to which **Senator Robertson** has referred and supply the following information in answer to his question: >Seven persons were charged in the Darwin Court of Summary Jurisdiction between 22 and 23 August 1979 with a number of offences against section 29B of the Crimes Act 1914. Put shortly, the case for the prosecution was that each of the defendants had been in receipt of unemployment benefits in the relevant period; that each had also been in receipt of income earned from occasional employment as a casual waterside worker: and that each had failed to disclose either that last mentioned income or that employment to the Department of Social Security. > >On 1 2 May 1 980 the trial of one of the defendants began before His Honour **Mr Justice** Muirhead and a jury in the Supreme Court of the Northern Territory of Australia. **Mr J.** C. S. Burchett Q.C. and **Mr T.** M. Gardner of the Deputy Crown Solicitor's Office, Darwin, appeared for the Crown and **Mr M.** Einfeld Q.C. and **Mr G.** Eames of Counsel, instructed by the Australian Legal Aid Office, appeared for the accused. On 1 3 May 1980 this defendant pleaded guilty to 9 offences and was convicted. On 1 S May 1980 the other accused (except for one against whom it was decided not to proceed) pleaded guilty to various of the offences upon which they had been arraigned and were then convicted. > >I am informed that the Deputy Crown Solicitor, Darwin was advised on 10 September 1979 by the Acting Deputy Director, Australian Legal Aid Office that the Australian Legal Aid Office was acting for all of the defendants charged. I am also informed that **Mr J.** C. S. Burchett Q.C. was briefed to appear for the Crown in these matters on 3 March 1 980. Film Classification {: #subdebate-65-68-s22 .speaker-8G4} ##### Senator Durack:
LP -- On 21 April 1980 *(Hansard,* page 1586) **Senator Ryan** asked **Senator Carrick,** as the Minister representing the acting AttorneyGeneral, a question without notice concerning the classification for screening of the film *Death of a Princess.* In providing information on the honourable senator's question **Senator Carrick** stated that he would seek information as to the present whereabouts of the film. The following additional information is in answer to the honourable senator's question: >The film *Death of a Princess* was received by the Chief Film Censor on 8 May 1980 and was viewed by the Commonwealth Film Censorship Board on 1 3 May 1 980. lt has been registered under the Customs (Cinematograph Films) Regulations and has been classified 'AO' for television screening. Agent Orange **Senator Dame** Margaret Guilfoyle - On 21 April 1980 *(Hansard,* page 1587) **Senator Melzer** asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice concerning the possible extension of the current inquiry into the effects of Agent Orange to include Australian civilians who have worked in Vietnam and also, the need for an inquiry by the NH &MRC into the effects of these chemicals on the Australian population generally. The Minister for Health has provided the following information: >The epidemiological study currently being undertaken on Vietnam veterans is already of considerable size and scope. It is being conducted primarily on behalf of the Department of Veteran's Affairs and has been referred to on several previous occasions by the Minister for Veterans' Affairs, whose responsibility stems from the Repatriation legislation and extends to veterans of the Forces who have disabilities arising out of service. Persons who served in a civilian capacity in Vietnam do not come under the legislation. > >I would stress that the Government, when it commissioned the Commonwealth Institute of Health to carry out an epidemiological study, intended that those who are to be interviewed and examined should be exclusively serving members of the Forces or ex-service personnel and their families. > >The aim of the study is to determine whether the incidence of defined illnesses in the veterans themselves, and of genetic defects in offspring of Vietnam veterans exposed to herbicides and other chemicals in Vietnam, is different from that in Vietnam veterans who were not exposed and a matched and comparable group of Australian veterans who did not go to Vietnam. > >A change of the protocol which is being developed on the study would create major problems and delays, and would be unlikely to contribute to the aim of the exercise. > >The National Health and Medical Research Council (NH & MRC) has considered the herbicides 2, 4 5-T and 2, 4-D in detail, particularly during the past IO years. A special working party which met in June 1978 and again in March 1979 made specific recommendations which were subsequently issued by the Council, together with the report of the working party. > >A copy of this report has been placed in the Parliamentary Library. The considerations by the NH & MRC were related to domestic use, with particular reference to agricultural practice. Commonwealth Public Servants {: #subdebate-65-68-s23 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- On 22 April *(Hansard,* page 1621 ) **Senator Jessop** asked me a question, without notice, concerning the implementation of the Commonwealth Employees (Redeployment and Retirement) Act. The Minister Assisting the Prime Minister has provided the following answer lo the honourable senator's question: >The non-proclamation of the Commonwealth Employees (Redeployment and Retirement) Act 1979 is attributable to industrial and other action taken by some staff organisations. These staff organisations sought through the arbitration process to have a determination made which would have the effect of overriding certain provisions of that Act. The matter came before the Full Bench of the Conciliation and Arbitration Commission which has announced ils decision but no determination has yet been made. > >The purpose of the Act is to rationalise and co-ordinate provisions relating to the redeployment and retirement of staff in Commonwealth employment, and it might be regarded as a codification of those provisions. The Government's consistent altitude has been that both voluntary retirement and management-initiated retirement are inextricably linked. This is reflected by the inclusion of both measures together in the Act. > >I am advised that it is not possible to estimate with any certainty the number of persons who may wish to take advantage of the early retirement provisions of the Act. However it is well known that many long-serving public servants feel that they have served the country well and want to take advantage of the proposed early retirement provisions. > >On 20 December 1 979 a Full Bench of the Conciliation and Arbitration Commission decided that a determination should be made to give effect to procedures in relation to redeployment and retirement, and directed the Public Service Board and staff organisations to confer on the terms of such a determination. Discussions between the Board and staff organisations began on 29 February 1980, and are still continuing. The Government has decided that it will consider the question of proclamation of the Act when the terms of the Commission's determination are available. > >The introduction of early retirement in the Commonwealth sector could be expected to result in some increased job opportunities as vacancies flow down the line, as well as providing promotional opportunities for Commonwealth employees. I should emphasise, however, that the primary purpose of this Act is to provide a framework for the better management of personnel across Commonwealth employment and overall further improve the efficiency of Commonwealth bodies. Cheese Imports {: #subdebate-65-68-s24 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- On 22 April 1980 *(Hansard,* page 1619), **Senator MacGibbon** asked the Minister representing the Minister for Trade and Resources the following question, without notice: lt was announced in November 1 979 that discussions would be held between the Minister for Trade and Resources and the New Zealand Government concerning cheese imports. In view of the concern expressed by the Australian Dairy Farmers Federation al the delays in obtaining a determination on the Industries Assistance Commission's report on cheese, I ask: Have the discussions taken place? If so, what was their outcome? The Minister for Trade and Resources has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >Discussions with the New Zealand Government on the question of imports of cheese from that country are continuing. The purpose of these discussions is lo reach an understanding that would remove any threat of disruptive imports from New Zealand. A decision on the recommendations of the Industries Assistance Commission will be taken when the New Zealand question is settled. Promotion of Food and Confectionery **Senator Dame** Margaret Guilfoyle - On 22 April 1980 *(Hansard,* page 1621) **Senator Gietzelt** asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice concerning the Government's views on the promotion of food and confectionery sales on television, with reference to the concern expressed by nutritionists, parents and social workers on the effect of such advertising on children. The Minister for Health has provided the following information: >The Government accepts that the health and well-being of children is a matter of national concern. My Department is at present giving a high priority to nutritional aspects of health, and nutritionists in the Department are developing better nutrition education programs for the Australian people including children. A major step taken by my Department has been the drawing up and adoption of a food and nutrition policy, which makes specific mention of children's needs. > >As regards the use of television for the promotion of food and confectionery sales, the National Health and Medical Research Council (NH & MRC) which advises the Commonwealth and the States on matters of public health legislation and administration and on any other matters relating to health, medical and dental care and medical research, has established a Working Party to look into and report on the matter of television advertising of foods directed to children. > >The Government is aware that nutritionists, parents and social workers have expressed concern regarding the amount of advertising on television promoting foods, and the effect of such advertising on children. > >Members of the community have had the opportunity to put their views before the NH & MRC Working Party on Television Advertising of Foods, Directed to Children as, on 1 March 1980, the Secretary of Council advertised in national dailies calling for submissions from interested persons and organisations. > >The Working Party is presently considering the matter of the influence of television on the eating habits of children. The Working Party has now met twice and, when it has completed its deliberations, will make its recommendations through the appropriate committees of the NH & MRC to Council for consideration. Health of Maralinga Workers **Senator Dame** Margaret Guilfoyle - On 23 April 1980 *(Hansard,* pages 1696-7) **Senator Jessop** asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice concerning the health hazards to workers at Maralinga. The Minister for Health has provided the following information: >As the honourable senator is no doubt aware, this question has since been answered by the Leader of the Government in the Senate in his Ministerial Statement of 15 May I9S0 *(Hansard,* pages 2288-2294). Recruitment of European Tradesmen {: #subdebate-65-68-s25 .speaker-8G4} ##### Senator Durack:
LP -- On 23 April 1980 *(Hansard,* page 1693) **Senator Mason** asked a question without notice of **Senator Carrick** in his capacity as Minister representing the Minister for Employment and Youth Affairs in the Senate. The question concerned recruitment of tradesmen from overseas. The Minister for Employment and Youth Affairs has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >The Australian Engineering Industry Employment Mission, organised by the Metal Trades Industry Association, which visited several European countries in February, March and April this year recruited some 600 skilled metal and electrical tradesmen. The number of tradesmen actually arriving in Australia will depend in part upon the nominees (and their families) meeting immigrant entry requirements. The recruitment mission was subject to the usual immigration criteria applying to employment nominations, in particular, verification by my Department that the tradesmen could not be obtained from the local labour market in the time scale involved. In this particular case the tradesmen were mainly sought for firms in the Parramatta, Bankstown and Alexandria areas of Sydney where there has been a consistent shortage of metal workers for some time. > >With regard to your request that the Government implement a formula requiring metal trades employers to institute one additional apprenticeship for every tradesman imported I must point out that legislative and administrative responsibility for apprenticeship lies with the States and it is not the Commonwealth's function to determine apprenticeship employment levels. The Commonwealth does however provide financial incentive, primarily through the Commonwealth Rebate for Apprentice Full-time Training (CRAFT) Scheme, to encourage apprenticeship employment. > >You also requested that continued residence for immigrant tradesmen be subject to review after a period of three years. Immigration to Australia is for permanent settlement and is not subject to review after residence has been taken up. Clothing, Textile and Footwear Industries {: #subdebate-65-68-s26 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- On 28 April 1980 *(Hansard,* page 1805) **Senator Watson** asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Industry and Commerce, the following question without notice: >In relation to the recently reported profit of Bonds Coats Patons Ltd., is the Minister aware that in fact there was a percentage profit decline in relation to shareholders' funds compared with the previous year? Further, does the Minister not agree that the profit related to net tangible assets would be a more reliable indicator of return? Is the Minister aware that a substantial part of that profit is due to the company's compliance with successive Government requirements as to restructuring? Is the Minister aware also that such compliance necessarily leads to a situation of reduced employment with high-producing, world-efficient machinery? Does the Government now deny these textile firms the right to exist, as is implied in the recent Industries Assistance Commission draft report on the clothing, textile and footwear industries? The Minister for Industry and Commerce has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >I am aware that Bonds Coats Patons Ltd reported a 22 percent profit increase in the year to 3 1 December 1 979. The accounting profession recognises a number of ways of measuring profitability including the return on shareholders funds and return on net tangible assets employed in a particular manufacturing operation. The latter method is useful for making comparisons between firms and between different manufacturing operations. > >Clearly a satisfactory level of profitability is required to enable firms to continue to operate in the longer term in any industry. > >I am aware that Bonds Coats Patons Ltd. has made strong efforts to modernise and rationalise the company's facilities over recent years and higher productivity and improved earnings have been the result. According to public statements by the company, the recently reported profit growth reflected the capital expenditure program of the last five years rather than an expansion of sales. > >Draft Industries Assistance Commission reports are designed to promote informed public discussion of the issues; they do not call for comment or decision by the Government. > >Decisions on assistance arrangements to apply beyond mid- 1 98 1 will be taken shortly by the Government in the light of the recommendations contained in the recently submitted final report of the IAC and a considerable volume of other information is available to the Government. Clothing, Textile and Footwear Industries {: #subdebate-65-68-s27 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- On 28 April 1980 *(Hansard.* page 1802) **Senator Sim** asked the following question without notice: >In view of the announcement by Bonds Coats Patons Ltd, of a net operating profit representing a return of 16.02 per cent of its total shareholders' funds, I ask: How does the recent profit performance of clothing, textile and footwear producers compare with the profits of the of the rest of the manufacturing industry? The Minister for Industry and Commerce has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >The Industries Assistance Commission conducts an annual survey of the profitability and capital structure of the Australian manufacturing sector and the latest available figures relate to 1977-78. This survey, unlike other available published data, endeavours to isolate profitability attributable to manufacturing activities and seeks to put all the firms in the survey on a comparable basis. > >Profitability may be expressed in a number of ways; two ratios calculated by the Commission are set out below. Caution should be exercised in interpreting profitability ratios in labour intensive industries such as knitting mills and clothing and footwear which typically have relatively low levels of funds employed. As may be seen from this table, profitability varies considerably according to the measure employed and overtime; undue emphasis should not be placed on any one year's results. Australian National University Students: Payment of Fees {: #subdebate-65-68-s28 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- On 28 April 1980 *(Hansard.* page 1809) **Senator Knight** asked the Minister representing the Minister for Education a question without notice: >If receipts were issued in the names of the students concerned, I ask: Can those students get copies of those receipts so that they can seek a refund of the amount paid when the University frames its statutes defining appropriate services and amenities? The Minister for Education has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >I am advised that the seven students at the Australian National University who had their fees paid anonymously will be able to obtain copies of the receipts as they were made out in the name of each student which is normal University practice. > >I am not in a position to comment on the provision of refunds to students as the Statute is still under consideration. Cruise Ship 'Rasa Sayang' {: #subdebate-65-68-s29 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- On 28 April 1980 *(Hansard,* page 1804) **Senator Lewis** asked me a question without notice concerning the charter of the Greek flag cruise ship *Rasa Sayang* by the largely Russian owned cruise operator Charter Travel Company. The Minister for Transport has now provided me with the following additional information in relation to the honourable senator's question: >The vessel concerned was formerly known as the *Golden Moon,* the *Rasa Sayang,* the *Degrasse* and the *Bergensfjord.* This vessel was registered under the Greek Cypriot Rag in November 1978 by Sunlit Cruises of 16 Aphrodite Street, Nicosia, under the name of *Golden Moon.* It is understood that the vessel has been laid up in Piraeus, Greece, since the date of its registration in Cyprus as the *Golden Moon.* > >The *Golden Moon* was recently purchased by Afrodite Maritime Inc. and was transferred from Cypriot registry to Greek registry on 12 June 1980 under the name of *Rasa Sayang.* No details of the purchase price or the source of funds are available, as these matters are private and commercially confidential. > >Afrodite Maritime Inc. is a Greek-registered company, which is 95 per cent owned by **Mr Michael** Stroubakis, who is of dual Greek and American nationality, and 5 per cent owned by **Mr Alexandras** Paleokrasos, who is a Greek citizen. The vessel will operate under charter to Charter Travel Company of 123 York Street, Sydney. New South Wales and the owner expects that the vessel will depart Piraeus on I November 1980 arriving in Australia in December with Greek officers and crew and Malaysian stewards. > >In the circumstances the Government is satisfied that the ban on Soviet flag and Soviet crewed cruise vessels operation from Australian ports is not being circumvented. However, developments are being monitored to ensure that the Government's decision is complied with. > >The Charter Travel Company, which will operate under the business name of Rasa Sayang Cruises, is 75 per cent Soviet-owned. The remaining 25 per cent is owned by Australian and New Zealand interests. Thus a proportion of the profits made by CTC out of Australian cruise business is likely to flow to the Soviet Union. Independent and Multicultural Broadcasting Corporation {: #subdebate-65-68-s30 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- On 30 April 1980 *(Hansard,* page 1951) **Senator Ryan** asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Post and Telecommunications, the following question without notice: >In view of the media speculation and public concern about the cost to the public purse of the proposed Independent and Multicultural Broadcasting Corporation - estimates of up to $140m have been quoted- can the Minister say what investigations the Government has carried out to determine the full cost, including all costs associated with the installation of and changes to technical equipment, of setting up this service? What are the results of those investigations? The answer to the honourable senator's question is as follows: >The honourable senator's question makes reference to media speculation that the cost to the public purse of the proposed Independent and Multicultural Broadcasting Corporation (IMBC) could be up to $140m. This is a grossly exaggerated estimate and highly inconsistent with the true facts as will be illustrated by my answer to the second part of the honourable senator's question which relates to the cost of establishing and operating the services of the new Corporation. > >The 1979-80 appropriations to the Special Broadcasting Service included $2.3m to cover Implementation Committee and Task Force costs, the build-up of forward program stocks as well as initial capital costs in relation to program postarrival processing/dubbing facilities, presentation facilities and transmitters. > >For 1980-81 the current estimate for IMBC capital and operating costs in respect of the multicultural television services in the cities of Sydney and Melbourne is $23m. A further $ 1 .8m is estimated to be required in 1 980-8 1 to establish both the UHF and VHF transmitting facilities for these services. > >The existing ethnic radio services now operated by the Special Broadcasting Service, namely stations 2EA and 3EA, will be absorbed by the IMBC without change to the nature of their services or their technical facilities, and are estimated to cost $3.2min 1980-81. > >On-going administrative costs for the Corporation will be in the order of Sim. > >In summary therefore, the estimated costs of the IMBC services which have been, or will shortly be, submitted for Government consideration are as follows: lt will be appreciated that the above amounts include significant 'one time' establishment capital costs in the order of $5. 8m which will not be repeated in subsequent years. In addition, some offsetting advertising revenue can be anticipated during 1980-81. As indicated earlier, the anticipated costs for the IMBC service which I have just outlined bear little resemblance to the speculative figure of SI 40m mentioned in a number of press articles. On the question of possible costs for 198 1-82 and 1982-83, it is not anticipated that total annual appropriations will increase significantly. Capital costs will be less, but much will depend on whether the proposed transmission hours of 35 hours per week for the initial service are increased in subsequent years, and also whether local program content is increased above the approximate level of 25 per cent anticipated in 1980-81. These factors will be better assessed on the basis of consultation and research following an appropriate period of operation of the television service. Soviet Aggression {: #subdebate-65-68-s31 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- On 30 April *(Hansard,* page 1952) **Senator Walters** asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Foreign Affairs, the following question without notice: >Has the attention of the Minister representing the Minister for Foreign Affairs been drawn to the article circulated to many members of the Senate headed 'Unite Against Soviet Aggression'? Can the Minister say whether the map depicting the southward thrust on Asia of Soviet expansion is accurate? The Minister for Foreign Affairs has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >The map in the article entitled 'Unite Against Soviet Aggression' has been drawn to my attention. While the Government does not necessarily endorse all the observations made in the article, it accepts the basic argument that the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan represents the latest in a long line of adventurist and aggressive actions by the USSR against sovereign and independent countries. Employment Training Schemes {: #subdebate-65-68-s32 .speaker-8G4} ##### Senator Durack:
LP -- On 30 April 1980 **Senator Bishop** *(Hansard,* page 1953) asked **Senator** Carrick a question without notice in his capacity as Minister representing the Minister for Employment and Youth Affairs in the Senate. The question concerned information on the Government's apprenticeship support schemes and the rate of expenditure of funds through the various manpower training schemes. The Minister for Employment and Youth Affairs has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >Apart from the Commonwealth Rebate for Apprentice Full-time Training Scheme (CRAFT) mentioned by **Senator Carrick,** the Government has taken a number of measures to increase apprenticeship intakes in order to meet the demand for skilled labour. These include the provision of full-time preapprenticeship courses, the expansion of the Group One- Year Scheme, the promotion of group apprenticeship schemes and a review of apprentice intakes by Commonwealth departments and instrumentalities. An additional and very recent initiative was the Government's decision to pay a $ 1 ,000 rebate, under CRAFT, to employers for each additional first year apprentice taken on between 1 December 1979 and 30 June 1980 compared with the same period a year earlier. > >In addition the Commonwealth stands ready to develop special trade training arrangements in co-operation with State Governments to cope with the expected shortage of skilled workers arising from foreshadowed major development projects. Already special arrangements have been made with Western Australia in an attempt to prevent skill shortages impeding the development of the North-west Shelf. > >These arrangements involve making available subsidies, from various programs administered by my Department, to employers as an incentive to their providing employment and training to apprentices over and above their current needs. By this mechanism and by associated changes to the Western Australian technical education year a program of accelerated apprenticeship training has been developed which, depending on employer response, will lead to an additional 1 ,000 tradesmen being produced in that State by 1 984. > >With regard to the second matter you raised, based on estimates provided by my Department early this year details of projected under expenditure on NEAT and CRAFT were included in the Department of Finance information paper entitled 'Statement of Savings Expected in Annual Appropriations made by Appropriation Act No. 1 and Appropriation Act No. 2', which was tabled in the Parliament on I April 1980. lt is important, however, to recognise that the actual expenditure on these programs will not be known until after 30 June 1980. > >While there remains a probability that there will be under expenditure on these programs it is expected (hat the number of persons assisted will not differ significantly from the target figure. I expect that the actual number assisted in 1979-80 will be in the order of 200,000. Laser Beams **Senator Dame** Margaret Guilfoyle - On 30 April 1980 *(Hansard,* page 1950) **Senator Elstob** asked the Minister for Science and the Environment a question without notice concerning safety standards for the use of lasers. **Senator Chaney** subsequently referred the question to the Minister for Health who has provided the following information: >I am not aware of any legislative controls in Australia covering the use of lasers. Several publications to guide users do exist, the most comprehensive of these being the Australian Standard AS221 1 - 1978 "Laser Safety' of the Standards Association of Australia. This publication and others such as the National Health and Medical Research Council's 'Code of Practice of the Safe Use of Lasers in Secondary Schools' do not, however, have any legal standing, lt is the prerogative of State Governments to include the recommendations of such publications in their legislation ir they so desire. > >I am aware that nearly all lasers are capable of inflicting biological damage with the most susceptible regions for damage being the cornea and the retina of the eye, and skin. > >The Australian Standard AS22II - 1978 'Laser Safety' would be a suitable base on which State Governments could develop legislation covering the use of lasers and the State authorities would be aware of this Standard. De-icing of Aircraft {: #subdebate-65-68-s33 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- On 1 May 1980 **Senator Keeffe** *(Hansard,* page 2023) asked me a question without notice concerning de-icing of aircraft. The Minister for Transport has provided me with the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >The airlines have stands, pumps and extension nozzles available at those ports where aircraft remain overnight and are liable to collect frost. Ethylene glycol or isopropyl alcohol is used as a de-icing fluid. Engineers are on duty at all ports where it is expected that de-icing may be required. I am informed that there is no programmed training by airlines in the use of ice and frost removal equipment but on-the-job training is practised. Some commuter operators use rigs and procedures similar to the airlines, others use warm water to clear their aircraft of frost. The Air Navigation Regulations place the responsibility on the pilot-in-command to ensure that all external surfaces of the aircraft are free from frost and ice immediately before take off on any flight. Commonwealth Employment Service Offices: Tasmania {: #subdebate-65-68-s34 .speaker-8G4} ##### Senator Durack:
LP -- On I May 1980 *(Hansard,* page 2020) **Senator Walters** asked a question without notice of **Senator Carrick** in his capacity as Minister representing the Minister for Employment and Youth Affairs in the Senate. The question concerned plans to reduce the staffing level in Tasmanian Commonwealth Employment Offices. The Minister for Employment and Youth Affairs has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >I am advised by my Department that the results of a recent review of staffing in the Commonwealth Employment Service are still to be finalised and therefore at this stage I am unable to provide any information on adjustments to staffing levels in CES offices in Tasmania. Opening of High Court Building {: #subdebate-65-68-s35 .speaker-8G4} ##### Senator Durack:
LP -- On 1 May 1980 *(Hansard,* page 2019) **Senator Gietzelt** asked **Senator Carrick** a question without notice concerning the opening of the High Court building. In providing information on the honourable senator's question **Senator Carrick** said that if there were more to add to the matter he would let the honourable senator know. The following additional information is in answer to the honourable senator's question. The Government gave responsibility for hosting the opening ceremonies for the new High Court building to the High Court. Ministerial responsibility is shared between the Prime Minister, in respect of the Queen's visit, and the AttorneyGeneral who is generally responsible for the administration of the High Court. Invitations to the opening ceremonies were issued by the Court. As a matter of protocol it is not usual for the Vice-Regal representative to be present when the Queen is herself present on an official occasion. I understand that the Chief Justice had some discussion with the Governor-General concerning the question of His Excellency's possible attendance. After discussion, His Excellency agreed not to be present. The Government did not disagree with this conclusion. Nursing Education **Senator Dame** Margaret Guilfoyle - On 13 May 1980 *(Hansard,* page 21 1 1 ) **Senator Walters** asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice concerning the recommendations of the Sax report on nursing education. The Minister for Health has provided the following information: >The Government has reached a decision in this matter, details of which are contained in a media statement issued on 25 June 1980 (reference 32/80), by my colleague the Hon. Wal Fife, M.P., Minister for Education. Business Bankruptcies {: #subdebate-65-68-s36 .speaker-8G4} ##### Senator Durack:
LP -- On 13 May 1980 *(Hansard,* page 2114) **Senator Gietzelt** asked me a question without notice in my capacity as Minister representing the Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs in the Senate. The question concerned the rise in business bankruptcies and the possible link between small business failures and, particularly, the growth of large supermarkets and large retail shopping centres. The Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs has supplied the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >I am concerned not only at the rise in business bankruptcies, but also at the rise in non-business bankruptcies. However, 1 consider that it is not correct to infer from the statistics that this rise is a consequence of factors over which the individual person has no control. The Annual Reports on the operation of the Bankruptcy Act clearly show (see copies of Schedule 10 Part A attached) that, in each year since 1 975-76, the most common causes of business bankruptcies were: > >Lack of business ability, acumen, training or experience resulting in such matters as under-quoting, mistakes in estimating, lack of supervision and failure to assess potential of business or to detect misrepresentations. > >Lack of sufficient initial working capital. > >Economic conditions affecting industry including competition and price cutting, credit restrictions, fall in prices, increases in charges and other overhead expenses, high cost of repairs and maintenance of equipment and changes in the character of business location (by-pass roads.) > >I have caused departmental officers to prepare for your information (see attached schedule) a further analysis from Schedule 10 of these three most common causes of bankruptcy showing, in percentage form, the incidence in which they were the major cause of business bankruptcies or the most significant secondary cause. > >The figures clearly show that the rise in the number of bankruptcies is more directly related to general business incompetence and lack of working capital than to anything else. 1 have noted the article in the Australian Financial Review to which your question refers. On my reading of it, the article merely confirms what the statistics referred to above show fairly conclusively. The business people referred to in the article are quoted as saying that the difficulties confronting small businesses are caused by: > >The inexperience and undercapitalisation of enthusiastic but overoptimistic amateurs; > >Unduly high rentals in larger shopping centres for business selling other than essential consumer commodities (eg meat); and > >The tendency for new businesses to rely unduly on the developer's research into potential turnover and profitability. > >My responsibility is for the administration of Bankruptcy legislation and Trade Practices legislation insofar as it deals with competition and unfair practices. The Federal Government does not intend to regulate the operation of shopping centre complexes, the construction sites and licensing of which are primarily the responsibility of State Governments. > >Generally, it is for entrepreneurs and consumers to decide whether or not a market should exist, its degree of concentration and range of choice available. The Federal Government's attitude is that normally it should only intervene in an area which is not its prime responsibility when the balance of activities in the market place is against competition or the public interest. South Australian Railways {: #subdebate-65-68-s37 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- On 14 May 1980 *(Hansard,* page 2184) **Senator Bishop** asked me a question without notice concerning reductions in ANR staff at Peterborough, South Australia. The Minister for Transport has provided me with the following answer to the honourable senator's question. The reduction of staff at Peterborough has been estimated by ANR at 137, arising mainly from the construction of the Adelaide to Crystal Brook standard gauge railway. This new railway will facilitate the movement of rail traffic between Adelaide and New South Wales, Western Australia and the Northern Territory. It will reduce the demand for time-consuming bogie exchanging at Peterborough with a consequent reduction in demand for staff both at the bogie exchanges and in ancillary services. ANR has advised that, from the inception of the project, reductions in staff have been carefully planned. The Commission has re-affirmed its policy that no employees will be retrenched and there will be close consultation with employees and unions in offering alternative employment where necessary. ANR has also been in contact with the Peterborough Council on these matters. Although there will be a significant reduction in ANR staff numbers at Peterborough, the town will remain an important rail centre. Peterborough will retain its role as a major operational centre with respect to crewing, marshalling, examining and repairs. The bogie exchange will be retained for emergency use, manned by locomotive depot staff. Metroliner Crash: Esperance {: #subdebate-65-68-s38 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- On 14 May 1980 *(Hansard,* page 21 79) **Senator Townley** asked me a question without notice concerning the crash of a Metroliner aircraft in Western Australia. The Minister for Transport has provided me with the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >As part of the process of being certificated in the Transport category of this class of operation the Metroliner aircraft is required to demonstrate that, in prescribed circumstances, it is capable of flying and maintaining height on one engine. > >At this early stage of my Department's investigation it is not possible to state whether in the circumstances pertaining the Metroliner would have been more likely to have made a safe landing had it been crewed by two pilots. > >My Department has under consideration a proposal that two pilots be required for operating commuter aircraft having a passenger seat configuration of 1 0 seats or more, because of the added safety and more effective passenger control which in certain circumstances a properly co-ordinated crew can provide. This, and other proposals which resulted from a review undertaken by my Department over recent months, have been placed before interested industry organisations for consideration and comment. If this proposal is implemented, aircraft such as the Metroliner will require two pilots when operating on commuter services. Australian Broadcasting Commission: Darwin {: #subdebate-65-68-s39 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- On 15 May 1980 *(Hansard,* page 2269) **Senator Robertson** asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Post and Telecommunications, the following question without notice: ls it a fact that as from Monday of next week the Australian Broadcasting Commission in Darwin will prepare and present ils own news coverage instead of simply having a five-minute prelude to the national news? If this is a fact, will the Minister indicate what additional resources, in terms of staff and funds, have been made available to the ABC in that city to enable it to carry out this most desirable service? The Minister for Post and Telecommunications has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >A 25-minute locally produced TV News Bulletin was successfully introduced from the ABC's Darwin TV studios on and from 19 May. lt is presented at 7 pm from Monday to Friday each week. The funds for the additional staff and facilities required were provided from the ABC's current Appropriation. Garment Manufacturers {: #subdebate-65-68-s40 .speaker-8G4} ##### Senator Durack:
LP -- On 20 May 1980 *(Hansard,* page 2470) **Senator Sim** asked me a question without notice in my capacity as Minister representing the Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs in the Senate. The question concerned Australian garment manufacturers. The Minister has supplied the following answer to the honourable senator's question: lt has been the usual practice for this Government to release reports by its independent advisory bodies on tariff matters, be they the IAC or Temporary Assistance Authority, at the time it announces its decisions on those reports. In the present case, the lAC's final report on textiles, clothing and footwear, which is currently under consideration, the Government expects to announce its decision as soon as possible, to assist future planning of operations by importers, retailers and manufacturers, lt is anticipated that the lAC's report will be released at the same time in the usual way. Air Niugini {: #subdebate-65-68-s41 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- On 20 May 1980 *(Hansard,* page 2471) **Senator Sibraa** asked me a question without notice concerning moves by Ansett Airlines of Australia to purchase Air Niugini and Ansett's obligation to inform the Government. The Minister for Transport has provided me with the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >Matters requiring consultation between Ansett Transport Industries Ltd and the Commonwealth are specified in the Airlines Agreements and the various Loans Agreements. I am advised that there is no obligation on Ansett to inform the Government of matters relating to civil aviation outside > >Australia. Accordingly, there was no requirement upon Ansett to inform the Government if it intended to make a takeover offer with respect to Air Niugini. School Cadet Corps {: #subdebate-65-68-s42 .speaker-8G4} ##### Senator Durack:
LP -- On 20 May 1980 *(Hansard,* page 2477) **Senator Rocher** asked me a question without notice in my capacity as Minister representing the Minister for Defence concerning the Government's support for the Australian Services Cadet Scheme. The Minister for Defence has provided the following information in answer to the honourable senator's question: >In my statement to the House of Representatives on 27 May 1 976, when I announced details of the new cadet scheme, 1 emphasised that cadet training was to be less costly to the Defence Vote and that priority in Defence expenditure must be given to maintaining and expanding Australia's defence capability. > >As the new scheme relies to a much greater extent on volunteer support from the community for the administration and training of cadets, there is less diversion of Defence funds from their primary purpose. > >The President of the Returned Services League in Western Australia is reported to have said at the State Congress of the RSL that the League did not see the (cadet) movement as an adjunct to the Defence Force but rather as a community youth project. This is also the view of the Government. > >The community has a duty along with the Government to ensure that our young people develop the qualities of leadership, self reliance and loyalty. > >For its part the Government provides: uniforms: support for annual camps by way of rations, accommodation and equipment; a travel subsidy to enable cadets to attend annual camp; and payment of allowances to officers and instructors of cadets. > >Expenditure for 1 979-80 on the cadet scheme is in the order of $6m. > >Adequate community involvement and support are essential if cadet units are to operate successfully in accordance with the new scheme's guidelines. Trust Funds of Staff Specialists **Senator Dame** Margaret Guilfoyle - On 21 May 1980 *(Hansard,* page 2562) **Senator Baume** asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice concerning trust funds established by staff specialists in the Australian Capital Territory. The Minister for Health has provided the following information: >The Capital Territory Health Commission has received legal advice that the Private Practice Trust Fund is validly constituted. > >Salaried specialists employed by the Commission, who participate in the Fund, are aware of their taxation obligations in regard to amounts received from the Fund. Taxation issues in relation to the balance standing to the credit of the Fund are under discussion with the Taxation Office. Eligibility for Repatriation Benefits **Senator Dame** Margaret Guilfoyle- On 21 May 1980 *(Hansard,* page 2560) **Senator Mulvihill** asked me, in my capacity as Minister representing the Minister for Veterans' Affairs, a question without notice about the eligibility of members of certain armed resistance groups during World War II for Repatriation benefits. The Minister for Veterans' Affairs has advised that his Department is still awaiting an opinion on the matter from the Attorney-General's Department. Claims have been received by the Department of Veterans' Affairs from former members of these armed forces and these will be determined as soon as the opinion is received. Tax Subsidies {: #subdebate-65-68-s43 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- On 21 May *(Hansard,* page 2562) **Senator McLaren** asked me, as Minister representing the Treasurer, a question without notice concerning tax subsidies for agricultural projects. The Treasurer has provided the following information in answer to the honourable senator's question: >There are several points which should be made in response to this question. First, for many years income tax investment incentives have been given by way of direct deduction from income, rather than through rebates, and there were no features of the measures announced by the Prime Minister on 1 4 April 1980 that would have warranted a departure from that longstanding practice. Secondly, the 1 4 April measures apply to all capital expenditures for the conveyance, storage and distribution of water for use in a primary production business, and not only to irrigation systems. Thirdly, the question of incentives for soil conservation is still under study. Finally, while a rate of subsidy approaching 105 per cent may be theoretically possible, having regard to the realities of on-farm situations I think that the likelihood of such a rate would need to be heavily discounted in practice. Rail Strike: Transport of Cattle {: #subdebate-65-68-s44 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- On 22 May 1980 *(Hansard,* page 2633) **Senator Kilgariff** asked me a question without notice concerning the cessation of cattle consignments by rail from the Northern Territory to southern markets as a result of a strike by Australian National Railways employees. The Minister for Transport has provided me with the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >You will be aware that the ANR employees concerned lifted the bans on and from Sunday, 25 May 1980 and normal services resumed on the Tarcoola-Alice Springs Railway. In the circumstances, it was not considered necessary to make alternative arrangements. {:#subdebate-65-69} #### Minister for National Development and Energy: Appointments to Statutory Authorities (Question No. 2862) {: #subdebate-65-69-s0 .speaker-TJ4} ##### Senator Walsh: asked the Minister for National Development and Energy, upon notice, on 16 May 1980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. What are the names, dates and terms of appointment and salaries of all persons appointed to the boards and commissions of statutory authorities under the jurisdiction of the Minister for National Development and Energy. {: #subdebate-65-69-s1 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- The answer to the honourable senator's question is as follows: {:#subdebate-65-70} #### Minister for Veterans' Affairs: Appointments to Statutory Authorities (Question No. 2873) {: #subdebate-65-70-s0 .speaker-TJ4} ##### Senator Walsh: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Veterans' Affairs, upon notice, on 15 May 1980: >What are the names, dates and terms of appointment and salaries of all persons appointed to the boards and commissions of statutory authorities under the jurisdiction of the Minister for Veterans' Affairs. {: #subdebate-65-70-s1 .speaker-C7D} ##### Senator Dame Margaret Guilfoyle:
LP -- The Minister for Veterans' Affairs has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >The information requested by the honourable senator, as at 8 July 1 980, is as follows: Members of the Seamen's Pensions and Allowances Committee are remunerated at the rate of $72 per day. They are not entitled to payment if they are public servants. Of the current members, only **Mr Heath** is not a public servant. As at 8 July 1980, there are also 113 part-time medical members appointed by the Governor-General to the Repatriation Review Tribunal for terms of up to three years. They are remunerated on a sessional basis for each attendance. {:#subdebate-65-71} #### Minister for the Capital Territory: Appointments to Statutory Authorities (Question No. 2881) {: #subdebate-65-71-s0 .speaker-TJ4} ##### Senator Walsh: asked the Minister representing the Minister for the Capital Territory, upon notice, on 16 May 1980: >What are the names, dates and terms of appointments and salaries of all persons appointed to the boards and commissions of statutory authorities under the jurisdiction of the Minister for the Capital Territory. {: #subdebate-65-71-s1 .speaker-K5H} ##### Senator Scott:
NCP/NP -- The Minister for the Capital Territory has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >I am informed by my Department that as at 30 June 1980 the details sought by the honourable senator are as follows: {:#subdebate-65-72} #### Australian Apple and Pear Corporation (Question No. 2893) {: #subdebate-65-72-s0 .speaker-VJ4} ##### Senator Watson:
TASMANIA asked the Minister representing the Minister for Primary Industry, upon notice, on 21 May 1980: >What was: > >the nature of, and > >the amount of expenditure on all promotional activities costing over $100, conducted by the Australian Apple and Pear Corporation during the financial year 1978-79. {: #subdebate-65-72-s1 .speaker-K5H} ##### Senator Scott:
NCP/NP -- The Minister for Primary Industry has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question. The Australian Apple and Pear Corporation's accounts are drawn up on a calendar, and not a financial year, basis. Further the Corporation's promotional programmes are planned and carried out on a calendar year basis to correspond to the production and selling seasons for apples and pears in Australia. For these reasons the following details are based on information provided by the Corporation for the twelve months ended 3 1 December 1 979. {: type="1" start="1"} 0. . Expenditure on a State specific basis is as follows: {: type="1" start="2"} 0. Expenditure not identifiable to one particular State: {: type="1" start="3"} 0. Overseas Promotion (excludes money received from the Commonwealth Government under the auspices of the Overseas Trade Publicity Committee arrangements) {:#subdebate-65-73} #### Low Alcohol Beers (Question No. 2195) {: #subdebate-65-73-s0 .speaker-K8R} ##### Senator Townley:
TASMANIA asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 13 November 1979: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. Can the Minister confirm, through the Australian Hotels Association and other sources, a recent estimate which indicated that during the last few months (as at 13 November 1979) low alcohol beers have accounted for approximately 10 per cent to 1 3 per cent of beer sales in Victoria; if not, what is the latest estimated market share: (a) in each State; and (b) in Australia, of low alcohol beers. 1. What were the rates of total beer consumption per head for each year since 1974 for which statistics are available: (a) in each State; and (b) in Australia. 2. Does any indication, by the answers to parts (1) and (2) above, of declining beer consumption and an increasing share of the beer market for low alcohol beers, provide evidence that Australian beer drinkers are not being attracted to beers of higher alcohol content; if so, how does this evidence accord with the statement of the former Minister for Health in answer to my Question Without Notice of 28 August 1979, that 'one of the main arguments against such a proposal was that it may have an opposite effect to that intended. That is some people may well be attracted to the beverage with the highest alcohol content' (see Senate *Hansard,* 25 October 1979, pages 1860-61 ) if not, why not. 3. Will the information detailed in the answers to parts (I), (2) and (3) above be made available to the Food Standards Committee of the National Health and Medical Research Council, the State Food Advisory Committees and the Australian Health Ministers' Conference Working Party on Alcohol; if so, when; if not, why not. 4. Will the Minister now propose formally to the bodies mentioned in part (4) above that labelling of beer containers should include the percentage of alcohol content; if so, when; if not, why not. 5. What other steps have been taken, or are proposed, to achieve the implementation of this reform. 6. Did a study by the World Health Organisation, published in Geneva, as reported in the *Australian,* 8 November 1979, slate that: (a) the number of young people killed on Australia's roads has risen steeply in the past 20 years because of a combination of driving inexperience and alcohol; (b) deaths among those aged between 15 and 24 rose by 150 per cent in the 15 years to 1974 while the rate of increase for all groups was 66 per cent; (c) 535 young Australians died on the roads in the five-year period to 1 959; while 1357 in the same age bracket were killed between 1970 and 1974; (d) the figures for all age groups during the same periods were 2286 and 3802; and (e) the increasing abuse of alcohol by young people was the main cause of the steep rise in fatal accidents. {: #subdebate-65-73-s1 .speaker-C7D} ##### Senator Dame Margaret Guilfoyle:
LP -- The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. There are no available authoritative statistics on the market share of low alcohol beer. This information is not available to the Bureau of Statistics because the Excise Tariff does not distinguish between beers on the basis of alcoholic content. An informal survey conducted recently by the Department of Business and Consumer Affairs reveals that the market penetration of low alcohol beer is estimated to be less than 10 per cent. 1. Statistics of total beer consumption per head of population for each year since 1974 for which statistics are available are: 1974- 1 4 1.36 litres 1975- 142.79 litres 1976- 137.35 litres 1977- 1 36.23 litres A breakup by States is not available. {: type="1" start="3"} 0. to (6) Even the modest level of acceptance of low alcohol beers, and the decline in overall beer consumption do now provide some evidence that a proportion of drinkers would not be attracted to beers of a high alcohol content as a result of the labelling of containers. It suggests that some drinkers are seeking guidance in making responsible decisions about their use of alcohol. This new information is being made available to the bodies mentioned and the matter of printing of alcoholic content on containers of all alcoholic beverages is again under active consideration. 1. (a) and (e) lt is true that the number of deaths from motor accidents in Australia of persons aged 1 5-24 years has risen greatly in the last 20 years. The document to which the honourable senator is referring is an article entitled 'Mortality from motor vehicle accidents in the 15-24 year age group' which was published in the *WHO Quarterly Statistics Report,* Volume 32, Number 3, 1979. The article analyses mortality from motor vehicle accidents in the 15-24 year age groups since 1 955, using data provided by Member Stales, and comments on a world-wide trend towards increased numbers of deaths of young persons from road accidents. The article considers that alcohol abuse, when combined with driving, is a major factor contributing to the increased number of road deaths among youth, due to the inexperience of young persons in both drinking and driving. The article points out also that alcohol abuse is also directly associated in some countries with an increase in one other cause of accidental death in this age group, namely drowning. Australian experience supports this conclusion. {: type="1" start="7"} 0. (b, c, d) The data presented require clarification. The number of deaths referred to in the Report are annual averages, not total deaths, for the five-year periods 1955-59 and 1970-74. For example, an average of 535 Australians aged 15-24 years died in motor vehicle accidents in each year of the period 1955-59 compared with an average of 1357 persons in the same age bracket in each year of the period 1 970-74. Similarly, an average of 2286 Australians in all age groups died in motor vehicle accidents in each year of the period 1955-59, compared with an average of 3802 persons in all age groups in each year of the period 1 970-74. The percentage increases in deaths of young persons as a result of motor accidents in the periods 1955-59 and 1970-74 compared with percentage increases in deaths in all age groups from this cause in the same period are not affected by the use of averages and are as stated. To present a meaningful interpretation of these percentages, however, it is necessary to take account of changes which have occurred between 1955 and 1974 in population numbers, in the number of vehicles registered and in overall road usage. For example, the average number of vehicles registered each year in the period 1955-59 was approximately 2,455,000 compared with an average of about 5,503,000 per year in the period 1970-74. If the factor of increased vehicle usage is introduced, the figures appear somewhat less dramatic, as illustrated in the following table: {:#subdebate-65-74} #### International Energy Agency (Question No. 2512) {: #subdebate-65-74-s0 .speaker-ISW} ##### Senator Wriedt: asked the Minister for National Development and Energy, upon notice, on 6 March 1980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. 1 ) Is Australia a full member of the International Energy Agency (IEA): if so, does it subscribe to all decisions made by that body. 1. Did the IEA members agree, last year, to reduce crude oil imports by 5 per cent and did Australia agree to that reduction. 2. Has Australia reduced its crude oil imports in accordance with the IEA decisions; if so, by how much. 3. ls there any independent evidence to show if Australian crude has been substituted for imported crude, so that total consumption of crude oil has not declined by S percent. 4. Does the Australian Government receive statistics from the IEA to indicate if other IEA members are adhering to the decision to reduce crude oil imports by 5 per cent, if so what do the statistics show each IEA member's oil imports to be for the last twelve months. 5. Are there any sanctions available, in the event of any member country failing to adhere to an IEA decision; if so, what are the sanctions. {: #subdebate-65-74-s1 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- The answer to the honourable senator's question is as follows: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. The details of Australia's membership of the International Energy Agency were provided to the Parliament on 8 March 1979 by the Minister for National Development. See pages 800-804 of the *Hansard* for the House of Representatives, 8 March 1979. 1. 1 refer the honourable senator to the statement of 8 March 1979 and the answer to House of Representatives question No. 5031 *(Hansard,* 21 February 1980, page 315). As indicated in that answer the Governing Board of the IEA met at Ministerial level on 10 December 1979 and all members committed themselves to limit their imports in 1980, and to pursue goals for their oil imports in 1 985. 2. See (2). The IEA Governing Board's decision of December 1979 established specific import objectives. Imports by Australia during 1980 to date have been at a rate within the objective. 3. See (2). There was no quantification of the amount by which consumption of crude oil in any particular country should be reduced as a result of the decision taken by the IEA Governing Board on 21 and 22 May 1979; that decision recognised each country's particular oil requirements and policies already in place to meet the then current situation. Australian production of crude oil averaged 11.5 million barrels per month during the first five months of 1980. This compares with an average monthly production of 13.3 million barrels per month in 1979. Details of consumption of petroleum products in Australia for 1979 and for 1979-80 were provided in my press statements of 2 1 February 1980 and 30 July 1980 respectively. 4. Net annual oil import figures for IEA Member Countries are published by the IEA. Figures for 1979 are not yet publicly available. 5. The Agreement on an International Energy Program, accession to which is the basis or membership of the IEA, has no provisions for sanctions. However, review procedures have been established to ensure progressive monitoring of oil import levels in individual countries as set out in the press release I made on 1 1 December 1979 following the Ministerial-level meeting of 10 December 1979. Further developments of the review process were described in the communique of the Ministerial-level meeting of 22 May 1980, which was contained in my press release of 23 May 1 980. {:#subdebate-65-75} #### Australian Ownership of New Mineral and Energy Projects (Question No. 2516) {: #subdebate-65-75-s0 .speaker-ISW} ##### Senator Wriedt: asked the Minister representing the Prime Minister, upon notice, on 5 March 1980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. 1 ) How and by what specific measures does the Australian Government encourage the Australian ownership of new mineral and energy related projects. 1. How many of the announced new projects in the minerals and energy area will be Australian owned or predominantly Australian owned and controlled. 2. ls the Government concerned that companies and organisations outside Australia might obtain effective control over a large proportion of Australia's energy assets; if so, what action will the Government take to ensure a greater proportion of Australian ownership and control. {: #subdebate-65-75-s1 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- The answer to the honourable senator's question is as follows: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. 1 ) As a basic objective, the Government welcomes foreign investment in Australia because of the contribution it makes to the development of Australia's resources and the benefits that are associated with such development. At the same time, the Government considers that, where practicable, Australians should have opportunities to participate in the development of new natural resource projects. Accordingly, the objective of the Government's foreign investment policy is that, as a general rule, new natural resource development projects (excluding uranium) should have at least 50 per cent Australian equity and joint Australian/foreign control. New uranium developments are expected to have at least 75 per cent Australian equity and should be Australian controlled. In cases where 75 per cent Australian equity is clearly unobtainable, alternative proposals will be considered where there is a minimum of at least 50 per cent Australian equity and Australian participants have a major role in determining the policy of the project. Arrangements may be required to increase the level of Australian participation over an agreed period. The Government's policy also provides incentives to encourage and facilitate arrangements by companies wishing to naturalise' their Australian operations by moving to majority Australian ownership and adopting a predominantly Australian board. {: type="1" start="2"} 0. From information available to the Foreign Investment Review Board, it appears that, of sixty new natural resources development projects for which the go-ahead has been announced or for which final feasibility studies are being undertaken: {: type="a" start="a"} 0. there are fourteen projects which are wholly Australian owned, or predominantly Australian owned and Australian controlled; 1. there are thirty-five projects that are being jointly undertaken by foreign and Australian interests. Of these, twenty-two projects are 50 per cent or more Australian owned and five projects are 48 per cent or 49 per cent Australian owned; 2. there are eleven projects which are, at this stage, predominantly or wholly foreign owned, but, in a number of cases, increased Australian participation in terms of the Government's foreign investment policy will be required before they can proceed to full operation. 1. The Government considers that the Australian equity and control requirements under its foreign investment policy guidelines will ensure that foreign investment in the development of Australia's energy resources will be undertaken on the basis of a fair sharing of benefits between the foreign investor and the Australian community. DC9 Aircraft (Question No. 2697) {: #subdebate-65-75-s2 .speaker-KPG} ##### Senator Keeffe: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Transport, upon notice, on 21 April 1980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. Did the Minister for Transport confirm, during 1979, that cracks had been detected in the rear pressure bulk head of DC9 aircraft operated in Australia. 1. How many DC9 aircraft have been so affected and by whom are the aircraft operated. 2. What specific tests (i.e. due penetrant, X-ray, etc.) are conducted, and at what intervals are such tests conducted for the purpose of detecting cracks and/or corrosion in DC9 rear pressure bulk heads. 3. Has the Department of Transport any record of any cracking or structural failures of the engine attachment bolts of Australian operated DC9 aircraft; if so, when did these failures occur and which aircraft were involved. 4. What tests are conducted and at what intervals are such tests conducted for the purpose of detecting fatigue cracking and/or corrosion in the DC9 engine attachment bolts. 5. Are the tests physically supervised by the Department of Transport officers, for the purpose of ascertaining their effectiveness and do both Trans-Australia Airlines and Ansett have the necessary facilities to conduct such examinations. 6. Are Australian airline operators compelled by regulation to notify the Department of Transport and the manufacturers of the discovery of fatigue cracks, corrosion, structural failures and engine and component failures; if so, what form does the notification take; and, if not, why is such advice not given. {: #subdebate-65-75-s3 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- The Minister for Transport has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. 1 ) Cracks have been detected in the rear pressure bulkhead of DC9 aircraft operated in Australia. Cases of the problem were notified in the monthly **Major Defect** Summaries published by my Department. 1. Eight Douglas DC9 aircraft operated by TAA and eleven DC9 aircraft operated by Ansett Airlines. 2. The primary inspection methods used on DC9 rear pressure bulkheads are visual, radiographic and eddy current. These inspections are repeated at intervals ranging upwards from 2S0 landings depending upon the extent of known cracking and the modification status of the bulkhead. 3. No. 4. The engine attachments on DC9 aircraft are visually inspected at 250 hour intervals. Magnetic particle inspections of the actual attachment bolts are carried out at engine change. 5. No, but the inspection techniques and applications employed by the airlines are checked by Department of Transport officers. The work is performed by persons who are required to hold a Non-destructive Testing Authority issued by my Department. Trans-Australia Airlines and Ansett Airlines have all the necessary facilities to conduct such examinations. 6. Australian airline operators are required by Air Navigation Regulation 49H to investigate defects, such as fatigue cracking and corrosion and if it is considered that the safety of the aircraft might be affected or tha aircraft might become a danger to persons or property, a report must be made to the Secretary to the Department of Transport. There is no regulation which required airline operators to notify the aircraft manufacturer of defects but I understand that it is the practice of Australian airline operators to do so. Departure Tax: Party Accompanying the Prime Minister to Papua New Guinea (Question No. 2732) {: #subdebate-65-75-s4 .speaker-PF4} ##### Senator Colston: asked the Minister representing the Prime Minister, upon notice, on 23 April 1980: >Who incorrectly advised the Prime Minister's Press Secretary that departure tax had been paid by, or on behalf of, all members of the party accompanying the Prime Minister to Papua New Guinea in October 1978 (vide Senate *Hansard.* 21 April 1 980, page 1608). {: #subdebate-65-75-s5 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- The Prime Minister has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's questions: >This matter occurred some time ago and was dealt with orally; there is no written record of who was consulted or when. Consequently il is not possible to give **Senator Colston** the information he seeks. > >Persons who paid departure tax personally were myself and **Mrs Fraser, Senator G.** S. Davidson, **Mr K.** M. Myer and the Hon. E. G. Whitlam, AC, QC. > >The following Commonwealth Departments paid departure tax on behalf of other passengers - > >The Department of Administrative Services for **Mr P.** C. Hand, Mt O. Lloyd, Miss K. Gebert and two security officers; > >The Department of Foreign Affairs for **Mr N.** F. Parkinson; > >The Department of Construction for **Mr K.** J. Rodda, **Mr A.** D. Richards and **Mr D.** R. Eaton. {:#subdebate-65-76} #### Disabled People: Library and Information Services (Question No. 2748) {: #subdebate-65-76-s0 .speaker-GD5} ##### Senator Ryan: asked the Minister representing ' the Minister for Home Affairs, upon notice, on 28 April 1980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. Are many mentally and physically disabled people at a disadvantage in comparison to the rest of the community when it comes to access to library and information services. 1. As 1981 is the International Year of the Disabled Person, what programs will the Minister introduce to overcome this disadvantage. 2. ls the Minister aware of, and will he accept, the offer of the Library Association of Australia to co-operate in any project designed to provide better facilities for disabled people, particularly in libraries and related services. {: #subdebate-65-76-s1 .speaker-K5H} ##### Senator Scott:
NCP/NP -- The Minister for Home Affairs has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. Yes. I am advised that there are no available statistics which can give reliable measure of the disadvantage suffered by mentally and physically disabled people in their access to library and information services. The following figures have been extracted from the Report on the National Survey of Library *Services* for Handicapped People conducted by the National Library of Australia in March 1978. 1 am unaware of any later figures. Of the 697 library facilities in Australia surveyed in 1978 in 287 instances (41 per cent) the building was accessible to the disabled, in 314 (45 percent) the library service and print and catalogue was functionally convenient for the disabled, and in only 80 (14 per cent) were special toilet facilities provided. Special parking bays were reserved or ample parking provided for 326 (47 per cent) of the library facilities. The term library facilities encompasses, for example, the branches of a regional library system or of a university as well as single location institutions. Of the 697 library facilities surveyed only 26 met all four criteria mentioned above, 96 met three and 183 met none. {: type="1" start="2"} 0. A Working Party on Library Services for the Handicapped was established in May 1977 by the National Library at the suggestion of the National Advisory Council for the Handicapped and with the agreement of the Minister for Social Security and the then Minister for Administrative Services. The Working Party's Report was published in April 1979, and made a number of recommendations aimed at improving the provision of library services to the visually and physically handicapped in Australia. The National Library Council has accepted the recommendations and the Library will give priority to their implementation as resources permit. In particular, these will involve the creation and maintenance of a union catalogue of library materials for handicapped people, the operation of a clearinghouse for co-operation in transcribing materials into special formats and for obtaining the necessary copyright clearances, and assistance in obtaining national and international inter-library loans. In accordance with a recommendation of the Working Parly on Library Services for the Handicapped the National Library has recently established a National Advisory Committee on Library Services for the Handicapped. The Committee's terms of reference are to consider the special needs of handicapped people for library services and to advise the National Library Council on the organisation, development, co-ordination and operation of these services to meet these needs. A detailed statement of the terms of reference is included in the Report of the Working Party, published by the National Library in April 1979. The Advisory Committee held its first meeting on 2 June 1 980. In March 1 980 the Library published the first issue of *Linkup* - a newsletter intended as a medium for the dissemination and exchange of information of interest to librarians and agencies serving the handicapped. The first part of the National Union Catalogue of Special Library Materials for the Handicapped will be issued shortly. The Library is investigating sources and conditions of supply of specially-made captioned films for the deaf, and has started quarterly showings of such films in the Library's theatre. The Film Collection also has video cassettes suitable for mentally retarded adolescents and a series dealing with the problems of the physically handicapped. A list of films acquired will be issued during 1981. A bibliography on the handicapped is being prepared by the Library. This will cover selected Australian materials, predominantly in the Social Sciences, from the beginning of Australia's history to the present. Emphasis will be given to access and prevention as major themes of the International Year of Disabled Persons, lt is expected that the bibliography will be published later in 1980. Development of a comprehensive lending collection, for nation wide distribution, of films on industrial safety and the placement of disabled people in the work force is also underway. The NCDC is also examining means of improving the physical access to the National Library building. {: type="1" start="3"} 0. I am aware of the policy statement on library services for disabled people issued in November 1 979 by the Library Association of Australia and I am assured that the National Library and the Library Association are co-operating on these matters. {:#subdebate-65-77} #### Hexachlorophane (Question No. 2759) {: #subdebate-65-77-s0 .speaker-L8O} ##### Senator Mason: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 29 April 1980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. Did the Minister for Health state that the Australian Drug Evaluation Committee 'recommended that the label of products containing hexachlorophane and the associated product literature should include a statement warning women likely to become pregnant to avoid the use of such products.' 1. Will the Minister make such labelling mandatory immediately; if not, why not. {: #subdebate-65-77-s1 .speaker-C7D} ##### Senator Dame Margaret Guilfoyle:
LP -- The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. Yes. 1. As Minister for Health, I have accepted the recommendation of the Australian Drug Evaluation Committee and my Department has written to all State and Territory health authorities seeking their assistance in ensuring that the recommendation is implemented as soon as possible. My Department has also written to the major manufacturer of products containing hexachlorophane requesting that a warning statement be included in the product literature for its products. {:#subdebate-65-78} #### Petrol Pricing Policy: Discounting (Question No. 2765) {: #subdebate-65-78-s0 .speaker-3V4} ##### Senator Chipp: asked the Minister for National Development and Energy, upon notice, on 30 April 1980: >Are oil companies' retail outlets discounting their petrol prices due to a decline in petrol consumption this year from just under I per cent to between 3 and 4 per cent; if so, does this mean that oil companies now have a different petrol pricing policy to that of the Government and the Prices Justification Tribunal, and that the oil companies are now squeezing out independent retail outlets due to petrol discounting. {: #subdebate-65-78-s1 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- The answer to the honourable senator's question is as follows: >Petrol consumption has declined in the first half of 1980 by 2.0 per cent compared with the first half of 1 979, reflecting the success of the Government's initiatives to conserve liquid fuels. This has led to relatively high stock levels of motor spirit. Discounting of petrol prices partly reflects this position as well as competitive pressures within the industry. Prices found justified by the Prices Justification Tribunal are maximum wholesale prices and companies are free to exercise their own commercial judgment, taking account of the competitive position, in setting their wholesale price up to the approved maximum. In addition, retailers are free within any limits which might be set by State legislation, to set their own retail price. In relation to petroleum product retailing, the Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs announced on 22 July 1980 the action the Government proposed to take. {:#subdebate-65-79} #### Croatian National Congress (Australasia) (Question No. 2776) {: #subdebate-65-79-s0 .speaker-KVK} ##### Senator Mulvihill: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Foreign Affairs, upon notice, on 13 May 1980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. 1 ) What is the attitude of the Australian Government to the assertions contained in the advertisement of the Croatian National Congress (Australasia) (CNC) in the *Canberra Times* dated 1 May 1980, page 5, entitled 'Yugoslavia Will Nol Survive'. 1. Does the Australian Government support the dismemberment of Yugoslavia as advocated by the Croatian National Congress. 2. Since the notation 'Australasia' is attached to the title Croatian National Congress, has Australia co-operated with New Zealand to ensure the aims of the Croatian National Congress which parallel USSR designs on Yugoslavia are kept under close surveillance. {: #subdebate-65-79-s1 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- The Minister for Foreign Affairs has provided the following answers to the honourable senator's question: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. 1 ) The Government does not support the assertions contained in the advertisement of the Croatian National Congress (Australasia) in the *Canberra Times* dated 1 May 1980. The Government believes that Yugoslavia is a strong, stable and united country. 1. No. 2. The Croatian National Congress is a Croatian separatist organisation with branches in Croatian emigre communities in Australia and throughout the world. Its policies and activities are closely monitored by the relevant authorities in Australia and overseas, including New Zealand. {:#subdebate-65-80} #### Telecom Staff: Telephone Concessions (Question No. 2787) {: #subdebate-65-80-s0 .speaker-PF4} ##### Senator Colston: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Post and Telecommunications, upon notice, on 13 May 1980: >Will the Government accept Telecom's proposal that staff with five or more years' service be granted a concession on metered call charges (vide Senate *Hansard, 22* and 23 April 1980, pages 1622 and 1712); if so. when. {: #subdebate-65-80-s1 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- The Minister for Post and Telecommunications has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >No. The implications for Commonwealth sector employment are such that, in the present economic situation, the proposal should not be accepted. Overseas Student Enrolments in Australian Educational Institutions (Question No. 2798) {: #subdebate-65-80-s2 .speaker-ZI4} ##### Senator Rocher: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Education, upon notice, on 20 May 1980: >How many overseas students were enrolled at Australian universities and institutes of Advanced Education for each academic year from 1 978 to 1 980 inclusive. {: #subdebate-65-80-s3 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- The Minister for Education has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >Figures collected from institutions by the Tertiary Education Commission show that in 1978 there were 6,717 overseas students enrolled at Australian universities and 1864 enrolled at colleges of advanced education. The figures for 1979 were 7,1 1 5 and 1 ,610 respectively. Data for 1980 are not yet available. > >The Tertiary Education Commission defines an overseas student as 'a person who is not an Australian citizen and who came to Australia expressly for study purposes'. Other definitions of overseas students would produce different statistics. For example, the definition used in the Overseas Students Charge Act 1979 would exclude New Zealand citizens, who are included in the above figures. {:#subdebate-65-81} #### Uniform Fire Fighting Equipment (Question No. 2808) {: #subdebate-65-81-s0 .speaker-IE4} ##### Senator Archer: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Administrative Services, upon notice, on 1 4 May 1 980: ls there any action available to the Government that could eliminate the problems of fire services caused through lack of uniformity of a variety of fire fighting equipment, particularly hose couplings; if not, can the matter be raised at a Premiers' Conference to ensure that not only is the present situation completely understood, but those with the capacity and responsibility should be aware of it, and requested to take appropriate action to rectify it. {: #subdebate-65-81-s1 .speaker-K5H} ##### Senator Scott:
NCP/NP -- The Minister for Administrative Services has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >The provision of fire services and fire fighting equipment in the States is essentially a matter for the States, lt is true that there is some lack of uniformity in the equipment of the various fire protection services and hose couplings are examples. > >On 27 September 1978 the then Minister for Administrative Services, **Senator Chaney,** presented to the Senate a report on the standardisation of the fire hose couplings prepared by the Commonwealth Fire Board. At the time. **Senator Chaney** indicated that the Commonwealth's position is that the determination of whatever action might follow the Board's recommendations is a matter for the States and their own fire authorities. lt would not, therefore, be an appropriate matter for the Commonwealth to raise at a Premiers' Conference. {:#subdebate-65-82} #### Department of Home Affairs: Appointments of Senior Staff (Question No. 2853) {: #subdebate-65-82-s0 .speaker-TJ4} ##### Senator Walsh: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Home Affairs, upon notice, on 1 5 May 1980: >What are the names and employment classifications of all persons who have been appointed to positions in the Second Division and above within the Department of Home Affairs since December 1975 who were not previously public servants. {: #subdebate-65-82-s1 .speaker-K5H} ##### Senator Scott:
NCP/NP -- The Minister for Home Affairs has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >I am informed by the Secretary of the Department that there were no such appointments in the Department of Home Affairs. {:#subdebate-65-83} #### Minister for Productivity: Appointments to Statutory Authorities (Question No. 2875) {: #subdebate-65-83-s0 .speaker-TJ4} ##### Senator Walsh: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Productivity, upon notice, on 15 May 1980: >What are the names, dates and terms of appointment and salaries of all persons appointed to the boards and commissions of statutory authorities under the jurisdiction of the Minister for Productivity. {: #subdebate-65-83-s1 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- The Minister for Productivity has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: The Chairman receives an annual salary of $32,684. Part-time members receive an annual emolument of $4,300. Salaries are not paid to members in their Committee capacity. The Chairman receives an annual salary of $8575. Salaries are not paid to the other members in their Board capacity. {:#subdebate-65-84} #### Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs: Appointments to Statutory Authorities (Question No. 2879) {: #subdebate-65-84-s0 .speaker-TJ4} ##### Senator Walsh: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs, upon notice, on 16 May 1980: >What are the names, dates and terms of appointment and salaries for all persons appointed to the Boards and Commissions of statutory authorities under the jurisdiction of the Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs. {: #subdebate-65-84-s1 .speaker-8G4} ##### Senator Durack:
LP -- The Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >The answer to this question was provided in the Senate *Hansard* of 22 May 1980. The following is an amended answer to that question. {:#subdebate-65-85} #### Minister for Science and the Environment: Appointments to Statutory Authorities (Question No. 2884) {: #subdebate-65-85-s0 .speaker-TJ4} ##### Senator Walsh: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Science and the Environment, upon notice, on 16 May 1980: >What are the names, dates and terms of appointment and salaries of all persons appointed to the boards and commissions of statutory authorities under the jurisdiction of the Minister for Science and the Environment. {: #subdebate-65-85-s1 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- The Minister for Science and the Environment has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {:#subdebate-65-86} #### Department of Industrial Relations: Employment of Paraplegics and Quadriplegics (Question No. 2907) {: #subdebate-65-86-s0 .speaker-9V4} ##### Senator Grimes: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Industrial Relations, upon notice, on 23 May 1980: >How many paraplegics and quadriplegics are employed in: > >the Head Office: and (b) State offices of the Department of Industrial Relations. {: #subdebate-65-86-s1 .speaker-8G4} ##### Senator Durack:
LP -- The Minister for Industrial Relations has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="a" start="a"} 0. One person who would be classified as a paraplegic is employed in the Department's Head Office in Melbourne. 1. Nil. {:#subdebate-65-87} #### Department of Transport: Employment of Paraplegics and Quadriplegics (Question No. 2914) {: #subdebate-65-87-s0 .speaker-9V4} ##### Senator Grimes: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Transport, upon notice, on 21 May 1980: >How many paraplegics and quadriplegics are employed in: > >the Head Office; and (b) State Offices of the Department of Transport. {: #subdebate-65-87-s1 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- The Minister for Transport has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >Central Office - one paraplegic; > >Victoria/Tasmania - one paraplegic: > >New South Wales - nil; > >Queensland - nil; > >South Australia/Northern Territory- nil; > >Western Australia - one paraplegic. {:#subdebate-65-88} #### Department of Health: Employment of Paraplegics and Quadriplegics (Question No. 2915) {: #subdebate-65-88-s0 .speaker-9V4} ##### Senator Grimes: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 21 May 1980: >How many paraplegics and quadriplegics are employed in: (a) the Head office; and (b) State offices of the Department of Health. {: #subdebate-65-88-s1 .speaker-C7D} ##### Senator Dame Margaret Guilfoyle:
LP -- The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >There are no paraplegics or quadriplegics currently employed by my Department. However my Department cooperates fully with the Public Service Board in employing any handicapped people referred by its Special Placements staff, and did employ an officer who used a wheelchair, before he transferred to another Department because its location was more convenient. {:#subdebate-65-89} #### Department of Veterans' Affairs: Employment of Paraplegics and Quadriplegics (Question No. 2916) {: #subdebate-65-89-s0 .speaker-9V4} ##### Senator Grimes: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Veterans' Affairs, upon notice, on 22 May 1980: >How many paraplegics and quadriplegics are employed in: (a) the Head Office; and (b) State Offices of the Department of Veterans' Affairs. {: #subdebate-65-89-s1 .speaker-C7D} ##### Senator Dame Margaret Guilfoyle:
LP -- The Minister for Veterans' Affairs has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >For the purposes of this question paraplegics and quadriplegics are regarded as those persons confined to wheelchairs. My Department employs eight such staff all of whom are located in its State Offices. {:#subdebate-65-90} #### Department of Education: Employment of Paraplegics and Quadriplegics (Question No. 2921) {: #subdebate-65-90-s0 .speaker-9V4} ##### Senator Grimes: asked the Minister for Education, upon notice, on 21 May 1980: >How many paraplegics and quadriplegics are employed in: (a) the Head office; and (b) State offices of the Department of Education. {: #subdebate-65-90-s1 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- The Minister for Education has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="a" start="a"} 0. One. 1. Nil. For the purposes of the reply, paraplegic and quadriplegic employees have been regarded as those who are confined to wheelchairs. {:#subdebate-65-91} #### Department of Business and Consumer Affairs: Employment of Paraplegics and Quadriplegics (Question No. 2922) {: #subdebate-65-91-s0 .speaker-9V4} ##### Senator Grimes: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs, upon notice, on 23 May 1980: >How many paraplegics and quadriplegics are employed in: (a) the Head office; and (b) State offices of the Department of Business and Consumer Affairs. {: #subdebate-65-91-s1 .speaker-8G4} ##### Senator Durack:
LP -- The Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="a" start="a"} 0. one paraplegic. 1. Victoria, one paraplegic. {:#subdebate-65-92} #### Australian National University Amendment Act (Question No. 2932) {: #subdebate-65-92-s0 .speaker-KPV} ##### Senator Knight: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Education, upon notice, on 22 May 1980: >Did the Council of the Australian National University, during its consideration of a statute to implement the Australian National University Amendment Act 1979, obtain an opinion of a Queen's Counsel; if so: (a) what did that opinion state; and (b) will the Minister make a copy of that opinion available. {: #subdebate-65-92-s1 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- The Minister for Education has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >I understand that it did. I have not seen the opinion. {:#subdebate-65-93} #### Australian National University Amendment Act (Question No. 2933) {: #subdebate-65-93-s0 .speaker-KPV} ##### Senator Knight: asked the Attorney-General, upon notice, on 23 May 1980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. Before the consideration of a draft statute on 9 May 1980, to implement the Australian National University Amendment Act 1979, was the Attorney-General's opinion sought on the draft statute; if so, what was the outcome of that reference to the Attorney-General. 1. Did the Attorney-General suggest amendments to the draft statute that had been submitted; if so, what were those suggested amendments. {: #subdebate-65-93-s1 .speaker-8G4} ##### Senator Durack:
LP -- The answer to the honourable senator's question is as follows: >Before the consideration of the draft Statute by the University Council on 9 May, preliminary drafts were provided to the Department of Education by the University for discussion purposes. My Department was asked by the Department of Education to advise whether those preliminary drafts were legally satisfactory in terms of the Australian National University Amendment Act 1979. > >My Department suggested certain amendments to the draft Statute. As a result of those suggestions a further draft Statute was prepared and made available to my Department which advised that the Statute as redrafted was legally satisfactory in terms of the Australian National University Amendment Act 1979. {:#subdebate-65-94} #### Trade Practices: Workwear Clothing (Question No. 2953) {: #subdebate-65-94-s0 .speaker-TJ4} ##### Senator Walsh: asked the Minister representing the Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs, upon notice, on 23 May 1980: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. Has the Trade Practices Commission investigated allegations that the workwear clothing manufacturers King Gee, a subsidiary of the transnational textile manufacturer Bradmill Ltd, and Yakka have an agreement to minimize competition between them in Victoria and New South Wales, resulting in domination by King Gee of the NSW market and by Yakka of the Victorian market. 1. Does a third company. G. and R. Wills, manufacture for both brands in Western Australia. 2. Are the Adcock and Laidlaw families substantial shareholders of Bradmill and Yakka respectively and prominent members of the Australian Confederation of Apparel Manufacturers. 3. Do both Bradmill and Yakka control large networks of industrial laundering companies through which workwear clothing is distributed. 4. ls workwear among the most profitable parts of the apparel industry. 5. Will the Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs undertake to have the Trade Practices Commission investigate whether any agreement in restraint of trade has been entered into by these companies. {: #subdebate-65-94-s1 .speaker-8G4} ##### Senator Durack:
LP -- The Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: {: type="1" start="1"} 0. 1 ) The Trade Practices Commission has advised it has not been aware of any allegations of an agreement between King Gee and Yakka to minimise competition between those companies in Victoria and New South Wales, and has consequently not undertaken any investigation of such allegations. 1. In January 1975, G and R Wills and Co. Ltd was granted an interim authorisation by the Trade Practices Commission in respect of an agreement to manufacture in Western Australia, industrial shirts for King Gee, Yakka and Cushen Clothing Co Pty Ltd. However, in April 1978. G and R Wills withdrew its application for authorisation and accordingly the Trade Practices Commission withdrew its interim authorisation in June 1978. 1 am not aware of what manufacturing agreement, if any, presently exists between the companies concerned. 2. , (4) and (5) I am informed that **Mr Warren** Adcock was president of the Australian Confederation of Apparel Manufacturers in 1970 and 1971 and that **Mr John** Laidlaw was president in 1972 and 1973. I have no information about the shareholdings of the Adcock and Laidlaw families, nor am I able to comment on the profitability of workwear clothing manufacture and laundering. 3. I have referred these allegations to the Trade Practices Commission. Soviet Invasion of Afghanistan {: #subdebate-65-94-s2 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- On 28 February 1980 *(Hansard,* page 391) **Senator Cavanagh** asked me, as Minister representing the Prime Minister, a question without notice asking whether the Prime Minister received a report from an interdepartmental committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence, just prior to his last trip overseas, stating that the situation in Afghanistan did not represent any direct threat to Iran or Pakistan. The Prime Minister has supplied the following information for answer to the honourable senator's question: >I received briefing from various Departments including the Departments of Foreign Affairs. Defence, and the Office of National Assessments, as well as my own Department. > >All the briefing I received recognised that the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan had placed the Soviet Union in a very favourable position to apply pressure on or promote subversion in neighbouring countries; that the Soviet Union once it had consolidated its position in Afghanistan would be better placed to seize such opportunities as arise in the region: and that this could only serve to increase instability in the region, thereby increasing the risk of a dangerous Soviet-American confrontation. > >The reality is that the most formidably armed state in the history of the world, a state which moreover claims the right to intervene in the internal affairs of other countries in support of so-called 'progressive' forces, has thrust ils military power into a highly sensitive and volatile region. In these circumstances, to believe that the weaker countries of the region are not threatened is to trust in the restraint and moderation ofthe Soviet Union when it has just invaded a neighbour and when it is engaged in a relentless effort to achieve global military superiority. It does no service to the cause of peace to obscure this reality. Overseas Post-graduate Education {: #subdebate-65-94-s3 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- On 2 April 1980 *(Hansard,* page 1335) **Senator Teague** asked me the following question without notice: ls the Minister aware that academic and training fees overseas have increased dramatically, especially in the United Kingdom and especially for students beginning in and after 1980, to be more than $4,000 per annum more expensive than for similar courses in Australia? Is the Minister aware that Australian universities in particular are concerned that their endowed scholarship funds have been so devalued by these overseas processes that, in comparison with levels six years ago, only one-sixth the number of Australian students can now benefit? I ask that, notwithstanding the priority for postgraduate awards in Australia being increased towards 800 awards each year, consideration be given in the national interest to increasing the provision for Australian postgraduate study and training overseas so that there is nol a gross deterioration in this kind of experience being gained by Australia? The Minister for Education has provided the following reply to the honourable senator's question: >I am aware that fees for students from overseas studying at universities in the United Kingdom have risen sharply in the last few years, and that some endowed scholarship funds may be affected by these increases. It is the Government's view that priority in student assistance expenditure should be given to assisting students undertaking courses at Australian institutions. There is however provision under the Postgraduate Awards Scheme for Research Award holders to undertake up to one year of study at an overseas institution. > >There are no schemes funded by my Department under which awards are currently offered to Australians for study towards overseas postgraduate qualifications. Some postgraduate awards are offered to Australians by overseas governments. My Department assists in the publicity and selection of these awards, and reciprocates them to some extent through schemes such as the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan. My Department also makes an annual grant to the Australian-American Educational Foundation which also receives funds from the US Government and provides awards at the postgraduate level. Both Governments have increased the amount of their contributions in recent years to maintain the level of awards. Use of Television in Education {: #subdebate-65-94-s4 .speaker-2U4} ##### Senator Carrick:
LP -- On 23 April 1980 *(Hansard,* page 1 669) **Senator Teague** asked me, in my capacity as Minister representing the Minister for Education, a question without notice in relation to the effects of television on children's capacity to learn and their attitude to learning, following a statement the previous day by the Minister for Post and Telecommunications that the Australian Broadcasting Tribunal was preparing an exploratory study of the physiological correlates of television viewing. **Senator Teague** asked whether the Australian Government, through the Schools Commission or otherwise, would conduct a parallel study on the educational effectiveness of the use of television in schools, that is, parallel to the ABT study and to the inquiry into this matter from the broadcasting point of view by the ABC Committee of Review. The Minister Ibr Education has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question: > **Senator Teague's** inquiry was referred to my Department which has consulted the Education Research and Development Committee (ERDC). One of the recommendations of the Senate Standing Committee report on its Inquiry into the Impact of Television on the Development and Learning Behaviour of Children was (Recommendation 6) that when giving future consideration to the commissioning of research, the Commonwealth educational authorities give a higher priority to research into the effects of television on the learning behaviour or children. This, together with the related Recommendations 4 and 5, were brought to the notice of the ERDC for consideration when initiating research into areas of importance in education. The ERDC is responsible not only for initiating research into such areas but also for recommending financial support for proposals submitted to it by other organisations and individuals. The Chairman of ERDC and a member of the Committee subsequently had discussion with **Senator Davidson.** In its recent call for applications ERDC did not receive any applications for research into the educational effectiveness of the use of television in schools. As a consequence, the ERDC will now be examining problems raised in the Senate Standing Committee report and in the light of established priorities, will consider the possibility of commissioning a study along the lines proposed by **Senator Teague.** International Air Services {: #subdebate-65-94-s5 .speaker-EF4} ##### Senator Chaney:
LP -- On 29 April 1 980 *(Hansard,* page 1876) **Senator Townley** asked a question without notice concerning proposals for regular air services between Hobart and Christchurch. The Minister for Transport has provided me with the following answer to the honourable senator's question: >The Minister announced on 9 July that both TAA and Ansett had offered to operate regular air services from Hobart to Christchurch under Qantas flight numbers from 1 November this year. > >The domestic airlines have offered this arrangement without subsidy and without cross-subsidies from their other air services. Prosthetic Appliances **Senator Dame** Margaret Guilfoyle - On 29 April 1980 *(Hansard,* page 1880) **Senator Bonner** asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice concerning the technique of implanting artificial finger joints in patients suffering from arthritis. The Minister for Health has provided the following information: >I am aware of the technique developed in the United Stales by **Dr Kingsbury** Heiple. I understand that **Dr Heiple** has over a 1 5 months period inserted S I joints into 22 patients. This is a very small series and the follow-up time to observe the results of the implants has been extremely short. The technique can therefore only be considered as being in the clinical trial stage. > >I am advised that the technique used by **Dr Heiple** of cementing articulated joints into the bone channels is by no means a new development. To date, however, it has been found that this technique is inferior to that most commonly used in Australia. In practice, implantation of the more complex articulated finger joints has not always resulted in the production of a stable joint. Sheer fractures and loosening of the prostheses have been two of the more common complications that have arisen. Many different types of articulated joints have been tried but none has been found to be superior to the procedure known as the Swanson Arthroplasty. This operation is the one most commonly performed in Australia and overseas and involves the insertion of a pliable silastic spacer between the ends of the bone and the body tissues to form an artificial joint which is both stable and comfortable.

Cite as: Australia, Senate, Debates, 19 August 1980, viewed 22 October 2017, <http://historichansard.net/senate/1980/19800819_senate_31_s86/>.