1930-12-17 12 1 3 REPS 1633 0 House of Representatives. 1930-12-17 Mr. Speaker (Hon. Norman Makin)took the chair at 3 p.m., and offered prayers. 1633 Questions 1633 1633 KZO Kooyong 0 0 LATHAM, John Mr LATHAM - Will you give consideration, Mr. Speaker, to the suggestion that, instead of all the motions of which notice has been given appearing on the notice-paper each day, such notices might be published, say, once a week, or once a month? 1633 10000 0 0 SPEAKER, Mr Mr SPEAKER - The suggestion appears to commend itself on the score of economy in printing, and may, perhaps, be considered by the Printing Committee. Anything I can do to ensure that it receives attention 'will be done. 1633 KLM Melbourne ALP; FLP from 1931; ALP from 1936 0 0 MALONEY, William Dr MALONEY - As the type from which the notices are printed is kept standing, would any saving worth mentioning be effected by adopting the suggestion of the Leader of the Opposition? I would suggest, however, that it would save time, if members having motions on the business paper could have a division taken on them without previous debate, at any time, if they thought fit. That would expedite decisions upon the matters brought before Parliament, and would also reduce the quantity of standing matter on the notice-paper. 1633 10000 0 0 SPEAKER, Mr Mr SPEAKER - It is not within the power of the Chair to alter the practice of the House to give effect to the honorable member's suggestion. 1633 Questions 1633 Government Business 1633 KFA Richmond CP 0 0 GREEN, Roland Mr R GREEN - Having regard to the obvious geniality of the Acting Prime Minister (Mr. Fen ton) this afternoon, I ask if he will be courteous enough to inform honorable members, for their convenience, of the approximate date of the rising of Parliament for the Christmas vacation ? Has the Government any further business to bring forward which it has not yet disclosed? 1633 KEV Maribyrnong ALP Minister for Trade and Customs 1 0 FENTON, James Mr FENTON - I hope that during the afternoon, this evening, and perhaps to-morrow morning, we may be able to finish the business 'we have to do. I intend to announce later one or two matters which are to be brought forward for discussion. 1633 KZO 0 0 LATHAM, John Mr LATHAM - What further business is it proposed to submit to the House during the remaining weeks of the session ? 1633 KEV 0 0 FENTON, James Mr FENTON - There will, I hope, be much business submitted during the remaining weeks of the session, but it will not be submitted until after the Christmas vacation. 1633 KXQ 0 0 PARKHILL, Robert Mr ARCHDALE PARKHILL - Will the Acting Prime Minister state in express terms the nature of the business he proposes to introduce before the House adjourns over the Christmas holidays? 1634 KEV 0 0 FENTON, James Mr FENTON - I have already intimated to the Leader of the Opposition that it is proposed to introduce a bounty bill relating to canned mutton. That bill cannot be ready before to-morrow morning. It will probably be necessary also to introduce an appropriation bill. Then, if amendments are made to the Wheat Advances Bill by the Senate, we shall have them to consider. That is about all the business there will be, so far as I know. 1634 Questions 1634 1634 KX9 Newcastle 0 0 WATKINS, David Mr WATKINS - Some time ago, I asked a question of the Acting Minister for Trade and Customs (Mr. Forde), regarding foreign steamers trading on the Australian coast, and using foreign coal in their bunkers instead of Australian coal. Will' the Minister, in the interests of the Australian bunkering trade, consider the imposition of a tax on bunker coal brought to Australia by foreign ships ? 1634 F4U Capricornia ALP Assistant Minister assisting the Minister for Customs 1 0 FORDE, Francis Michael Mr FORDE - The honorable member has been most persistent in regard to this matter, and I can now inform him that it is receiving the consideration of the Government. 1634 Questions 1634 1634 JOG Oxley 0 0 BAYLEY, James Mr BAYLEY - Will the Assistant Minister for Trade and. Customs say whether the Government has yet arrived at any decision regarding the imposition of an export duty on sheepskins ? 1634 F4U ALP 1 0 FORDE, Francis Michael Mr FORDE - It is unusual to answer questions relating to matters of policy, but if the honorable member will place his question on the notice-paper it will be answered. 1634 KOC 0 0 HAWKER, Charles Mr HAWKER - Is there any truth in the press reports that the Government has again referred to the Tariff Board for inquiry a proposal to impose an export duty on unscoured wool and sheepskins? Has the Department yet received a report subsequent to that of the 18th June, and, if so, when will it be made available to honorable members? 1634 F4U 0 0 FORDE, Francis Michael Mr FORDE - It is not customary to answer questions involving matters of Government policy, but the inquiry will be dealt with if the honorable member places his question on the notice-paper. 1634 KOC 0 0 HAWKER, Charles Mr HAWKER - Will the Minister state whether this matter has been referred back to the board, and whether he has yet received a report from it which will be made available to honorable members? I do not ask the Assistant Minister to state what decision has been arrived at regarding the report of the Tariff Board, but merely whether a second report has been received. 1634 F4U 0 0 FORDE, Francis Michael Mr FORDE - There are so many qualifications to the honorable member's question that I find it difficult to follow him, and I ask notice of it. 1634 KXT 0 0 PATERSON, Thomas Mr PATERSON - In answer to a question asked by me ten days ago, the Assistant Minister for Trade and Customs said that he had referred back to the Tariff Board the proposal that a bounty should be paid on sheepskins. Will he state whether he has yet received the board's report? 1634 F4U 0 0 FORDE, Francis Michael Mr FORDE - The proposal to pay a bounty on fellmongered sheepskins is now the subject of inquiry by the Tariff Board. When the report comes to hand I shall make it available to honorable members without delay. 1634 Questions 1634 1634 KFE Swan 0 0 GREGORY, Henry Mr GREGORY - Will the Acting Prime Minister state whether it is the intention of the Government to afford honorable members an opportunity next year of debating the Customs Tariff schedules, some of which were introduced in November of last year ? 1634 KEV ALP 1 0 FENTON, James Mr FENTON - I hope very early in the New Year to have a full-dress debate on all the tariff schedules that have been introduced from time to time. 1634 KFA CP 0 0 GREEN, Roland Mr R GREEN - Will the Acting Prime Minister, in his capacity of Minister for Customs, state whether the Government has any tariff policy whatsoever, and if so what it is? 1634 KEV 0 0 FENTON, James Mr FENTON - I believe that the honorable member knows a great deal about the tariff policy of the Government, and he will know more about it in the New Year. 1635 Questions 1635 Nationality 1635 JVR Perth 0 0 NAIRN, Walter Mr NAIRN - Has the Minister for Home Affairs yet received any report from the Imperial Conference, or a committee of the conference, on the subject of nationality? 1635 JPV Darling 0 0 BLAKELEY, Arthur Mr BLAKELEY - No report has been received by my department in connexion with that matter. 1635 Questions 1635 1635 KDJ Martin 0 0 ELDRIDGE, John Mr ELDRIDGE asked the Postmaster-General, upon notice - Will he inform the House whether the following statements are correct: - That on 11th September, 1930, a number of radio-telegraphists employed at the Adelaide broadcasting station (5CL), some of whom had been in the service of the old broadcasting company for several years, received notice of dismissal? That these dismissals became operative from 20th September? That before these men were dismissed they started to train a number of postal employees in their work? That when they loft the service their places were taken by these postal employees? That the wireless regulations at that time required that operators at the station should hold a certificate of proficiency ? That the men brought in from the Postal Department did not, on 20th September, hold such certificates of proficiency ? That the Postmaster-General, on the 12th November last, stated in this House: - "The department's officers employed on broadcasting work are not engaged in any manner contrary to the law or the regulations "? 1635 F4O Wilmot ALP Minister for Works and Railways 1 0 LYONS, Joseph Aloysius Mr LYONS - The answers to the honorable member's questions are as follow : - Yes. Yes. The postal employees sent to the station were skilled and competent mechanics suitable for the work, but necessarily requiring personal acquaintance with the wiring arrangements and routines of the station. Yes. No. There is, and always has been, a definite difference between licensed stations and Government-owned stations, and it has never been the practice to require Government employees to obtain departmental certificates of their competence. Other means exist to ensure that those men who are employed on such duties shall be competent for the purpose. See reply to No. 5. Yes. 1635 Questions 1635 1635 KLM Melbourne ALP; FLP from 1931; ALP from 1936 0 0 MALONEY, William Dr MALONEY asked the Acting Treasurer, upon notice - Has his attention been drawn to the amount of English silver that has been taken out of Australia by passengers and others leaving Australia? In view of the profit on minting silver at1s. 4d. per oz., viz., 312.5 per cent, less cost of mintage, will the Government consider the immediate minting of silver in order to help the miners? 1635 F4O Wilmot ALP 1 0 LYONS, Joseph Aloysius Mr LYONS - The information is being obtained, and will be furnished as soon as possible. 1635 Questions 1635 1635 KZ6 Grey 0 0 LACEY, Andrew Mr LACEY asked the Acting Prime Minister, upon notice - What interest and/or representation has the Commonwealth Government on the board of the Commonwealth Oil Refineries Limited? Is it a fact that one firm in each State has the sole distributing rights for that State; if not, what is the position in reference to distribution? What is the wholesale price of C.O.R. petrol in each of the capital cities? 1635 KEV ALP 1 0 FENTON, James Mr FENTON - The answers to the honorable member's questions are as follow : - The Commonwealth has subscribed £375,001, out of a total subscribed capital of £750,000. The Commonwealth representatives on the board of directors of the company are - Sir Robert Gibson, K.B.E., chairman; Sir Nicholas C. Lockyer, C.B.E., I.S.O.; Hon. Edward Findley. Inquiries are being made into this matter. The information is not readily available, but will be obtained as far as practicable. 1635 Questions 1635 1635 KFE 0 0 GREGORY, Henry Mr GREGORY asked the Acting Prime Minister, upon notice- What industries were in receipt of bounties during the year 1929-30? What was the amount paid during that year on each industry upon which bounty was payable ? What was the amount paid in each State ? On what industries were new bounties made payable during the present financial year? What is the estimated amount that should be payable on such new bounties during the current year? What is the estimated annual cost to Australia in current cash of the embargo on sugar importation? What is the estimated annual cost to industry and householders of the increased duty from 3d. to6d. per lb. on butter? In how many manufacturing industries in Australia does the Statistician estimate that the value of the protective duty on goods produced is greater than the whole of the salaries and wages paid in such industries? Mr.FENTON.- The information is being obtained as far as practicable, and will be made available to the honorable member as soon as possible. 1636 Questions 1636 1636 K7U Corangamite 0 0 CROUCH, Richard Mr CROUCH asked the Acting Treasurer, upon notice - What has been the total cost of the Australian Navy, including war and other pensions, superannuation, passages, and exchange officers, with all contingencies and interest, since its institution? Will he give the details of such expenditure under the items set out in the first paragraph of this question? 1636 F4O Wilmot ALP 1 0 LYONS, Joseph Aloysius Mr LYONS - The information is being obtained, and will be furnished as soon as possible. 1636 Questions 1636 1636 JWT Moreton 0 0 FRANCIS, Josiah Mr FRANCIS asked the Minister for Works and Railways, upon notice - When will the air port for Brisbane at Archerfield, Cooper's Plains, be ready for use? What was the departmental estimate of its cost of construction? What will the actual cost of construction be? 1636 F4O Wilmot ALP 1 0 LYONS, Joseph Aloysius Mr LYONS - The answers to the honorable member's questions are as follow : - It is anticipated that subject to weather conditions being favorable the site will be completed and ready for use by the end of January, 1931. £2,550 for preparation of site. Information is being obtained and will be furnished to the honorable member at a later date. 1636 Questions 1636 1636 KFE 0 0 GREGORY, Henry Mr GREGORY asked the Minister for Trade and Customs, upon notice - Will he have printed a modified list of the many tariff schedules introduced by the present Government since taking office so that members of this House may more readily be able to understand the various alterations? 1636 F4U ALP 1 0 FORDE, Francis Michael Mr FORDE - Such a list is already being prepared. 1636 Questions 1636 1636 KLM Melbourne ALP; FLP from 1931; ALP from 1936 0 0 MALONEY, William Dr MALONEY asked the Minister for Defence, upon notice - What was the estimated cost of the buildings at the Flinders Naval Base? What was the total actual cost of these structures ? Who was the architect responsible for the design of these buildings? How many naval ratings have been trained at this base since its inauguration, and the number of each per year? What has been the number of ratings per year, and the annual cost of each per year since its inception? What has been the total cost to date, and how many ratings have qualified? How much has each trained rating cost Australia? What has been the annual expenditure per year on the maintenance of this base since its inception? 1636 KF9 Kalgoorlie ALP; FLP from 1931; ALP from 1936 0 0 GREEN, Albert Mr A GREEN - I will endeavour to obtain the information required by the honorable member, and furnish a reply as soon as possible. 1636 Questions 1636 State Government Materials 1636 KYH Boothby 0 0 PRICE, John Mr PRICE asked the Acting Treasurer, upon notice - Has the Government come to a decision on the question of sales tax on State Government instrumentalities ? Is it a fact that, assuming that the sales tax applies to all materials purchased by State activities for their own use, it will probably cost the South Australian Government £100,000 per annum? 1636 F4O Wilmot ALP 1 0 LYONS, Joseph Aloysius Mr LYONS - The answers to the honorable member's questions are as follow: - No. This will be done upon the return of the Prime Minister. The Premier of South Australia has made a statement to that effect. 1636 Questions 1636 1636 JXL Franklin 0 0 FROST, Charles Mr FROST asked the Minister for Trade and Customs, upon notice - What were the quantities and value of synthetic fruit juices imported into Australia during the years 1928-29 and 1929-30? 1636 F4U ALP 1 0 FORDE, Francis Michael Mr FORDE - Synthetic fruit juices are not a separate item in the import statistics, and the information is therefore not available. 1637 Questions 1637 1637 KYX Cook ALP; FLP from 1931 0 0 RILEY, Edward Charles Mr C RILEY asked the Minister for Defence, upon notice - When was payment made for the torpedoes ordered for H.M.A.S. Australia and Canberra? 1637 KF9 Kalgoorlie ALP; FLP from 1931; ALP from 1936 0 0 GREEN, Albert Mr A GREEN - Progress payments have been made from time to time as manufacture proceeded. These payments commenced in October, 1926. 1637 Questions 1637 1637 KMZ Herbert 0 0 MARTENS, George Mr MARTENS asked the Minister for Trade and Customs, upon notice- What was the total number of eases of tomatoes imported into Australia during the years 1027, 1928 and 1929? From what countries were such tomatoes imported during each period mentioned, and what was the quantity from each country of origin ? 1637 F4U ALP 1 0 FORDE, Francis Michael Mr FORDE - Tomatoes are not a separate item in the import statistics, a::d it is thought the importations are negligible. The importations of tomato pulp in vessels exceeding a quart were as follow : - 1637 Questions 1637 1637 KIB Lang 0 0 LONG, William Mr LONG asked the Minister for Trade and Customs, upon notice - Whether he has any knowledge that certain merchants are complaining that they cannot obtain supplies of malleable cast pipe fittings? Has hu any reason to believe that these complaints arc justified? Has he any knowledge of the existence of a firm in Marrickville, Sydney, which is prepared to supply all demands for these fittings ? Has he any knowledge of the capacity for output possessed by this firm; if not, will he have inquiries made with a view to preserving this industry? 1637 F4U ALP 1 0 FORDE, Francis Michael Mr FORDE - The information is I «>i ug obtained. 1637 Questions 1637 1637 KYX Cook ALP; FLP from 1931 0 0 RILEY, Edward Charles Mr C RILEY asked the Minister for Trade and Customs, upon notice- Is it a fact that the British Government intends removing the embargo oh imports. of dye stuffs into Great Britain at an early date? Is he prepared to lift the embargo and permit the importation of dye stuffs from foreign countries into Australia? 1637 F4U ALP 1 0 FORDE, Francis Michael Mr FORDE - The answers to the honorable member's questions are as follow : - It was so reported, but the latest advice indicates that the matter is still in doubt. The matter is receiving consideration. 1637 L0B 0 0 ROWE, Albert Mr ROWE asked the Minister for Trade and Customs, uponmotice- In view of his reply to the question asked on the 28th November last, by the honorable member for Parramatta, will he state whether any decision has been arrived at regarding the repeal of the proclamation, dated 20th November, 1919? If a decision has been given will the Minister indicate its nature? If no decision has been given, will the Minister endeavour to expedite finality? 1637 F4U 0 0 FORDE, Francis Michael Mr FORDE - The answers to the honorable member's questions are as follow : - 1 and 2. No final decision has yet been reached. Information just received creates a doubt as to whether the British Government has finally decided to allow the restrictions to lapse. Yes. 1637 Questions 1637 1637 KYH 0 0 PRICE, John Mr PRICE asked the Acting Prime Minister, upon notice - Is he in a position to state the retail price per gallon of petrol in the capital cities of the various States of the Commonwealth for: - (a) Shell, at the bowsers, and in containers;; (6) Plume, at the bowsers, and in containers; (c) C.O.R., at the bowsers, and in containers; (d) other brands, at the bowsers, and in containers? Is he satisfied that the price which the various oil companies arc extracting from the petrol-consuming public is a fair one? If not, what methods does the Government propose to adopt during recess to protect the general public? 1637 KEV ALP 1 0 FENTON, James Mr FENTON - The answers to "he honorable member's questions' are as follow : - The information required by the honorable member, is not readily available, but will be obtained as far as practicable. 2 and 3. A committee of officers is at present engaged on an investigation into this matter, and the whole position will be considered in the light of the report furnished. 1638 Questions 1638 Adult Population - -EXPENDITURE 1638 JPV 0 0 BLAKELEY, Arthur Mr BLAKELEY - Yesterday the honorable member for Melbourne (Dr. Maloney) asked me the following questions, upon notice - How many adult citizens ave permanently residing in Canberra V How many of these are officers of the Commonwealth Public Service? What is the total expenditure on the federal Capital Territory to date? If the total expenditure is divided by the number of adult Commonwealth officials, what is the cost per adult Commonwealth official? I am now in a position to furnish the following replies: - The census taken on 30th June, 1930, indicates that 5,281 adult persons were residing in the Federal Capital Territory on that date. Of this number 4.355 were resident in the City Area, and 921) were rural residents. The total of 5,2S1 included 230 persons at Jervis Huy. No later figures are available. Seven hundred and nineteen, not including; temporary employees. The total expenditure on the Federal Capital Territory at 30th .lune. 1930, was fl3.2no.710. of which £2,041,380 has been met from receipts of the Terri tor v. The total expenditure of £13,200,710, divided by 719, equals £18,359 approximately. 1638 papers The following papers were presented : - Papua - Annual Report for the year 1928-29. Taxation - Thirteenth Report of the Commissioner, years 1920-27, 1927-28, 1928-29, and 1929-30. Ordered to be printed. Customs Act and Com moree (Trade Descriptions) Act - Commerce (Export Dairy Produce) Regulations - Statutory Rules 1930, No. 132. Dairy Produce Export Charges Act - Regulations Amended - Statutory Rules 1930, No. 119. Dairy Produce Export Control Act - Herniations Amended - Statutory Rules 1930, Nos. 131, 133. Science and Industry Research Act - Fourth Annual Report of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, for year ended 30th June. 1930. The following papers, presented on the 11th instant, were ordered to be printed: - ' Central Australia - Report by the Government Resident for year ended 30th June, 1930. Norfolk Island - Report for year ended 30th June, 1930. 1638 bill Assent to the following bills reported : - Income Tax Assessment Bill (No. i). Income Tax Bill (No. 2) 1930. Sales Tax Assessment Bills (Nos. 1a to 9a). Sales Tax Bill (No. 1a) 1930. National Debt Sinking Fund Bill. Representation Bill. Australian Soldiers' Repatriation Bill. Gold Bounty Bill. 1638 bill In committee(Consideration of Senate's message) : 1638 JPV Darling Minister for Home Affairs 0 0 BLAKELEY, Arthur Mr BLAKELEY . - I move - That the committee insists on disagreeing to the amendments insisted on by the Senate. When this bill was presented to the Senate for its concurrence it contained certain provisions for granting the residents of the Northern Territory a measure of local government. These were deleted by the members of another place. When the message to this effect was received by this committee, it was decided to disagree to the amendments so made. The Senate has refused to reconsider its decision. For this reason I have moved this motion. 1638 KZO Kooyong 0 0 LATHAM, John Mr LATHAM .- I ask the Minister (Mr. Blakeley) whether it is really -worth while to press this matter to a conference. Motion agreed to. Resolution reported and adopted. Motion (by Mr. Blakeley) proposed - That a conference be requested with the Senate on the amendments insisted on by the Senate in the "Bill for an .Act to amend the Northern Territory Administration Act 19.10-1926 and to repeal the Northern Australia Act 1920, and for other purposes," and that the Senate he informed that, in the event of a conference being agreed to, this House will be represented at such conference by five managers. 1638 KZO 0 0 LATHAM, John Mr LATHAM .- 1 suggest that the Minister should take honorable members into his confidence, and inform them whether the amendments in question are identical with those which we dealt with yesterday, or whether they have been altered in any way. 1638 JPV 0 0 BLAKELEY, Arthur Mr Blakeley - It is expected that the Leader of the Opposition (Mr. Latham) should be acquainted with the business that comes before the House. Question-That the motion be agreed to - put. The House divided. (Speaker - Hon. Norman Makin.) 37 16 Majority . . . . 21 AYES NOES Question so resolved in the affirmative. Motion agreed to. Motion (by Mr. Blakeley) proposed - That the managers fur the House of Representatives he Mr. Latham, Mr. Nelson, Mr. Paterson, Mr. Theodore, and the mover. 1639 KZO 0 0 LATHAM, John Mr Latham - I am not prepared to act on the conference. The Minister has refused to give the House information as to the subject-matter of the conference. I object to this procedure and am not willing to act in any event. 1639 JPV 0 0 BLAKELEY, Arthur Mr Blakeley - I ask for leave to substitute the name of Mr. A. Green for that of Mr. Latham. I consulted the Leader of the Opposition (Mr. Latham) on this matter prior to including his name, and he did not then object to act. Leave granted. 1639 KXT 0 0 PATERSON, Thomas Mr Paterson - In view of the paucity of information, I decline to act as a manager at the conference. 1639 JPV 0 0 BLAKELEY, Arthur Mr Blakeley - I ask for leave to substitute the nameof Mr. Anstey for that of Mr. Paterson, who also accepted the offer of a position. Leave granted; motion as altered agreed to. 1639 JPV Darling Minister for Home Affairs 0 0 BLAKELEY, Arthur Mr BLAKELEY . - I move - That, in connexion with the proposed conference, Standing Orders 383 and 390 be suspended. Standing Order 383 provides that during any conference the business of the House shall be suspended, and Standing Order 390 deals with the duties of managers. Motion agreed to. 1639 miscellaneous 1639 Debate resumed from 8th August, 1930 (vide page 5655), on motion by Mr. Scullin- That the paper be printed. Question resolved in the affirmative. 1639 miscellaneous Reports of Conference by Commonwealth Representative. Debate resumed from the 1st August, 1930 (vide page 5158), on motion by Mr. Scullin - That the papers he printed. Question resolved in the affirmative. 1639 miscellaneous 1639 KEV ALP 1 0 FENTON, James Mr FENTON - I suggest that the House adjourn for about an hour. 1639 10000 0 0 MAKIN, Norman Mr SPEAKER (Hon Norman Makin - I shall leave the chair and resume at an hour that will be intimated to honorable members by the ringing of the bells. 1639 KZO 0 0 LATHAM, John Mr Latham - Mr. Speaker, I desire to know under what Standing Order this course is to be followed. Sitting suspended from3.38 to 6.15 p.m. 1639 miscellaneous 1639 10000 0 0 SPEAKER, Mr Mr SPEAKER (Hon Norman Makin - I understand that there is some misapprehension respecting the right of the Speaker to leave the chair under the circumstances in which it was vacated this afternoon. From the early sittings of the first Commonwealth Parliament until the present day, every Speaker has adopted the practice which I then fol lowed. There is no provision in our Standing Orders under which a motion may be made for the suspension of proceedings, and a motion for the adjournment the House, if carried, closes a sitting. This afternoon, as there was no longer any immediate business to transact, it was desired by the Acting Prime Minister that the sitting should be suspended for a brief period to enable a conference with another place to proceed. My action in leaving the chair was in accordance with the practice of the past, and was the only procedure possible to bring about the suspension of a sitting to meet the general convenience of members. 1640 KZO 0 0 LATHAM, John Mr Latham - Will you, sir, seek an opportunity to give a ruling on this matter in order that it may be discussed by the House? 1640 10000 0 0 SPEAKER, Mr Mr SPEAKER - I have just said that my action was in accordance with long and well-established practice. No other ruling could be given by me unless standing orders were made to alter the procedure, or the House varied it on a specific motion. 1640 KZO 0 0 LATHAM, John Mr Latham - Then I give notice of my intention to move - That the ruling of the honorable Mr. Speaker - that he is at liberty to leave the chair at any time during a sitting without leave of the House, or the passing of any motion - be disagreed with. 1640 10000 0 0 SPEAKER, Mr Mr SPEAKER - The motion under the Standing Orders becomes an order of the day for the next day of sitting, and no debate may take place upon it. 1640 K7U 0 0 CROUCH, Richard Mr Crouch -On a point of order, I submit that the notice of motion does not correctly state the facts, in that it implies that you, sir, left the chair this afternoon without the consent of the House. I understand that, prior to vacating the chair, you made the announcement, " I shall leave the chair and resume it at a later hour ". You then paused for a moment, and no objection was offered to your suggestion. 1640 KFS 0 0 GULLETT, Henry Mr Gullett - It was not assented to. 1640 K7U 0 0 CROUCH, Richard Mr Crouch - I submit that you left the chair with the concurrence of the House, but as you were leaving it the Leader of the Opposition (Mr: Latham) protested against your action. The statement of the circumstances upon which your ruling is being challenged differs from what occurred this afternoon. 1640 10000 0 0 SPEAKER, Mr Mr SPEAKER - I cannot allow debate, nor will I offer comment upon the matter at the present time. That must await the consideration of the motion of dissent, when I shall have an opportunity to make whatever explanation I may deem necessary. 1640 miscellaneous 1640 1640 KEV Maribyrnong ALP Acting Prime Minister 1 0 FENTON, James Mr FENTON . - by leaveThere is no need for me to make any statement in the direction of enlightening honorable members of this House respecting the deplorable condition of many of our fellow citizens owing to the prevalence of unemployment. This is the time of the year when our hearts are filled with goodwill and kindly feeling towards our brothers and sisters. It is most distressing for any individual who has reached the age of discretion and judgment to see tens of thousands of our brothers and sisters, particularly women and children, throughout Australia suffering acutely because of a lack of employment in this land of plenty. The Government realizes that it can afford comparatively slight relief; but so that it may do what it can, it has decided to allocate for that purpose the sum of £500,000 out of the present year's Estimates of Receipts and Expenditure. There are three ways in which a grant may be made. First, by the passage of an appropriation bill, which would need to be preceded by a message from the Governor-General; secondly, out of the Treasurer's Advance ; and thirdly, by the method proposed, in order that the money may be disbursed through the State Governments, the municipalities, and other authorities that are organized for the provision of employment for our fellow citizens. At page 375 of the Estimates of Receipts and Expenditure for the year ending the 30th June, 1931, honorable members will find figures relating to a Commonwealth grant to the States towards the relief of unemployment. As honorable members are aware, the State of South Australia' this year found itself in such a difficult position financially, that a very strong appeal for assistance was made on its behalf. at the conference of Commonwealth and State Ministers, held in Melbourne last August. In response to that appeal, some of the States agreed to hand over to South Australia the whole of the amount voted to them by this Parliament for the relief of unemployment, and, in the case of other States, it was agreed that a proportion of the grant should be diverted to South Australia. 1641 KYV ALP 0 0 RILEY, Edward Mr E RILEY - Will this distribution take place before Christmas? 1641 KEV 0 0 FENTON, James Mr FENTON - Tes. During its present sittings, this Parliament has passed an act allocating to South Australia the sum of £850,000. There remains on this year's Estimates an amount of £375,000, which enables the Government to make the proposed grant out of this particular vote. 1641 KFS 0 0 GULLETT, Henry Mr Gullett - Is the amount actually there ? 1641 KEV 0 0 FENTON, James Mr FENTON - It is. I may say that 1. am acting on the very best authority and advice in making this announcement to the House. Whatever may be the party feelings of honorable members on ordinary occasions, they should be gratified that this sum is available to relieve in some measure the prevailing distress. 1641 JWT 0 0 FRANCIS, Josiah Mr Francis - How will it be allocated? 1641 KEV 0 0 FENTON, James Mr FENTON - As near as practicable, on a population basis. 1641 JOS 0 0 BELL, George Mr Bell - Will any conditions be attached to the grant? 1641 KEV 0 0 FENTON, James Mr FENTON - The grant will be made on the condition that employment is provided for the people. Most of the States and municipalities are organized for the purpose of putting work in hand and of giving employment to the people. 1641 KFS 0 0 GULLETT, Henry Mr Gullett - Will there be any conditions relating to the rate of wage to be paid ? 1641 KEV 0 0 FENTON, James Mr FENTON -- No. This is a grant in which, I think, every honorable member will concur. My only regret is that it is not a thousand times greater than the amount stipulated; but in the straitened condition of the. finances, both Federal and State, we are being as liberal as possible. I believe I speak for all honorable members, when I. regret, that the amount is not larger. We hope, however, that it will bring some blessing to hundreds of homes in the approaching season. 1641 KZO Kooyong 0 0 LATHAM, John Mr LATHAM ':- by leave- I feel sure that the Acting Prime Minister (Mr. Fenton) spoke rightly when he said that any proposal to deal with the distressing unemployment in Australia would be sympathetically received by all honorable members of this House. I am glad that the Government finds itself in a position to make money available for that purpose; but I confess to being surprised to learn that that is so. That, however, is entirely the responsibility of the Government. We are all aware of the condition of the finances of the Commonwealth; it is fortunate, therefore, that this amount; is available. I am inclined to think that the wisest method of raising money to deal with' unemployment is the taxation of the wages and salaries received by those who are in employment. That system has already been adopted by the States. I shall not, however, raise any objection to this grant on that, ground. All honorable members probably will be interested to learn whether the Acting Prime Minister (Mr. Fenton) intends us to understand that the terms and conditions upon which the grant is to be expended are to be determined by the States. Honorable members are aware that there has been a -controversy between those who consider that relief should be given in the form of sustenance, those who hold the view that at least some work should be provided, and those who contend that, when relief work 'is provided, the money is not being wisely spent if there is an insistence upon the observance of ordinary industrial conditions and the payment of the basic wage. I understand from what the Acting Prime Minister has said that the intention is to leave all these matters to be determined by the several States. If that is so, I agree that it is the wisest course to adopt. I need only add. that I think that all honorable members will agree that grants of money are only in the nature of a palliative for the evil of unemployment, and that responsibility rests upon the Governments and Parliaments of Australia to find some means of dealing much more radically and effectively with those evils of which unemployment is the symptom. While we may have varying views as to the methods to be adopted, this is perhaps the first and foremost subject which should engage the attention of this House. 1642 KXT Gippsland 0 0 PATERSON, Thomas Mr PATERSON .- by leave- The members of the Country party wish to associate themselves with the remarks of the Acting Prime Minister (Mr. Fenton) and the Leader of the Opposition (Mr. Latham). While, generally speaking, the responsibility of dealing with unemployment rests upon the State Governments rather than upon the Commonwealth Government, we feel that in the special circumstances in which Australia finds itself to-day, there is reason for some divergence from what might be ordinarily regarded as the proper method of dealing with unemployment. . Therefore, the party to which I belong desires to raise no objection to the action proposed to be taken by the Acting Prime Minister. 1642 miscellaneous 1642 1642 1642 KEV Maribyrnong ALP Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Customs 1 0 FENTON, James Mr FENTON . - I move - That on and after the Eighteenth day of December, One thousand nine hundred and thirty, at nine o'clock in the forenoon, reckoned according to standard time in the Territory for the Seat of Government, Duties of Customs be imposed according to the following Tariff: - This schedule -provides for an export duty of½d. per lb. on sheep-skins in the wool exported from Australia, and is being introduced with a view to ensuring that more of the work of fellmongering of skins shall be performed in Australia. It is estimated by the Tariff Board that the net advantage of the export duty will be the employment of about 1,109 additional men, and a distribution of approximately £275,000 extra per annum in wages. Unemployment is so acute in the fellmongering industry in Australia to-day that the Government considers it necessary to take this action at once in order to relieve the situation. It is anticipated that any falling off in the value of exports of sheep-skins consequent on this duty will be more than offset by the enhanced value of the exports of pelts, fellmongered wool, and basils. 1642 KFA CP 0 0 GREEN, Roland Mr R GREEN - This is bare-faced bribery. The CHAIRMAN (Mr. McGrath).I ask the honorable member for Richmond (Mr. R. Green) to assist me to preserve order and to remain silent while the Acting Prime Minister makes his statement. 1642 KFA CP 0 0 GREEN, Roland Mr R GREEN - I do not care a continental whether the Acting Prime Minister makes his statement or not. This is absolute robbery. 1642 10000 0 0 CHAIRMAN, The The CHAIRMAN - Order ! I ask the honorable member for Richmond to withdraw that statement. 1642 KFA CP 0 0 GREEN, Roland Mr R GREEN - I withdraw it. 1642 10000 0 0 CHAIRMAN, The The CHAIRMAN - If any other interjections are made when the Chair has called for order, I shall take steps to deal with the offenders. 1642 KXQ 0 0 PARKHILL, Robert Mr Archdale Parkhill - This is a bare-faced swindle. 1642 KYX ALP; FLP from 1931 0 0 RILEY, Edward Charles Mr C RILEY - I desire to call your attention, sir, to the statement of the honorable member for Richmond to the effect that the introduction of this schedule is bare-faced bribery. I ask that that statement be withdrawn. 1642 10000 0 0 Mr CHAIRMAN - I ask the honorable member for Richmond to withdraw his statement. 1642 KFA CP 0 0 GREEN, Roland Mr R GREEN - On what grounds? 1642 10000 0 0 CHAIRMAN, The The CHAIRMAN - On the ground that it is offensive to the honorable member for Cook (Mr. C. Riley). 1642 KFA CP 0 0 GREEN, Roland Mr R GREEN - I did not intend to suggest that the honorable member for Cook himself had received any of the money that had been paid to the Government for the introduction of the schedule. and that responsibility rests upon the Governments and Parliaments of Australia to find some means of dealing much more radically and effectively with those evils of which unemployment is the symptom. While we may have varying views as to the methods to be adopted, this is perhaps the first and foremost subject which should engage the attention of this House. 1642 KXT Gippsland 0 0 PATERSON, Thomas Mr PATERSON .- by leave- The members of the Country party wish to associate themselves with the remarks of the Acting Prime Minister (Mr. Fenton) and the Leader of the Opposition (Mr. Latham). While, generally speaking, the responsibility of dealing with unemployment rests upon the State Governments rather than upon the Commonwealth Government, we feel that in the special circumstances in which Australia finds itself to-day, there is reason for some divergence from what might be ordinarily regarded as the proper method of dealing with unemployment. . Therefore, the party to which I belong desires to raise no objection to the action proposed to be taken by the Acting Prime Minister. 1642 miscellaneous 1642 1642 1642 KEV Maribyrnong ALP Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Customs 1 0 FENTON, James Mr FENTON . - I move - That on and after the Eighteenth day of December, One thousand nine hundred and thirty, at nine o'clock in the forenoon, reckoned according to standard time in the Territory for the Seat of Government, Duties of Customs be imposed according to the following Tariff: - the net advantage of the export duty will be the employment of about 1,109 additional men, and a distribution of approximately £275,000 extra per annum in wages. Unemployment is so acute in the fellmongering industry in Australia to-day that the Government considers it necessary to take this action at once in order to relieve the situation. It is anticipated that any falling off in the value of exports of sheep-skins consequent on this duty will be more than offset by the enhanced value of the exports of pelts, fellmongered wool, and basils. 1642 KFA CP 0 0 GREEN, Roland Mr R GREEN - This is bare-faced bribery. The CHAIRMAN (Mr. McGrath).I ask the honorable member for Richmond (Mr. R. Green) to assist me to preserve order and to remain silent while the Acting Prime Minister makes his statement. 1642 KFA CP 0 0 GREEN, Roland Mr R GREEN - I do not care a continental whether the Acting Prime Minister makes his statement or not. This is absolute robbery. 1642 10000 0 0 CHAIRMAN, The The CHAIRMAN - Order ! I ask the honorable member for Richmond to withdraw that statement. 1642 KFA CP 0 0 GREEN, Roland Mr R GREEN - I withdraw it. 1642 10000 0 0 CHAIRMAN, The The CHAIRMAN - If any other interjections are made when the Chair has called for order, I shall take steps to deal with the offenders. 1642 KXQ 0 0 PARKHILL, Robert Mr Archdale Parkhill - This is a bare-faced swindle. 1642 KYX ALP; FLP from 1931 0 0 RILEY, Edward Charles Mr C RILEY - I desire to call your attention, sir, to the statement of the honorable member for Richmond to the effect that the introduction of this schedule is bare-faced bribery. I ask that that statement be withdrawn. 1642 10000 0 0 Mr CHAIRMAN - I ask the honorable member for Richmond to withdraw his statement. 1642 KFA CP 0 0 GREEN, Roland Mr R GREEN - On what grounds? 1642 10000 0 0 CHAIRMAN, The The CHAIRMAN - On the ground that it is offensive to the honorable member for Cook (Mr. C. Riley). 1642 KFA CP 0 0 GREEN, Roland Mr R GREEN - I did not intend to suggest that the honorable member for Cook himself had received any of the money that had been paid to the Government for the introduction of the schedule. This schedule -provides for an export duty of½d. per lb. on sheep-skins in the wool exported from Australia, and is being introduced with a view to ensuring that more of the work of fellmongering of skins shall be performed in Australia. It is estimated by the Tariff Board that and that responsibility rests upon the Governments and Parliaments of Australia to find some means of dealing much more radically and effectively with those evils of which unemployment is the symptom. While we may have varying views as to the methods to be adopted, this is perhaps the first and foremost subject which should engage the attention of this House. 1642 KXT Gippsland 0 0 PATERSON, Thomas Mr PATERSON .- by leave- The members of the Country party wish to associate themselves with the remarks of the Acting Prime Minister (Mr. Fenton) and the Leader of the Opposition (Mr. Latham). While, generally speaking, the responsibility of dealing with unemployment rests upon the State Governments rather than upon the Commonwealth Government, we feel that in the special circumstances in which Australia finds itself to-day, there is reason for some divergence from what might be ordinarily regarded as the proper method of dealing with unemployment. . Therefore, the party to which I belong desires to raise no objection to the action proposed to be taken by the Acting Prime Minister. 1642 miscellaneous 1642 1642 1642 KEV Maribyrnong ALP Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Customs 1 0 FENTON, James Mr FENTON . - I move - That on and after the Eighteenth day of December, One thousand nine hundred and thirty, at nine o'clock in the forenoon, reckoned according to standard time in the Territory for the Seat of Government, Duties of Customs be imposed according to the following Tariff: - the net advantage of the export duty will be the employment of about 1,109 additional men, and a distribution of approximately £275,000 extra per annum in wages. Unemployment is so acute in the fellmongering industry in Australia to-day that the Government considers it necessary to take this action at once in order to relieve the situation. It is anticipated that any falling off in the value of exports of sheep-skins consequent on this duty will be more than offset by the enhanced value of the exports of pelts, fellmongered wool, and basils. 1642 KFA CP 0 0 GREEN, Roland Mr R GREEN - This is bare-faced bribery. The CHAIRMAN (Mr. McGrath).I ask the honorable member for Richmond (Mr. R. Green) to assist me to preserve order and to remain silent while the Acting Prime Minister makes his statement. 1642 KFA CP 0 0 GREEN, Roland Mr R GREEN - I do not care a continental whether the Acting Prime Minister makes his statement or not. This is absolute robbery. 1642 10000 0 0 CHAIRMAN, The The CHAIRMAN - Order ! I ask the honorable member for Richmond to withdraw that statement. 1642 KFA CP 0 0 GREEN, Roland Mr R GREEN - I withdraw it. 1642 10000 0 0 CHAIRMAN, The The CHAIRMAN - If any other interjections are made when the Chair has called for order, I shall take steps to deal with the offenders. 1642 KXQ 0 0 PARKHILL, Robert Mr Archdale Parkhill - This is a bare-faced swindle. 1642 KYX ALP; FLP from 1931 0 0 RILEY, Edward Charles Mr C RILEY - I desire to call your attention, sir, to the statement of the honorable member for Richmond to the effect that the introduction of this schedule is bare-faced bribery. I ask that that statement be withdrawn. 1642 10000 0 0 Mr CHAIRMAN - I ask the honorable member for Richmond to withdraw his statement. 1642 KFA CP 0 0 GREEN, Roland Mr R GREEN - On what grounds? 1642 10000 0 0 CHAIRMAN, The The CHAIRMAN - On the ground that it is offensive to the honorable member for Cook (Mr. C. Riley). 1642 KFA CP 0 0 GREEN, Roland Mr R GREEN - I did not intend to suggest that the honorable member for Cook himself had received any of the money that had been paid to the Government for the introduction of the schedule. This schedule -provides for an export duty of½d. per lb. on sheep-skins in the wool exported from Australia, and is being introduced with a view to ensuring that more of the work of fellmongering of skins shall be performed in Australia. It is estimated by the Tariff Board that 1643 10000 0 0 CHAIRMAN, The The CHAIRMAN - I ask the honorable member for Richmond to withdraw the statement, because it is regarded as offensive. Mr.R. Green. - I withdraw it. Mr.C. Riley. - I call your attention, Mr. Chairman, to the statement of the honorable member for Warringah (Mr. Parkhill) that the proposal of the Government is a bare-faced swindle. I ask that that statement be withdrawn. 1643 10000 0 0 CHAIRMAN, The The CHAIRMAN - I ask the honorable member for Warringah to withdraw his statement. 1643 KXQ 0 0 PARKHILL, Robert Mr Archdale Parkhill - I withdraw it, although I mean it. 1643 10000 0 0 CHAIRMAN, The The CHAIRMAN - I ask the honorable member to withdraw in a courteous manner, and to apologize to the Chair. 1643 KXQ 0 0 PARKHILL, Robert Mr Archdale Parkhill - I withdraw and apologize. 1643 KEV 0 0 FENTON, James Mr FENTON - The export duty is not intended as a means of raising revenue and the Government undertakes that the proceeds of the duty will be spent in assisting the sheep industry. Investigation is now proceeding as to how the proceeds of this duty can best be spent in the interests of the sheep industry, and the Government will welcome any helpful suggestions from the industry in regard to the matter. I move - That progress be reported. Question - That progress be reported - put. The committee divided. (Chairman, Mr. McGrath). 33 15 Majority . . 18 AYES NOES Question so resolved in the affirmative. Progress reported. Question- That the House will, at a later hour this day, again resolve itself into the said committee- put. The House divided. (Mr. Speaker - Hon. Norman Makin.) 31 15 Majority . . . . 16 In division: Several honorable members interjecting, AYES NOES 1643 10000 0 0 SPEAKER, Mr Mr SPEAKER - I remind honorable members that any disorderly remark may be required to be withdrawn after the division is taken. Question so resolved in the affirmative. 1643 miscellaneous 1643 KEV 0 0 FENTON, James Mr Fenton - I suggest that while we are awaiting messages from another place, the sitting should be suspended. 1644 KZO 0 0 LATHAM, John Mr Latham - On a point of order. No question is before the Chair. To what, then, is the Acting Prime Minister (Mr. Fenton) addressing himself? 1644 10000 0 0 SPEAKER, Mr Mr SPEAKER - In accordance with practice, the Acting Prime Minister is suggesting a course of action that he thinks would be convenient to honorable members. As the Leader of the Opposition (Mr, Latham) objects to the Acting Prime Minister speaking, I take the responsibility of suspending the sitting of the House until, by the ringing of the bells, it is summoned to re-assemble. Sitting suspended from 6.50 to 10.50 p.m. 1644 bill Bill returned from the Senate with amendments. Message reported recommending appropriation for the purpose of the acceptance with amendments of certain of the amendments made by the Senate. In committee(Consideration of message) : Motion (by Mr. Forde) agreed to - That it is expedient that an appropriation of revenue be made for the purpose of the acceptance with amendments of certain amendments made by the Senate to a bill for an act relating to advances on wheat, and for other purposes. Resolution reported, and - by leave - adopted. In committee(Consideration of Senate's amendments) : No. 1. - Clause 2, leave out " the Commonwealth Bank of Australia", insert "any prescribed authority ". 1644 F4U Capricornia ALP Acting Minister for Markets and Transport 1 0 FORDE, Francis Michael Mr FORDE . - I move- That the amendment be agreed to subject to the following amendment " omit ' any ', insert 'the Commonwealth Bank of Australia or a'". The chief purpose of this amendment is to enable the Co-operative Wheat Pool of Western Australia to obtain financial assistance from the Wholesale Cooperative Society of Great Britain, with which corporation it carries on a large trade, and which has in the past acted as its financial backer. When the bill was before this House, doubt was expressed as to whether it was possible to make this concession to the Western Australian Co-operative Wheat Pool. 1644 KV8 0 0 STEWART, Percy Mr Stewart - Is not the South Australian pool in the same position ? 1644 F4U 0 0 FORDE, Francis Michael Mr FORDE - I am informed that it is not. The clause, as' amended, will read - The Minister may arrange with the Commonwealth Bank of Australia or a prescribed authority- Mr.GULLETT (Henty) [10.54] . -I regret that the Government cannot see its way to accept in its entirety the amendment made to this clause in another place. That amendment removed the specific reference to the Commonwealth Bank, and substituted for it the words, " any prescribed authority." This would not exclude the Commonwealth Bank, but would place it on the same footing as other financial authorities. I do not wish to re-awaken controversy on this point, but it was made fairly clear during the course of the debate on the bill that the intention of the Government was to squeeze the Commonwealth Bank, and to compel it to advance up to £4,000,000. 1644 KEV 0 0 FENTON, James Mr Fenton - It has always been the practice to name the Commonwealth Bank in legislation of this kind. 1644 KFS 0 0 GULLETT, Henry Mr GULLETT - That may be so; but I do not think that the Labour party, when in power, has always endeavoured to squeeze the Commonwealth Bank in order to meet the political necessities of the moment. We on this side of the House protest strongly against any attempt by the Government to bring pressure to bear on the Commonwealth Bank. I shall be delighted to have the assurance of honorable members opposite that it is not the intention of the Government to bring such pressure to bear, and I appeal to them to make good that assurance by accepting the Senate's amendment. 1644 JUR 0 0 MCTIERNAN, Edward Mr McTiernan - The acceptance of the amendment could not restrain the Government from doing what it wished to do. 1644 KFS 0 0 GULLETT, Henry Mr GULLETT - Perhaps not; but if the amendment were accepted, the Commonwealth Bank would not be isolated, as it were, as the special objective of the Government's financial proposals. The words, " any . prescribed authority ", would meet the case quite well. That would include the Commonwealth Bank, but it would also include the trading banks and other financial institutions which might bc desirable auxiliaries. 1645 JOM 0 0 BEASLEY, John Mr Beasley - Why does the honorable member desire to shield the Commonwealth Bank ? 1645 KFS 0 0 GULLETT, Henry Mr GULLETT - I am desirous only of shielding the bank against an outrageous attack. There would have been no need to shield the bank 'had it not been- made quite clear by honorable members opposite, and particularly by the Assistant Minister for Industry (Mr. Beasley), that the bank is to be subjected to a most unworthy attack per medium of this and other measures. 1645 JPV 0 0 BLAKELEY, Arthur Mr Blakeley - 1 rise to a point of order. The honorable member is imputing improper motives to the Government, arid I object to. his statement as offensive. '' 1645 KFS 0 0 GULLETT, Henry Mr GULLETT - I am delighted to withdraw the statement objected to, especially as the Minister for Home Affairs (Mr. Blakeley) has given an inferential assurance that the Government and its supporters do not contemplate bringing pressure to bear on the Commonwealth Bank. I could not receive from the . Minister a more welcome assurance. If no pressure is to be brought to bear upon the bank, the bill is not worth the paper on which it is printed. When the bank was asked to accede voluntarily to the request of the Government, it emphatically refused to provide this money; but, in view of the Minister's assurance that no pressure is to be applied to the bank, the only course open to him is to withdraw the bill. The Minister has admitted that, after mature consideration, the bank could not see its way clear to guarantee an f.o.b. price of 2s. 6d. a bushel, even if a guarantee against loss were given, not only by the Commonwealth, as provided under the bill, but by the Commonwealth in conjunction with the six States. The Minister' having practically said that the bank is a free agent in this matter, honorable gentlemen opposite should not be in the least aggrieved if it refuses to find this money. In view of the fact that the' Government does not intend to single out the Commonwealth Bank, and compel it to support this measure, Ministers might well agree to the amendment made in another place. 1645 KXQ Warringah 0 0 PARKHILL, Robert Mr ARCHDALE PARKHILL . - The Government, T realize, has sufficient supporters in this chamber to enable it to do exactly as it pleases in this matter. I understand that the object of the amendment is to provide machinery to meet circumstances in Western Australia. If the clause is left as it stands, it will be in the power of the Government to include among prescribed persons the Commonwealth Bank or any other agency it desires to name. Unless the Government wishes to include the Commonwealth Bank specifically, I contend that the amendment made in another place might reasonably be accepted. Motion agreed to. No. 2. - Clause 2. Leave out "Bank", insert " authority." Motion (by Mr. Forde) agreed to - That the amendment be agreed to subject to the following amendment. " Insert ' Bank or ' before ' authority ' ". Amendments Nos. 3 and 4 (consequential) agreed to subject to consequential amendments. No. 5. - Clause 4. After " is " insert " or has .prior to the commencement' of this net been". , 1645 F4U Capricornia ALP Acting Minister for Markets and Transport 1 0 FORDE, Francis Michael Mr FORDE .- I move- That the amendment be agreed to. This amendment was inserted in another place at the instance of the Government, in order to enable wheat of the 1930-31 season already delivered to. obtain the benefit of the guaranteed price. 1645 KOC Wakefield 0 0 HAWKER, Charles Mr HAWKER .- I welcome this amendment, which will cover the vast majority of cases in which wheat has already been sold to prescribed persons; but I should like an assurance from the Minister that this amendment will cover cases in which wheat is sold to a small miller who may not be a proscribed person. 1646 F4U 0 0 FORDE, Francis Michael Mr Forde -The case of small millers buying in country centres in South Australia and elsewhere will be covered by regulation. Motion agreed to. Amendment No. 6 (consequential) agreed to. Amendments Nos. 7 and 8 (consequential) agreed to subject to consequential amendments. No. 9. - Clause 4. Leave out all words from and including the words " freight insurance " to and including the words " or other user ". Insert- - freight insurance and other handling charges incurred in placing wheat for export on board a ship at the port of export, or in the case of wheat delivered for home consumption to a miller or other user, a sum equivalent to the amount which would be deductible under paragraph (a) of this subsection if the wheat were placed for export on board ship at the nearest port for export of that wheat ". Motion (by Mr. Forde) agreed to - That the amendment be agreed to. Amendments Nos. 10, 13 and 14 (consequential) agreed to. Amendments Nos. 11, 12, 15, 16, and 17 (consequential) agreed to subject to consequential amendments. Amendments Nos.1 3 and 14 (consequential) agreed to. Resolutions reported ; report adopted. Sitting suspended from 11.17 p.m. to 2 a.m. (Thursday). Thursday, 18 December 1930 1646 bill Bill returned from the Senate with a message intimating that it had agreed to amendments made by the House of Representatives upon certain amendments made by the Senate and to a consequential amendment to amendment No. 3. 1646 leave of absence Motion (by Mr. Fenton) - by leave - agreed to - That leave of absence be given to every member of the House of Representatives from the determination of this sitting of the House to the date of its next sitting. 1646 special adjournment Motion (by Mr. Fenton) agreed to - That the House, at its rising, adjourn until a date and hour to be fixed by Mr. Speaker, which time of meeting shall be notified by Mr. Speaker to each member by telegram or letter. 1646 adjournment Conversion Loan - Valedictory. - Export Duty on Sheep Skins. - Bounty on Canned Mutton. - Unemployment Taxation.- Buffalo Fly. 1646 KEV Maribyrnong ALP Acting Prime Minister 1 0 FENTON, James Mr FENTON .- In moving That the House do now adjourn, I wish to inform honorable members that the Conversion Loan was closed last night, and, I believe, was fully subscribed. As we are about to adjourn for a few weeks I express the hope that we may all thoroughly enjoy the pleasures of Christmas time, and enter into a New Year which will be brighter and better than that now closing. I congratulate you, Mr. Speaker, upon the impartial way in which you have presided over our sittings; you have held the scales of justice evenly and have added to the dignity and distinction of your high office. I congratulate, too, the Chairman of Committees upon the ability and firmness that he has displayed in carrying out his duties. To the Clerk of the House and to his assistants I tender our thanks for their uniform courtesy and kindness, and for the valuable help they have given to us, and their prompt attention to our requests for assistance. I also extend our thanks to the Hansard staff and its worthy leader, the Sergeant at Arms, and all the other officers in and about' the chamber for their valuable services. Every honorable member will bear testimony to the ready and capable services of all those who assist us in the performance of our duties. This is a season of goodwill. While we are inclined at times to emphasize our differences, and sometimes do a little hard hitting, for the most part a fine spirit of friendship and good fellowship prevails among us. That is the pleasant side of public life, and helps tb sustain us in the strenuous times when, perhaps, we get more brickbats than bouquets. Way we return, early in the New Year with new vigour, and a firm desire to do our best for the country that we love so well. 1647 KFS Henty 0 0 GULLETT, Henry Mr GULLETT .On behalf of the Opposition, I associate myself warmly with the sentiments which have been so happily expressed by the Acting Prime Minister (Mr. Fenton). I also extend to you, Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the Opposition, my cordial congratulations upon the admirable manner in which you have upheld, during this session, as, indeed, during the whole period in which you have occupied the chair, the highest traditions of your office. At times, in the heat of parliamentary strife, doubt may arise as to whether this or that ruling is absolutely right, but never any doubt as to its impartiality. We appreciate the service's rendered and the courtesy extended to us by the Clerks at the table, the Hansard staff, which turns many indifferent utterances into what appear almost excellent speeches - and to every member of the parliamentary staff. For the members of all parties I wish a jolly Christmas, and for the country at large a more prosperous New Year than that we have just passed through. 1647 KV8 Wimmera 0 0 STEWART, Percy Mr STEWART . - May I be permitted, on behalf of the Country party, to join with the Acting Prime Minister (Mr. Fenton) and the Deputy Leader of the Opposition (Mr. Gullett) in expressing my thanks to you, Mr. Speaker, for the manner in which you have presided over our proceedings. T also take the opportunity to express my appreciation, and that of the Country party, of the manner in which the Acting Prime Minister has led the House, of his genial personality, and his pleasant manner to members of all parties. I join in thanking the officers of the House for the courtesy with which they have rendered the assistance that they have given us. I wish every one a happy Christmas, and I trust that when we meet next year we may be able to carry out our duties under happier conditions than prevail to-day. 1647 K0A Angas 0 0 GABB, Joel Mr GABB .- At the risk of uttering a jarring note, I take this opportunity to dissociate myself entirely from agreement with the schedule tabled in this House to-day, putting an export tax on sheep-skins. 1647 02:10:00 K88 Gwydir 0 0 CUNNINGHAM, Lucien Mr CUNNINGHAM - I understood from the statement made by the Acting Prime Minister (Mr. Fenton) this evening, when tabling the proposal for an export duty on sheep-skins, that one portion of the money thus collected is to be earmarked to provide a bounty on exports of canned mutton, and the other portion is to be applied -to scientific research in connexion with the pastoral industry. In my opinion the bill for the payment of the bounty should have been approved by Parliament before the export duty was imposed. Obviously, the duty will be futile, and its effect injurious to the sheep-farmers if the bounty legislation fails to receive the approval of Parliament. There is a great danger that, unless the proceeds of the duty are rigidly earmarked, in the event of the bounty legislation not being passed, the money derived from it may be diverted to some other avenue of expenditure and not returned to the growers. 1647 KFS 0 0 GULLETT, Henry Mr Gullett - On a point of order. I have no querulous desire to curtail the remarks of the honorable member, but all honorable members are anxious to discuss the schedule, and it must be apparent that if one is permitted to do so all will claim the same opportunity. 1647 10000 0 0 SPEAKER, Mr Mr SPEAKER (Hon Norman Makin - My attention having been called to the fact that the honorable member for Gwydir is discussing the tariff schedule introduced this afternoon, I remind him that he will not be in order in anticipating the debate that will take place on that subject at a later date. 1647 K88 0 0 CUNNINGHAM, Lucien Mr CUNNINGHAM - I wish to refer briefly to the proposed bounty on the export of canned mutton. Apparently that is distinct from the duty, for the bounty bill has not yet been introduced. . 1647 10000 0 0 SPEAKER, Mr Mr SPEAKER - Order ! The honorable member will not be permitted to discuss either the schedule presented this afternoon or any proposal that is directly associated with it. 1648 K88 0 0 CUNNINGHAM, Lucien Mr CUNNINGHAM - Neither the proposal for a bounty nor that for financing scientific research in connexion with the pastoral industry is on the business paper. 1648 10000 0 0 SPEAKER, Mr Mr SPEAKER - Discussion of those matters would open up a very wide field of debate, and would anticipate business to come before the House later. Any remarks based on the statement made by the Acting Prime Minister (Mr. Fenton) must have direct relation to the schedule lie introduced, and therefore would be out of order. 1648 K88 0 0 CUNNINGHAM, Lucien Mr CUNNINGHAM - I bow to your ruling, sir, but the rural producers who are affected would have less cause for grievance if they knew that the money to be collected by way of export duty will be returned to them in the event of- the bounty legislation not being passed. 1648 02:14:00 A48 Macquarie ALP 0 0 CHIFLEY, Ben Mr CHIFLEY . - In connexion with the collection of State taxes on salaries for the relief of unemployment, the present practice is to assess the impost on the annual income. If in New South Wales the tax of ls. in the £1 be collected in a lump sum at the end of the year, a heavy financial strain will be imposed on many Commonwealth public servants living in that State, particularly those on the basic wage. I ask the Acting Prime Minister to consider the practicability of arranging for this tax to be deducted from the fortnightly pay, and so relieve the public servants of the possibility of financial embarrassment at the end of the year. 1648 02:16:00 KMZ Herbert 0 0 MARTENS, George Mr MARTENS . - T am particularly concerned at the spread of. the buffalo fly, in regard to which I have had several conversations with experts in the Commonwealth Public Service. This menace is" more serious than many people may think, and I suggest that the Minister for Home Affairs (Mr. Blakeley) should consult the Ministers of southern States with a view to arresting the advance of the fly before -it reaches the finer herds. If u buffer area could be established on the north-west coast of Queensland, much good might be done. Those who have a knowledge of this pest will appreciate the menace it may .become to the .dairy herds, and if it establishes itself in the closely-settled areas along the eastern coast, " it will cause losses which are estimated at several million pounds, and be most difficult to eradicate. 1648 02:18:00 10000 0 0 SPEAKER, Mr Mr SPEAKER . - I warmly appreciate the expressions that have fallen from the lips of the Acting Prime Minister, the Deputy Leader of the Opposition and the honorable member for Wimmera (Mr, Stewart). The task of presiding over this assembly and meting out evenhanded justice is not easy, and the testimony of representatives of all parties that my efforts to be strictly impartial and just have been successful, is most gratifying to me. I acknowledge also the appreciation that has been expressed of the services of the Chairman of Committees and the various officers of the House.' By an inadvertence the Temporary Chairmen of Committees were omitted ; we all are indebted to them for "their services, and I desire to express my person al gratitude for the assistance they have given in conducting the affairs of the House. On behalf of myself, the Chairman of Committees, and the officers, I reciprocate the wishes that have been expressed for as bright a Christmas as is possible in the present economic circumstances. I hope that when we re-assemble in the New Year the circumstances of Australia will be more prosperous and happy than they are now. 1648 02:19:00 KEV Maribyrnong ALP Acting Prime Minister 1 0 FENTON, James Mr FENTON .- In reply to the suggestion made by the honorable member for Macquarie (Mr. Chifley), I understand that the Commonwealth tax on salaries is deducted by the paymasters of the various departments, and I do not see why the State tax cannot be collected in the same way. 1648 K88 0 0 CUNNINGHAM, Lucien Mr Cunningham - Will the honorable gentleman undertake that the money to bt collected from the export' tax on sheepskins will be earmarked for the payment of a bounty on exports of canned mutton t 1648 KEV 0 0 FENTON, James Mr FENTON - Yes. Question resolved in the affirmative. House adjourned at 2.20 a.m. (Thursday) until a date and hour to be fixed by Mr. Speaker.