House of Representatives
8 June 1921

8^th Parliament · 1^st Session

QUESTION
- COMMONWEALTH NOTE ISSUE
QUESTION
- NEW COMMONWEALTH PEACE LOAN
COMMONWEALTH TREASURY BILLS
QUESTION
- PUBLIC SERVANTS’ WAGES
QUESTION
- WAR PENSIONS
QUESTION
- IMPERIAL CONFERENCE
QUESTION
- CONVEYANCE OF COUNTRY MAILS
QUESTION
- COMMONWEALTH REPRESENTATION IN LONDON
QUESTION
- FEDERAL CAPITAL- HOSTEL AND CONVENTION HALL- LAND SETTLEMENT
QUESTION
- EXPEDITION TO NEW GUINEA
QUESTION
- SOLDIER SETTLEMENT IN NEW SOUTH WALES
QUESTION
- NATURALIZATION OF GERMANS
QUESTION
- SHERWOOD GOVERNMENT RESERVE
QUESTION
- BUTTER MARKET IN AMERICA AND THE EAST
CASE OF MR. DEHLE
TARIFF
MARANOA ELECTION
ADJOURNMENT

Mr. DeputySpeaker (Hon.J. M. Chanter) took the chair at 2.30 p.m., and read prayers.

page 8875

QUESTION

COMMONWEALTH NOTE ISSUE

Mr BAMFORD:
HERBERT, QUEENSLAND

– I ask the Treasurer if the statement whichappeared in a leader in the Melbourne Age of the 4th June inst., to the effect that since the beginning of the war the note issue has increased from four to five fold, and that its redundancy isshown by the price of gold, is correct?

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

– I have already answered that question in another connexion, hut it appears uselessto reply to statements published in the Age. Next morning they are repeated, no matter how absolutely they may have been refuted. The facts are that there is a worldinflation of currency, and that it is the duty of every Government to tryto reduce this inflation in every possible way;but to suggest that our note-issue has raised the price of gold to its present figure shows either pure ignorance on the part of the man who does so, or wilful, deliberate, and completemisrepresentation. The price of gold to-day is determined by the exchanges of the world and it is complicated also by the inflation of the currencies of the world. Apparently the Age does not wish to hear anything reflecting favorably on Australia.It flouts any statement that tells for Australia. Our note-issue has continued steady since the Armistice, while the currency of every other country in the world has increased; in some cases by nearly 100 per cent.

page 8875

QUESTION

NEW COMMONWEALTH PEACE LOAN

Mr HIGGS:
CAPRICORNIA, QUEENSLAND

– Is the rumour which has been published in the press, that it is intended to raise another Commonwealth PeaceLoan, based on fact? If so, is the loan intended to meet commitments of the present financial year, or post-war obligations in the new financial year?

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

– As the press already has an inkling of what is afoot, I may as well tell the honorable member that another loan - one of very moderate dimensions-is in contemplation. It is to be a “digger’s” loan, and purely for “digger” purposes.

Mr Fenton:

-For how much?

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

– That has not yet been determined.

Mr Fenton:

– The sum of £15,000,000 has been mentioned in the press.

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

– The amount has not been fixed upon.

Mr West:

– Is the money to be raised in Australia or abroad?

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

– The loan will be an Australian one ; for the purposes of repatriation, and for nothing else.

page 8875

COMMONWEALTH TREASURY BILLS

Mr RICHARD FOSTER:
WAKEFIELD, SOUTH AUSTRALIA

– Is it true that the Government has placed £2,000,000 of Commonwealth Treasury Bills at5¼ per cent. on the market in London, and, if so, for what purpose?

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

– It is true. I greatly regret that we have been compelled to place Treasury Bills on the London market instead of a small loan. The money is needed in London, largely because of exchange difficulties. It is to complete the payments for the sugar purchases that we have been compelled to make owing to the loss of our crop. It will all be repaid shortly as the sugar is sold, and will then be available for other purposes.

– In view of the curtailment of country train services, which has inflicted very great hardship upon quite a number of country towns in respect of the delivery of mails, I ask the Postmaster-General what action is he taking in the matter?

Mr WISE:
Postmaster-General · GIPPSLAND, VICTORIA · NAT

– As soon as I saw that the Victorian Railways ‘Commissioners were practising economy in the railway services- to country districts, I instructed the Acting Secretary of my Department to get into touch with them in regard to the matter of the conveyance of our mails upon those days upon which the Commissioners are not now running trains. He did so, and a conference is now taking place between officers of that Department and officers of the Postal Department. As soon as a decision upon the subject has been arrived at I shall inform honorable members of it.

page 8877

QUESTION

COMMONWEALTH REPRESENTATION IN LONDON

Mr FENTON:

– I ask the Acting Prime Minister whether the Government have considered, and if so, whether they have arrived at any decision upon the question of the desirableness of having a Minister representing the Commonwealth in London and also a High Commissioner at the same time?

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

– At no time have the Cabinet considered that matter, nor have they considered the question - which I see has gone the round of all the States and information concerning which has been telegraphed far beyond them- of the future pay and emoluments of the High Commissioner. None of these things has ever been consideredby Cabinet.

Mr West:

– Then the press are liars.

Mr FENTON:

– I ask the Acting Prime Minister whether the Government, prior to the appointment of a new High Commissioner, will consult the various States with a view to arriving at an arrangement whereby considerable sums of money may be saved by having Australia properly represented upon the other side of the world, not by six Agents-General, but by one officer and one good representative?

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

– I suggest to my honorable friend that he should address the State Governments in that connexion. It is no part of our functions to ask the States to surrender their own powers.

Mr Fenton:

– Why not?

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

– Because we have no right to do so.

Mr Fenton:

– We are all one set of taxpayers.

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

– I agree with the honorable member’s statement, but I suggest to him that the States are just as jealous of their own prerogatives under the Constitution as we are of ours.

page 8877

QUESTION

FEDERAL CAPITAL- HOSTEL AND CONVENTION HALL- LAND SETTLEMENT

Mr BLAKELEY:
DARLING, NEW SOUTH WALES

– I ask the Minister for Works and Railways whether it is a fact that the plans of the hostel and Convention hall at Canberra have been received by him, and, if so, whether he will be good enough to make a statement regarding his intentions in respect of them ?

Mr GROOM:
Minister for Works and Railways · DARLING DOWNS, QUEENSLAND · NAT

– It is a fact that a report and sketch designs have been submitted and received by me. These are now under the consideration of the Cabinet.

Mr BOWDEN:
NEPEAN, NEW SOUTH WALES

– I ask the Minister for Works and Railways whether the Cabinet has yet considered its policy of land settlement in the Federal Capital area, particularly in regard to making lands available for settlers who want them?

Mr GROOM:

– That is a matter which comes within the domain of the Minister for Home and Territories, and I know that he has it under consideration.

page 8877

QUESTION

EXPEDITION TO NEW GUINEA

Mr WEST:

– I ask the Acting Prime Minister whether he has received any information regarding the whereabouts of the expedition which was despatched to New Guinea some time ago.

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

– Nothing fresh. All I know is that a definite communication has been sent to the Administrator, informing him that the Committee of Experts which is inquiring into matters there must not exceed the sum already determined upon, which is a very moderate sum, and not anything like the amount mentioned in the statements which are constantly being made concerning it.

page 8877

QUESTION

SOLDIER SETTLEMENT IN NEW SOUTH WALES

Mr HECTOR LAMOND:
ILLAWARRA, NEW SOUTH WALES

– I askthe Minister representing the Minister for Repatriation whether he can throw any light upon a communication which has been received from the Lands Department of New South Wales to the effect that a soldier’s application for land has been refused in accordance with the Minister’s decision not to accept any application lodged after 3rd July, 1920?

Mr RODGERS:
WANNON, VICTORIA · LP; NAT from 1917

– I know of no good reason why the application of any soldier for land in any of the States should’ not be dealt with at the present time, and - should he he an eligible applicant - approved. With regard to the financial relationship between the Commonwealth and States, which very much governs the question of land settlement, the Commonwealth provided during the present financial year £16,000,000 for soldier land settlement. The New South Wales share of that amount was £4,000,000. Parliament approved of £4,000,000 being appropriated for this purpose in New South Wales. In addition, the Treasurer has made available a further sum of £250,000 to expedite land settlement in that State, so that I know of no reason why soldier settlement cannot proceed there.

page 8878

QUESTION

NATURALIZATION OF GERMANS

Mr GABB:
ANGAS, SOUTH AUSTRALIA

asked the Minister for Home and Territories, upon notice -

Whether applications by persons of German origin for certificates of naturalization were held up over the reparations difficulty? 2.If so, are they still so held up?
If so, seeing that the reparation question is settled, when will the embargo be removed?

Mr WISE:
for Mr. Poynton · NAT

– The answers to the honorable member’s questions are -

Yes.
Yes.
The matter is now under consideration.

page 8878

QUESTION

SHERWOOD GOVERNMENT RESERVE

Mr BAYLEY:
OXLEY, QUEENSLAND

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Defence, upon notice -

Whether the Government Reserve, at Sherwood, locally known as the Old Powder Reserve, has been handed back to the Defence Department by the War Service Homes Commissioner?

Sir GRANVILLE RYRIE:
Assistant Minister for Defence · NORTH SYDNEY, NEW SOUTH WALES · NAT

– The property in question, which has ceased to be a Defence property, has not at any time been under the control of the War

Service Homes Commission. It is at present being used by the Institute of Science and Industry for experimental purposes in connexion with investigations of the prickly pear pest.

page 8878

QUESTION

BUTTER MARKET IN AMERICA AND THE EAST

Mr WATKINS:
for Mr. Ryan

asked the Minister for Trade and Customs, upon notice -

Whether the Trade Commissioner in America and in the East could not inquire into the prospects of a butter market in those places?
Whether that information could not be made available direct to the co-operative butter factories, seeing that it is estimated that nearly90 per cent. of Australian butter is manufactured by co-operative factories?

Mr GREENE:
RICHMOND, NEW SOUTH WALES · LP; NAT from 1917

– The answers to the honorable member’s questions are as follow : -

Yes. The principal reason for appointing the Trade Commissioners was that they might obtain first-hand this and similar information with the object of extending Australian trade in the places mentioned, but if the butter factories or any other producers or manufacturers inform us as to any special inquiries in connexion with trade opportunities they wish made through our Trade Commissioners, we shall be very pleased to instruct our representatives accordingly.
In each instance reports received will be made available to the respective traders concerned.

page 8878

CASE OF MR. DEHLE

Sir GRANVILLE RYRIE:
NAT

– With reference to the request of the honorable member for West Sydney (Mr. Ryan) that the papers relating to the internment of Mr. Gus Dehle be laid on the table of the Library, I have given consideration to the matter and do not consider that it is in the interests of the Commonwealth that papers of this nature should be made public.

page 8878

TARIFF

In Committee of Ways and Means:

Consideration resumed from7th June (vide page 8874). divisionvi.-metalsandmachinery.*

*Motive power, engine combinations, and power connexions are dutiable under their respective headings when not integral parts of machines, machinery, or machine tools.

Upon which Mr. Watkins had moved, by way of amendment -

That the following words be added to subitem a: - “and on and after 9th June, 1921, per ton, British, 30s.; intermediate, 45s.; general,60s.”

Mr BLUNDELL:
Adelaide

.- In discussing this item to-day we may well put aside extreme considerations that have really nothing to do with the subject before us, and proceed to deal with it solely from the point of view of the merits of the proposal to increase the duty. It will not be denied that the enterprise to which the item relates is the key industry of every secondary industry in Australia. It is not only desirable, but absolutely necessary that it should be established firmly on such a basis that it cannot be successfully attacked by those outside Australia, who may have designs, not only upon it, but upon various other Australian industries. I want the Committee to realize that this industry is faced, not with the ordinary competition of countries producing similar material, but with a form of competition which to my mind calls for some adjustment of the duties if we are to put it upon a proper footing. Here we have an industry that is attacked, not merely by a combination of manufacturers who have exploited the markets of their own country, and are able to turn their attention to the exploitation of the Austra lian market, but one which, in addition, has behind it an immense capital and a highly systematized business, and has enjoyed all the benefits of a highly protective Tariff in its own country, together with the advantages which naturally follow from production in a country possessing so large a population as does the United States of America. In its endeavour to exploit the markets of Australia and other parts of the world, this combination has behind it the entire approval of the Government of the United States of America. I need scarcely remind honorable members that in 1918 Congress passed what is known as the Webb Act, which encourages combinations of manufacturers, traders, and shippers to exploit Australia and other markets. Under that Act the whole power and strength of the Governmento f the United States of America is thrown behind combinations for such a purpose, and encourages them to do in other countries that which they would not be permitted to do in their home market. In my opinion, it is one of the most immoral pieces of legislation ever passed by any Legislature.

We are now endeavouring to establish this, the key industry of all our secondary industries, and we find it face to face with the competition of a combination of Government, manufacturers, traders, and shippers designed to exploit our own and other markets. In considering what duties shall be proposed in respect of this item, we cannot view lightly that sort of competition. It has been said by some honorable members that the Broken Hill Proprietary Company in connexion with its iron and steel works has already established in Australia a monopoly and has exercised an influence over subsidiary manufactories. It has been said that the Broken Hill Company have endeavoured to control the selling prices of other manufacturers, and has sought to hold a controlling influence over them. Accepting that statement as being perfectly true, the fact remains, as has been said again and again, that if we had absolute Free Trade we should be dealing very largely with combinations formed in other countries, and possessing there a far greater influence than could be exercised in Australia by our local steel works. Under Free Trade conditions we should be doing business with foreign combinations over which we should have no control or check. We should not be able by taxation and other means to get anything out of them. Thus, because of a desire to avoid the creation of anything in the nature of a monopoly here we should have this key industry crushed’ by foreign combinations. If we have to deal with combines it is better that they should be here in Australia spending their money in the development of our own resources, and capable of being controlled by us rather than that they should be foreign monopolies over which we could exercise no check. The Minister for Trade and Customs (Mr. Greene) has promised to bring in a Bill for the appointment of a Tariff Board, which will be able to deal with all such matters. With the passing of that legislation we shall have power to check and control any iron and steel combine in Australia, should it become injurious in its effects.

Mr GREGORY:
DAMPIER, WESTERN AUSTRALIA

– It might become so strong that members would not want to touch it. That has happened, elsewhere.

Mr BLUNDELL:

– I do not think that is likely to happen here. On the whole, the public men of Australia have shown themselves to be thoroughly honest, and we have nothing whatever to be ashamed of in so far as their conduct of public affairs is concerned. Without any alteration of the Constitution it will be possible for us to control the operations of this Combine should it become injurious to Australia. All Trusts and Combines, however, are not injurious. A Trust very often can be of great advantage to a community, and especially to the particular industries which it is controlling.

Some honorable members feel that the increased duty proposed by the honorable member for Newcastle (Mr. Watkins) is somewhat excessive, and that it involves an unnecessary increase of the duty in respect of imports from Great Britain. I agree that if any trade is to be done outside Australia it should, as far as possible, be with the United Kingdom; and to that end I would encourage British trade in every way. But, at the same time, our first duty is to develop our own resources, even if we have to impose duties that may press hardly on trade, so far as Great Britain is concerned. One of our great needs is to attract population to this country; no one will deny that that is one of our greatest essentials. There is not one State of the Commonwealth that could not, without any trouble, absorb our present population of 5,000,000 within its own borders; and one of the means of encouraging population is to build up our primary and secondary industries, the success of both pf which is necessary to our welfare. Cannot the Minister (Mr. Greene) see his way to meet the situation that has arisen ? There seems to be a strong demand on all sides for an increase in the protection afforded, though there are honorable members who regard the present duties as sufficient.

Mr Foley:

– How about reducing the British duty?

Mr BLUNDELL:

– I was about to suggest, on the other hand, that there ‘ might be a slight increase in the’ British duty, with an increase of 25s. in the general Tariff, making it 65s. instead of 4’0s. ‘ If that suggestion were accepted, I think it would dispose of a good deal of the opposition to increased duties. The American competition is a very serious menace to our industry, quite apart from the exchange difficulty. It seems unfair to select this particular industry, and in view of the exchange difficulty propose to give redress by means of special legislation. That has not been proposed in reference to other duties, where exchange and other disabilities arise. We have to consider all the facts, and realize that the competition from America is not ordinary, but exceptional, deliberately designed to capture our market at any price. To that end manufacturers are encouraged in the United States of America to take steps which are punishable by law in that country if taken in reference to their local market. When taken with the object of exploiting our market, such steps are approved by the United States of America Legislature. Under the circumstances, America ought to be called upon to face . increased duties, and the Australian industry made to feel that it is sure of a reasonable amount of protection. I think the compromise I have suggested, or some proposal in that direction, would meet the wishes of the Committee generally. We all desire this industry to be firmly established here, and we only differ as to the amount of protection that is necessary.

Mr Foley:

– I should agree with the honorable member if he consented to reduce the British duty.

Mr BLUNDELL:

– While I desire to encourage trade with Britain, I hold that our first duty is to our own industry. No doubt, whatever preference we give should be to the United Kingdom; and I hope that the Minister will agree to an amendment in the direction I have suggested.

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

– I hope the Committee will make up its mind to come to a vote as soon as possible. Much cannot be added to what has been already said in the elucidation of this complex and difficult subject. I should like to say, however, that this industry is not suffering.

– I would not care to see the Constitution altered in that respect, because I know what Customs officials are. They are prospectors, like fossickers for gold, and are always at it. Do not let them get beyond the Customs House, or Heaven only knows what they will do! No member of the Committee would see the valuable steel indus try jeopardized, and the Minister has promised reasonable protection up to the limit of a determined and definite necessity. What more do honorable members want? I ask them to turn their thoughts from pig iron and consider all the ramifications of the iron trade - the blacksmiths’ shops, machinists’ establishments, the mines - and particularly these, because the greatest Australiannecessity at this momen t is in regard to them - and the water conservation schemes now in progress, which are one of the brightest hopes of this country, and are largely dependent for their success on this raw material. I shall support the 20s. duty, and I ask the Government to stand by the schedule, plus the provision to be contained in the Bill which the Government have promised to introduce as soon as the Tariff debate is finished. In regard to the outlook of the iron and steel industry, the 20s. duty, even with the additional 10s. proposed in the amendment, is not of half as great concern to the industry as are the uncertain and erratic industrial conditions obtaining in Australia to-day. Honorable members of the Opposition said last night that wages were falling in other countries, thus making the position more difficult for this big industry and others in Australia. If wages are dropping in every other part of the world, is not the same adjustment from war conditions to normal conditions to take place in Australia?

Mr Lazzarini:

– Now the honorable member is letting the cat out of the bag.

Mr RICHARD FOSTER:

Mr FENTON:

– I merely mention this firm in order to inform honorable members that a man, who had been employed by it for twenty-two years, was dismissed because he had the impertinence to run against a sitting member for Echuca, the late Mr. Palmer, as a Labour candidate. The farmers and others of Shepparton and the surrounding districts said, in effect, that if this man was kept employed the firm would get no more of their orders ; and while the firm, in my belief, did not wish to “sack” him, it had to do so because of this local pressure. I merely mention this to show what may be expected from the crowd represented by the Corner party when it comes to dealing with the worker. I trust, however, that the Corner party will help honorable members on this side to compel the Government to keep the promise to which I have referred, and to see that manufacturers who enjoy protection sell their products at reasonable rates.

Dumping is the problem we have to consider and solve. I address myself to this question in no kindly feeling towards the capitalistic section of the community; my object is to make . Australia what it ought to be - a manufacturing country. That object, I contend, can only be achieved by excluding imports from other countries. I look forward to the establishment of more companies for the production of pig iron. I also anticipate great railway extensions in Australia, and I do not desire the community to be at the tender merciesof one or two companies for the supply of steel rails. Our hope is that, by the imposition of increased duties, we may encourage the development of manufacturing, not only in this, but in many other directions. That development can only be achieved by means of an adequate Tariff.

Mr NICHOLLS:
Macquarie

.- I support the amendment because, in the first place, I believe that duties should be placed on articles that can be manufactured in Australia, and, in the second place, because I desire to see the whole of the employees engaged in our various industries properly safeguarded as to their standard of living. I do not speak now on behalf of the employers, who, in my opinion, are quite capable of safeguarding their own interests. The commodity under discussion can be well and truly manufactured in this country. We have the whole of the raw material close at hand, with proper facilities for carrying on the industry ; and it can be carried on, I do not say as cheaply, but just as easily, as in other countries. Australia should not be permitted to become the dumping ground for cheap surplus products from overseas; and it appears to me that the present duties on iron are not sufficient. Conditions have so much changed since the Tariff was first introduced as to warrant further increases in the duties. I may be permitted to quote some figures showing the increased cost of production of iron in Australia. The price of coal has increased by 4s. per ton, and, taking 2 tens of coal as necessary for the manufacture of 1 ton of pig iron, the increase really amounts to 8s. per ton of iron. Then harbor dues have increased by 4½d. per ton for iron ore and limestone, while the Board of Trade has awarded an increase of 8s. 6d. per week for every employee in the industry. All this means, of course, a very considerable reduction in the Tariff; indeed, it practically means that imported iron is allowed free into Australia. Is it not evident that this country is not in a position to compete with other countries which do not pay the same rates of wages and observe the same conditions,? The Minister for Trade and Customs (Mr. Greene) stated quite recently , that he was prepared at all times to safeguard the interests of such a gigantic industry as the iron and steel in- dustry, and, further, to see that continuity of operations was maintained. That being so, there does not appear to me any reason why the honorable gentleman should refuse to accept the amendment.

There is another point to be considered. Germany can manufacture iron at a much lower rate than it can be manufactured at in Australia, as the following table will show: -

– I admit it. The Acting Prime Minister’s attempt to make so much of the intention of the Government to deal later on with the questions of exchange and dumping counts for nothing so far as the Tariff is concerned, because those are matters that stand by themselves. The exchange question does not affect every item, but it may be found to affect various items as time goes on. We know that a good deal of dumping is going on to-day in connexion with more than one article. This is made possible because of the conditions existing abroad. The bottom is falling out of things in other countries. They are not coming down gradually, but everything is tumbling down, and if we are not careful the same state of things will occur in Australia. If we do not protect our people and preserve the market for our own industries, the same position is sure to arise here. The Acting Prime Minister tried to make it appear that the Government would do everything possible to protect this industry. He said, “If we find, when the Tariff is passed, that the industry is being injuriously affected, or is likely to be affected, we will bring proposals before the House to deal with the position.” Who is going to decide whether the industry is being injuriously affected or not ? How is the Acting Prime Minister to know? How are we to know? Is the right honorable gentleman going to takethe opinion of the Broken Hill Proprietary Company? Must they come to him and say, “ We cannot compete now with the foreign market and the British market, and, consequently, we ask you to honour your pledge to see that noinjustice is done to us” ? If that is to be the position, a good deal of exception will be taken to it. It will not be satisfactory to honorable members. They will want some tangible proof that such is the case.

To-day we have sufficient proof to justify us in asking for an increase in the duties on this item, because already two contracts in Australasia have been taken at cheaper rates than the stuff can be produced here. That is absolutely true, and it is, therefore, our duty to do something to save the industry. If they can to-day produce so much cheaper in the Old Country as to be able to compete successfully with us, is it not fair to say that the duty is not adequate? If we desire. that sort of thing, then we ought to admit that we do not want the industry in Australia, and that it ought to be closed down, because it cannot sell at the same price as its products can be obtained at from abroad. If we take up that attitude, either the industry has to close down, or there must be a general reduction in wages in that industry.

Mr Foley:

– Where were those contracts let?

Mr CHARLTON:

– One was let in Western Australia, and the other, I believe, in New Zealand. We have been discussing for some considerable time the effect upon prices of a reduction of wages in the Old Country, where they are fixed on a sliding scale, which is governed by the price obtained for the output commodity. On this point I find the following information in The Ironmonger -

The examination of the books of the employers in the Scottish malleable-iron trade, for the purpose of ascertaining the selling price in connexion with the regulation of wages in the industry, shows that the average net selling price for January and February was £27 16s. 6.04(1. This means a decrease in the wages of the workmen of 22$ per cent, on basis rates.

The effect of this reduction upon the protection offered in this schedule, which was laid on the table of the House fifteen months ago, is very important. Clearly the advantage must be with the British manufacturers -

The Conciliation Board for the manufactured iron and steel trade of the North of England has been informed by the chartered accountants appointed to carry out the ascertainment that for the two months ended 28th February the average net selling price was £26 19s. 7.97d. On this figure the sliding scale gives a reduction of 25 per cent, on puddling and other forge and mill wages.

In view of these facts, honorable members surely will realize the motives actuating honorable members who are supporting the amendment. We do not want to see the same industrial depression in Australia. W!e want if possible, to maintain the present high standard of wages, otherwise I am firmly convinced that we shall not be able to meet our war obligations. The higher the wages the more employment there will be for the people.

Mr Gregory:

– But will this proposal find employment for people? The honorable member’s figures are hardly fair, because in March of last year, when this schedule was introduced, wages in this industry in England averaged from £6 to £25.

Mr CHARLTON:

– I am not referring to the particular amounts received as wages in Great Britain. Wages everywhere were high during the war period, and it is our purpose to keep them as high as possible here. This statement which I have just quoted shows that wages are coming down very rapidly in the Old Country, and if the iron and steel industry in Australia is to live there must be some corresponding reduction here, in the absence of more adequate protection.

Mr Gregory:

– Can you tell us what was the average wage in the industry in Great Britain? It may have been very high.

Mr CHARLTON:

– Whilst I cannot give the honorable member that information, the fact remains that if there has been a drop of 25 per cent, in Great Britain, the cost of .production there must be appreciably lower, and if the Australian industry is to be in a position to compete, without the higher duties now asked for, wages here will have to come down to something like the same extent, or else our mills will have to close. The position is so clear that I am surprised the Government do not realize the danger, and give us something more on the British and general Tariff. The request is a fair one. What has happened on the other side of the world is perfectly plain to every one who understands the position. The Acting Prime Minister endeavoured to prove that a reduction of wages in Great Britain to Bie extent of £1 would be equivalent to so much additional protection under the fixed duties; and by interjection I asked what would be the position of the Australian industry, under this Tariff, if the cost of production in

Pig iron manufactured from ore on the proportion from Canadian ore produced during the calendar years - 1907 - 2.10 dol. per ton; 8s. 9d. per ton in addition to duty imposed. 1908 - 2.10 dol. per ton; 8s. 9d. per ton. 1909 - 1.70 dol. per ton; 7s.1d. per ton. 1910 - . 90 dol. per ton; 3s. 9d. per ton.
In respect of pig iron manufactured from ore on the proportion from foreign ore produced during the calendar years - 1907 - 1.10 dol. per ton; 4s. 7d. per ton in addition to duty imposed. 1908 - 1.10 dol. per ton; 4s. 7d. per ton in addition to duty imposed. 1909 - . 70 dol. per ton; 2s.11d. per ton in addition to duty imposed. 1910 - . 40 dol. per ton;1s. 8d.per ton in addition to duty imposed.
On puddled iron bars manufactured from pig iron made in Canada during the calendar years - 1907 - 1.65 dol. per ton; 6s. 10½d. per ton in addition to duty imposed. 1908- 1.65 dol. per ton; 6s.10½d. per ton in addition to duty imposed. 1909 - 1.05 dol. per ton; 4s. 4½d. per ton in addition to duty imposed. 1910 - . 60 dol. per ton; 2s. 6d. per ton in addition to duty imposed.
In respect of rolled round wire rods not over of an inch in diameter manufactured in Canada from steel produced in Canada from ingredients of which not less than 50 per cent. of the weight thereof consists of pig iron made in Canada when sold to manufacturers for use of making wire in their own factories in Canada. “ On such wire rods made after 31st December, 1906, 6 dol. per ton; 25s. per ton.
In respect of steel ingots manufactured from ingredients of which not less than 50 per cent. of the weight thereof consists of pig iron made in Canada. On such ingots made during the calendar years - 1907- 1.65 dol. per ton; 63.10½d. per ton in addition to duty. 1908 - 1.65 dol. per ton; 6s. 10½d. per ton in addition to duty. 1909- 1.05 dol. per ton; 4s. 4½d. per ton in addition to duty. 1910- . 60 dol. per ton; 2s. 6d. per ton in addition to duty.

Proviso. - Provided that the bounty shall not be paid on steel ingots from which steel blooms and billets for exportation from Canada are manufactured.

That shows that Canada has paid bounties in addition to imposing duties.

Mr CHARLTON:

– That may have happened, but it does not alter the fact that Canada has assisted that industry. Let me state what is happening in other countries in regard to these matters. This extract is from The Ironmonger of January, 1921 -

Belgian Iron and Steel Trade Figures. - In The Ironmonger of 18th December, p. 109, the exports of pipes and tubes from Belgium during the first ten months of 1920 was given as 168 tons. This should have been 3,481 tons.

Belgian Ironmongers and German Trade. - There was a discussion at the last meeting of the Belgian Ironmongers’ Association on the resumption of business relations with Germany. The general opinion was in favour of a renewal, on the ground that trading with the Germans was a necessity if the economic equilibrium of the world is to be re-established. The British and the French, it was pointed out, had already started dealing with the Germans, and there was no reason why Belgium should continue to pay high prices for British and French goods when she could buy better from the Germans. Belgium was now actually buying goods in France and Britain which had been imported there from Germany.

Britain gets the material from Germany, manufactures it into goods, and exports them to Australia, and our local industries are expected to hold their own with competition of that kind -

For some time past Belgianironmongers had recognised the necessity of resuming relations with Germany, and many transactions had already taken place, usually through the intermediary of a third party resident in Belgium, as it was thought patriotic to avoid all direct contact with the German manufacturers.

That shows how deceitful the manufacturers are. They buy in a roundabout way to cover their tracks, but after the material has been manufactured into goods in Great Britain it is re-exported to compete with Australian products -

German Competition in Denmark. - The underselling of local manufacturers by German competitorswho are taking advantage of the depreciation in the value of the mark in foreign countries is not only felt in Britain, but all over the world, except in some of the minor States of Central Europe where the local currency is worth still less than the German. The director of the United Danish Ironfoundrics has just been complaining bitterly of German competition in Denmark in a Copenhagen newspaper. The director points out that in 1908 a Customs duty was placed in Denmark on castings of three oere per kilo., which then represented from 15 to 20per cent. of the value. The price of castings is now six or seven times as high as it was, so that the protection affordedby the duty only amounts to 2 or 3 per cent., and is no longer of any use in keeping out German competition.

The position is exactly the same here, and we have been arguing for the last week that the duty which the Government have imposed will be useless in the face of what is happening abroad. Our industries will succumb to foreign competition or the conditions ofour workers will have to be reviewed -

The director also states that wages in Denmark are higher than in “ any other country in Europe,” with the possible exception of Norway ( this statement presumably refers to the European continent; it will hardly be contended that wages in Denmark are in excess of those in Britain). Thewages in the foundry trade in Denmark average 2.50 kroner an hour, whereas the maximum wage in Germany, converted into Danish currency at the present rate of exchange, is only one-quarter of that amount. He foreshadows a general fall in the prices of raw and manufactured articles, followed by all-round reductions in wages.

Mr Gregory:

– The Minister admitted it only yesterday.

Dr EARLE PAGE:
COWPER, NEW SOUTH WALES · FSU; CP from 1920

– If the Broken Hill Proprietary Company, through their representatives in this Chamber, are asking for the imposition of higher duties, they are guilty of a gross breach of faith with their customers, because on the 4th April of this year they notified their customers throughout the Commonwealth that they would be unable to meet the local requirements of iron and steel owing to a strike. It seems remarkable that the company should have requested their customers to purchase abroad, and at the same time have asked for increased duties, because they must have known that if the rates wereincreased those who had purchased abroad would have to pay additional duties. In the Hardware and Machinery Journal of 4th April, 1921, the following statement appears : -

The Broken Hill Pty. Co. have advised the trade that no new contracts will be accepted during the next six months. - Buyers wanting to effect forward contracts should look to overseas sources.

According to a letter written this month, this company is still unable to meet our requirements. The letter reads - . . . I confirm my advice that various merchants have placed with us since the notification from the Broken Hill Co. indent orders for steel material totalling approxi mately 2,500 tons. I know of considerable other businessplaced through otherhouses, and estimatethat at least 7,000 tons of steel havebeen ordered for Melbourne and Adelaide alone. Very little of this has arrived yet, although large quantities are now on the water. If the Ministry’s proposal to increase the duty is carried, merchants and users here will be penalized. It was not until after they had obtained assurances from the Broken Hill Co. that they placed orders for indent.

When one analyzes the position and considers the request that has been made for higher duties, really to enable increased wages to be paid, it is worth while comparing the pre-war prices of certain articles with those ruling to-day. The pre-war and present prices show this difference - rails, £8 16s., £17 15s.; fishplates, £11 2s., £21 15s.; fish-bolts, £21 6s., £56 10s.

Mr Charlton:

– Why does not the honorable member quote the British prices for the same period?

Dr EARLE PAGE:
COWPER, NEW SOUTH WALES · FSU; CP from 1920

– The increase in price is more than equivalent to the total increase in wages during that period. The Inter-State Commission, when it dealt with this matter in 1916, pointed out that any basic industry protected by duties, and which supplies raw materials to secondary industries, involves a very heavy burden, not only on the secondary industries associated with it, but on the whole community. The InterState Commission recommended a general duty of17s. 6d. and a British preferential rate of 12s. 6d. High duties seriously affect secondary industries, as will be seen from a letter I have received from an engineer in Ballarat, who is constructing6½ horse-power engines. These small industries should be encouraged throughout the Commonwealth, because it has already been admitted that their establishment means a proper distribution of population and the creation of local markets. The Minister for Trade and Customs (Mr. Greene) emphasized the point that the main object of the Tariff was to assist decentralization. But what is occurring? The manufacturer to whom I have referred points out that the prices of the materials used in the manufacture of his engines have increased in this way : Cast-iron, which cost £4 to £5 per ton, is at present £13 per ton. Steel channels have increased from £12 to £38 per ton, and bar-steel from £10 to £30 per ton. Bright shafting, which cost £17 per ton before the war, is now being sold at £56 per ton. This manufacturer uses about 30 cwt. of iron in a 6½-horse-power engine. These figures represent an increase in price of £1 per cwt., and a direct tax on this little engine of £30.

Mr Fenton:

– What is the duty on such engines?

Dr EARLE PAGE:
COWPER, NEW SOUTH WALES · FSU; CP from 1920

– We have not yet dealt with the duty upon engines, but I have no doubt that when we do so this manufacturer will be content if his industry is treated in a reasonable way. When such aburden as I have indicated is placed upon a subsidiary industry, when the people concerned in the iron and steel industry have not protested against the Tariff under which they have been working for nearly eighteen months, and when there is no opposition to it in the Committee, I cannot account for the amendment.

Mr.Watkins. - The honorable member’s party is opposed to the Tariff as introduced by the Minister.

Dr EARLE PAGE:
COWPER, NEW SOUTH WALES · FSU; CP from 1920

– I do not think so.

Mr Watkins:

– We have been told that they intend to move for a reduction of the proposed duty.

Dr EARLE PAGE:
COWPER, NEW SOUTH WALES · FSU; CP from 1920

– It is true that the Country party desire a slight alteration of the duty in the British preferential column, but they are not opposed to the duties proposed in the intermediate and general columns. I do not see why, in the circumstances, these duties should be raised 50 per cent. and the secondary industries using steel and iron penalized, as they must be if these duties are increased. It has been suggested that this is the proper way in which to deal with this matter and the way in which it has been dealt with in other countries. I find that in Canada the policy adopted was to give a bounty of $1 to $3 per ton on iron from 1883 up to 1910, during which time the production increased from 526,000 tons to 740,000 tons.From that time there was a duty imposed in Canada of 8s. 9d. in the British preferential Tariff and 14s. 2d. in their intermediate and general Tariff. The output of the industry increased in the next three years to 1,128,000 tons. I am inclined to dispute the statement that wages are very much higher in Australia than in Canada or America, and I have to inform honorable members that, with the experience to which I have referred, the Canadian Parliament, in 1919, proposed that -

Boiled iron or steel hoop, band, scrollor strip, number fourteen gauge and thinner, and rolled iron or steel sheet, when imported by manufacturers for use only in their own factories inthe manufacture of galvanized iron or steel hoop, band, scroll, strip or sheet- should be admitted free.

Mr Gregory:

-free from any country ?

Dr EARLE PAGE:
COWPER, NEW SOUTH WALES · FSU; CP from 1920

– Yes, free from any country. Surely it is worth our while to accept the protection offered by the Minister for Trade and Customs in view of the fact that, underour Tariff, so far, the steel and iron industry here has reached its present prosperity. The Broken Hill Company has had a series of successful years, and we might give the duties proposed by the Minister a trial before deciding to penalize the secondary industries using steel and iron. It seems to me that the time has come when we should not only build up industries by putting Tariff walls around them, but should also rather try to improve our methods by more economical management, and by making proper use of all the power available. I understand that in the Newcastle district there are ten or eleven power plants, each one of which has a horse-power production almost double what would be necessary if one central power plant were established, which could provide all the power necessary at the Newcastle works at the present time. Sir Arnold Gridley, when in Australia last year, told me that in England it was proposed to adopt means of this kind. He said that by concentration and co-ordinating power plants, using sixteen central plants instead of 643 overlapping plants in use at the present time, they expect to save the consumption of 100,000,000 tons of coal in England this year, and by that means rehabilitate the whole of the British manufacturing enterprises. This concentration of power is a factor of future development which should be given consideration. Certain honorable members have talked of holding up the Committee for weeks on end because others do not see eye to eye with them in connexion with these duties, but if that course were to be adopted in connexion with every proposal submitted, we might be in session for ten or twelve years if an election did not intervene.

Mr WATKINS:
Newcastle

.- I do not propose to say very much more on this item. The discussion upon it has shown that there is a. determination on the part of the Government and of the Country party to frame this Tariff entirely in the interest of people on the land.

Mr Lavelle:

– The honorable member should take a broader view, and should not think only of the Newcastle steel works.

Mr WATKINS:

– I say this because of the way in which the Tariff has so far been dealt with. Every increase of duty that has been accepted has been for the benefit of industries which honorable members of the Country party desire to protect. The honorable member fori

Cowper (Dr. Earle Page) had not the advantage of hearing the previous discussion of this item, or he would not have made the speech to which we have just listened. He gave us a little lecturette on the operations of the industry in my electorate, and suggested what might be done by a concentration of electric power and economic management all round. He told us that he is satisfied with the duties proposed by the Minister, and considers them ample to enable the industry to be carried on successfully.

Sitting suspended from 6.30 to 8 p.m.

Mr WATKINS:

– Notwithstanding the diversity of the opinions expressed in this debate, I think that honorable members generally are prepared to do the fair thing by what is the national industry of Australia. I have drawn attention to the fact that practically all the increases of duties that have been approved so far have been in connexion with items protecting primary production. I agreed to those increases because I am at all times willing to assist the man on the land, and I see no force at all in the contention that to increase the duties on pig iron for the protection of the iron and steel industry will prejudice primary producers. It is on that point that we who support the amendment are at issue with the members of the Country party. The Minister .(Mr. Greene) told us that he will take steps to rectify the position caused by unfavorable exchanges; but, as I have said before, this cannot be done by increasing duties, and my claim, for the proposed increases is based on other grounds. I have stated that conditions have altered so materially since the Tariff was brought down that the rates proposed in it are of almost no effect on many items, and give absolutely no protection on many more, and I have produced figures to support that statement; yet it is glibly said that no case has been made out for the amendment. Had conditions not so altered, I would not ask for increases. At the present time there is unemployment in one of the subsidiary industries coming within this division of the Tariff, and the competition of socalled Belgian steel, which I believe tobe of German origin, is such that in tendering for contracts the Broken Hill Proprietary Company has, within the last few weeks, been beaten both in Australia and in New Zealand. Is there any industry more entitled to protection than the iron and steel industry, which is the biggest in the country? Members have voted for an increase of 500 per cent. in the duties on some of the items of the Tariff, and now will not vote for an increase of 50 per cent. to make effective rates which at the present time give practically no protection at all. I have no desire to establish monopolies in Australia. I do not know a shareholder in the Broken Hill Company, and all I know of Messrs. Hoskins Brothers’ concern is that it is a very big organization. I have always felt that the iron and steel industry cannot be established in this country unless as a Government enterprise, or by a company strong enough to meet the financial strain of the enterprise. None of the amendments to which the Minister has agreed have had the support which is being extended to the proposal I have put before the Committee, yet the Government will make no concessions. There was hope a day or two ago that some relief might be given, but now we are asked to be content with the promise of the Acting Prime Minister (Sir Joseph Cook) that something will be done in the future. I do not know whether the “ whip “ has been used, but certainly a change has come over the scene. The honorable member for Dampier (Mr. Gregory) admits that the iron and steel industry employs between 30,000 and 40,000 persons, directly and indirectly.

Mr Gregory:

– The proposed increases of duties will prejudicially affect those indirectly connected with the industry.

Mr.WATKINS.- How can that be so ? The increases will benefit them. Because, at the time of the stewards’ strike, the Broken Hill Proprietary Company notified its clients throughout Australia that, as it was not able to get supplies, and saw no probability of getting them within a reasonable time, they should buy what they wanted where they could get it, the Leader of the Country party (Dr. Earle Page) has suggested that the company was not in a position to meet the require ments of Australia under normal condi tions.

Mr Gregory:

– His argument was that the duties should not be increased for a couple of months to come, because of the shipments now on the water that were ordered under those circumstances.

Mr Charlton:

Mr.Greene. - And the Inter-State Commission did not make that statement.

Mr GREENE:
RICHMOND, NEW SOUTH WALES · LP; NAT from 1917

– I have told the Committee three or four times.

Mr.RYAN. - In any event, the honorable member for Newcastle and the honorable member for Hunter (Mr. Charlton), who have spoken mostly on the question, based their position on the argument that conditions have changed within the last eight months ; indeed, they have gone further and contended that if this were a new question, now raised for the first time, the duties proposed in the amendment are required in order to properly develop the industry. I believe that the honorable member for Dampier (Mr. Gregory) proposes to move a reduction of the duty.

Mr Gregory:

– Only in the case of the British duty.

Mr RYAN:

– Then ought not the honorable member to place the whole of his reasons for this proposed amendment before the Committee? There seems to be a general protest from honorable members on all sides against my invitation to the honorable member for Dampier, but I do not share their view. I would listen with the greatest pleasure to the honorable member, and promise to keep an open mind. If he can furnish cogent and convincing reasons why this duty should not be raised, or, moreover, why it should be lowered, I shall main tain an open mind as to how I shall cast my vote. But, at the present time, there is an overwhelming preponderance of evidence in favour of the amendment that has been moved from this side. I hope that, even at this late stage, the Minister will reconsider his position,’ and give us an assurance that the door is not closed to any proposal for raising the general Tariff. I do not intend to. delay the Committee any further at this stage, but I trust that some honorable members opposite will advance reasons such as I have asked for, in order that we may further discuss the question.

Mr GREENE:
Minister for Trade and Customs · RICHMOND, NEW SOUTH WALES · LP; NAT from 1917

– I make one further appeal to the Committee to come to a vote. I do not propose to go over the whole ground again. I have covered it on several occasions already. The honorable member for Newcastle (Mr. Watkins) complains that there are certain men out of work in his constituency, and says that their idleness is because of the inadequacy of the duty. That is not the reason for the unemployment. I know what the real reason is, and it arises from circumstances which I desire to see put right at the first possible moment. I suggest to the honorable member that every hour we spend unnecessarily over this item postpones the time when we can deal with the unemployment matter.

Mr Ryan:

– Let us hope the time is not unnecessarily spent.

Mr GREENE:
RICHMOND, NEW SOUTH WALES · LP; NAT from 1917

– I simply state the broad fact that every hour we spend unnecessarily debating this item postpones the period when we can deal with the real root cause of the unemployment in the Newcastle constituency. I know all about that unemployment, and I am only too anxious to put an end to it at the earliest moment.

Mr Brennan:

– What is the real cause of the unemployment?

Mr GREENE:
RICHMOND, NEW SOUTH WALES · LP; NAT from 1917

– The real cause arises out of the exchange position.

Mr Brennan:

– That is too indefinite for me!

Mr GREENE:
RICHMOND, NEW SOUTH WALES · LP; NAT from 1917

– The honorable member for Newcastle (Mr. Watkins) has said that the onus is on the Government to show that the duties in the schedule are adequate. I believe the duties to be adequate, and I shall tell the Committee why. In the first year of the war - 1914-15 - we imported 51,189 tons of pig iron, and the average price was £3 8s. If honorable members take the trouble to work the figures out, they will find that the duties proposed mean 29 per cent. United Kingdom rate, and 59 per0cent., practically, general rate. I do not suppose we shall see pig iron sold at that price again.

Mr Watkins:

– The Tariff was not in force then.

Mr GREENE:
RICHMOND, NEW SOUTH WALES · LP; NAT from 1917

– Of course, it was not in force. I am simply giving what the rates in this Tariff represent approximately on the pre-war values of pig iron. Even though we shall probably never see those values again, these duties do represent on that raw product of many subsidiary industries probably one of the highest rates in the whole Tariff on the base material of any industry.

Mr Fenton:

– What is the price of imported pig iron to-day? That is the question.

Mr GREENE:
RICHMOND, NEW SOUTH WALES · LP; NAT from 1917

– About £8 per ton.

Mr Fenton:

– Then base your percentage duties on that and no’t on the pre-war price.

Mr GREENE:
RICHMOND, NEW SOUTH WALES · LP; NAT from 1917

– I do not think we are going to see pig iron remain at £8 per ton indefinitely, nor do I think it is necessary to have that price to keep the industry going on thoroughly sound lines in Australia. I believe the duties we have laid down in this schedule are adequate. They are those to which we gave in the preparation of the Tariff, perhaps, more detailed consideration and thought than to any other series of duties in the whole schedule, because we recognised the basic nature of the industry and its tremendous importance from a national point of view in whatever way and from whatever stand-point it was considered. It was because of our desire to see the industry established on a thoroughly sound basis that we fixed the “rates set out in the schedule.

The Acting Prime Minister (Sir JosephCook) to-day pointed out that not only are we proposing these duties, but we also propose to make provision against direct dumping.We propose to make provision against dumping caused through the extraordinary position of the international exchanges. Further than that, the Acting Prime Minister gave the Committee a definite pledge and undertaking that if, after these duties are passed in the Tariff, and after we have had experience enabling us to ascertain definitely whether or not the provision made is adequate from every conceivable stand-point, we find that it is not, then the Government will bring down a further schedule of duties in connexion with these items.

Mr Fenton:

– He said “instantly.”

Mr GREENE:
RICHMOND, NEW SOUTH WALES · LP; NAT from 1917

– At once; that is, when we have definitely ascertained what the position is. If there is adequate proof, then, that these duties are insufficient, the Government have given to the Committee that definite pledge of what they will do. I appeal to the honorable member for Newcastle(Mr.Watkins) and those who have fought with him to obtain this increase to recognise, in view of all these circumstances, that they have secured from the Government such pledges for the future of this industry as can leave no reasonable doubt in their minds that the Government are just as anxious as they are to see the industry definitely established on proper lines and maintained in this country for all time. Seeing that we have given that pledge, I appeal to the Committee to come to a vote now and let us proceed with the business.

– I shall get the price for the particular measurement mentioned by the honorable member, and will undertake to say that it is nothing like £70 per ton. According to the price list supplied to me, squares are £19 16s. 8d., and rods £18 17s. 6d. I have no reason to doubt the accuracy of the figures.

Mr GREGORY:
Dampier

.- The figures quoted by the Minister (Mr. Greene) only go to show the effect of the combination in Melbourne. The information which I gave to the honorable member for Franklin (Mr. McWilliams) was supplied to me by a reputable trader in the country only a few moments ago. He gave me the most definite information in regard to the operations of the Combine in Melbourne. If honorable members are not satisfied that there is a Combine, and if the Minister thinks it is a beneficent Combine, let me read, for the information of the Committee, a copy of the gentlemanly agreement entered into between the Broken Hill Proprietary Company and the Steel Associations for Victoria,. New

South Wales, and South Australia. It has been, in force for some time -

Arrangement to cover merchant bars, rounds, flats, and squares to include plough steel, octagon, spring steel, and small angles, 3-in. and under.
Any arrangement is based on the understanding that the Steel Associations buy all their steel supplies from B.H.P. Go. and other Australian steel manufacturers, provided they can roll.
It is agreed -
1. B.H.P. Co. to nominate wholesale selling price, which shall include . 15 per cent. to merchants, plus £1 per ton rackage, &c.
2. That B.H.P. Co. nominate the selling prices ex warehouses, but before any alteration in prices is made a consultation is to be held to obtain the views of the Steel Associations.
3. That each member of the Steel Associations and others give orders of a minimum quantity per month and complete specification tobe given with order. Order to be inhands of B.H.P. Co. before 10th of each month for delivery as soon as possible.
4. For genuine users the minimum order is to be 50 tons in one order and delivery taken as soon as rolled by the company.
5. That in quoting buyers, the Steel Associations will adopt the following schedule: - 25 tons or over, 20s. per ton less; 50 tons or over, open.
6. B.H.P. Co. to fix a basis price, and selling extras to be arranged with the Steel Associations.

On the fixed selling prices Steel Associations to allow present cash discount.
B.H.P. Co. to nominate firms such as Messrs. Ruwolt, Thompsons, McKays, &c.
This arrangement does not include Government orders.
That the B.H.P. Co. give indication on receipt of order of theitemsit is expected will not be rolled in two months from date of receipt of order. If any items of the order remain unrolled at the expiration oftwo months the buyer has the option of cancellation.
That in the event of any material on order not being on board ship or rail two months after placing order a rise or fall clause to operate on the prices ruling at date of shipment or railing.
That a list of members of the associations in Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide will be furnished, and that the associations in each State approach firms outside the associations with a view of such firms joining the arrangement.
Material to be good merchantable quality, and in case of complaint on arrival of material, immediate inspection to be made by representatives of the company.
The B.H.P. ordinary terms of sale are to be observed in carrying out this arrangement, with the exception of inspection of material at the works by the purchaser.

Mr Richard Foster:

– Unfortunately, I have to be.

Mr PARKER MOLONEY:
HUME, NEW SOUTH WALES · ALP

– Yes, when the whip cracks he falls into line. I sometimes find myself lost in wonder concerning the position of honorable members in the Corner. What is their real fiscal attitude? Upon such an issue every one must surely be one thing or another. I cannot understand or appreciate the mental state of an individual who is a whole-hogging .Protectionist on onions, and, at the same time, would throw open the doors of Australia to foreign makers of the implements with which he cultivates his onion patch - giving the workmen of this country, who are his best customers, since they provide the home market, no opportunity to build up Australian industries. To say the least, such a policy is inconsistent.

Dr EARLE PAGE:
COWPER, NEW SOUTH WALES · FSU; CP from 1920

– We are standing by the Minister, the greatest Protectionist of all.

Mr PARKER MOLONEY:
HUME, NEW SOUTH WALES · ALP

– The trouble in gauging the attitude of honorable members in the corner is that sometimes they are found standing by the

Minister, and sometimes against him. I cannot see how they can be Protectionists in one breath, moderate Protectionists in the next, and Free Traders in the next after that. The honorable member for Dampier (Mr. Gregory) has described himself as a moderate Protectionist. The essence of Protection lies in that it protects. If it does not fully protect, it must be called by some other name.

Mr Gregory:

– What would the honorable member call Sir William Lyne and those who, with him, built up the 1908 Tariff? Were they not Protectionists?

Mr PARKER MOLONEY:
HUME, NEW SOUTH WALES · ALP

– Yes ; Sir William Lyne always voted for the highest form of Protection he could get. He was consistent. The attitude of honorable members in the corner, however, takes the form of “ Now you see me, and now you don’t.” They are all for a high Tariff on one thing, and for a low Tariff on the next. How can any one be a moderate Protectionist? A man who is wearing a hat and nothing else may be said to be only moderately clothed. How can one speak of a moderately burglarproof safe, or of a moderately fire-proof building? I recently inspected the great terminal silos in Sydney, and was inspired by what I saw there. I learned that fully 95 per cent. of everything that had gone into that great work was made in Australia by Australian workmen.

Dr EARLE PAGE:
COWPER, NEW SOUTH WALES · FSU; CP from 1920

– Can the honorable member draw my attention to any definite request on the part of the Broken Hill Proprietary Company for increased duty?

Mr PARKER MOLONEY:
HUME, NEW SOUTH WALES · ALP

– Yes, they are extremely anxious about it, as also are the working people. The Minister, who has strong Protectionist tendencies, will surely meet honorable members in some way. If he is not prepared to go the whole distance, perhaps he will be prepared to agree to some increase. He has already assured us that an effort will be made to prevent profiteering and any abuse of the privileges enjoyed under a Protective Tariff by the appointment of a Board; but he should also be prepared to assist an industry which is of such great importance to the Commonwealth.

Mr STEWART:
Wimmera

.- It is not my intention to take up the time of the Committee - -

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

– Why not let us take a vote?

Mr STEWART:

– If no other honorable member wishes to speak I am quite prepared to let the matter go to a division.

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

– I think it is time.

Mr PARKER MOLONEY:
HUME, NEW SOUTH WALES · ALP

– There are others on this side who desire to speak.

Mr STEWART:

– As I believe there is a possibility of a vote being taken at this stage, I shall reserve my remarks until a future occasion.

Question - That the words proposed to be added to sub-item a be so added (Mr. Watkins’ amendment) - put. The Committee divided.

AYES: 15

NOES: 31

Majority . . . . 16

AYES

– The duty would be aimed at a country like Germany. The right honorable gentleman has had a good deal to say about Germany, and recently the Government said that they would not trade with Germany again. Now they are being forced to do so, and the trading is done in an underhand way.

Every one knows that iron and steel are being imported from Germany into Great Britain, and exported to this country to the detriment of our own people. In spite of this I am twitted in the way I have been by the Acting Prime Minister (Sir Joseph Cook). I am not disposed to permit the Germans to send goods into this country to the detriment of our own productions.

Question - That the words proposed to be added to sub-item a be so added - put. The Committee divided.

AYES: 14

NOES: 26

Majority . . . . 12

AYES

NOES

Question so resolved in the negative.

Amendment negatived.

Mr FENTON:
Maribyrnong

– Apparently the Committee is now prepared to pass all the sub-items of item 136 with a rush, but before that is done I should like to have a statement from the Minister for Trade and Customs (Mr. Greene) to the effect that if he finds, in connexion with industries affected by the sub-items with whichwe have not yet dealt, that the duties proposed are not effective to prevent importations, we may rely upon the pledge which he gave in connexion with sub-item a, that should dumping be attempted, steps will be immediately taken for the protection of the industries affected.

Mr GREENE:
RICHMOND, NEW SOUTH WALES · LP; NAT from 1917

– Certainly.

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

– The honorable member has had that assurance several times.

Mr GREGORY:
Dampier

.- I do not know whether the Minister (Mr. Greene) is now prepared to report progress.

Mr Charlton:

– He will if the honorable member asks him to do so.

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

– No; he will not.

Mr GREGORY:

– I intend to submit an amendment in paragraph 1 of subitem d. I think that the period provided for in that paragraph should be extended from 1922 to 1923 or 1924. I do not think that it is at all possible that before 1st January, 1922, we shall be able to make plate and sheet iron up to and including 1-16 of an inch in thickness. These are very light sheets. I have mentioned that in Canada, under the 1919 Tariff, all these small plates are allowed to come in free. I do not want that, but I think that the period within which they should become dutiable as proposed in this Tariff should be extended. If we extend the period to 1st January, 1923, and I should be prepared to consent to that, there will be ample time between now and then to consider the effect of this Tariff. We shall not have an opportunity to do so between this and the 1st January, 1922. The Minister must realize that he is proposing duties of from 65s. per ton up to 100s. per ton on sheet iron required for secondary industries; for instance, in the manufacture of all sorts of tubs and tanks. In several instances the Minister has had to extend the period for the operation of duties, because, in his opinion, the industries they affected would not be able to take advantage of them on the dates first fixed. We should make certain before imposing such enormous duties as are here proposed, that the smaller manufacturers will not be prejudiced, and I therefore move -

That sub-itemd, paragraph 1, be amended by omitting the figures “1922,” and inserting in lieu thereof the figures “ 1923.”

Mr GREENE:
Minister for Trade and Customs · RICHMOND, NEW SOUTH WALES · LP; NAT from 1917

.- I hope that the honorable member will not press the amendment. This is one of the first of the deferred duties. I expect that by the 1st January, 1922, practically all the black sheet of this class required in Australia will be rolled in this country. The duty proposed is not excessive. All the duties on iron are on a proportional basis. We have tried to work them out with due regard to the actual prices charged in pre-war days.

Amendment negatived.

Amendment (by Mr. Greene) agreed to -

That sub-item d, paragraph 2, be amended by omitting the figures “ 1921,” and inserting in lieu thereof the figures “ 1922.”

Mr GREENE:
Minister for Trade and Customs · RICHMOND, NEW SOUTH WALES · LP; NAT from 1917

– I move -

That sub-item e be amended by adding the following words : - “ And on and after9th June. 1921-

Wire of No. 14 or finer gauge, ad val., British, 25 per cent.; intermediate, 30 per cent. ; general, 35 per cent.

Wire, other, per ton, British, 52s.; intermediate, 72s.6d.; general, 90s.

– When wecome to that matter I hope the Minister will agree to a rebate. I think we can put up a big ease for thenew settler, the orchardist, and many others on whom the present price of netting is a very severe tax.

Amendment agreed to.

Amendment (by Mr.Greene) agreed to-

That sub-item v be amended by omitting the figures “ 1921,” and inserting in lieu thereof the figures “ 1922.”

Progress reported.

page 8927

MARANOA ELECTION

Mr. DEPUTY SPEAKER (Hon. J.

page 8927

ADJOURNMENT

Income Tax Prosecutions at Darwin.

Motion (by Sir Josephcook) proposed -

That the House do now adjourn.

Mr RYAN:
West Sydney

.- I desire to ask the Acting Prime Minister (Sir JosephCook) a question with regard to the position that has arisen at Darwin. I have a communication from there to the effect that three residents have been sentenced to twenty-eight days’ imprisonment for refusal to pay taxes, and alsothat a large number of other prosecutions are likely to follow, I gauge from the tenor of the telegram that feeling is running very high in connexion with the matter, and I should like to knowwhether the Acting Prime Minister can give us any information on the subject, or whether he will have inquiries made in regard to it before it is further discussed ?

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

.- Allthat I know is that as the honorable member for West Sydney (Mr. Ryan) has indicated, there are at Darwin individuals who are openly flouting and defying the law. That the Government will not permit either at Darwin or anywhere else. The law must be carried out. There is nothing more to be said. If these men will not pay their just dues they will have to be made to pay them.

Question resolved in the affirmative.

House . adjourned at 10.55 p.m.

Cite as: Australia, House of Representatives, Debates, 8 June 1921, viewed 22 October 2017, <http://historichansard.net/hofreps/1921/19210608_reps_8_95/>.

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House of Representatives 8 June 1921

QUESTION

COMMONWEALTH NOTE ISSUE

Mr BAMFORD:HERBERT, QUEENSLAND

Sir JOSEPH COOK:Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

QUESTION

NEW COMMONWEALTH PEACE LOAN

Mr HIGGS:CAPRICORNIA, QUEENSLAND

Sir JOSEPH COOK:Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Mr Fenton:

Sir JOSEPH COOK:Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Mr Fenton:

Sir JOSEPH COOK:Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Mr West:

Sir JOSEPH COOK:Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

COMMONWEALTH TREASURY BILLS

Mr RICHARD FOSTER:WAKEFIELD, SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Sir JOSEPH COOK:Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

QUESTION

PUBLIC SERVANTS’ WAGES

Mr MATHEWS:MELBOURNE PORTS, VICTORIA

Sir JOSEPH COOK:Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

QUESTION

WAR PENSIONS

Mr CHARLTON:HUNTER, NEW SOUTH WALES

Mr RODGERS:WANNON, VICTORIA · LP; NAT from 1917

Mr CHARLTON:

Mr RODGERS:WANNON, VICTORIA · LP; NAT from 1917

QUESTION

IMPERIAL CONFERENCE

Mr WEST:

Sir JOSEPH COOK:Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Mr Mathews:

Sir JOSEPH COOK:Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

QUESTION

CONVEYANCE OF COUNTRY MAILS

Mr ROBERT COOK:INDI, VICTORIA · VFU; CP from 1920

Mr WISE:Postmaster-General · GIPPSLAND, VICTORIA · NAT

QUESTION

COMMONWEALTH REPRESENTATION IN LONDON

Mr FENTON:

Sir JOSEPH COOK:Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Mr West:

Mr FENTON:

Sir JOSEPH COOK:Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Mr Fenton:

Sir JOSEPH COOK:Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Mr Fenton:

Sir JOSEPH COOK:Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

QUESTION

FEDERAL CAPITAL- HOSTEL AND CONVENTION HALL- LAND SETTLEMENT

Mr BLAKELEY:DARLING, NEW SOUTH WALES

Mr GROOM:Minister for Works and Railways · DARLING DOWNS, QUEENSLAND · NAT

Mr BOWDEN:NEPEAN, NEW SOUTH WALES

Mr GROOM:

QUESTION

EXPEDITION TO NEW GUINEA

Mr WEST:

Sir JOSEPH COOK:Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

QUESTION

SOLDIER SETTLEMENT IN NEW SOUTH WALES

Mr HECTOR LAMOND:ILLAWARRA, NEW SOUTH WALES

Mr RODGERS:WANNON, VICTORIA · LP; NAT from 1917

QUESTION

NATURALIZATION OF GERMANS

Mr GABB:ANGAS, SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Mr WISE:for Mr. Poynton · NAT

QUESTION

SHERWOOD GOVERNMENT RESERVE

Mr BAYLEY:OXLEY, QUEENSLAND

Sir GRANVILLE RYRIE:Assistant Minister for Defence · NORTH SYDNEY, NEW SOUTH WALES · NAT

QUESTION

BUTTER MARKET IN AMERICA AND THE EAST

Mr WATKINS:for Mr. Ryan

Mr GREENE:RICHMOND, NEW SOUTH WALES · LP; NAT from 1917

CASE OF MR. DEHLE

Sir GRANVILLE RYRIE:NAT

TARIFF

In Committee of Ways and Means:

Mr BLUNDELL:Adelaide

House of Representatives
8 June 1921

Mr BAMFORD:
HERBERT, QUEENSLAND

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Mr HIGGS:
CAPRICORNIA, QUEENSLAND

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Mr RICHARD FOSTER:
WAKEFIELD, SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Mr MATHEWS:
MELBOURNE PORTS, VICTORIA

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Mr CHARLTON:
HUNTER, NEW SOUTH WALES

Mr RODGERS:
WANNON, VICTORIA · LP; NAT from 1917

Mr RODGERS:
WANNON, VICTORIA · LP; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Mr ROBERT COOK:
INDI, VICTORIA · VFU; CP from 1920

Mr WISE:
Postmaster-General · GIPPSLAND, VICTORIA · NAT

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Mr BLAKELEY:
DARLING, NEW SOUTH WALES

Mr GROOM:
Minister for Works and Railways · DARLING DOWNS, QUEENSLAND · NAT

Mr BOWDEN:
NEPEAN, NEW SOUTH WALES

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Mr HECTOR LAMOND:
ILLAWARRA, NEW SOUTH WALES

Mr RODGERS:
WANNON, VICTORIA · LP; NAT from 1917

Mr GABB:
ANGAS, SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Mr WISE:
for Mr. Poynton · NAT

Mr BAYLEY:
OXLEY, QUEENSLAND

Sir GRANVILLE RYRIE:
Assistant Minister for Defence · NORTH SYDNEY, NEW SOUTH WALES · NAT

Mr WATKINS:
for Mr. Ryan

Mr GREENE:
RICHMOND, NEW SOUTH WALES · LP; NAT from 1917

Sir GRANVILLE RYRIE:
NAT

Mr BLUNDELL:
Adelaide

Mr GREGORY:
DAMPIER, WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Dr MALONEY:
MELBOURNE, VICTORIA · ALP; FLP from 1931; ALP from 1936

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Sir JOSEPH COOK:
Treasurer · PARRAMATTA, NEW SOUTH WALES · FT; ANTI-SOC from 1906; LP from 1910; NAT from 1917

Mr RICHARD FOSTER:
Wakefield