CHANGES MADE IN TOUR

Press, Volume XC, Issue 27307, 25 March 1954, Page 11

CHANGES MADE IN TOUR

“MUCH UNNECESSARY FUSS” PERTH, March 24. The Western Australian Cabinet has expressed regret that “so much unnecessary fuss and panic had been stirred up in Adelaide” over the Royal visit to Western Australia and the poliomyelitis epidemic. The Premier (Mr A. Hawke), announcing this last night, added: “The health of the State would compare favourably with that of any other State or country.” Mr Hawke said that the Cabinet expressed regret that the Western Australian epidemic had been so badly “played up” by the newspapers in the eastern States. Probably the same papers had “played down” the poliomyelitis in their own States, he added. The Premier said the Cabinet also agreed that the announcement by the Prime Minister (Mr Menzies) of the changes in the Western Australian Royal tour was “unnecessary and highhanded interference in a matter which was nearing settlement.” The Cabinet expressed deep resentment that Mr Menzies had made no attempt to discuss the changes with Mr Hawke before announcing them. However, it agreed to co-operate fully with the public in carrying out the altered programme, and in giving the Royal couple a loyal, enthusiastic reception. This decision had been conveyed to the Queen through the Western Australian Governor (Sir Charles Gairdqer).