FAST TRACK, DARK HORSE

Press, 15 December 1979, Page 16

FAST TRACK, DARK HORSE

By

WHIM WHAM

Although three Government backbenchers crossed the floor to vote with the Opposition, the Government won a division on clause 11A (of the National Development Bill) by five votes . . . Under the measure, a “fast track” planning procedure is laid out for designated projects of major importance . . . —News. The long and loud Debate is done, The Government (of course) has won — Some sort of Victory, if not quite To Everyone’s unfeigned Delight — Well, it’s what Parliament decided, Even if Parliament’s divided — A few more Powers, to spare the Nation Much time-consuming Consultation. Efficiency and Speed are what Big Projects call for, are they not? Great Corporations will not wait While Parliamentarians debate — And while we ring Division Bells They take the Oil-rigs somewhere else! Sir, do you think I’m simplifying A complex Problem? — well, I’m trying. A Fast Track, maybe a Dark Horse? The Government knows Best, of course. So be content with What you get From Caucus and the Cabinet — Don’t argue! These are Dotted Lines On which a Governor-General signs. Fast Track! Efficiency and Speed! It all depends on where These lead — One hopes, not following that Dictator, His own and Italy’s Legislator, Claiming — among his more sublime Achievements — Trains that ran on Time!