TO BE DISSOLVED

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume 78, 25 June 1943, Page 2

TO BE DISSOLVED

FEDERAL PARLIAMENT MR CURTIN’S ANNOUNCEMENT ELECTIONS PROBABLY IN AUGUST (Rec. 1.20 p.m.) Canberra, This Day. The dramatic announcement Uuit he intended to ask for the almost immediate dissolution of Parliament has been made by the Australian Prime Minister, Mr Curtin. The Federal elections will be held at an early date. They are generally anticipated some time in August. Mr Curtin’s announcement followed a bitter sitting culminating in the decision by a full Cabinet to relieve the Minister of Labour, Mr Ward, of his portfolio pending investigation by a Royal Commission into Mr Ward’s allegation (subsequently withdrawn) that a vital War Cabinet document was missing. Parliament will be dissolved some time next week. “This Parliament has exhausted its forces for constructive legislation,” said Mr Curtin. “I think it must be palpable to everyone that the capacity of this Parliament to administer this country is an issue which must be submitted to a higher tribunal.” Certain machinery measures necessary for the conduct of the war will be.., passed before the dissolution of Par-£ liament. Mr Curtin’s announcement took Uwl. Opposition completely by surprise. ? In responding, the Leader of the Opposition, Mr Fadden, expressed agree ment with the Prime Minister’s statement. He said: “Parliament has given evidence of its inability to work in accordance with the present stances. The constitution of Parliament is such that the whole political position is grave.” The Government has been beaten in the Senate on its proposal to extend the vote to all members and former members of the Australian Forces under 21. By a majority of two votes the Senate Opposition carried an amendment restricting the vote to members or discharged members of the forces who have served overseas. The Curtin Government is expected to accept the amendment and pass the Franchise Bill before Parliament dissolves. —P.A.