HARD TIMES AHEAD

Waikato Times, Volume 132, Issue 22151, 24 September 1943, Page 5

HARD TIMES AHEAD

FINANCES IN AUSTRALIA GOVERNOR’S SPEECH (United Press As«n.—Eler. Tol. copyright) CANBERRA, Sept. 23 A hint that the people of Australia would have to face further hardships under the 1943-44 Budget to be introduced shortly was given by the Governor-General, Lord Gowrie, at the opening of Parliament today. He said the Budget would be the greatest in Australia’s history. The financial burden which the people would have to meet would be grievous. His Excellency said that, with the improvement in the strategic position, the Government would deal with such problems as rural manpower. The time was now due to reconsider those classes of production which had been unduly depressed because of the earlier paramount urgency of other demands. It was essential that Australia should determine the precise limits and nature of her military and civil contributions. Confidence in Victory The Government was confident of victory and was preparing plans for the development cf the resources of Australia in peace. Provision would be made for certain social services, without which any scheme of reconstruction would be in vain. The Government would continue to make adequate provision for the restoration to their rightful- place in civil life of men of the fighting forces, and the re-establishment in post-war industry of those who had been diverted to war production. The sacrifices made by all men and women who had served in various spheres of war activity would receive the full recompense of the nation.

The Prime Minister, Mr J. Curtin, who is suffering from influenza, was unable to attend the opening of Parliament. Views of Mr Menzies

“Whatever our position may be in the numerical sense, we propose to fight for the things in which we believe,” said the new Federal Opposition leader. Mr R. G. Menzies, today. “We must be a thinking Opposition and a fighting Opposition. I have in mind far-reaching ideas in relation to reorganisation, but the first function of the Opposition is to re-think the whole of its political ideas. There is plenty of room outside Socialist philosophy for a vigorous liberal programme which will give proper protection and security to the wageearner, side by side with proper incentive to enterprise.

“I was much encouraged by the spirit exhibited at the party meetings. Old criticisms and differences have been put away, and I am confident that my team will play well.” Mr J. S. Rosevear was today elected Speaker of the House of Representatives. The Government’s nominee, Mr G. Brown, was elected President cf the Senate-