Clause 50.-Legislative powers of the Parliament. Sir GEORGE TURNER: In sub-section 2 I think the question with regard to existing bounties had to be considered. I would ask my hon. friend Mr. Barton if he has endeavored. to deal with that question? Mr. BARTON: That was under clause 82. It comes later on. Mr. MCMILLAN: I propose to introduce two sub-sections in this clause simply to give the Parliament of the Commonwealth power, with the consent of the States, to take over the railways of the different States. I therefore move to insert the following new sub-section as 32A: The taking over by the Commonwealth with the consent of the State of the whole or any part of the railways of any State or States upon such terms as may be arranged between the Commonwealth and the State. Mr. DEAKIN: On this sub-section I take the opportunity of saying that at an earlier stage to-day, when an hon. member moved the insertion of a clause providing for the establishment of a non-political board, the question was not debated, but was put to the vote at once. Some of us voted against the proposal because we thought it was an endeavor to insert something in the Constitution which ought to be left, to the Federal Parliament. On further consideration I now incline to believe that such a provision ought to have been placed in the Constitution. If there had been a full discussion on the question, and perhaps some amendment, my vote would certainly have been cast on the other side. Sub-section agreed to. Mr. MCMILLAN: I now move to insert the following new sub-section as 32B: Railway construction and extension with the consent of any State or States concerned. Mr. WISE: I would like to mention so that it may be considered before the next Convention meets that there does not appear to be any sufficient power in this clause to take over public works situated within one State, but which in the opinion of the Federal Parliament can be properly utilised to the advantage of the whole Commonwealth. I do not think there is power either expressly or impliedly given to construct within the boundaries of any State such public works with the consent of that State as may be for the common advantage of the whole Commonwealth. I throw out these observations so that this matter may be considered during recess. No doubt when it comes up before the several Parliaments attention will be given to it, and it is possible that some amendments on the Bill may then be moved. Sub-section agreed to; clause as amended agreed to.
Posted on: Tue, 24 Jun 2014 22:48:52 +0000