Wednesday, 22nd May, 1901
"We Are Never Afraid of the Whip"
- Duration:16 mins 43 secs
- Updated: Sat, 05 Apr 2025 20:16:41 AEDT
- Version: 30
Episode Summary
House of Representatives
In Parliament, Alexander Poynton inquired about distributing items, met with resistance from Prime Minister Barton due to pending business. Joseph Cook critiqued the Governor General's speech and protectionist policies, sparking debate on various issues including postal services, a transcontinental railway, and tariff impacts. Discussions covered labor conditions, economic policy, and the white Australia policy, revealing divisions on trade, immigration, and representation, ultimately leading to an adjournment motion.
Senate
The Australian Senate debated the Address in Reply to the Governor General's speech. Key issues included the gradual abolition of Kanaka labor and immigration restrictions, balancing economic interests with a "White Australia" policy. Senators discussed federal powers, state rights, infrastructure development, and the Senate's legislative role. The debate underscored the challenges of unifying diverse state interests under the new Commonwealth.