Wednesday, 5th June, 1901
White Australia, Citizen Soldiers, and Senate Elections.
- Duration:12 mins 42 secs
- Updated: Sun, 06 Apr 2025 19:22:39 AEST
- Version: 9
Episode Summary
House of Representatives
The Australian Parliament debated the Address in Reply, covering immigration ("white Australia"), defense strengthening, and labor. Concerns were raised about Asiatic immigration, South Sea Island labor, and the exploitative Kanaka system. Speakers advocated for uniform franchise, federal quarantine, and Commonwealth control of the Northern Territory. Compulsory arbitration was debated, with New Zealand's strike-free record cited. Government policies, tariffs, and free trade faced scrutiny. The amendment was defeated and the Address presented.
Senate
The Senate session involved debates on election reporting, primary votes in Tasmania, and the Post and Telegraph Bill. Senators discussed amendments regarding election expenses, voting clarity, and bill circulation. A motion to amend the sitting schedule was agreed to. They debated prioritizing government business and adopting temporary standing orders, the latter ultimately failing by a narrow vote. Senators agreed to convene the next day to formulate permanent parliamentary rules.