More MP's Wander Around

New Guinea

ANOTHER party of Federal Parl iamentarians has been to Papua-N Guinea. This was the second tour arranged by Territories Minister Hasluck, who wishes Mem bers to familiarise themselves with P-NG conditions.

This tour included visits to East Papua, Bulolo and Manus. Assistant Government Secretary, Mr. Claude Champion, was in charge. Press men tried to induce him to comment.

He replied that he was going on leave very soon. The implication was that he had earned a break.

Back in Australia, reporters sought interviews with the travellers. Some would not comment. Those who did made the obvious and platitudinous remarks that one usually hears in SUCh circumstances. (Cent. Next Page)

Senator Benn was responsible for the profound conclusion that ever if Australia spent millions of pounds on the Manus base, one atom bomb could wipe it out in one minute.

The Australian taxpayers pay foi these Parliamentary jaunts.

The Minister’s idea is quite sound in theory. The trouble is that, ever if the Members formed some worth while opinions in relation to the Territories, they would have nc effect. All Territories decisions are made in Cabinet and Party rooms and the individual opinions of non- Ministers rarely carry any weight