Mr THOMAS BROWN (Calare) . - As one who has taken some interest in the clerical branch of the service, I should like an opportunity of expressing my views, although the lateness of the session prevents the subject receiving the attention that it deserves. The Bill removes some* glaring inequalities in the clerical branch, but unfortunately it does not cover the whole Service. After all, it is only a piecemeal amendment of the Act, which requires much wider and more drastic treatment. There are one or two things not provided for, which I should like the Government to consider, with a view to the introduction of amendments in Committee. There are in New South Wales at least forty officers who were taken over from the State service, and although classified in the General Division, were doing clerical work. They have been doing clerical work ever since, and some of them are experts.

Mr Fisher - We have other urgent business to consider: This Bill was brought down only on condition that it should go through, and in the circumstances the honorable member had better ask for leave to continue his speech.

Mr THOMAS BROWN - If the Prime Minister thinks I am blocking the Bill I will allow it to go into Committee, because as far as it goes I want to see it passed.