A referendum on the export of merino rams and merino semen was held between 22 October and 22 November. This was in line with Labor's promise to hold a ballot of woolgrowers before allowing any rams to be exported from Australia. A majority of those who voted were in favour of a total prohibition on exports of merino rams and merino semen. The Government has accepted that decision.

Wool Selling Long-term Arrangements

In Osaka on 28 October the Minister for Primary Industry (Senator Wriedt) obtained agreement from Japanese wool spinners and importers that they would investigate the feasibility of long-term arrangements for the supply of Australian wool to Japan. It was the first time the Japanese have indicated that they are prepared to consider wool-buying arrangements outside normal methods.