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Wednesday, 20 November 1912

Senator PEARCE (Western AustraliaMinister of Defence) . - I can give the assurance which Senator Lynch desires.

Senator Lt Colonel Sir Albert Gould - Suppose that somebody else is the Minister ?

Senator PEARCE - I take it, that this Parliament cannot control future Ministers, hut only present Ministers. The amendment will be a clear direction to future Ministers as well as to present Ministers. Why do we pick out certain ships? Because it is obvious that if the rudder body carries away they are helpless. Why do we not apply the provision to other ships? Because it is known that twin or triple screw steamers have other means of steering. It is the intention of the Government, if the amendment is carried, to apply the provision to that class of ships which, in the event of the rudder body carrying away, would not be able to steer.

Senator Givens - It would not be a very great hardship for any ship to be compelled to put on a chain connexion.

Senator PEARCE - It is not necessary.

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