PM Transcripts

FOR PRESS P. M. V No 12/ 1970
CONVERSION TO METRIC SYSTEM
Statement by the Prime Minister, Mr John Gorton
Following detailed consideration of the recommendations made by
the Senate Select Committee on the adoption of the Metric System of Weights
and Measures, the Government has decided that Australia should convert to
the Metric System as soon as possible.
The Commonwealth has notified the States of this decision and has
suggested that arrangements be made for a conference with them to discuss
co-operation in those areas where co-operation may be required.
The Government believes that the lasting benefits which will result
from this decision will greatly outweigh the not inconsiderable transitional
difficulties involved.
The Government's aim is to complete the changeover during a
period of ten years although conversion will be completed much sooner than
this in some sectors.
It is proposed to set up a Metric Conversion Board, on which a wide
range of interests will be represented, to plan, guide, and facilitate conversion.
The Board will be responsible to the Government through the Minister for
Education Science and will be expected to make appropriate recommendations
from time to time after full consultation with those concerned.
Although the . Government realises that some compensation may be paid in
such unusual and special cases as are accepted by the Government on the
recommendation of the Metric Conversion Board it is expected that, as in other
countries the costs of effecting the change will, in general, be borne by those
incurring them. By allowing time for natural obsolescence and depreciation
of plant and machinery the cost of conversion will be greatly reduced.
Experience in other countries such as Japan where conversion is complete
has shown that by forethought and good planning these costs can be greatly
reduced. The decision to convert is in line with decisions which have already
been taken in the United Kingdom, South Africa, New Zealand and South East
Asian countries and in announcing it the Government wishes to pay tribute to the
work of the Senate Select Committee under the leadership of the late Senator
Keith Laught.
CANBERRA 19 January 1970