PRIME MINISTER
FOR MEDIA THURDAY, MAY 28 1981
RETIREMENT OF MR. R. HAMER
I would like to pay a tribute to a-great Australian and
a great Victorian who is stepping down after 19 years / of
service in the Victorian Government, including almost a
decade as Premier.
Dick Hamer has served Victoria well. He has been a great
Premier and a strong voice on behalf of his State a much
stronger voice than many know, and a man who has given good
government to Victoria. The people of Vit1oria endorsed his
leadership and his government in. three successive elections..
As Prime Minister, I have valued my relationship with Dick Hamer.
I am grateful for his co-operation and support.
There is now a great obligation on the part of the Members of
the Victorian Parliamentary Liberal Party as they meet to choose
a new leader, to re-establish their purpose, their unity, anrid to
carry Victoria forward in accordance with the great Liberal
tradition of that State.
2
Division must be put aside and the new leader, with his
colleagues, will have our total support as he takes up the reins
of Government. I have no doubt that if the new leader is given the
full support of his party the Liberal Party will win the next
State election -* and win it comfortably. The Federal Governmlent
stands ready to co-operate with " the new Ministry in Victoria.
I pledge the total support of myself, Sir Phillip Lynch and
the Federal'Liberal Party for the new Victorian Ministry.
We must remember that, while the Liberal Party is important, it
is the people of Victoria who are affected by the decisions that
are made.
I make this statement now to pay tribute to Dick Hamer,
whom I have -known for many years.. J.. thank-him for his-1
services to Victoria, and to Australia. I do so before
the Party Meeting which will elect his successor so fhat
Victorians'-will: know that this support is not just for a
person but for the ideal of the Liberal Party and for the way
of life for which Dick Hamer strove so hard.