FOR PRESS P. M. L No 9/ 1970
BARRIER REEF
Sttmn yte rm iitr Mr John Gorton
I have been asked about a communication received from the Queensland
Government In June 1968 regarding the Barrier Reef.
In June 1968 we received a letter from the Queensland Government
informing us that they intended to set up a committee, to advise the Queensland
Government on the general question of the control and exploitation of all the
resources of the Great Barrier Reef which were described as " fishing, tourism,
scientific research, and probably mining". The Queensland Government proposed
to set up a committee of eleven members and suggested the Commonwealth might
nominate one member.
This general suggestion was entirely different from the present proposal
which is that drilling for oil on or near the Barrier Reef be halted until a joint enquiry
into possible dangers of drilling has been held, and has reported publicly to both
Governments. I have endorsed this latter proposal and indicated that if the Queensland
Government will agree to it the Commonwealth would be prepared to take part in such
an enquiry while drilling is suspended.
This is the question which now awaits the decision of the Queensland
Government. CANBERRA 16 January 1970
Gorton, John
Period of Service: 10/01/1968 - 10/03/1971
Find more information on Gorton, John on the:
Release Date:
16/01/1970
Release Type:
Media Release
Transcript ID:
2163
Document:
00002163.pdf
1 Page(s)
Released by:
- Gorton, John Grey
BARRIER REEF - STATEMENT BY THE PRIME MINISTER, MR JOHN GORTON
2163