PM Transcripts

1_,) AU8TR A L A(
PRIME MINISTER PRESS STATEMENT NO. 203
12 March 1974
PRIMARY INDUSTRY REFEREN~ CES SENT TO THE INDUSTRIES ASSISTANCE
COMMDISSION
The Prime Minister announced toda-Y' that three references
dealing with: the apple and pear stabilisation plan
the dried vine fruits stabilisation plan
bovine brucellosis and tuberculosis slaughter
compensation
have been sent to the Industries Assistance Commission on 11 March
1974 for inquiry and report.
Because of legislation requirements there is a need
for these references to be enquired into and reported upon by
the Commission as soon as possible.
The apple and pear stabilisation plan expires with
the 1975 scason. It is anticipated that this will be a relatively
complex enquiry and a report will be needed before 31 August 1975
to allow for any necessary negotiations with industry and legislation
to apply to the 1976 harvest. Similarly considerations apply to
the dried vine fruits stabilisation plan which also expires with
the 1975 season and will require a report before 31 August 1975.
In the case of the bovine tuberculosis scheme there is an agreement
with the States that it is to-be reviewed before 30 June 1976.
The brucellosis slaughter compensation scheme has been recommended
by the Australian Agricultural Council and in order that the
Government can consider the proposal further a report will be needed
from the Commission in time for the Government to consider and,
if necessary, introduce legislation effective from 1 January 1976.
CANBERRA. A. C. T.