PM Transcripts

FOR PRESS 25 APRIL 1.977
VICTORIAN OIL DISPUTE
The Prime Minister sent the following message this evening
to the Premier of Victoria:
" I have not seen any reply yet to my telex yesterday
about the emergency in Victoria. I understand fully
that in this matter Victoria has complete powers and
that you may well have arrangements in hand that you
would not want to foreshadow to those who appear bent
on bringing the State to a standstill. I do, however,
feel that consultation between us in this matter would
be of benefit to your Government. We stand ready to
join in discussions at any time. But of course if you
feel this is not required, then no doubt you will let
me know.
I havre tonight asked my Department to seek from your
Department precise information as to supplies for emergency
services. My view is that these must be protected at all
costs and that if necessary strong action should be taken
to ensure this. This again is an area in which we may be
able to help or to take action."