PM Transcripts

EMIBARGO~: 3.00 p. m.
PRIME MINISTER
FOR PRESS17 DECEMBER 1977
NEW SOUTH WALES BUSH FIRES
The Prime Minister, Mr Fraser, has asked the Premier of New
South Wales to convey his deepest sympathy to those affected
by the fires.
Mr Fraser also extended his best wishes to the fire fighters
still inthe field and expressed the hope that the situation would
soon be under control.
The Commonwealth will immediately join with New South Wales'
on a dollar for dollar basis in meeting expenditure for the relief
of personal hardship and distress, Mr Fraser said.
Needless-to say the Prime Minister added, the Comm onwealth stands
ready to assist with men and equipment. Further proposals for
relief measures put forward by the State will receive prompt attention.
My -dear Premier,
I am deeply distressed to learn of the loss of life and severe
damage to property caused by the bush fires in your State.
Please convey to those affected my sincere sympathy. To those still
engaged in fighting the fires, I would like to extend my best wishes.
I trust the situation will soon be under control.
The Commonwealth will, of course, share with the State on a dollar for
dollar basis all necessary expenditure for the immediate relief: of
personal hardship and distress.
Needless to say, the Commonwealth also stands ready to assist with men
and equipment. Proposals for further relief measures will receive
prompt attention.
-Ihe Hon. Neville Wran, QC, MEA,
Premier of New South Wales Yours sincerely,
J. M. FRASER