PM Transcripts

PRIME MINISTER
FOR PRESS 11 SEPTEMBER, 1978
The Prime Minister sent the following message today
to the Premier of N. S. W.:
" My Dear Premier:
Thank you for your Telex of 1 September 1978 proposing the
establishment of a National Inquiry into the consequences
of new technology upon industries and employment.
I am informed that on the same day, Mr. Hills also wrote
to the Minister for Employment and Industrial Relations
proposing that the industrial relations aspects of
automation and technological change should be considered
by the Labour Ministers at their meeting last Friday.
My Government recognises that there can be significant
economic and social consequences from the introduction of
new technology. Equally, there can be important consequences
if it is not introduced. Our concern to ensure these
matters were given appropriate recognition and consideration*. in
the formulation and implementation of Commonwealth Government
policy is evidenced by the creation of a Department of
Productivity in November, 1976.
As you know, the Government has also established an
inter-departnental committee to consider and report back to it,
as a matter of urgency, on the impact and implications of
new technology in industry. Mr. Street would have been
referring to this at the Ministers of Labour Meeting but,
in the light of Mr. Hills request, the matter was formally
included on the agenda.
My Government would wish to await the report of the
Committee as set up before making any decision concerning
any broad based national inquiry into the consequences
of new technology upon industries and employment. However,
I need hardly add that it will take particular note of
views which may be expressed by the States."
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