PART TWO - EXAMINATION OF THE ISSUES
CHAPTER 7 - NO WITCH HUNT
Background
After almost four decades of Australian Labor Party (ALP) Governments, the Coalition, formed by the Country Party and Liberal Party won power on August 3. 1957. The ALP had been split by factional fighting into the breakaway Queensland Labor Party (QLP), led by former Premier Vince Gair, which won 11 seats, and the ALP led by Leslie Wood, with 20 seats. In April and May of that year the Queensland Central Executive of the ALP had tried to freeze the special Premier's Fund which had been run by Gair. Lack (478) says the fund was described as a slush fund. A story about Vince Gair and a brown paper bag containing thousands of pounds appeared in the Telegraph of May 3, 1957. Fitzgerald reported (31): “At this time ordinary police officers believed that graft was paid to senior police and politicians for the protection of prostitution, SP bookmaking and illegal liquor...”
On October 31, 1957, Hansard (747: 1957) records newly appointed police minister Tom Morris telling Parliament: "Ministers of the Crown have quite willingly agreed with me that the police force is one that must not under any consideration be influenced politically. Far be it from me to go into the years gone by; hon Members opposite know better than I. I do not intend to go witch-hunting over the period prior to August 3."
Total coverage
31-10-57 Tele p4 news story 10 pars - Minister cuts his address
The Labour and Industry Minister (Mr. Morris), in Parliament today cut short a speech because he claimed Opposition members apparently were not interested.
Key point
If there had not been elements of corruption in the Labor regime it is highly unlikely that the remark would have been made. A new, honest, coalition government should have been expected to expose any corruption that existed. Morris's comment carried the innuendo that if the Opposition ever attacked the government on a corruption issue, the Government had enough ammunition with which to retaliate.
Key point coverage
None of the newspapers saw any significance in Morris's remarks. None of the criteria was met.
Hindsight
Six years later Alexander Dewar, Minister in charge of police, said in Parliament on October 29, 1963, that it was well known that commissioned officers and other ranks were expected to solicit funds for the Labor Party when it had been in power. He said political interference had started well before Gair and the police licensing squad had been ordered to keep out of ministers' electorates. Fitzgerald (1989: 30) said: "During Labor's rule, the "Green Mafia" seems to have prospered and to have enjoyed success at the expense of the other main group at the time, the Masons." The "Green Mafia" comprised Catholics and others of Irish descent who were involved in corruption. It follows that if what Dewar and Fitzgerald said is correct, it should have been obvious to the media what Minister Morris was alluding to in his speech. It should have been possible for reporters to have learned what was happening, to have reported on it and campaigned for action to be taken.
CHAPTER 8 - THE DEMISE OF HAROLD AND APPOINTMENT OF BISCHOF
Background
For months the Police Union had been pressing for an inquiry into the administration of the Queensland Police Force. Some time before Sunday December 22, 1957, The Sunday Mail was given information that a senior police officer was expected to retire in a major shake-up in the force. A shake-up was needed because, it was alleged, there was a State-wide "protection racket" for illegal starting price (SP) operators who were openly displaying betting boards in some country towns. Police Commissioner Harold, aged 59, was retired immediately after being examined by a medical board on December 23. He had been Commissioner for only eight months, having been appointed by the Labor Government. The Coalition Government advertised for a new Commissioner throughout eastern Australia. About the middle of January two police NCOs went to the Government with serious allegations, including names, dates and places, against a senior Queensland officer. Queensland CIB head Bischof was appointed Commissioner on January 30. On March 6 the Government's handling of the police force was debated in Parliament. Throughout this period the two Labor parties were busy fighting one another and trying to settle old scores from the acrimonious split in the ALP in 1957 rather than opposing the Government. Despite being given weekly columns in the Telegraph, neither of the Labor parties had seen fit to raise the issue of the alleged corruption in the force, the speedy removal of the Commissioner or the accusations against a senior officer by two NCOs. If the Opposition was not doing its job in attacking what was happening it was up to the media to do its own digging if it was to be society's watchdog.
This issue attracted coverage from December 22, 1957, until March 7, 1958. There were 54 news stories, eight editorials, two cartoons, four letters and a news backgrounder.
Total coverage
22-12-57 SM p1 news story splash 23 pars - ●Claims on illegal gambling/●S.P. 'protection rackets'/ BIG SHAKE-UP EXPECTED IN POLICE FORCE/ EFFICIENCY UNDER FIRE
At least one senior police officer is expected to retire in a major shake-up of the force. Radical changes are needed to correct weaknesses in the force. "In Brisbane last week, the Sunday Mail was told that there is a State-wide 'protection racket' for S.P. operators. The Sunday Mail was told:- *Betting boards are now openly displayed in some country towns...*An S.P. "protection" organisation was getting money from S.P. operators, claiming it could 'tip off' S.P. men before a raid by the police licensing squad." Police Minister Morris said he had heard disturbing rumours that there was a group protecting SP bookies.
22-12-57 Truth p1/40 news story 10 pars - POLICE CHIEF MAY GO BEFORE MEDICAL BOARD
Police Commissioner Harold, who had a heart attack a fortnight ago, will probably appear before a medical board tomorrow. If he is permanently relieved of further strain he will be difficult to replace. He is recognised throughout Australia as one of the most brilliant officers in the country and is one of the "most highly competent" men ever connected with police administration.
23-12-57 Tele p4 news story 14 pars - Police Chief for health test today
The Police Commissioner will be examined by a medical board this afternoon. Harold's examination follows reports at the weekend that the Government planned a re-organisation of the Police Force. Harold had been admitted to hospital for observation on December 3 for a week and had been resting at home since. He was in his office today. He was appointed commissioner in April.
23-12-57 Tele p6 editorial four pars - Worry Over Police Force
"So much smoke has been raised in reports of discontent in the Queensland Police Force that the public cannot help feeling that there may be some fire smouldering." The public looks for an assurance from the Government that every precaution will be taken to ensure the force's efficiency is kept high.
24-12-57 CM p1 news story splash 22 pars - POLICE CHIEF IS RETIRED 'FORTHWITH' BECAUSE OF ILL-HEALTH/New man may be from 'outside'
Police Commissioner Harold, 59, has been retired forthwith after a report from a medical board which he faced yesterday morning. He had been commissioner since April 26. Police Minister Morris described Harold's career as brilliant. Harold spent a week in hospital from December 3 after a check-up had revealed a heart disorder. The board reported it would be a grave risk for Harold to continue in office. Political circles believe the Government may go outside Queensland to appoint a successor. "Mr Morris said that as soon as a new Commissioner was appointed he would discuss with him all aspects of the Police Force to decide whether any re-organisation was needed." Morris and Premier Nicklin would be on a Cabinet sub-committee. Deputy-Commissioner Donovan would run the force meanwhile. Police Union president Behm said the union had found Harold to be most reasonable and fair. Harold said at his home last night he had not been officially advised of the board's decision.
24-12-57 Tele p1 news story splash 12 pars - TOP POLICE POST Applications from South
Applications for the State's new Police Commissioner will be called in Queensland and other eastern states. Cabinet had accepted the medical board's report that Harold should be retired immediately. "The board reported that for Harold, 59, to continue in his position would be a grave risk to his health." The acting commissioner would be the deputy commissioner, Donovan, 57. Morris would talk with the new commissioner about whether a reorganisation was necessary.
24-12-57 Tele p2 news story 10 pars - A rest welcome, says Police Commissioner
Harold refused to comment on the board's report. The next in line after Donovan was Chief Inspector T. Martin.
26-12-57 CM p2 editorial nine pars - Chief of police
"State Cabinet has wisely decided to carry its search for a new Police Commissioner beyond Queensland's borders." But if a Queenslander is selected, so much the better. "...he will need to investigate publicly expressed dissatisfaction within the Force itself. At the beginning of this year the Queensland Police Union claimed that it had information on 'irregularities,' and discussed the advisability of a Royal Commission as late as last month...It is to be hoped...the public will be informed on what changes are to be made - and why. "The Police must be above all suspicion. Nothing could be more destructive of public confidence than vague statements such as have been made from time to time this year, suggesting the possibility that something is not quite right within the Force. These statements need to be answered clearly..."
26-12-57 CM p5 news story nine pars - January police job deadline
Applications for the job of commissioner close on January 7.
29-12-57 SM p4 news story 21 pars - SWIFT STATE GOVT. ACTION TO SHAKE UP POLICE FORCE/Cabinet speed on new chief
An unattributed quote - presumably from Minister Morris - leads the story: "We want to appoint a new Police Commissioner as quickly as possible...then get on with the job of cleaning up the Police Force." Cabinet wants a shake-up of the force and views the appointment as one of the most important for many years. Commissioner Harold was retired forthwith last week. It was rumoured that a decision on the new commissioner had already been made behind the scenes.
29-12-57 Truth news story 11 pars - ALARMED ON POLICE SET-UP!
The police officers' association has called an urgent protest meeting because the Government has advertised that no police experience is necessary to become the next commissioner. Police complaints are backed by the State's record in the prevention and detection of crime which is by far the best in the country.
31-12-57 CM p5 news story 12 pars - Premier denies 'uneasiness' on top police job
Former State Treasurer E. Walsh claimed last night there was uneasiness in the public mind about Harold's retirement. This was because of conflicting statements from Premier Nicklin and Police Minister Morris. Nicklin had said he knew nothing about the forecast retirement of Harold and that it had not been discussed on a top-level basis. But Morris had decided the retirement was urgent. Walsh forecast that a Southern applicant would be appointed.
31-12-57 Tele p3 news story nine pars - SLUR TO TOP POLICE OFFICERS CLAIMED
Opposition leader Wood said it would be a slur on senior officers if they were bypassed in the selection process. The force had a splendid record, he said. Wood then alleged that the fact that officers were being sought interstate "would suggest that the Police Union had a good case in pressing for a Royal Commission into the Police Force". This is the fifth paragraph of a nine paragraph story. Police union members had voted overwhelmingly for a Royal Commission into a specific incident and wanted the commission to inquire into all police affairs.
1-1-58 Tele p2 letter two pars
The new police commissioner should be appointed from Queensland.
3-1-58 CM p7 news story 20 pars - Commissioner argument puts union 'on the fence'
"The Queensland Police Union is staying outside the controversy over the possibility that an 'outsider' may fill the vacant position of Police Commissioner." Last night the Police Officers' Union and the CIB branch of the Police Union decided to oppose the appointment of an 'outsider'. But Police Union president Behm said yesterday the union executive had not yet declared its policy. "It is understood that the union...finds itself in a cleft stick." For several years it has been demanding a full inquiry into the force's administration with union branches demanding a Royal Commission. It is believed the union's executive feels no logical objection could be made to an overhaul by an impartial outsider. "There is a strong belief in Police Union circles that if the union pressed for appointment of a man from within the service in Queensland, its attitude could be interpreted as approving present administration. Union officials are believed to take the view that appointing a local police officer would not guarantee a change in top administration."
3-1-58 Tele p2 letter three pars - Police post
Decision to seek interstate applications for the post is to be applauded as a necessary first step in restoring public confidence in the integrity of the force.
3-1-58 Tele p3 news story 10 pars - Cabinet will consider police job on Tuesday
Applications for the commissioner's job close on Tuesday.
4-1-58 CM p3 news story 12 pars - POLICE UNION IS SPLIT ON TOP POST
By a majority of one, the Police Union executive decided to press the Government to promote a serving Queensland police officer to commissioner. The executive had before it the decision of the CIB branch which unanimously opposed the appointment of an 'outsider'. Only 18 out of 130 had attended the CIB meeting, the executive was told. A member of the executive claimed that the officers' union had 'got at' several members of the Police Union and persuaded them to support their case.
5-1-58 SM p4 news story six pars - Govt. is prepared to import police chief
The Government will appoint someone from outside the force if necessary. Police associations appear to be wasting their time protesting against the possible importation of a commissioner. State Government members consider that only one or two of its serving policemen approach the high standards set for the post."
5-1-58 Truth p2 editorial 16 pars - PROBLEM OF NEW TOP MAN
Cabinet will consider the appointment of a new commissioner on Tuesday. Queensland is comparatively clear of serious crime because of teamwork and local knowledge by a well-knit body of men trusting each other. Nothing should be done to impair this record. The public has some doubt that the retirement of Harold - "one of the Commonwealth's most successful policemen" - was handled in the people's best interests. "Normally, a sick officer would be given leave to convalesce, and time to disclose if he could, after a spell, return to work." At three days' notice he was put before a medical board. There has been some feeling Mr Morris has been too quick. "...even Mr Morris could not meet that situation (of ideal service) by sacking everybody."
6-1-58 Tele p2 letter two pars
There should be an inquiry into the transfers of those police who have spoken out.
6-1-58 Tele p4 news story six pars - POLICE JOB CLOSING
7-1-58 CM p3 news story eight pars - No police chief yet
A new commissioner will not be named for about two weeks.
8-1-58 CM p1 news story 11 pars - 200 Apply for top police job
Cabinet yesterday appointed a sub-committee of five to help choose a new commissioner. Morris said it would meet tomorrow to select a short list for interviewing and he would travel south to interview any candidates from outside Queensland. The short list would be referred to Cabinet next Tuesday.
8-1-58 CM p2 editorial three pars - New police chief
Cabinet rightly decided to call for applicants in the three eastern states. "...an able and experienced newcomer may bring a fresh viewpoint and energy to the force." It would be more fitting to make southern contenders travel to Queensland for interviews.
8-1-58 CM p2 letter six pars - "Job already allotted"
It would appear the position has already been allotted to an 'outsider'. Going outside the force for a commissioner will hold the State up to ridicule.
8-1-58 Tele p5 news story seven pars - Morris to see top police post seekers
A Cabinet sub-committee appointed to consider applications would meet tomorrow.
10-1-58 CM p1 news story eight pars - Ten on final list for Police Chief
The short list selected by the Cabinet sub-committee for the commissioner's job comprises two from NSW, two from Victoria and six from Queensland. The 10 will be interviewed by the sub-committee before a final choice is made. The Premier hoped a final selection would be made late next week for submission to Cabinet on Tuesday week (21st).
10-1-58 Tele p5 news story six pars - Morris to see job seekers
Sub-committee had selected short list of 10 - six of them from Queensland. Premier Nicklin said he hoped Cabinet would have a final selection on January 21.
12-1-58 Truth p12 news story 10 pars - SHOCK POLICE PICKS
Cabinet has been disappointed with the calibre of inter-state applicants for the commissioner's job. The Cabinet sub-committee has finished its weeding out process. Three State officers - Donovan, Martin and Bischof - and a civilian are very much in the running.
14-1-58 CM p1 news story six pars - See 6 for police job
The Cabinet sub-committee interviewed the six Queensland applicants yesterday. The Premier hoped the sub-committee would have a recommendation for Cabinet next Tuesday (21st) but if not a special Cabinet meeting might be called later in the week.
18-1-58 Tele p1 news story splash 11 pars - WIDE REFORMS IN POLICE FORCE
Morris said "we" had already interviewed the six Queenslanders and now he had interviewed the others. He would report to Cabinet on 21st. There would be big changes in the administration of the force with a wider spread of responsibilities at the "higher level".
19-1-58 SM p1 news story splash 21 pars - Minister flies back after interviews with candidates in the South/'SHAKE UP THE FORCE' TO BE ORDER TO NEW POLICE CHIEF/Cabinet ready to give 'open cheque'
The new police chief would be given an open cheque to remould the force from top to bottom, said Minister Morris. Cabinet was expected to appoint a commissioner on January 21. Morris was talking to a reporter after returning from Melbourne and Sydney where he had interviewed six candidates. Morris blamed an unacceptable workload for Harold's demise and said that the "main basic change" in the force would involve a delegation of personal responsibility and decentralisation of police command.
19-1-58 Truth p1 news story six pars - 11 TO PICK CHIEF COP
Morris said there was no certainty the new commissioner would be a Southerner - responding to the Mail story quoting Morris as saying it was hoped to have the new commissioner here before February 18. Any suggestion that the appointment will definitely be made on Tuesday 21st is off the beam.
19-1-58 Truth p10 news story seven pars - TOP 'COP' JOB DELAY
"From early gossip that the appointment was 'all cut and dried' the situation has now developed that no one can hazard a reliable guess as to what the sub-committee's final recommendation will be."
20-1-58 CM p2 editorial four pars (13 sentences) - Police Chief
"A thorough reorganisation of the State's police service is overdue." Selecting someone from outside the force is a precedent set more than 20 years ago by an earlier government which had to grapple with the task of police reorganisation. That commissioner "fully justified" the choice by vigorously reforming the force to greatly improve its efficiency and discipline. Selection of a younger man will be for the good of the force as long as he can inspire confidence throughout the force by his judgement and fairness.
21-1-58 CM p1 news story seven pars - NEW POLICE CHIEF NEXT WEEK
Announcement of the appointment of a new commissioner was unlikely until a week Thursday (30th), said the Premier. The sub-committee might have to interview 'outsiders' personally before a final submission was made to Cabinet.
23-1-58 CM p1 news story five pars - Two fly for police job
Two southern applicants would fly to Brisbane for interviews by the Cabinet sub-committee tomorrow, said the Premier. Several Queensland officers would also be interviewed.
25-1-58 CM p3 news story eight pars - Q'ld 4 for Police job in Force
Only one Cabinet member had not been present when four Queensland officers and two southern applicants had been interviewed for 30 minutes each yesterday. The Premier said Cabinet was almost certain to make its selection on Tuesday (28th).
26-1-58 SM p1 news story 10 pars - Even he does not know/Secret probe on police officer
Serious allegations have been made against a senior officer at a Government inquiry. The inquiry started two weeks ago. It is believed that the officer involved has not been told. The inquiry was considered so important that the Solicitor-General was recalled from holiday to conduct it. Two police NCOs have given evidence against the officer and have been able to give dates, names and places. Mr Morris has been given details.
26-1-58 Truth p1 news story splash 20 pars - NEW POLICE CHIEF TO BE A LOCAL/VICT. HOPE NOW OUT!
On Friday Cabinet failed to decide on a new police commissioner despite a six-hour debate. It must be taken as certain that there has been wide division of opinion in Cabinet. Six applicants were interviewed, including local officers Donovan, Anthony, Bischof and Risch, and a Sydney officer. "In some quarters, it is even taken as certain that Mr Donovan will be Commissioner, and Mr Bischof Deputy-Commissioner." Sir John McCauley denied he had been interviewed. Donovan and Bischof had been previously interviewed by the Cabinet sub-committee who carried out the early inquiries for Cabinet: Anthony and Risch had not.
26-1-58 Truth p3 news story eight pars - ALL-HUSH PROBE/Top-level check on officer?
"An official probe into police conduct so secret that even the Police Minister, Mr Morris, the Acting-Commissioner of Police, Mr Donovan, and the Secretary of the Police Union, Mr Behm, know nothing of it, has allegedly been carried out in Brisbane over the past fortnight." Allegations had been made against "a high-up administrator in a key position in Brisbane", it was reported. "But, though Mr Morris is mentioned in the report as having had certain allegations placed before him, he told 'Truth' last night:...a damn lie!'" Morris said no police officer had made any such allegation to him or approached him.
28-1-58 CM p1 news story splash 15 pars - QUEENSLANDER TO BE NEW STATE POLICE COMMISSIONER/CABINET CHOICE TODAY
"State Cabinet to-day will select a new Queensland Police Commissioner from within the Queensland Police Force." It is understood Ministers were impressed with the calibre of inspectors within the force. A reshuffle in duties, giving greater autonomy to district police inspectors, is likely to follow the new appointment. However, it is unlikely that there will be any drastic shake-up of police personnel." The final selection may be between acting Commissioner Donovan and CIB Inspector Bischof.
28-1-58 Tele p7 news story four pars - NEW POLICE HEAD/Tour plan big factor
"Experience in local administration necessary for quick, efficient organisation for the visit of the Queen Mother is expected to lead to the appointment of a Queenslander as Commissioner of Police today."
29-1-58 CM p3 news story six pars - Cabinet selects 'chief'
"State Cabinet decided on Queensland's new Police Commissioner yesterday in one of its longest day meetings." The meeting lasted until 7pm. It is understood the choice was narrowed to Deputy Commissioner Donovan and CIB Inspector Bischof.
29-1-58 Tele p1 news story splash 19 pars - POLICE CHIEF/It's not official yet but...Insp. Bischof is now favoured
Donovan and Bischof had not been told but it was believed that Bischof had got the vote.
30-1-58 CM p2 cartoon
Two burly officers frogmarching a small burglar into the watchhouse. Caption: "You blokes got any news yet on the new Commissioner?"
30-1-58 Tele p1 news story splash 19 pars - TOP POLICE JOB TO BISCHOF/Donovan stays deputy; Voigt acting at CIB
Morris said: "We felt it was our responsibility to make every effort to see that the best possible applicant was selected."
31-1-58 CM p1 news story splash 22 pars - NEW POLICE POSTS LIKELY ON SCOTLAND YARD PLAN (Bischof is named the Commissioner)
"Four or more police superintendents are expected to be appointed...as a first move in the reorganisation of Queensland's police force. The creation of these new posts, based on Scotland Yard organisation, will be one of the proposals on which the new Police Commissioner (Mr. F. E. Bischof) will report to State Cabinet." Morris said he hoped that any reorganisation would give greater power to local inspectors.
31-1-58 CM p2 editorial four pars (11 sentences) - State's new police chief
Cabinet is counting much on the youth of Bischof. "He should also know where weak places in the State's police administration could be strengthened...It is very important that the police should have the trust and good will of every law-respecting citizen."
31-1-58 CM p3 news backgrounder 29 pars - New police chief doesn't waste time
(Feature on Bischof's career which started when a former officer named McMahon told him he would make a good policeman.) "Those who know Bischof agree with Dan McMahon who said: 'You'd make a good policeman, Frank.'"
31-1-58 CM p3 news story six pars - 'A great piece of injustice' SAYS GAIR
QLP leader Gair said Bischof's appointment was "one of the greatest pieces of injustice ever meted out to an officer of the Deputy Commissioner's standing...It is regrettable that the Government has not seen fit to appoint the logical contender for the vacancy, Mr Donovan. His record as a police officer could stand the closest scrutiny, and I would like to think the same could be said of every police officer." Gair said he congratulated Bischof.
31-1-58 Tele p3 news story 16 pars - COMMISSIONER WILL VISIT POLICE CENTRES
Bischof plans regular and frequent meetings with the minister. Police union president, Sgt E. C. Winning, said "he, personally," was satisfied with Bischof's appointment. Gair said it was "regrettable that the Government had not seen fit to appoint the logical contender - the present Deputy Commissioner (Mr J. E. Donovan)".
31-1-58 Tele p6 editorial five pars - Task of our police chief
The Government should give Bischof complete authority within his own department to institute necessary reforms. "Queenslanders will feel proud that of the 200 applicants for the position, some of them from other States, the qualifications and potential of the local man were considered superior."
1-2-58 CM p1 news story eight pars - WIRES BY HUNDRED GREET POLICE CHIEF
More than 1000 congratulatory letters and telegrams were received by Bischof. Police switchboards were jammed with callers offering their best wishes.
2-2-58 SM p3 news story 16 pars - Bischof runs force "free of politics"
The new commissioner has been promised he will not suffer political interference. He started work yesterday with the immediate objectives of better spirit and discipline, and better public relations.
2-2-58 SM p3 news story 11 pars - DONOVAN SAYS Co-operate, but "some dismay"
Deputy Commissioner Donovan said in a prepared statement: "...I would be lacking in honesty and candour if I were not to say I am disappointed and somewhat dismayed at the decision." He had 38 years' of meritorious service. "It is apparent that other considerations prevailed in the appointment."
2-2-58 Truth p2 news story eight pars - Bischof to bring P.R. to police!
Premier Nicklin and Minister Morris had a long, secret meeting with Bischof in a Parliament House back room within an hour of Bischof's appointment. "Mr Bischof was briefed on the Government's attitudes and policies, so far as they impinge on police administration, and its desires for re-organisation of the force and its operation."
14-2-58 CM p3 news story 16 pars - New post of Commissioner's Inspector/ Anthony will be No. 3 in Police
2-3-58 Truth p1 news story seven pars - ATTACK POLICE SET-UP
"The State Government's 'backroom boys' are prepared for an outright assault from the Opposition benches in Parliament this week over the Police Commissionership." It was expected that the ALP and QLP would combine to move that Parliament should discuss "the recent appointment of Mr F. E. Bischof, and the circumstances connected therewith". The attack would be based on circumstances arising from a death in custody in Mt Isa.
4-3-58 CM p3 news story 11 pars - A.L.P. plan attack on State Govt.
The ALP is likely to attack the Government on three issues when Parliament resumes today - unemployment, a housing shortage and increased rent. The QLP is expected to attack the Government on recent decisions affecting the Queensland Police Force.
4-3-58 Tele p2 news story seven pars - Move by Gair for no-confidence vote
QLP leader Gair will seek to move a vote of no confidence in the Government based on unemployment and house rental questions. The fifth paragraph said one of the grounds was "disquiet created in the public mind by the Government's administration of the Police Force and, particularly, in relation to the appointment of the Commissioner of Police".
5-3-58 CM p1 news story splash 21 pars - Q.L.P. makes charges/NICKLIN TAKES UP CHALLENGE ON THE POLICE
The State Government has taken up a challenge by the QLP for a debate tomorrow on the administration of the police force. QLP leader Gair moved a motion of no confidence in the Government because of disquiet created in the public mind by the Government's administration of the force, in particular the selection process for the appointment of senior officers and its intervention in the procedures of the Police Appeal Board. The Government could have ignored the motion but Premier Nicklin said the Government had chosen to debate the issue without any time limit being imposed.
5-3-58 Tele p6 cartoon - At the ready
Gair is drawn as a mosquito flying into Nicklin's window armed with a no confidence motion and police force charges while Nicklin kneels on his bed armed with an insect spray labelled "Govt challenge".
6-3-58 CM p3 news story nine pars - House may sit to-night on censure
The no-confidence debate in Parliament is expected to last until tonight and involve an all-out clash between the Government and the QLP. The ALP is not expected to support the criticism of Bischof's appointment. Premier Nicklin said the Government was not afraid of its record and was prepared to answer all points raised.
6-3-58 Tele p1 news story 15 pars - Police Chief refused to be yes-man: Gair
Gair alleged in Parliament Harold had been displaced because he refused to be a "yes man". The Government had wanted someone who would submit more readily to the Minister's wishes. Bischof would have to be a "yes man" if he was to succeed. The Government had used disgraceful means to get rid of Harold. The fact that he was to go before a medical board had appeared in the media before Harold had been told. Harold could have been given time to convalesce. "I am very suspicious that there were other reasons why his services were terminated."
7-3-58 CM p1 news story splash 35 pars - MORRIS tells House/ISA CELL DEATH CASE IS NOT CLOSED/New probe by police chief
Police Minister Morris defended the way in which Bischof had treated two constables involved in a cell death at Mt Isa. Bischof had allegedly been lenient. (The entire story is about this case)
7-3-58 CM p1 news story 11 pars - A.L.P. walks out/36 To 7 defeat for Gair
The no confidence motion was lost 36-7, with ALP members not being present for the vote. Five QLP and two ALP members spoke in a debate lasting more than 10 hours. Opposition leader Wood said the ALP had the utmost confidence in Bischof.
7-3-58 CM p1 news story 18 pars - Labour split shown as wide as ever
The QLP motion had been debated for more than 10 hours before an ALP member spoke. ALP leader Wood had then attacked the QLP. Members of both factions supplied the Government with ammunition to fire at the other. In yesterday's debate the spotlight had been removed from criticism of the Government to the ill will between the critics.
7-3-58 CM p2 editorial seven pars (11 sentences) - No substance in censure
There was not much substance in yesterday's long drawn out debate in Parliament on the QLP's motion to censure the Government. "Mr Gair said that he had nothing against the new Police Commissioner..."
7-3-58 CM p3 news story 40 pars - FREE HAND TO POLICE CHIEF, MINISTER SAYS
Police Minister Morris told Parliament yesterday that Commissioner Bischof had been assured he would not be subject to any interference. QLP leader Gair said Harold had been removed because he would not be a yes-man. Gair said: "I am very suspicious that there are reasons why Mr Harold's services were terminated other than his indifferent health." He said if Bischof was to succeed he would have to be a yes-man. Morris responded that police officers knew they would not now be called on to pay funds to political parties in order to secure favours. Morris said Harold had come to him in December saying he could not carry on and asking for a medical board examination. The board had agreed with Harold that he would be wise to relinquish office. QLP member Power said he was concerned that a man with the ability and longer service of Donovan should be passed over.
Key point 1
The Sunday Mail story of December 22, 1957, that launched the saga of Commissioner Harold's demise and the appointment of Bischof focussed on the fact that Queensland's police force was corrupt and badly administered to the point that at least one senior officer would retire and there would be a massive shake-up. The alleged maladministration and corruption were given as the reason for the shake-up and were therefore at the very heart of the issue.
Key point coverage
The Sunday Mail story of December 22 revealed there was a state-wide corruption problem in the police force and radical changes involving a major shake-up were needed to put things right. While The Sunday Mail did not say who supplied the information, it did quote the Police Minister as saying he had heard disturbing rumours that there was a group protecting SP bookies. The Telegraph carried an editorial on December 23 headline 'Worry Over Police Force' but after mentioning that the public couldn't help feeling there might be some fire smouldering in the force it went on to say the force had a notable record and that every precaution must be taken to ensure its efficiency was kept high. In other words, any problem was in maintaining the staus quo. On December 26 it was not until the second half of an editorial that The Courier-Mail referred to publicly-expressed dissatisfaction within the force and the Police Union's claim that it had information on irregularities which made a Royal Commission advisable. For the second week in succession The Sunday Mail of December 29 carried an unattributed quote, presumably from a Government source. It talked about getting on with the job of cleaning up the police force but the story contained no further references to corruption. Police force charges were mentioned in the Telegraph's cartoon of March 5. The Courier-Mail report on March 7 of Police Minister Morris’s speech in Parliament also mentioned the key point.
Appraisal 1
The point is dealt with or touched on in only three of the 54 news stories, two of the eight editorials and a cartoon. Truth completely failed to draw its readers' attention to this key point, even in passing, and the other newspapers did not do much better. There are no further references to corruption and the need to clean up the force. The point was not developed through regular news stories. There were no background stories, columns or features. One editorial contained a desire that 'vague statements suggesting that something is not quite right within the force' 'need to be answered clearly'. The other was even less to the point. The cartoon would have alerted no-one to the problem. Even the page one Sunday Mail splash that launched the entire coverage failed to focus on and highlight the corruption issue in accepted journalistic style - in the introduction and early paragraphs of the story. Despite the headline, corruption - in the shape of protection - is not mentioned until the ninth paragraph. The Sunday Mail did not meet the criteria in its first story in that it did not clearly identify and highlight the key point by focussing on it. It did so in its second story in its first paragraph but then made no further mention of the topic in the rest of the story. It could be argued, on a pedantic basis, that this brief mention did identify the key point and meet the first criterion.
Key point 2
The Sunday Mail and Truth of January 26 reported that detailed allegations made against a senior police officer by two NCOs were so serious that the Solicitor-General had been recalled from holiday to conduct an inquiry. The senior officer was said to be a high-up administrator in a key position in Brisbane. Was he a candidate for the Commissioner's job? If so who was he and what was the outcome of the inquiry?
Key point coverage
These two stories contain the only references to this inquiry.
Appraisal 2
Despite breaking the story, the Sunday newspapers did not manage to identify the key point. Daily newspapers completely failed to alert their readers to any hint of what might have been going on.
Key point 3
If it was true that there was a corruption problem throughout the state, it follows that in all probability it could not have functioned without the knowledge of one or more senior officers. If the Government was to select a Queensland officer as the new commissioner how could it be sure he was not involved in the corruption? If widespread corruption existed, was it not essential either to select someone not connected with the state force or to hold an inquiry?
Key point coverage
After the Sunday Mail’s references to corruption the previous day, The Telegraph editorial of December 23 is headlined 'Worry over Police Force' but it only mentions that the public could not help feeling there may be a fire smouldering because so much smoke had been raised in reports of 'discontent' in the force. The Courier-Mail editorial of December 26 reminded its readers that at the start of the year the Police Union had claimed it had information on irregularities and had discussed the advisability of a Royal Commission as late as the previous month. It said the public must be told what changes were to be made and why. And it said the police had to be above suspicion. But the message was ruined by the statement that if a Queenslander was selected, then so much the better. The Telegraph story of December 31 said Opposition leader Wood alleged the fact that contenders for commissioner were being sought interstate would suggest the Police Union had a good case for pressing for a Royal Commission into the force. Readers were reminded that union members had voted overwhelmingly for a Royal Commission into a specific incident and wanted the commission to inquire into all police affairs.
On January 3 The Courier-Mail said it was believed that having demanded a full inquiry into the force for several years the Police Union could not logically object to a person from outside the force being appointed as Commissioner to overhaul the force. Also on January 3 the Telegraph carried a letter saying that the decision to seek interstate applications should be applauded as a necessary first step in restoring public confidence in the integrity of the force. Next day The Courier-Mail reported that the union executive had decided to press the Government for the appointment of a Queensland officer as Commissioner. The Sunday Mail of January 5 carried what appeared to be a summary of current Government thinking. The headline said the Government was prepared to import its police chief. The story warned that police associations appeared to be wasting their time protesting against such an importation because Government members considered that only one or two serving officers approached the high standards set for the post. Nearly a month after the story broke, The Courier-Mail on January 20 editorialised: "A thorough reorganisation of the State's police service is overdue." It mentioned in passing that there was a precedent for selecting someone from outside the force: the commissioner thus chosen had fully justified that choice.
Appraisal 3
The point is dealt with or touched on in six stories, three editorials and a letter. The Telegraph of December 31 and The Courier-Mail of January 3 come closest to spelling out the problem but neither story succeeded in getting to the heart of the matter. It cannot be said that the issue was developed through regular stories focussing on the point. There were no features, columns or background stories. The editorials failed to identify the issue and, therefore, to demand the specific action necessary to resolve the problem. The key point was not identified..
Key point 4
Deputy Police Commissioner Jim Donovan was senior to Detective Inspector Frank Bischof, was said to have an unblemished record and was acting Commissioner during the selection process. What all journalists should have been aware of in an age when bigotry was rife in Queensland (Fitzgerald 1989: 30/31) was that Donovan was a Catholic, Bischof a Protestant and that all Ministers were Protestants. QLP Leader Gair was a Catholic. Did the wrong man get the job?
Key point coverage
On January 31 The Courier-Mail, in a story headlined "'A great piece of injustice' SAYS GAIR", quoted Vince Gair, leader of the Queensland Labor Party, the smaller of the two Labor parties, as saying that Bischof's appointment was "one of the greatest pieces of injustice ever meted out to an officer of the Deputy-Commissioner's standing...It is regrettable that the Government has not seen fit to appoint the logical contender for the vacancy, Mr Donovan. His record as a police officer could stand the closest scrutiny..."
The last paragraph of 16 in a Telegraph story of the same day quotes QLP leader Gair saying it was "regrettable that the Government had not seen fit to appoint the logical contender" - Deputy-Commissioner Donovan. The Sunday Mail quoted Donovan on February 2 saying in a prepared statement: "...I would be lacking in honesty and candour if I were not to say I am disappointed and somewhat dismayed at the decision." He had 38 years' of meritorious service and said: "It is apparent that other considerations prevailed in the appointment." Truth on March 2 reported that the Opposition would attack the Government over the appointment of Bischof. On March 4 the Telegraph reported how Gair was seeking a vote of no confidence in the Government, one of the grounds being the appointment of the police Commissioner, a story repeated in the following morning's The Courier-Mail. The Courier-Mail reminded readers of this in a nine-paragraph preview of the debate on March 6. Towards the end of a 40-paragraph story in The Courier-Mail on March 7 QLP member Power said he was concerned that a man with the ability of Mr Donovan should be passed over.
Appraisal 4
The point was dealt with or touched on in eight stories, five of which report on the Parliamentary debate on March 6, the day before the issue ceased to be considered newsworthy by newspapers. One of the other three stories touches on the point only in its last paragraph. Of the remaining two stories, one was a complaint from a losing applicant and, despite the fact that he was right, lacks apparent objectivity. The eighth was the complaint of Gair in The Courier-Mail's story of January 31, which, it could be argued, fitted the first watchdog criteria. None of the newspapers explored or developed this point. There were no features or editorials touching on this point. It is also worth noting that the quote in the last paragraph of the Telegraph's story of January 31 was the first time that Gair's views have appeared in a story. The Telegraph of March 4 said Vince Gair believed there was public disquiet as a result of what had been happening in the police force and with the appointment of Bischof, although the story did not suggest the wrong man got the job. If there was disquiet, it had hardly been raised in the columns of the Telegraph. The fundamental reasons behind the allegations of injustice were never spelled out.
Key point 5
Commissioner Tom Harold had been appointed by a Labor Government only eight months earlier and now he was being hurried out of office. Was his removal the result of the new Coalition Government deciding that Harold had been a political appointment and/or that it needed its own man as Commissioner?
Key point coverage
The Courier-Mail told on December 31 how former Treasurer Ted Walsh had claimed there was uneasiness in the public mind about Harold's retirement because of conflicting statements from the Premier and from minister Morris. Truth, in its editorial of January 5, said the public had some doubts about whether the retirement of one of the Commonwealth's most successful policemen had been handled in the people's best interests. The Telegraph on March 6 and The Courier-Mail of March 7 reported on the Parliamentary debate in which Gair alleged Harold had been replaced because he had refused to be a yes-man. The Government, he said, had wanted someone who would submit more readily to the Minister's wishes. The Courier-Mail said the new Commissioner had been assured by the Government that he would not be subject to any interference.
Appraisal 5
At best the point was touched on in three news stories and an editorial. It was only in the reporting of the Parliamentary debate, as the story was about to disappear from view, that QLP leader Vince Gair’s allegations that the Government wanted a yes-man appeared for the first time. Only the Telegraph, in its first story on the topic, can be said to have identified the key point.
Key point 6
The Sunday Mail story of December 22 suggested that former Police Commissioner Tom Harold's demise was pre-arranged. In the week before Christmas many people are in holiday mood, newspapers have very few news pages, political reporters may be on holiday and Opposition MPs may be out of touch. Was Harold's demise timed to take advantage of some or all of these factors? Harold's condition had not been serious enough for him to have been detained in hospital and he was resting at home with the Christmas-New Year break only two days away when he was rushed before a medical board. Why did the government move so quickly? Why couldn't Harold have been the judge of whether or not he was fit to carry on? In short, did the Government pick its time to get rid of the Commissioner?
Key point overage
The Sunday Mail expose of December 22 talked of a planned shake-up of the force. Truth, in its editorial of January 5, said that normally an officer would be given time to convalesce and make up his own mind about returning to work. It said there was a feeling that Mr Morris had been too quick. In the Telegraph on March 6 Gair was reported to have said in Parliament he was suspicious there were other reasons why Harold’s services had been terminated. The Government had used disgraceful means to get rid of a man who could have been given time to convalesce.
Appraisal 6
The point is dealt with or touched on in two stories and an editorial. One of the stories merely reported on the Parliamentary debate. Truth's editorial did identify the suspicions surrounding Harold's demise but the point was buried, the editorial draws no conclusions and made no demands. The newspaper did not return to the point. The key point was not identified as such.
Key point 7
One task of an Opposition is to oppose Government decisions which appear to be flawed. There was every reason to argue that, when the Police Commissioner, an important, independent public official, was disposed of after having been appointed by the Labor Government, Opposition leader Wood (ALP) should have attacked the Government. There were other reasons - including the other key points raised here - why the Opposition should have been vocal in its condemnation of the Government and should have asked pointed questions about what was happening especially about the secret inquiry.
Did newspapers draw this lack of opposition to readers' attention? The breakaway QLP, with only 11 seats against the ALP's 20, only raised the issue in Parliament when the ALP refused, because QLP leader Gair had seen an opportunity to score points off the ALP, not the Government (see The Courier-Mail of March 7). In fact, when the issue was debated in Parliament it was 10 hours 24 minutes before Wood joined the debate to say the Opposition believed Bischof was an outstanding officer. He said: "As for this Press report 'Secret probe on police', surely the day has not come when on the strength of a speculative report by a journalist we are going to appoint a Royal Commission?" Still speaking like a Government member, he summed up: "After all, it is the Government's responsibility to appoint the Commissioner and they must be guided by the things I mentioned before, his capacity and integrity."
Key point coverage
Opposition leader Wood was quoted in the Telegraph of December 31 saying it would be a slur on senior officers if they were bypassed in the appointment of a new Commissioner and that appointment of an outsider would suggest the Police Union had a good case in pressing for a Royal Commission. A month later, on January 31, Wood was quoted in the Telegraph congratulating Bischof and attacking Minister Morris, but only for publicising his trip south to interview applicants. Truth said on March 2 that it was expected that the ALP and QLP would combine to move that Parliament should discuss "the recent appointment of Mr F. E. Bischof, and the circumstances connected therewith". The Courier-Mail of March 6 said the ALP was not expected to support the criticism of Bischof's appointment when Parliament debated the issue. On March 7 The Courier-Mail said the no confidence motion had been lost 36-7, with ALP members not being present for the vote. Five QLP and two ALP members had spoken in a debate lasting more than 10 hours. Opposition leader Wood said the ALP had the utmost confidence in Bischof. In another story in the same edition a headline told "Labour split shown as wide as ever". The story revealed the QLP motion had been debated for more than 10 hours before an ALP member spoke. ALP leader Wood had then attacked the QLP.
Appraisal 7
Despite Truth forecasting on March 2 that the ALP and QLP would combine for an attack on the Government, this failed to eventuate. But this lack of resolve was not questioned in the Telegraph and not followed up in the next edition of Truth. It was not until March 7 that The Courier-Mail drew the attention of its readers to the lack of action by the ALP, focussing on the key point but without asking why there had been no action. And although the newspaper had identified the point, it was not the focus of the story and it was very much a case of finding the stable door wide open and the horse long gone. The debate was over and there was no further coverage at all.
General analysis
The thesis argues that there were seven key points, each of which should have been identified and exposed by newspapers to scrutiny. Not only did the newspapers almost completely fail to act as watchdogs, they carried another message. The hegemony of the period resulted in readers being reassured that the establishment was in control and all would be well. Even as allegations of wrongdoing were being`reported on the one hand, readers were being told of the police force’s efficiency. Between December 22 and March 7 readers were given a multitude of positive messages about the situation in the force. Truth on December 22 said Harold would be difficult to replace. He was recognised throughout Australia as one of the most brilliant officers in the country and was one of the "most highly competent" men ever connected with police administration. The Telegraph editorial of December 23 sought an assurance from the Government that the force's efficiency would be kept high, signalling to readers that it was a fact that efficiency was high. On December 24 it reported that the independent medical board had decided that if Harold had continued in his job it would have been a grave risk to his health. The same day, The Courier-Mail reported Morris saying that he would meet with the new commissioner as soon as he was appointed to decide whether any re-organisation of the force was needed. On December 31 Opposition leader Wood was reported in the Telegraph saying the force had a splendid record. Truth reassured readers on January 5 in a long (16 paragraph) editorial that Queensland was comparatively clear of serious crime because of teamwork and local knowledge by a well-knit body of men trusting each other: Nothing should be done to impair this record. On January 12 Truth reported how Cabinet had been disappointed with the calibre of interstate applicants for the commissioner's job. Truth, on January 26, quoted Police Minister Morris saying that no police officer had made any allegation to him against a senior officer. Two days later The Courier-Mail said it was understood that Ministers were impressed with the calibre of inspectors in the force and it was unlikely there would be any drastic shake-up of personnel. When Bischof was selected, Morris was reported in the Telegraph of January 30 saying: "We felt it was our responsibility to make every effort to see that the best possible applicant was selected." Next day the Telegraph editorial boasted: "Queenslanders will feel proud that of the 200 applicants for the position, some of them from other States, the qualifications and potential of the local man were considered superior." And a Courier-Mail journalist wrote that: "Those who know Bischof agree with (a former policeman) who said: 'You'd make a good policeman, Frank'." Also on January 31 The Courier-Mail recorded how QLP leader Gair congratulated Bischof on his appointment. The Sunday Mail on February 2 reported how the new Commissioner had been promised he would not suffer political interference. The Telegraph cartoon of March 5 showed Gair not as a potential saviour with his challenge on the Bischof appointment, but as a mosquito - a nuisance to be swatted by 'Honest' Frank Nicklin, portrayed defending his bedroom against the tiny intruder. And on March 7 Opposition leader Wood was reported in The Courier-Mail as saying the ALP had the utmost confidence in Bischof and the QLP's Gair that he had nothing against the new Commissioner.
As early as December 24 in the Telegraph Morris was talking about whether a reorganisation of the force was necessary. By January 19 he had switched the focus from corruption necessitating a big clean up to talking about a shake-up of the force on administrative grounds. If any journalists asked what had happened to the corruption issue there was no evidence of it. By January 28 the phrases being used were "a reshuffle in duties". In The Sunday Mail of February 2 Bischof talked about making some relatively minor changes. There is no evidence that any newspaper asked about corruption.
The issue effectively ceased to gain attention on February 2 after the appointment of Bischof. This seems to have signalled to newspapers that the story was over, despite key points not having been investigated. The issue then flared up again with the Parliamentary debate a month later but newspapers failed to develop any points after coverage of the debate. There was a complete failure to apply any pressure on the Government and, indeed, on the Opposition for failing to oppose.
Hindsight
The Fitzgerald Inquiry heard from former Inspector Charles Corner that during the selection process he had furnished Cabinet with a statement containing detailed evidence that Bischof was corrupt. It is reasonable to assume that this statement was at the centre of the stories by the Sunday Mail and Truth of January 26 when they revealed that allegations had been made against a senior police officer. Cabinet records for January 13 and January 28, 1958, in the State Archives mention grave suspicions about one of the candidates.
Sir Thomas Hiley, Treasurer in the Nicklin Government in 1958, revealed in The Courier on September 18, 1982, by Ken Blanch that Bischof had been involved in a Statewide SP protection racket while commissioner. Sir Thomas said that having voted for Bischof to become Commissioner had been the worst mistake of his life and he believed the adverse effects of Bischof's reign were still present in the Police Force in 1982. According to Freemason and former National Party Minister Bill Gunn, Bischof, Premier Nicklin and most of the all-Protestant Cabinet were Masons (personal interview with Gunn by Steve Bishop 1982)). Fitzgerald (1989: 31) reported that the appointment of a Mason was seen by many to reflect an upturn in the fortunes of the Masonic cabal, particularly as he was appointed over the head of the more senior Donovan. The Fitzgerald Report continued: "Vice continued. Prostitutes moved to hotels and SP betting flourished...The corruption extended throughout the State as it had previously...in some respects police corruption had acquired a quaint quasi-legitimacy by the Bischof era." Queensland history may have been very different after 1958 had one newspaper succeeded in acting as a watchdog by concentrating on one or more of the key points.
CHAPTER 9 - THE MINES MINISTER'S OIL SHARES
Background
Premier Frank Nicklin had told ministers they should divorce themselves from any business activities from which they might gain a profit as a result of being a minister. Towards the end of 1961 the Queensland minister dealing with oil and gas, Ernie Evans, bought 2000 AOG (Australian Oil and Gas) shares at 11 shillings each, giving his address as care of his department. At this stage AOG had not struck oil but very shortly afterwards oil was found. Within five months Evans had made a profit of about 10,000 pounds on his shares. This story was not broken by Queensland newspapers but by a magazine called Nation, which led to ALP MP George Wallace giving notice to Parliament he would ask a question on this topic, thus sparking interest from Queensland newspapers. The story attracted coverage from March 14, 1962, until March 18, 1962. There were five stories, a news backgrounder, an editorial and the original Nation feature which was reprinted in Sunday Truth.
Total coverage
14-3-62 Tele p3 news story eight pars - Evans shares report questions in House
ALP MP George Wallace advised in Parliament today that he would ask Premier Nicklin tomorrow to investigate the alleged share dealings of Mines Minister Evans in Australian Oil and Gas. Wallace referred to a magazine report that Ernest Evans, c/o the Department of Development and Mines, Brisbane, was the owner of 2000 AOG shares. The shares had been registered in October and November last year and had been bought at 11s which meant Evans made about 10,000 pounds in a little more than three months. "Mr Wallace said he would ask the Premier to investigate the report because of the involvement of the principle that Ministers of the Crown should not benefit financially from information which might come into their possession by virtue of their office. Legislation required that technical information which could greatly influence share values should be furnished to the department. Wallace would ask the Premier if he agreed that if this was the case there was justification for grave public disquiet. The Premier had declared some time ago that on assuming office his ministers should divorce themselves from any business activities from which they might gain. Did he therefore not consider that Evans should be dismissed?
15-3-62 Tele p1/2 news story splash 27 pars - 'STAY OUT OF OIL'/REQUEST MADE TO MINISTERS BY NICKLIN
Premier Nicklin said he had asked his Ministers to refrain from investing in oil shares because it was important that there should be no doubt in the public mind as to Ministers' integrity. The Premier said there was no information supplied to departments which was not released contemporaneously to the public. Evans had received no confidential information by virtue of his position. The Premier said that on becoming a minister Evans had resigned as chairman of an oil prospecting syndicate which had spent and lost thousands of pounds drilling for oil. When he bought the shares in a falling market there was no information to show that oil was likely to be found at Moonie on December 3 as it was.
16-3-62 CM p1 news story 30 pars - SELL SHARES - OR BUY MORE/Replies to Premier's 'no-oil' request
Mines Minister Evans said last night he would not sell his shares until he was good and ready but he would not buy any more. He would please himself if and when he sold them. He said he could not see any difference between oil shares and others. Country Party backbenchers are rallying to support Evans and may force a showdown on the issue. The article included quotes from Premier Nicklin identical to those in the Telegraph. The Premier said he had asked his ministers not to invest in oil shares because it was important there should be no doubt in the public mind about the integrity of ministers.
16-3-62 CM p2 editorial four pars (10 sentences) - Minister's shares
It was Evans' legal right to hold shares and the Premier is satisfied he had no access to information the public did not have. "Yet information that might affect the market value of his shares could still reach Mr. Evans through the department before it reached the general public. That a Minister for Mines should speculate for his personal profit in any mining enterprise that has to deal with him as a Minister will still appear improper to many people... Ministers cannot be too scrupulous in refraining from any private business dealings that might compromise them in their public offices."
18-3-62 ST p3 news backgrounder 34 pars - HE GAMBLES L2000 ON A HORSE!/-and punts in shares
Mines Minister Evans is a punter and it is nothing for him to win 2000 pounds on a race or lose nearly as much. He revealed himself as one of the State's top gamblers. He said he had sacrificed his interest in an oil lease when he became a minister. The Australian spotlight had focussed on Evans when it was suggested in Parliament that confidential departmental information had led to his purchase of oil shares. "It was even suggested in Parliament that the Premier should remove Mr. Evans from his Development and Mines portfolio."
18-3-62 ST p3 news story 10 pars - CABINET FACES A 'HERESY HUNT'/Showdown on stocks looms
The controversy surrounding the Moonie oil shares held by Minister Evans is likely to cause a full scale 'heresy hunt' into all the shareholdings of all ministers. Some ministers are alleged to hold huge parcels of industrial shares. Parliamentary circles suggest one minister is a major shareholder in a company which could have some trading connection with his department. Evans said he failed to see the difference between him as mines minister holding oil shares and other ministers holding shares.
18-3-62 ST p3 news story 13 pars - MOST ARE SAYING:- 'Good on you, Ernie'
Most people interviewed in a street survey said they had no objection to Cabinet Ministers investing in oil shares.
18-3-62 ST p19 feature (reprint of an article in the national magazine Nation) 76 pars - Queensland's 'MR. BIG' IN OIL
Two men are at the centre of the oil boom in Queensland - flamboyant stockbroker Robin Corrie and Mines Minister Ernie Evans. The AOG oil shares which Evans bought were registered at the end of November and the end of October. They had an average purchase price of 11s at the time and are now worth six pounds 15s. At the races he will tell friends whether he is betting on or off course. "Until his elevation to the Ministry, he was a co-owner of prospecting leases with Johannes Bjelke-Petersen, the Member of Parliament from Kingaroy, who has been associated with the Lucky Strike Company run by Mr Gene Toff, of Tulsa, Oklahoma. By a coincidence, some of Mr. Bjelke-Petersen's leases are currently being floated off in a company instigated by Robin Corrie, Exoil No Liability, and the underwriting terms have brought him criticism from some southern financial commentators and other stockbrokers." Between the first and second discoveries on the Moonie field, Corrie floated Exoil N.L. "On this deal, he and his associates were...to get 25 per cent gross of the money immediately coming into the company, though the net was somewhat reduced by a large packet of shares which was sub-underwritten by one of the vendors of the leases, Oil Drilling and Exploration...Robin Corrie himself didn't think that his price, at five times rates of ordinary underwriting, was too much. And it was certainly not out of character for him to take this quick gamble, which the Brisbane Stock Exchange committee supported by working back over the weekend to analyse and approve the prospectus, and the Brisbane companies' Registrar pushed through at top speed, but which none of them but Corrie had underwritten...As everybody knows, Queensland will have no Texas oil millionaires who have become rich because there is oil land in their paddocks; in Queensland the graziers do not own the minerals lying under their land. There is only one way for Queensland to quick riches, and that is through oil shares." A week ago Corrie told clients to sell 1s oil shares when they reached 10s - and reminded them that Exoil N.L. stock would come on at the end of March. "In his careful stage management of his client's interests, he realises that new funds will soon be required to keep Exoil buoyant."
Key point 1
Should the Minister have resigned or been dismissed as a result of the apparent risk of a conflict of interest?
Key point coverage
The point was mentioned deep in the story of the Telegraph of March 14 as part of the Parliamentary question. Sunday Truth said in a news story on March 18: "It was even suggested in Parliament that the Premier should remove Mr. Evans from his Development and Mines portfolio."
Appraisal 1
This key point was not identified as such.
Key point 2
Did the Minister have inside information? It was bad enough that Evans had deceived and disobeyed the Premier's instructions about share ownership but if he had used confidential information gained through his position, then this would be a flagrant abuse of office. Unlike Education Minister Pizzey who had held shares since February 1961, Evans, who claimed to have been a long-time backer of the industry, had only bought his shares a matteer of weeks - or even days - before their value soared when oil was discovred.
Key point coverage
The Telegraph reported on March 15, the day after the Opposition MP gave notice of the question, that the Premier had told Parliament there was no information supplied to departments which was not released contemporaneously to the public. The Courier-Mail repeated the information on March 16. The Courier-Mail editorial of that day says the Premier is satisfied he had no access to information the public did not have. It went on: "Yet information that might affect the market value of his shares could still reach Mr. Evans through the department before it reached the general public. That a Minister for Mines should speculate for his personal profit in any mining enterprise that has to deal with him as a Minister will still appear improper to many people." Sunday Truth said the Australian spotlight had focussed on Evans when it was suggested in Parliament that confidential departmental information had led to his purchase of oil shares. The paper said: "It was even suggested in Parliament that the Premier should remove Mr. Evans from his Development and Mines portfolio."
Appraisal 2
The point was mentioned on two consecutive days in the Telegraph, in only one edition of The Courier-Mail and one of Sunday Truth. Premier Frank Nicklin must have acted very quickly to obtain the information which he said cleared Evans but had he had time in which to be thorough? Was the information correct? What did Opposition Members of Parliament have to say about this, especially any who may have been Mines Minister in previous Governments? What did the company say about the information it was required to furnish to Government? Were there any experts or academics who could comment about this relationship? And there must have been experts who could have talked about what information could have been available at the stage drilling had reached when the minister bought his shares. None of these questions was dealt with. The editorial was not prepared to find Evans not guilty but it failed to recommend or demand any action. The Key point was not identified and highlighted.
Key point 3
Minister Ernie Evans, having created doubt about his fitness to be a minister, now refused to obey his leader and sell the shares, saying he would decide if and when to do so (The Courier-Mail, 10-3-62). Was this the sort of man Queenslanders wanted as a minister?
Key point coverage
The Telegraph reported on March 14 that the Premier had declared some time ago that on assuming office his ministers should divorce themselves from any business activities from which they might gain. Next day the Telegraph told how Premier Nicklin had asked his Ministers to refrain from investing in oil shares because it was important that there should be no doubt in the public mind as to Ministers' integrity. On March 16 The Courier-Mail reported how the Premier had said it was important that there should be no doubt in the public mind about ministers' integrity but that Evans had said he would not sell his shares until he was good and ready. In the Sunday Truth Evans said he could not understand why as mines minister he should not own oil shares.
Appraisal 3
None of the stories or the editorial canvassed the point as such.
Key point 4
Parliamentary circles suggest one minister is a major shareholder in a company which could have some trading connection with his department. Having raised this issue, what were the facts? The public had a right to know.
Key point coverage
The point was mentioned in passing in the Sunday Truth of March 18.
Appraisal 4
The conflict of interest was not identified as a key point and was not followed up.
Key point 5
The Sunday Truth reprint of the Nation article included a reference to the minister betting "off course". Off-course SP betting was illegal but widespread in Queensland at the time under the protection of corrupt police officers. Was the minister breaking legislation the Government was responsible for? If so, it would be corrupt behaviour.
Key point coverage
The Nation article contains the only reference to this point.
Appraisal 5
The point was not highlighted and was not followed up.
Key point 6
The evidence was laid out by Nation for the Opposition to make the most of in Parliament. One member asked one question and the issue was allowed to die in only four days. Why was Opposition Leader Jack Duggan and his front bench not opposing?
Key point coverage
There was no coverage of this key point.
Appraisal 6
No newspaper recognised this key point.
General analysis
It might have been illuminating to find out how many shares Evans bought at the end of November, and on what date, bearing in mind the oil discovery was made on December 3. It would also have been interesting to discover when the shares were registered and for there to have been some general investigative reporting about exactly how and when oil was struck, what expectations the company had had and who might have had access to any such information in the two or three weeks before the strike.
Sunday Truth, in a general news story, reported: "It was even suggested in Parliament that the Premier should remove Mr. Evans from his Development and Mines portfolio." In essence, the hegemony of the period is so powerful that the newspaper is scoffing at what appeared to it to be an absurdity. The impression given is that it would be ridiculous for a Minister to be removed over such a trifling matter. The newspaper is plainly taking the establishment line. The Sunday Mail appears not to have considered the issue worth dealing with at all. The issue ceased to gain attention after just five days and without key points having been investigated.
Hindsight
The manner in which the Premier and Cabinet dealt with this conflict of interest set the standard for several future occasions when it was discovered that Ministers, including Premier Bjelke-Petersen, had conflicting interests. The Opposition continued to be ineffective for several years As an example, Opposition Leader Jack Duggan said in Parliament on November 20, 1964 (Hansard 1727) that the Opposition was satisfied with the way in which the Premier, an honest man, had handled the matter of the Evans shares.
CHAPTER 10 - NATIONAL HOTEL ROYAL COMMISSION
Background
For several years the ALP MP for South Brisbane, barrister Col Bennett, had been drawing attention to problems and corruption in the Queensland police force (e.g. Hansard, 1960: 472/3, 1240-2, 1265-7; 1961: 412-4; 1962: 1013-21, 1632, 1953). On October 15, 1963, in Parliament he attacked commissioner Bischof, detective Glen Patrick Parliament and the Sunday Truth. On October 29, 1963, in the House, Bennett launched a 25-minute attack on the force, alleging maladministration and corruption. One particular allegation was: "I do not wish to dally too long on this subject, but I should say that the Commissioner and his colleagues who frequent the National Hotel, encouraging and condoning the callgirl service that operates there, would be better occupied in preventing such activities rather than tolerating them."
The ALP Opposition gave Bennett no backing in his claims or in demanding an inquiry. But Independent MP Ted Walsh supported Bennett and then two members of the public came forward voluntarily with information to support the claims.
The story broke on October 30 with reports on Bennett's attack and continued through to reports on the proceedings of a Royal Commission which sat for a preliminary session on November 20 when newspaper coverage switched to reportage of the commission sittings. This thesis examines the reportage between October 30 and November 21. It comprises 48 news stories, a news backgrounder and 12 editorials
Coverage
30-10-63 CM p1 news story splash 18 pars - 'Bischof has Government by throat' claim/HEATED DEBATE FOLLOWED BENNETT'S ATTACK ON POLICE
"An attack on the Police Commissioner (Mr. Bischof) and Government control of the police force precipitated a heated debate in Parliament last night." Opposition MP Bennett said that Bischof had the Government by the throat, that Bischof and Inspectors Osborn and Bauer were in close collaboration to obtain the Government's return at the last election. Bennett said Bischof and his colleagues frequented the National Hotel encouraging and condoning a call girl service that goes on there. Police were being frustrated, disconcerted and disillusioned. More trouble was impending.
30-10-63 CM p1 news story 12 pars - 'In private life'
Bennett said the ALP had been inundated with complaints throughout Queensland about the Commissioner's barnstorming campaign before the last State election canvassing for the Liberal-Country Party Government. This was why the Government was not prepared to enforce certain regulations and rules concerning proper conduct of the force.
30-10-63 CM p1 news story 30 pars - 'Diseased mind'
Liberal MP Herbert said Bennett's attack sounded like the outpourings of a diseased mind. Herbert, reading from a prepared text, challenged Bennett to produce proof which the Government would investigate. Dewar, the Minister in charge of police, said of the National Hotel: "I have taken this matter up with the commissioner and am satisfied this statement is a figment of Mr. Bennett's infantile imagination." Dewar said it was well known that commissioned officers and other ranks were expected to solicit funds for the Labor Party when it was in power. Dewar said that ALP MP Lloyd had said that former Premier Gair had interfered with the police force and his government carried it on. Political interference had started well before Gair and the licensing squad had been ordered to keep out of ministers' electorates. Dewar said Bennett had made his comments about the call girl service purely to injure the reputation of the National Hotel.
30-10-63 Tele p49 news story seven pars - Claim is met with dignity
A National Hotel official said he preferred to maintain a dignified silence on allegations in State Parliament last night that a call girl service was operating at the hotel. Bennett said in Parliament that Police Commissioner Bischof and his colleagues frequented the hotel, encouraging and condoning a call girl service that goes on there. He said they would do better to prevent such activities rather than tolerate them.
31-10-63 Tele p1 news story splash 21 pars - A.L.P. WALK-OUT IN PARLIAMENT ROW
All ALP members walked out of State Parliament today in support of Bennett who had been asked to leave the chamber after making a comment about the order of speakers. Earlier Independent MP Walsh referred to allegations made against some police. He said the mere denial of allegations did not mean that the allegations were not well founded. Bennett said: 'I assure you my charges were made on concrete fact'.
31-10-63 Tele p3 news story 12 pars - MP GROUP SEEKS BISCHOF CHARGES INQUIRY
Some members of the State Government are advocating an inquiry into allegations against Police Commissioner Bischof and other senior members of the Police Force. But reliable sources said today State Cabinet would not entertain the suggestion at this stage. Many members of the Government are disturbed by the allegations. But the weight of opinion is that an inquiry would not be justified unless concrete allegations and evidence to support them are presented. Bennett's allegations included: Bischof and Inspectors Osborn and Bauer were in close collaboration to obtain the Government's return at the last election; Bischof and his colleagues frequented the National Hotel encouraging and condoning a call girl service there; Bischof had the Government by the throat.
31-10-63 Tele p3 news story 11 pars - MP's attack
In Parliament Liberal MP Tooth said the ALP was obviously embarrassed by Bennett's irresponsible attack on Bischof. Tooth said Opposition leader Duggan and deputy leader Lloyd had shown by their speeches and interjections that they were embarrassed. When Tooth described Bennett's behaviour as contemptible, Bennett interjected that Tooth had said in front of a witness that something must be done about the matter. Tooth responded that he was scandalised that Bennett should have breached a confidence.
31-10-63 Tele p3 news story 19 pars - Walsh criticises police
Independent MP Walsh said in Parliament he would be amazed if nobody had heard of the reports of what was going on at the National Hotel. "The fact is, a lot of people do know...The dogs are even barking about it." He said favouritism was shown by top officers. The Full Court had found that an officer had perpetrated a fraud on the court but a departmental investigation decided that no wrong had been committed.
1-11-63 CM p1 news story 22 pars - Facts against police will be probed/DEWAR'S PROMISE
"Minister in charge of police (Mr. Dewar) undertook in Parliament yesterday to investigate fully any 'facts' submitted by a member concerning 'reprehensible or improper conduct by any police force member." Independent MP Walsh said even the dogs were barking out things that were happening at the National Hotel. The commissioner denied these things were happening despite much evidence. The mere denial by the police minister was not necessarily justification for saying that the charges were not well founded. Bennett said his charges were based on concrete facts.
1-11-63 CM p3 news story 24 pars - ALP men out in sympathy with Bennett/CALL: 'DIRTY TRICK'
ALP members stormed out of Parliament yesterday when Bennett was suspended for a day for a comment he made about a member not getting the nod from the Speaker.
1-11-63 CM p3 news story 27 pars - Names 5 police as 'victimised'
ALP MP Mann named five police who he said had been victimised by the Gair Labor Government. Two officers had been demoted or transferred after speaking against the Government at a mass meeting of police. He said he had no axe to grind against the commissioner or Insp Bauer. Tooth said what Bennett had done was a contemptible exercise. Bennett interjected to point out Tooth had said in front of a witness that allegations contained in a document had disgusted him and he would take action to correct the position.
1-11-63 CM p3 news story eight pars - INSPECTOR'S INVITATION
Several police said they did not wish to make any comment in reply to what had been alleged in parliament.
1-11-63 CM p3 news story one par - Seek inquiry
The Police Union executive invited an inquiry into all aspects of the police force.
1-11-63 Tele p1/2 news story splash 30 pars - CABINET TO RULE ON POLICE PROBE/Trades Hall call for an inquiry
On Monday State Cabinet will consider demands for an inquiry into allegations against the commissioner and some senior police. "Today, the Police Union wrote to the Minister in Charge of Police, Mr. Dewar, urging a full, open inquiry into all aspects of the Police Force. It also sent a copy of the letter to Mr. Bischof." The union secretary would not comment. It was confirmed in Government circles that Bischof and senior officers would welcome an inquiry. "The police attitude generally is that policemen are men of integrity, and they resent general attacks." The president of the Trades and Labor Council, J. Egerton, has also called for an open inquiry into the administration of the force. He said it was important that the police should have the confidence of the public but that allegations against them had been serious and consistent. It is understood that the ALP caucus decided that Bennett was not speaking on behalf of the party when speaking about police allegations. ALP MP J. Mann said he had every confidence in Bischof.
1-11-63 Tele p3 editorial nine pars - FACTS AND Mr. DEWAR
"The State Government should examine closely and promptly the allegations that have been made in Parliament this week against some members of the Queensland Police Force. The Police Minister, Mr. Dewar, has undertaken to investigate fully any 'facts' submitted by a member concerning improper conduct by policemen. This is an extremely limited offer - something like a fire brigade refusing to fight a fire until it can see naked flames."
2-11-63 CM p1 editorial two pars - Inquiry is needed
"The State Government cannot hope that the public will forget the allegations made in Parliament this week against high police officers and that the whole matter will 'die down' if left alone. The charges made must be properly investigated in fairness to the officers concerned - and to maintain the public's confidence in the police force as a whole. It must be Cabinet's task now to decide what form this inquiry should take."
2-11-63 CM p3 news story 26 pars - Police union is seeking inquiry from Dewar/COPY OF REQUEST TO GO TO COMMISSIONER BISCHOF
The Police Union has written to the Police Minister inviting a full and open inquiry into the force. Union secretary Callaghan said the union was anxious that the good name of the police should be established. Mr Bennett said he would not submit any more details to the Premier because they would only be pigeonholed like facts he had supplied 18 months ago. It is believed the Government is unlikely to appoint any inquiry. Former Premier Gair denied allegations made by Mr Mann that police had been victimised under his government.
2-11-63 Tele p3 news backgrounder 21 pars - LOUNGE 'PICK-UP SYSTEM' A CLOAK FOR VICE IN CITY
Vice still flourishes in Brisbane under the thin veneer of the 'hotel pick-up system'. Women forced underground by the official closure of Brisbane's 'houses' now operate from hotel lounges. Police know them, and they know the police. Prosecutions are few. Evidence is hard to obtain. I saw at least six cases of obvious accosting. Police claim there is no call girl racket in Brisbane. Some police believe serious assaults in the city would increase if the present system did not operate.
3-11-63 ST p1 editorial 13 pars - Hotel vice charge/..WE DEMAND TO KNOW THE FACTS
"The campaign Mr. Colin Bennett MP is waging against the Police Commissioner Mr. Bischof is now completely out of control and in the public interest the State Government can move only one way. IT MUST ORDER AN IMMEDIATE ROYAL COMMISSION." The honour and integrity of the commissioner have been attacked. "His name has got to be cleared."
4-11-63 CM p2 editorial two pars (nine sentences) - Aspersions on police
"Serious allegations reflecting on high officers of Queensland's Police Force were made in the State Parliament last week. They have caused the Minister in charge of Police, Mr. Dewar, to cancel a flight to New Zealand which he was to have made on Saturday. It is to be hoped this means he wants to get the allegations sifted by a searching investigation. That should also be the wish of the Government...There should be some way of challenging members of Parliament to justify charges which could have the effect of shaking public confidence in the integrity of police officers. Use of the privilege of Parliament gave them wide publicity. Refutation of them should have equal publicity. That is only fair to the officers who suffered the aspersions cast on them and had no means of answering their accusers in Parliament."
4-11-63 CM p3 news story four pars - Police on the agenda
Allegations against police will be discussed at today's Cabinet meeting.
4-11-63 Tele p4 news story nine pars - CABINET SPLIT OVER INQUIRY/OPPOSITION TO POLICE PROBE PLEA
Cabinet started its meeting today fairly evenly divided on whether or not an inquiry should be held. But most senior members are firmly against an inquiry.
5-11-63 CM p1 news story 12 pars - CHALLENGE LIKELY/Police: Nicklin reply
Premier Nicklin will reply today to allegations about the police force. Opposition leader Duggan could be asked to state his attitude clearly. Nicklin is expected to offer an inquiry if specific evidence is put before the Government "In effect, he will be throwing the onus on the Opposition and on the Police Union." A minority of Cabinet are believed to have favoured an immediate inquiry.
5-11-63 Tele p1 news story 15 pars - BENNETT TOLD TO GIVE CLAIMS
Premier Nicklin today challenged Bennett to make specific charges against leading police officers and name credible witnesses who could give first hand evidence. Bennett said he would reply in writing. Nicklin's statement in Parliament was received in silence by the Opposition.
6-11-63 CM p2 editorial four pars (11 sentences) - Call for charges
"How much or how little substance there is in the rumours or gossip Mr. Bennett retailed in Parliament must be probed. It is now Mr. Bennett's duty as a Member of Parliament to supply whatever information he has that would help a public investigation of his charges." If this happened there would have to be a commission because nothing else would satisfy the public.
6-11-63 CM p3 news story 17 pars - Bennett will write reply over police to Premier/CHALLENGE ON NAMES
Bennett said yesterday he would write to the Premier in response to the challenge to make specific charges against police officers. In Parliament the Premier had invited Bennett to give the names of credible witnesses prepared to give first-hand evidence and to show that the people charged were identifiable.
6-11-63 CM p3 news story seven pars - No inquiry...yet
Police Minister Dewar has rejected the Police Union's request for an inquiry into the force until specific charges are made.
6-11-63 Tele p2 editorial seven pars - ATTACKS ON POLICE/STALLING IS NO ANSWER
"Only a full inquiry to establish the facts will end the controversy about certain aspects of Police Force administration. And that inquiry is the Government's responsibility. But the Premier seems to have the extraordinary idea that Mr. Bennett, a member of the Opposition, should conduct a good deal of it himself." Most people would think Bennett has given enough detail. "It is the Government's job to take it from here. Throwing the onus back on its critics may be clever political manoeuvring but to ordinary people it looks like stalling." It is Nicklin's task to clear the air.
6-11-63 Tele p42 news story eight pars - POLICE ISSUE ACTION TALK/CAUCUS TO CONSIDER MOVES
The possibility of the ALP Parliamentary party taking action on the police inquiry issue will be discussed at today's caucus meeting. "The Premier, Mr. Nicklin, in his reply in Parliament yesterday to allegations last week against top police officers by the A.L.P. member for South Brisbane, Mr. C. Bennett, did not involve the Opposition." However, it is possible the A.L.P. Parliamentary party will make a stand as a body.
7-11-63 CM p1 news story 13 pars - Duggan says.../Charges on police sent to Premier
Opposition leader Duggan yesterday handed the Premier allegations concerning the police and asked him what he intended to do about them. Duggan said that on Monday a man had asked to see him regarding allegations against the police. The man had put them in writing.
7-11-63 Tele p2 news story 16 pars - Inquiry on top officers likely/ ALLEGATIONS BEFORE CABINET
An inquiry into allegations against top police officers was likely, Government sources said today. Opposition leader Duggan interviewed a man, asked that his allegations against police be put in writing and then handed them to Premier Nicklin. The man is understood to be prepared to give evidence before an inquiry. Duggan said he did not intend to lend his name or that of the ALP to any allegation which did not involve a written statement.
8-11-63 CM p1 news story 12 pars - CROWN LAW MOVE/Waiter in talk on police
A former National Hotel waiter is understood to have been interviewed yesterday by the Crown Law office in connection with allegations against the police.
8-11-63 Tele p1 news story splash 18 pars - THE POLICE CHARGES/SALESMAN READY TO TESTIFY
David Young, a 32-year-old former National Hotel employee, said he had made a statement to the Solicitor-General about allegations concerning certain aspects of police administration. "A top secret police investigation is going on today about Mr Young's allegations. High-ranking police personally are directing inquiries...A Sydney message today said a top Sydney police investigator was making inquiries to try to provide information from someone who claims to have known Mr Young."
8-11-63 Tele p1 news story seven pars - REPORT TODAY
The Premier is expected to receive a report from Crown Law Office today on the police allegations.
8-11-63 Tele p2 editorial nine pars - STOP THIS HEDGING
"The State Government no longer can dodge its responsibility to order a full and searching public inquiry into allegations that have been made concerning certain aspects of police administration...The next step is for State Cabinet at its meeting on Monday to order an inquiry...The unfortunate cloud of suspicion that has arisen will not be dispersed by pretending it is not there, or claiming it is someone else's responsibility to get rid of it. To be fair to all the people concerned, and to protect the public interests, the facts must be established or refuted on oath. That can be done only at a full-scale inquiry - an open inquiry."
9-11-63 CM p1 news story 14 pars - PREMIER EXPECTS/Report on police ready by Monday
The Premier said he expected to have a Crown Law report on allegations against senior police on Monday for consideration by Cabinet. David Young, a 32-year-old salesman identified himself as the man who had been interviewed by Crown Law. While Crown Law officers were examining his statements "certain top secret police inquiries were being made. It is understood the inquiries, headed by a senior officer, are based on probing the background of a Brisbane man."
9-11-63 CM p1 editorial eight pars (12 sentences) - Inquiry now!
"Only a Royal Commission with widest powers of inquiry can clear the air now...Despite public concern, the Government refused an open inquiry into the allegations on the plea that it wanted more concrete evidence." It now has further evidence. "How can police investigate, to the public satisfaction, matters in which police officers themselves have been accused?"
9-11-63 Tele p1 news story 14 pars - Bennett letter 'next week'
Bennett said details of his allegations would be with the Premier in the middle of next week. "It is understood that Mr. Bennett made his allegations on his own behalf and not on behalf of the Labor Party."
10-11-63 SM p3 news story six pars - Police inquiry may be open
State Cabinet may be closer to the view that an open inquiry, whether a Royal Commission or not, is now needed to 'clear the air' over the Queensland police force. Even some Cabinet Ministers who were earlier against an inquiry feel now that rumours and insinuations have gone too far to be ignored completely.
10-11-63 ST p3 news story 14 pars - HOTEL SCANDAL/New witness fobbed off; ready to tell
A second former night porter has made allegations against senior police. He says that when he outlined his allegations to the Premier's office after the matter had been raised in Parliament, the Premier had fobbed him off. This man's allegations emphasises the urgent need for an immediate Royal Commission. "Until the Government grants an open inquiry the way is left open for anybody with a grudge against the police - imaginary or otherwise - to point the finger publicly at police administration." Many influential Government members claim an open inquiry is essential to allay the growing public concern that all is not well in the force.
10-11-63 ST p3 editorial 13 pars - Senseless view on police case
"Sunday Truth today offers its deepest sympathy to the Queensland Police Commissioner, Mr. Bischof. He has been badly let down by the Queensland Government...By deciding on a Royal Commission with terms of reference limited to the existence of a call girl service and whether Mr. Bischof had knowledge of it, they could have put Mr. Bennett on a spot."
11-11-63 Tele p3 news story 22 pars - LEGAL MAN AT CABINET TALKS/MINISTERS DISCUSS POLICE ALLEGATIONS
Some ministers who were against an inquiry last week are now wavering. The Police Union said it was asking for an inquiry to clear police because the union had nothing to hide or fear from any inquiry.
12-11-63 CM p1 news story splash 19 pars - JUDGE TO INQUIRE INTO CHARGES ON OUR POLICE/Probe is to be 'full and open'
A Royal Commission headed by a judge will investigate allegations about Queensland police. The Premier announced last night there would be a 'full and open inquiry'. Terms of reference will be completed this morning.
12-11-63 CM p1 news story 10 pars - Union call
The Police Union again called for an open inquiry into the police but said it did not have any information which would warrant an inquiry. It wanted to clear the name of the police.
12-11-63 CM p2 editorial five pars - What will be the terms?
The only course open to the Government to be fair to all concerned was to appoint a Royal Commission. "An inquiry of this nature can be useful or limited and frustrating to all concerned according to the terms of reference. All the public can hope is that the Government has been seized with the public concern for an inquiry that will clear the air."
12-11-63 Tele p1 news story splash 16 pars - INQUIRY ORDER ON POLICE/Nicklin sets out 4 terms of reference
Four terms of reference for the Royal Commission into allegations against members of the police were outlined in Parliament today by Premier Nicklin. The inquiry would look into whether any police officer was guilty of breaches in relation to the policing of the National Hotel.
12-11-63 Tele p1 news story three pars - MR JUSTICE GIBBS
The 46-year-old judge spent most of this year engaged on the Sugar Commission inquiry.
12-11-63 Tele p2 news story 16 pars - INQUIRY ON POLICE WITHIN FORTNIGHT/'STOP DESTRUCTION OF CONFIDENCE'
"The Royal Commission to investigate allegations about Queensland police is expected to hold its first sitting within a fortnight." Opposition leader Duggan said he had not had time to study what the Premier had said but it appeared to him that the terms of reference were sufficiently embracing to dispose of the matter one way or another.
12-11-63 Tele p2 editorial five pars - Wide scope is needed
The decision to hold an inquiry is right and proper. But the Government has restricted the terms of reference to one segment of the allegations that have been made. The Premier will need to explain why other matters are to be excluded from the province of the Royal Commission.
13-11-63 CM p1/3 news story 38 pars - POLICE Inquiry is on Dec. 2
The Royal Commission will start on December 2. Mr Justice Gibbs will inquire into allegations made against police in relation to the National Hotel. (Full details of the terms of reference are given). Bennett said last night "he was amazed that the terms of reference were so limited and confined". In Parliament he said he was disgusted that the terms of reference had been limited. He said the Government had not been game to hold a full and open inquiry.
13-11-63 CM p3 news story nine pars - Judge's 2nd commission
For the second time in a year Mr Justice Gibbs has been selected to head a Government-appointed commission of inquiry.
13-11-63 Tele p3 news story 11 pars - Police probe report likely in new year
The Royal Commission findings are expected to be with the Government early in the New Year. The inquiry is expected to last no more than a fortnight.
14-11-63 CM p3 editorial three pars (eight sentences) - Police probe
The open inquiry into the police force will be restricted to the policing of the National Hotel. Bennett complains the terms of reference are not wide enough. He might have got wider terms if he had supplied more evidence. "By giving a Royal Commission specific questions to answer it has taken the quickest way of satisfying the public demand for an investigation that should get the truth."
14-11-63 CM p3 news story 24 pars - Mr. Bennett may give police probe evidence
Bennett said the terms of reference for the inquiry were so confined and limited that it was futile to make submissions. "The A.L.P. Caucus yesterday virtually divorced itself from the Royal Commission. It is understood the matter was not raised at yesterday's weekly meeting - members taking the view that the A.L.P. officially was not involved...It was stated in A.L.P. circles that any action taken by Mr. Bennett would be as an individual." The Carpenters Union said the operations of the secret or political police should be investigated by the commission because there had been breaches of the law.
14-11-63 Tele p3 news story nine pars - 'NO DECISION' ON EVIDENCE/LEGAL ADVICE NOT SOUGHT
Bennett said he had lost a lot of interest in the commission because it only had limited terms of reference. He said that in his 25-minute speech in Parliament only two sentences had dealt with the matter to be investigated by the commission. The rest of his speech had dealt with the force's administration.
15-11-63 CM p1 news story 14 pars - ROYAL COMMISSION MOVE/Police are asking for legal help
At least two detectives have approached the Police Union seeking legal aid in connection with the Royal Commission. In police circles yesterday it was stated that Young had named at least three detectives and two officers. The licensee of the National Hotel said 22 ex-employees had answered an advertisement he had placed asking for former employees to contact him.
16-11-63 CM p1 news story eight pars - Union legal help for Commission
The Police Union will grant legal aid to all members involved in the commission.
17-11-63 SM p10 news story five pars - Barrister help for Bischof
Bischof will be represented by two barristers at the royal commission "into allegations made against members of the Police Force in relation to the National Hotel."
17-11-63 ST p1/2 news story 30 pars - Scandal Inquiry LATEST/GRILLING FOR SECOND MP ON CALL GIRLS!/'THE DOGS ARE BARKING IT' - he claimed in Parliament
Former ALP MP Ted Walsh, now an Independent, told Parliament it was no use Bischof telling the minister things were not happening at the hotel when there was such an abundance of evidence that they were. He said that even the dogs were barking it. Bennett said the terms of reference were so confined in its terms of reference and limited in scope that he had lost interest.
20-11-63 CM p1 news story 13 pars - Police Royal Commission.../PRELIMINARY SITTING ON
A preliminary hearing of the commission will be held today.
21-11-63 CM p1 news story 12 pars - Key witness may be first in probe/ Police inquiry
David Young is likely to be the first witness at the commission, it was indicated at yesterday's preliminary hearing. An application by counsel assisting the inquiry to have National Hotel nominee provide names and addresses of former employees was turned down.
Key point
The allegations from MPs Col Bennett and Ted Walsh, and from two members of the public cast serious doubts on the police force and its leadership. If the commissioner was under attack, it was essential that there should be an independent examination, preferably open, full and wide-ranging, of the force's administration.
Coverage
The Telegraph of October 31 reported that some Government members were advocating an inquiry. Many were disturbed by the allegations. But an inquiry was unlikely unless concrete allegations and evidence were presented. Next day The Courier-Mail reported that police minister Dewar told Parliament he would investigate fully any facts submitted by a member concerning police. It said the police union executive had invited an inquiry. The Telegraph of that day said that on Monday Cabinet would consider demands for an inquiry. It said the police union had written to the minister urging a full and open inquiry and it was confirmed that the commissioner and senior officers would welcome an inquiry. Trades and Labor Council president Jack Egerton said that after serious and consistent allegations an inquiry was needed. In an editorial the paper said the offer of an inquiry from the minister was extremely limited - "something like a fire brigade refusing to fight a fire until it can see naked flames". On November 2 The Courier-Mail editorialised that the charges had to be properly investigated in fairness to the officers concerned and to maintain the public's confidence in the force. In a news story it said the police union had written to the minister asking for a full and open inquiry so that the good name of the police could be established but it was believed the government was unlikely to appoint an inquiry.
Sunday Truth said on November 3 that the government had to order an immediate Royal Commission because the honour and integrity of the commissioner had been attacked and his name had to be cleared. On November 4 a Courier Mail editorial said it was to hoped that the police minister had cancelled a foreign trip because he wanted to have allegations sifted by a searching investigation. The Telegraph of November 4 said most senior members of Cabinet were firmly against an inquiry. The Courier-Mail of November 5 said the Premier was expected to put the onus on the Opposition and the police union to come up with specific evidence against the police. A minority of Cabinet were believed to have been in favour of an immediate inquiry. The Telegraph of that day said the Premier had challenged Bennett to make specific charges. On November 6 The Courier-Mail editorialised that there must be a commission of inquiry but only if Bennett furnished a lot more information. In a news story that day it said the police minister had rejected the police union's request for an inquiry. The Telegraph of that date said: "Only a full inquiry to establish the facts will end the controversy about certain aspects of Police Force administration. And that inquiry is the Government's responsibility." But the Premier seemed to think Bennett should do more, which was stalling. It was up to the Government to take it from here. In a story, the Telegraph said the ALP caucus would discuss the possibility of taking action on the police inquiry issue. The Telegraph said on November 7 that an inquiry was likely and the next day carried another editorial saying the government could no longer dodge its responsibility to order a full and searching public inquiry. It emphasised that the facts had to be established or refuted on oath at a full scale, open inquiry.
On November 9 The Courier-Mail said only a Royal Commission with the widest powers of inquiry could clear the air, and it asked how the police could investigate, to the public satisfaction, matters where fellow police had been accused. Next day The Sunday Mail said in a news story that Cabinet might now be closer to the view that an open inquiry was now needed to clear the air. Sunday Truth said a second man's allegations emphasised the urgent need for an immediate Royal Commission because until the Government arranged an inquiry the way was left open for anybody to point the finger publicly at police administration. Its editorial said that by deciding on a Royal Commission with terms of reference limited to the existence of a call girl service and whether Mr. Bischof had knowledge of it, the Government could have put Mr. Bennett on a spot.
On November 11 the Telegraph said ministers who last week had been against an inquiry were now wavering. The police union explained that it only wanted an inquiry because the union had nothing to hide or fear. News that a full and open Royal Commission would be held was given by The Courier-Mail on November 12. Terms of reference were to be completed later. It repeated that the police union wanted an inquiry to clear the name of the police. In an editorial, the paper said a Royal Commission had been the only course open to the government but the result could be useful or limited and frustrating depending on the terms of reference. The Telegraph of later that day announced the terms of reference would be limited to the National Hotel. Opposition leader Duggan said it appeared the terms of reference were sufficiently embracing. The paper's editorial said the terms of reference restricted the inquiry to one segment of the allegations and the Premier would need to explain why. The Courier-Mail revealed the terms of reference on November 13 and said Bennett was amazed that they were so limited and confined. The Telegraph of that date said the inquiry was expected to last no more than a fortnight.
A Courier Mail editorial on November 14 said that if Bennett had wanted wider terms of reference he should have supplied more evidence. The Government had taken the quickest way to satisfying the demand for an inquiry that should get the truth. On the same day The Courier-Mail reported that Bennett said the terms of reference were so confined and limited that it was futile to make submissions. The ALP caucus had virtually divorced itself from the inquiry but the carpenters' union had called for an extension of its powers. The Telegraph of that day said Bennett had pointed out that in his 25-minute Parliamentary speech only two sentences had mentioned the National Hotel but the terms of reference had been limited to that topic and he had therefore lost a lot of interest. On November 15 The Courier-Mail said at least two detectives had sought legal aid and next day the paper said the police union would grant legal aid to all members involved in the inquiry. Sunday Truth on November 17 reported that Mr Bennett had said the terms of reference were so confined in its terms of reference and limited in scope that he had lost interest.
Appraisal 1
Coverage amounted to 21 news stories and 12 editorials. The call for an inquiry was mentioned by the Telegraph every day from October 31 to November 8, on November 11, 12, 13 and 14. From this point of view it meets the first two of the watchdog criteria. It is the only newspaper to mention that the Trades and Labor Council was adding its voice to those calling for an inquiry. But there is no trace of the newspaper intervening to try to force the ALP and QLP Opposition into calling for an inquiry. The story of November 12 merely recorded Duggan's first impression of the terms of reference. It did not seek the views of others such as lawyers or the council for civil liberties. It did not carry any features or backgrounders. But it did carry three well-focussed editorials, on November 1, 6 and 8, which met another of the watchdog criteria. It then failed to follow-up when pressure was desperately needed to force wider terms of reference necessary for a full and wide-ranging inquiry. It merely carried a passive observation in its editorial of November 12 that the Premier would need to explain why the terms of reference were narrow. The headline - "Wide scope is needed" - was right but the space allotted to the editorial - five paragraphs - failed to denote that this was considered imperative. Having stated that the Premier would need to make an explanation, the Telegraph never returned to demand that he should, or to demand that the terms be widened.
The Courier-Mail mentioned the call for an inquiry every day from November 1-6, 9, 12, 13, 14, 15 and 16 and therefore qualified under the first two watchdog criteria. But again, the paper failed to intervene and force the Opposition to declare itself. And it failed to broaden the debate and add to the pressure by bringing in other organisations and influential people. The paper carried six editorials - on November 2, 4, 6, 9, 12, 14 - which would suggest it had certainly acted as a watchdog for the public. On the first and second occasions the matter was not considered the major issue of the day and received only two paragraphs on both days. The editorial of November 4 mentioned the need for a searching investigation but then went on to complain about members of Parliament shaking public confidence in the force and suggested the investigation was needed to gain publicity for the refutation of the charges. On November 6 the onus was put on Bennett to give more information and if this happened there would have to be an inquiry. But on November 9 it insisted that only a Royal Commission with the widest possible powers would clear the air. Logically, this demand should have formed the basis for its future editorials on the subject.
The editorial of November 12 did not demand but it did point out that narrow terms of reference would make the inquiry limited and frustrating. On November 14, having had its demand for a Royal Commission with the widest possible powers turned down and faced with an inquiry that, in its view would be limited and frustrating, the editorial performed a volte face and said the inquiry would satisfy the public. The Sunday Mail played virtually no role with only two minor stories in this entire period while the Sunday Truth was firmly attached to an establishment that was always right and wanted the reputation of the Commissioner cleared by an inquiry (November 3 editorial), an inquiry to stop people pointing fingers at the police (November 10 story), an inquiry to put Bennett on the spot (November 10 editorial). It was calling for an inquiry but for all the wrong reasons. Nevertheless, it could be argued that a news story and an editorial fulfilled two of the criteria.
Despite the failings of The Courier-Mail and the Telegraph, people who read both newspapers between October 30 and November 14 should have been alerted to the implications of what was unfolding and to the need for an inquiry with wide terms of reference. However, once the narrow terms of reference had been revealed, readers were let down completely. There was no campaign for a widening of the terms.
Key point 2
If the call girl racket was so blatant that even the dogs were barking it, as alleged by Independent MP Ted Walsh, why was the Opposition not doing its job? One of the functions of the Opposition is to oppose the Government where it appears the public interest is not being served. Despite allegations by Opposition MP Col Bennett and independent MP Ted Walsh, and members of the public volunteering to give evidence, the Opposition did not add its weight to demands for a Royal Commission with the widest possible terms of reference.
Key point coverage
The Telegraph of October 31 reported that Liberal Parliamentarian Sir Seymour Tooth had alleged the Opposition was embarrassed by Col Bennett's irresponsible attack. It also reported that Independent MP Walsh had alleged many people knew what was going on at the National Hotel. The Courier-Mail on November 1 repeated Walsh's accusation that news of what was happening at the National Hotel was widespread. The same day, the Telegraph said it was understood the ALP caucus had decided Bennett was not speaking on behalf of the party and one member, Johnno Mann, said he had every confidence in Police Commissioner Frank Bischof. It was reported by the Telegraph on November 5 that Nicklin's statement challenging Bennett to give more details had been received in silence by the Opposition. On November 6 the Telegraph said the ALP caucus would discuss taking action on the police inquiry issue following the Premier's assertion in Parliament that Bennett's allegations were not backed by the Opposition. On November 7 the Telegraph said Opposition Leader Jack Duggan would not put his name or that of the ALP to any allegation which was not put in writing. The Telegraph of November 9 said: "It is understood that Mr. Bennett made his allegations on his own behalf and not on behalf of the Labor Party." Three days later the same newspaper quoted Opposition Leader Duggan as saying he had not had time to study the announcement about the Royal Commission but that it appeared to him that the terms of reference were sufficiently embracing to dispose of the matter. The Courier-Mail on November 14 reported that the ALP caucus had virtually divorced itself from the Royal Commission. The newspaper understood the matter had not been raised at the weekly meeting of caucus, members taking the view that the ALP was not involved and that Bennett was by himself. On November 17 Sunday Truth told how independent Member Ted Walsh was saying there was an abundance of evidence that things were going on at the National Hotel; even the dogs were barking it..
Appraisal 2
The point was referred to in 10 news stories, seven iof them n the Telegraph, two in The Courier-Mail and one in the Sunday Truth. One Telegraph story said the ALP caucus would consider taking action on the police inquiry issue' but there was no evidence of newspapers asking the Opposition for an explanation of why it was not adding its weight to demands for a Royal Commission with the widest possible terms of reference. The lack of action was not referred to in any editorials. However, once the narrow terms of reference had been announced, the Telegraph did corner Opposition Leader Jack Duggan for the first time. Instead of demanding wider terms of reference or complaining, he accepted them. The Telegraph did touch on the point far more often than other newspapers but most of the references were buried and consisted of passive reporting. Readers may well have been left with the impression that the Opposition was correct to ignore the issue and that Col Bennett was, perhaps, being irresponsible. It is argued that the point was not identified and was not highlighted sufficiently to meet the first of the criteria.
General analysis
The prim and proper fifties had made way for the swinging sixties and the Beatles had arrived in the top ten, yet the newspapers only managed one backgrounder on prostitution between them, a coy piece which read as though it was quickly put together and which ran the sort of line crooked police would have used about the rate of assaults being likely to increase if the present system which tolerated some prostitution did not operate. A feature was needed to remind readers of the way in which the brothels had operated until quite recently and had then been closed down. There was room for an analysis of the situation in other Australian cities, with an emphasis on prostitution's relationship to police corruption.
There was no further debate on the terms of reference and no sign of intervention from the media in a watchdog role. The main positive outcome in this issue would have been an inquiry with wide terms of reference. It was not secured.
Sunday Truth had told readers of its relationship with Commissioner Frank Bischof on October 20, 1963, after what it called 'a savage attack' by MP Col Bennett in Parliament on October 15, 1963. Bennett had alleged Bischof was wined and dined at the Majestic Hotel in return for advance information (Hansard, 710) In a large page one feature/leading article Sunday Truth told readers: "The Editor of Sunday Truth, Mr Ray Johnston, Deputy Chief of Staff. Mr Ron Richards, and a well-known Brisbane businessman were dining socially with the Police Commissioner. Both Sunday Truth men have known Mr Bischof for many years, long before he was appointed Commissioner."
An examination of the text of Sunday Truth's reportage of the National Hotel Royal Commission and associated events between October 20, 1963, and May 10, 1964, revealed that after more than six months of almost weekly headlines, the word 'police' was only used three times in headlines:
- on November 10, 1963, to draw attention to a leader which started: "Sunday Truth offers its deepest sympathy to the Queensland Police Commissioner. Mr Frank Bischof. He has been badly let down by the Queensland Government..."
- On April 12, 1964, over a story which started: "Any suggestion of improper conduct by Queensland's Police Commissioner, Mr Frank Bischof, is believed to have been tossed out by National Hotel Royal Commissioner..."
- And on April 19, 1964, to demand that there should be no more criticism of the police.
All three articles featured pro-police views whereas most of the other articles were less favourable to police. The word 'Commissioner' was used only once in a headline, to refer to the judge conducting the inquiry and not to draw attention to the fact that the Police Commissioner was at the heart of serious allegations. The words 'Bischof', 'force', 'corrupt', 'organised crime', 'graft', 'cops', 'bribery', 'extortion' did not appear once in headlines, despite being at the heart of the inquiry. The phrase 'probing the National Hotel' was used in headlines eight times and became a label for the inquiry. The connotation was that the National Hotel was being probed and that this was the central aspect of the inquiry rather than the fact that inquiry was into police behaviour.
Hindsight
Had the dogs been barking details of what had been going on at the National as independent MP Ted Walsh alleged? James (1974) wrote in his introduction: "It does not take long in discussions with Brisbane people to find out that the activities which formed the subject of the enquiry were common knowledge at the time." If it was common knowledge that prostitution was taking place at the hotel and the Commission could not find, or ignored, evidence that this was the case, it should have occurred to the media that there might have been some sort of conspiracy to whitewash the truth. Coverage of the inquiry was passive. In August 1964 when the report of the Royal Commission was tabled in Parliament it was stamped "NOT ordered to be printed". Newspapers ignored the event. Stories that the police had been found 'not guilty' had been given to newspapers in April. Despite the fact that the report did contain some adverse findings and there was much in it worth dissection and discussion, it was accepted without question by Parliament and the media. Fitzgerald (1989: 33) pointed out that corruption in the section of the Police Force responsible for policing licensed premises and prostitution 'was in full swing' at the time of the Royal Commission and that many of the officers represented by counsel at the Royal Commission were again the subject of allegations before the Fitzgerald Inquiry.
The failure of the media and others to expose the corruption or to obtain wider terms of reference for the Royal Commission condemned Queensland to worsening police corruption for more than 20 years.
CHAPTER !! - VIPs ATTEND ILLEGAL CASINO
Background
Newspapers frequently alluded to illegal casinos and illegal starting price bookmaking operations being freely available. A question that the media might have asked was: why and how were they allowed to flourish? On October 1, 1967, came news of an alleged large casino on the Gold Coast.
Coverage
1-10-67 ST p3 news story 12 pars - 'IT'S BIG BACCARAT ON COAST'
"State President of the Queensland Trades and Labor Council, Mr. J. Egerton, last night made the startling allegation that the biggest baccarat game Queensland has known opened at Surfers Paradise on Friday night." 'There was $80,000 on the table at one time,' Mr Egerton said. 'A cavalcade of cars left Brisbane to attend the opening. In this cavalcade were some very prominent people. I know a lot more details about the game and where it was played, but I am not revealing them at this stage.' Queensland police over the last couple of years have conducted several raids on baccarat schools. They have smashed into premises and made many arrests. Mr Egerton said he expected the matter to be raised in Parliament.
Key point
If very prominent people were prepared to travel from Brisbane to the Gold Coast to an illegal casino it is reasonable to conclude that they must have had some belief or understanding that they were not going to be arrested and suffer a fine and possible adverse publicity. That belief or understanding could not have come about as the result of a constable giving vague promises. It is probable that people would have been led to believe or understand that a blind eye was being turned at a reasonably senior level.
Coverage
This is the only story that appeared.
Appraisal
Sunday Truth did not focus on the key point.
General analysis/hindsight
No newspaper reported on the lack of questions in the House. There was no evidence that any newspaper asked Egerton about all the other details he said he had. There was no evidence that any newspaper asked the Premier, the police commissioner or anyone else about the implications. Sunday Truth at least broke the story but then failed completely to follow it up. The story contained pro-establishment, unattributed positive coverage of action the police force was supposed to have taken against illegal gaming clubs which was likely to have been the 'police line' fed to police roundsmen. It was not an accurate assessment of the situation in South East Queensland as it existed in this period when on one occasion Police Commissioner Frank Bischof himself was said to have prevented a proposed undercover operation to apprehend the principal responsible for illegal baccarat games (Fitzgerald, 1979: 32).
CHAPTER 12 - THE PREMIER'S OIL SHARES
Background
At the start of 1969 new Premier Joh Bjelke-Petersen had yet to convince some portions of his own Country Party that he was the leader they were looking for. 'Honest' Frank Nicklin was still revered by Country Party supporters, having been premier from 1957 until January 1968. Nicklin had insisted that his ministers should not hold oil shares because, he said, it was important that there should be no doubt in the public's mind about ministers' integrity. A State election was now due in the next few months. In the last week of February the Opposition let it be known it was working on a major revelation about the Government. On March 1 Opposition leader Jack Houston accused the Premier of using deceit to acquire 'fabulous wealth' from oil share transactions. Houston said the Premier had been aware that departmental practice forbade the transfer of petroleum prospecting authorities for other than a nominal consideration. But in 1959, just over a month after having obtained an authority, he had signed a contract with an American company to transfer his interest for a nominal $4 and then to sell 51 per cent of his shares in it for $25,300. He had been a Member of Parliament at the time and had been a partner of Mines Minister Ernie Evans in oil exploration. As the story developed it became clear that the Premier had shares in an oil exploration company that had allegedly applied for oil exploration rights off the Queensland coast, perhaps on the Great Barrier Reef.
The issue gained its first coverage on March 1, 1969, and petered out on March 23, having attracted 48 stories, two backgrounders, four columns, five editorials, a cartoon, seven letters and an advertisement.
Coverage
1-3-69 CM p1 news story splash 16 pars - MYSTERY RECALL FOR HOUSTON FROM POLL TOUR/Shock forecast
Opposition leader Houston dramatically cancelled the final stage of his electorate tour yesterday when he was recalled urgently to Brisbane on important party business. He is expected to make a shock announcement in which the name of at least one senior minister would appear.
1-3-69 Tele p1 news story splash 27 pars - CLAIM ON MINISTER /A.L.P. PLANS BOMBSHELL
A senior State minister will be named in a bombshell announcement by Opposition leader Houston late today. "The Labor Party hopes the announcement will force the Government to set up a Royal Commission to inquire into the claims to be made by Mr. Houston." Houston's statement follows intensive research by the ALP of a High Court judgement, company reports and other documents.
1-3-69 Tele special edition p1/2 news story splash 41 pars - PREMIER ACCUSED/ALLEGATION BY HOUSTON
Opposition leader Houston accused the Premier of being a party to profitable dealings involving a Queensland oil search authority. Premier Bjelke-Petersen said this was just another accusation in a long series of smears against his ability and integrity. He denied the accusations. An authority to search for oil near Hughenden was granted to National Party MP Bjelke-Petersen on April 25, 1959, by Ernie Evans, once his partner in oil searching and now the National Party Mines Minister. Houston said: 'The Premier was aware that departmental practice forbids the transfer of petroleum prospecting authorities for other than a nominal consideration.' On May 25, 1959, just over a month after having obtained the authority he signed a contract with an American company to transfer his interest for a nominal $4 and then to sell 51 per cent of his shares in it for $25,300. "He well knew that the true value of the authority was $49,608 and that he would receive this value if the transfer was approved. Also on May 25 he incorporated a company in which he owned all the shares and was the sole director. On May 26 he asked for the Minister's consent to the transfer of the authority to the company for $4. Consent was given on June 1. But five days earlier Bjelke-Petersen had announced at a meeting of his company he was satisfied the inherent value was $49,608. Bjelke-Petersen ended up with more than $28,000 plus a 49 per cent interest in the company which held the authority. In 1962 Exoil No Liability was formed and made a public issue, one object being to acquire the interest in the prospecting authority of the company Bjelke-Petersen had formed in 1959. For this the Premier's company was to receive $500,000, payable on certain terms. His shares by the end of the 1967/68 financial year were worth $720,000.
2-3-69 ST p1/2 news story splash 45 pars - Grave claims on oil deals/PREMIER ACCUSED/$4 into 'fabulous wealth'/'Trafficking proviso ignored'/'Enormous gain made'
"The Leader of the Opposition, Mr. Jack Houston, yesterday accused the Premier, Mr. Bjelke-Petersen, of having turned $4 into fabulous wealth by deceiving the State Government in a private deal on oil exploration in Queensland." The Premier had used a prospecting authority and had deceived the Mines Minister in order to make these enormous profits. A week of intensive investigation by top-ranking ALP members, bolstered by a team of top-level lawyers and accountants, amassed more than 100 pages of documents relating to the Premier's business and financial activities. (Details as in Telegraph report followed.) "This code of behaviour does not inspire confidence in the integrity of the man who seeks to remain Premier of this State.
2-3-69 ST p9 news story 37 pars - BACKGROUND ON BJELKE-PETERSEN/A prospect authority valued at only $4
"The authority was issued to him on April 22, 1959, and carried a clause in accordance with Mines Department policy to prevent trading in authorities to prospect...Mr. Bjelke-Petersen became the only director, and reported that he was willing to sell his authority to prospect to Artesian Basin for a nominal $4. He said the assignment of the authority to the company could only be made with the approval of the Minister for Mines, and the Minister would not consent to more than a nominal payment." Mr Justice Taylor said in his judgement of Bjelke-Petersen's tax appeal that the revaluation and transaction of shares was a simple method of circumventing the departmental practice.
2-3-69 ST p9 news story 17 pars - OIL SHARES INVOLVE HUGE SUMS
"On December 24, 1963 about the time Mr. Bjelke-Petersen first entered Cabinet - Artesian Basin advised that he had resigned his directorship and that Florence Isabel Bjelke-Petersen, of Bethany, Kingaroy, had been appointed a director."
2-3-69 ST p9 news story five pars - 'I have done nothing wrong'
Premier Bjelke-Petersen said he had done nothing wrong and had nothing to fear.
2-3-69 SM p1 news story splash 13 pars - A.L.P. ACCUSES PREMIER ON HIS OIL DEALS/He defends them
"State Opposition Leader (Mr. Houston) yesterday accused the Premier (Mr. Bjelke-Petersen) of using deceit to acquire 'fabulous wealth' from oil share transactions." Houston claimed a mining deal which started in 1959 with a 'consideration' of $4 by Bjelke-Petersen had mushroomed so that by last June a company formed by the Premier held shares valued at $720,000 in Exoil No Liability. Houston read his eight-page accusation while ALP officials handed out manila folders of photostat documents referring to the activities of a company called Artesian Basin Oil Company Pty Ltd formed by the Premier in May 1959. "After he read the accusation, Mr. Houston would make no further comment. The Deputy Premier and State Liberal Party Leader (Mr Chalk) in Toowoomba yesterday said there was no mention at any official level of the Premier's share dealings."
2-3-69 SM p1/2 news story 44 pars - This is the text of the A.L.P. charge
"The authority was issued to him on April 20, 1959...The Premier was aware departmental practice, designed to protect the public interest in precluding trafficking of such authorities, forbids the transfer of petroleum prospecting authorities for other than a nominal consideration. In this case the now Premier used this prospecting authority, without himself undertaking any oil search exploration, to make enormous profit. To do this it was necessary for him to deceive the Minister and the Mines Department."
2-3-69 SM p1/2 news story 27 pars - 'I've nothing to hide'/The Premier's reply
Premier Bjelke-Petersen said he had nothing to fear from any investigation. "There is absolutely nothing to hide - all my interests and activities have always been out in the open for everyone to see and know," he said.
2-3-69 SM p1 news story eight pars - ...Documents they showed
Documents released by the ALP included: a High Court of Australia Law Report of Bjelke-Petersen v the Federal Commissioner of Taxation in October 1962 over a tax assessment on £12,450 paid to Bjelke-Petersen in June 1959 by Lucky Strike Drilling Co.; a Parliamentary answer on the mining interests held by Bjelke-Petersen when the Mines Minister was Evans; answers to two more Parliamentary questions in 1967 and 1968 on the business holdings of ministers.
2-3-69 SM p1 news backgrounder eight pars - 24 Hrs. of drama, 1000 miles away
The Premier was tipped off late on Friday that the ALP was likely to make allegations against him.
2-3-69 SM p21 column nine pars - What will it mean?
"Well, after all that razzmatazz, I still don't know whether the Labor Party yesterday produced anything that will cause serious harm to the Premier's political career. The A.L.P. charge seems to be that while operating within the letter of the law, Mr Bjelke-Petersen deceived a political colleague and made a lot of money."
3-3-69 CM p1 news story splash 26 pars - PREMIER TO GIVE FULL OIL FACTS/Cheap political hoax, he says
Premier Bjelke-Petersen said a complete list of his dealings in the formation of Exoil No Liability would be included in a statement to be issued by his solicitors this week. The Premier said he had not discounted taking legal action against Houston. He said it did not matter to the Mines Department whose name appeared on the authority to prospect as long as an undertaking was given to explore for oil.
3-3-69 CM p1 political backgrounder 15 pars - There could be an earlier poll
The Opposition's allegations could lead to an earlier election than June 7, which had been the likely date.
3-3-69 CM p1 news story 14 pars - Strong action - A.L.P. aim
Opposition leader Houston said he would recommend strong action when his parliamentary executive met today to discuss the Premier's oil dealings. "'The Premier claims his affairs are fully open and public yet only last night Mr. Chalk, his Deputy Premier and the State Liberal Leader, inferred that he knew nothing of the share dealings,' Mr Houston said...'It is a reflection on the principles of the parliamentary system. Members of Parliament are not elected to secure authorities or favours from their own government and then to profit handsomely from deceit,' he said."
3-3-69 CM p3 news story 24 pars - FROM PAGE ONE/Attacks a diversion - Premier
The Premier said the ALP had made its attack as a smokescreen for its opposition to aid for independent schools.
3-3-69 CM p2 editorial 11 pars (16 sentences) - The accusation against Premier
The attack by the Opposition on the Premier is not the bombshell it hoped for and is not even a real expose. "The main charge - in fact the only real charge - made against the Premier is that in 1959 Mr. Bjelke-Petersen was guilty of using deceit to acquire 'fabulous wealth from oil share transactions.'...Mr Houston should recognise that most people who make commercial transactions do so to make profits, and that there is nothing dirty about this."
3-3-69 Tele p1 news story splash 28 pars - NO, SAYS THE PREMIER/..on probe or resignation
The Premier said today he would not resign and there would be no investigation into his oil dealings. Houston said in any other democracy a minister would be relieved of his portfolio until events found him either innocent or guilty. A High Court judge had described how Bjelke-Petersen's dealings were a "simple method of circumventing the departmental practice".
3-3-69 Tele p2 news story 15 pars - Details of Exoil share holding
4-3-69 CM p1 news story splash 34 pars - RESIGN-ALP CALL TO PREMIER ON OIL DEAL/Parliament bid/'A $4 transfer'/'Wake-up' time
Opposition leader Houston last night demanded the immediate resignation of the Premier and the urgent recall of Parliament. He called for the subpoenaing of all relevant documents. The ALP is asking: 'Does the Premier deny that, having first obtained a written agreement from an American company which valued this prospecting authority at $49,508, on the same day he wilfully and deliberately misled the Mines Minister of the day by stating that he valued the authority to prospect at $4?...Does the Premier deny that he has a large financial holding in a company that had had dealings with a Government of which he has been a senior member?'
4-3-69 CM p1 news story 10 pars - Share holdings
The share register of Exoil No Liability shows Bjelke-Petersen holding 33,000 shares.
4-3-69 CM p2 cartoon
Houston with his oil deal allegations is seen pouring a large quantity of oil on to an expanse of water on which the C.P. boat carries the Premier who is holding a notice saying 'NO inquiry, NO resigning, NO calling together of Parliament' and is saying 'Messy - but you'll never make it stick!' In the background, watching, are two figures in the Lib boat.
4-3-69 Tele p1/2 news story splash 23 pars- PREMIER SEES LAWYERS/Statement to be issued/Exoil bid for sea leases
The ALP is demanding the recall of Parliament over the oil shares issue. A statement said the Governor must not allow the present Government to extend the adjournment of Parliament beyond the existing date of March 11. Mines Minister Camm said telegrams would be sent to the successful applicants for (offshore) drilling leases and their names would be released later today. In 1967 Exoil had announced it would be seeking such leases. The Premier was still a large shareholder.
5-3-69 CM p1/3 news story splash 52 pars - PREMIER ANSWERS OIL DEAL CHARGE BY A.L.P./'FOLLOWED MINES DEPT. PRACTICE'/Cabinet accepts reply
Premier Bjelke-Petersen said last night he had followed accepted Mines Department practice in the transfer of an authority to prospect. He said Cabinet had accepted his reply unanimously and had expressed confidence in him. "I was aware that it was necessary to obtain Ministerial approval to the transfer of the authority to prospect. The consideration paid by the Company was the sum of $4. The transfer was duly stamped and the consideration was correctly stated. It is quite incorrect to say that I misled the Minister for Mines by stating that I valued the authority to prospect No 69P at $4. I simply applied for consent to the transfer from myself to a Company wholly owned by me for a consideration of $4...By reason of the Department's policy I believed that the authority to prospect could not be sold as such for other than a nominal consideration and in fact it was sold for a nominal consideration. However, the willingness of Lucky Strike Drilling Company with its financial resources and technical know-how to come into the company as a partner gave the authority to prospect an enhanced value as an asset of the company."
5-3-69 CM p2 editorial 11 pars - Premier's side of the story
"The Premier (Mr. Bjelke-Petersen) has given a reasoned and detailed explanation...Mr. Bjelke-Petersen has made the strong point that the $25,300 which he received for a 51 per cent shareholding in the company to which he transferred the prospecting authority represented a return for the money and time he had put into oil exploration over the years. In his words it would have been absurd for him to have admitted an American oil company to participate in the results of his efforts over the years without some compensation. Other major points he has made...are his clearly sincere belief that the transfer of the lease for a nominal consideration met the Department's requirements...He appears to have conformed to fairly standard mining practices..."
5-3-69 CM p3 news story 13 pars - Premier's attitude 'disgusts' Houston
Opposition leader Houston said no democracy could exist where a Premier, when charged, could be his own judge and jury and declare himself innocent. While he was Premier, Exoil had applied for a valuable off-shore drilling concession. "We believe Mr. Bjelke-Petersen's half a million shareholding makes it impossible for him and his Cabinet to make an impartial decision on this matter."
5-3-69 Tele p3 news story 18 pars - 'WHOLE MATTER IS FINISHED' /PREMIER TO KEEP STOCK
The Premier announced today he will keep his oil shares. And he said as far as he was concerned the matter was finished. "The delay in the announcement of the successful applicants for Queensland offshore oil drilling prospecting authorities has heightened the interest of financial circles. At 1pm yesterday the Mines Minister, Mr. Camm, said the successful applicants would be notified late yesterday and their names announced. But three hours later at a news conference the Premier said names would not be released immediately." Today Mr. Camm said it had been intended to notify successful applicants but this had now been changed.
5-3-69 Tele p3 news story 22 pars - Houston challenged
Opposition leader Houston said a democracy could not survive if when a premier is charged he becomes his own judge and jury. Houston said that on March 15, 1962, Premier Nicklin had advised his ministers not to invest in oil shares.
5-3-69 Tele p34 news story 34 pars - Premier's statement
The Premier said he had done nothing illegal. He said there had been many other deals which involved the transfer of an authority to search for oil and he gave details of two such deals. He said that after he had obtained the authority (April 25) he personally made a complete survey of the 57,900 square mile area flying his own plane. During this time he had endeavoured to interest business friends in supporting him financially. At this time a Gene Goff had approached him and they agreed on the business deal which went through on May 25.
6-3-69 CM p3 news story 11 pars - Exoil 'writes off' hopes for lease
Directors of Exoil N.L. are believed to have 'written off' all chances of winning an offshore petroleum lease since revelation of the Premier's interest in the company. Exoil had applied for only one block, in the Gulf of Papua. A shareholder told the newspaper: "Regardless of the quality of our tender it would not be politically possible for Exoil now to be awarded a lease, because of Exoil's association with the Premier."
6-3-69 CM p3 news story eight pars - Gulf oil decision to be delayed
No announcement about off-shore oil lease tenders would be made for some time, Mines Minister Camm said last night. Earlier this year the minister said the winners would be announced early this month.
6-3-69 CM p3 news story 15 pars - Premier accused over tax return
The Queensland Premier was accused in the Senate late last night of having submitted a tax return for £140-3-9 which should have read £14,039. Senator Keefe said that Bjelke-Petersen had later made a lot of money out of a company in which his sole investment had been $4 and in which he had spent about $170.
6-3-69 CM p7 news story 19 pars - Conscience is clear on oil deal - Premier
Premier Bjelke-Petersen said yesterday his conscience was clear on his oil transactions and he felt sure that people had accepted his explanation.
6-3-69 CM p7 news story eight pars - ...'I will not sell'
Premier Bjelke-Petersen said he saw no reason at present why he should sell his Exoil shares. "He said that as Premier he would have nothing to do with policy or decisions affecting any application by Exoil for offshore leases...Offshore leases were determined in conjunction by Commonwealth and State officials."
6-3-69 CM p7 news story 11 pars - NOBODY FOOLED SAYS HOUSTON
Opposition leader Houston said the Premier was operating on dual standards. The Premier had insisted on the transfer from the pawnbroking squad of two policemen when it was discovered that their wives had shares in a pawnbroking business. "'But he now says he will not dispose of his half million shares. Apparently, he considers that the high principles of former Premier (Sir Frank Nicklin) who decreed that all his Ministers should dispose of all oil shares during their terms of office do not apply to him.'" He said the Premier had tried to justify his profits by saying they were a reward for time and effort he had put into research. "'But Mr Bjelke-Petersen never produced any oil. The Queensland people would be pardoned for thinking that an unsuccessful oil prospector would be losing money, not making huge amounts as the Premier has done. Those who have had a small flutter on the oil market - and there are many thousands of them - know they have to risk their money. But Mr Bjelke-Petersen not only never risked anything, but turned a $4 concession given to him by his Government into an investment valued at $720,000.'"
6-3-69 CM p7 news story 11 pars - Claim on oil lease
Senator George Georges alleged in the Senate last night that Exoil N.L. had been granted an off-shore lease for exploratory work on the Great Barrier Reef effective from September 1 last year. It had been signed by the Queensland Mines Minister Camm.
6-3-69 CM p7 news story one par - Back Houston
Queensland Trades and Labor Council is backing the Opposition's call for the Premier to resign.
6-3-69 Tele p3 news story NEW ATTACK ON PREMIER/'RISK REEF FOR GAIN' SAYS MHR
For personal gain the Queensland Premier wanted to take an oil exploration company with which he was associated on to the Great Barrier Reef, Labor MP Manfred Cross said today. The Premier was a major shareholder in a consortium that had sought a glamour drilling lease on the reef. If it had not been for Mr Houston the Premier would have extended his oil empire on to the reef.
6-3-69 Tele p3 news story £140-3-9 in taxes return 'an error'
The Premier's 1959 tax return of £140-3-9 had been a typing error and should have read £14,039, said Mr Bjelke-Petersen.
7-3-69 CM p2 editorial eight pars (15 sentences) - The Premier and his oil shares
The criticism of the Premier's shareholding in Exoil N.L. has a political rather than legal basis. The law does not exclude the right of Ministers to hold shares in public companies that do business with the Crown as long as this is not connected with the discharge of public office. "The Premier's shareholding fully complies with these principles." In March 1962 Premier Nicklin asked his ministers to refrain from investing in oil shares. Nicklin's request would have applied to Bjelke-Petersen when he became a Minister the following year. "...it would seem that Mr. Bjelke-Petersen interpreted this request as not applying to oil shares he already held." As Premier he became responsible for all portfolios. "It is a sound general principle that the head of a Government should not have a major shareholding in a company which does business with the Government."
7-3-69 CM p11 news story 15 pars - Lawyer unable to see Mines Dept. records
Mines Minister Camm had refused access to records involving the Premier and the Mines Department, said a solicitor yesterday. Information on prospecting authorities in which the Premier held an interest were said to be not available for inspection. The department was told the Premier had said he had nothing to hide but this made no difference. The department was asked by a solicitor acting for the ALP "for information on departmental practices relating to the transfer of authorities to prospect but again I was told that no information concerning such departmental practices would be furnished".
7-3-69 CM p11 news story 24 pars - South-West rally heartening to Premier
Welcoming the Premier to St Joseph's Convent, Texas, Father V. Maher said: 'The Premier is a man of fine Christian principle.' The Country Party has decided to present the Premier as one of the first in the field in oil exploration and as a man who has risked a considerable sum of money in it.
7-3-69 CM p11 news story seven pars - 'A planned vendetta'
The Premier said his accountants had made an obvious mistake with the final amount of one of his tax returns and this had been immediately corrected. This mistake had been raised as part of an ALP vendetta against him.
7-3-69 CM p11 news story three pars - Intervene call by A.L.P. man
The Federal Government was urged by the ALP's Manfred Cross to tell the Premier and his Cabinet that the Federal Government would not allow them to explore for oil on the Great Barrier Reef.
7-3-69 Tele p1 splash news story 17 pars - NEW ATTACKS EXPECTED/Premier charges A.L.P.
The Premier forecast more attacks from the ALP. He said he had nothing to hide.
7-3-69 Tele p5 news story 15 pars - Ridiculous claim, states Premier
The Premier said he was only a shareholder in an oil company and had no say in applying for a lease on the reef.
8-3-69 CM p2 letter five pars - 'Cowardly'
A. Sewell wrote to say the Premier struck him as an honest man who was suffering a cowardly attack.
8-3-69 CM p2 letter six pars - Good reference
G. Hagemann wrote to say Houston had given the Premier a very good business reference.
8-3-69 CM p2 letter three pars - 'Surprising'
K. Heylin wrote to say that it was surprising that members of a Government which formulates policy regulating usage of our natural resources should also be engaged in its private development. The Premier had shown a grave lack of foresight.
8-3-69 CM p2 letter three pars - Foresight
F.J. Markwell wrote to say how blessed we are to have such an enterprising Premier.
8-3-69 CM p2 letter six pars - A mouthpiece
P. J. Venning wrote to say the Premier had failed Queensland.
8-3-69 CM p2 column six pars - Qld. Premier
"...the general feeling here among Government as well as Labor MPs is that any Minister of the Crown is foolish to have major holdings in companies which his portfolio could appear (and the emphasis is on "appear") to influence...a common-sense rule has prevailed since the days of Sir Robert Menzies that no Minister has major, if any, share holdings in companies that could be affected by his own portfolio."
8-3-69 CM p3 news story nine pars - Qld. needs integrity not mudslinging: Employers
"Trades Hall propagandists directing the A.L.P. State election campaign had embarked on an orgy of mudslinging directed mainly at the Premier," said Queensland Employers Federation director J. R. James. He said the Premier's record was one of responsibility and integrity.
8-3-69 CM p3 news story 14 pars - Not frightened by Labor attack
The Premier said it was hard to be criticised falsely when he had been trying to encourage development, including oil exploration.
8-3-69 CM p3 news story 11 pars - Premier: I won't bow
The Premier was applauded by businessmen yesterday when he said he wouldn't bow to completely unjust, untrue and malicious allegations regarding his oil dealings.
8-3-69 CM p11 news story 13 pars - Only embargo is on files, Camm says
Mines Minister Camm said there was no embargo on the release of information which was legally and properly available to any person.
8-3-69 CM p11 news story six pars - Currie: Not secretive
Mr Currie, the solicitor acting for the ALP, disputed Mr Camm's statement.
9-3-69 ST p2 advertisement 20 pars - JO PETERSEN REPORTS
"I challenge Houston to deny that he played a puppet's part in the A.L.P. slander against me...Why is the Q.C.E. so desperate? Why is it using this characteristic Communist technique of slandering the leader in an effort to bring down the Government?...Houston said on TV that he opposed Ministers holding any shares at all. Presumably, in principle, he also means property...Is he so naive that he believes misconduct could long go undetected in this age of intense public scrutiny and the increasingly rigid safeguards built into administrative practice."
9-3-69 SM p10 news story 14 pars - Premier: 'I said no to Mines job'
"The Premier (Mr Bjelke-Petersen) revealed yesterday he had rejected the Mines Ministry under the Nicklin Government because of his oil shareholdings. Mr Bjelke-Petersen said he had been offered the Mines and Main Roads portfolio in 1965 but told Sir Francis Nicklin - then State Premier - he felt he should not accept. 'I was offered the portfolio when Ernie Evans died but I told Frank Nicklin about my Exoil interests and said I really shouldn't be Mines Minister,' the Premier said...Mr. Bjelke-Petersen cited his refusal of the Mines and Main Roads ministry as an example of his good faith in his oil interests." "Queensland ALP secretary Tom Burns said: 'The issue at stake was the Great Barrier Reef and we saved it from intrusion by people who wanted to drill for oil and risk its great tourist potential...The Premier demands that Queenslanders allow him the special position of holding massive amounts of shares in a company that has regular dealings with his own Government.'"
9-3-69 SM p31 column five pars - Hoffmann affair
"Of the two big political stories of the past week or so, only one, the 'Hoffmann affair' still holds any interest for me and I doubt whether my curiosity about it will ever be satisfied. The other, Mr. Houston's attempt to blacken the name of the Queensland Premier over some pretty fancy, very profitable and undoubtedly legal financial dealings, is over and done with. A flop."
10-3-69 Tele p4 news story 16 pars - SHARES A LIKELY POLL ISSUE
The right of ministers to hold shares in public companies may become an election issue. Opposition leader Houston said the Premier wanted he and his ministers to be free to hold shares in companies that had active dealings with his government. This situation had been unacceptable to Menzies, Holt, Gorton, Nicklin and British PM Wilson.
16-3-69 SM p31 letter four pars - ALP has lost a supporter
An ex-ALP supporter from Richmond wrote to say that after supporting the party for 20 years he was bowing out because of the party's attack on the Premier.
19-3-69 CM p2 editorial six pars - Deck is cleared for election
(An appraisal of the forthcoming election campaign makes no mention of the oil share allegations)
19-3-69 CM p2 editorial five pars - Reef oil drilling
There must be no drilling near the Great Barrier Reef unless it is known for certain that there would be no ill effects.
23-3-69 ST p3 news story eight pars - Pamphlet stirs up oil issue
The Labor Party has distributed 100,000 pamphlets about the Premier's oil dealings. The pamphlet says: "We learned that Exoil No Liability, the company in which the Premier has vast shareholdings, had formed a consortium and was one of the applicants for the glamour Reef lease."
23-3-69 ST p9 column 31 pars - OIL ROW A PIPE OPENER/Election could explode
The oil deal allegations have become rather quiet. "Whatever its merits as an election blow, it has not up to the present been well handled by Labor. The release came too early, and even Labor headquarters have been left with the uneasy feeling that many of its own politicians did not have the heart in the job of pushing it...Many northerners see Mr. Houston as having saved the Barrier Reef from oil drillers as a result of his statement on the oil shares. Successful applicants for drilling leases on the Reef were about to be announced by the State Government when the shares controversy broke. But announcement of the allocation of leases has now been deferred indefinitely, and the Federal Government has announced that no drilling will be permitted until the safety of the Reef has been investigated."
23-3-69 SM p27 letter four pars - Ministers in commerce
ExLib-C.P., N. McClelland, wrote to say: 'Sir Frank Nicklin urged his ministers to divest themselves of interests in companies dealing with the Government...A Federal Minister recently gave up his financial interests on promotion; there is an important principle involved. In my opinion there is a real danger in close association of ministers with commerce."
Key point 1
What precisely was it that Premier Joh Bjelke-Petersen was alleged to have done - broken the law, broken regulations or merely ignored unwritten practice in declaring that he was transferring his interest in the prospecting authority for $4 when the transfer did, in fact, bring him a large amount of money? There was a major difference between the Premir breaking the law and behaving, at worst, unethically.
Key point coverage
This point was mentioned in seven news stories, two editorials and a column. The Telegraph of March 1 quoted Opposition Leader Jack Houston as saying that Premier Joh Bjelke-Petersen had been aware that departmental practice forbade the practice of transferring the authority for more than a nominal amount. Next day the Sunday Truth said that the authority had carried a clause to prevent trading in prospecting authorities. Assignment of the authority could only be made with the approval of the mines minister for a nominal sum. Mr Justice Taylor had said in a tax case judgement that Bjelke-Petersen business deal had been a simple method of circumventing the departmental practice. The Sunday Mail on the same day carried the text of the ALP release which said Bjelke-Petersen had been aware departmental practice forbade the transfer of authorities for other than a nominal consideration: he had deceived the mines minister. The Sunday Mail editorial sums up the ALP charge as being that the Premier had operated within the letter of the law.
On March 3 a Courier Mail editorial said the only real charge was that the Premier had used deceit to make money. On March 4 The Courier-Mail said the Opposition was asking if the Premier denied wilfully and deliberately misleading the mines minister. The Premier's response was carried in The Courier-Mail of March 5. He said that under the department's policy he had believed that the authority to prospect could not be sold as such for other than a nominal consideration. In the Telegraph of that date the Premier said he had done nothing illegal. But he admitted he believed at the time that the authority to prospect could not be sold as such for other than a nominal consideration. On March 7 The Courier-Mail reported that a lawyer acting for the Opposition had been refused information on departmental practices relating to the transfer of authorities to prospect. A Sunday Mail columnist commented on March 9 that the Premier's dealings had been 'undoubtedly legal'.
Appraisal 1
Not one newspaper seems to have asked, or found out, whether Bjelke-Petersen had broken the law, a regulation or merely an unwritten code of practice. The closest anyone seems to have gone to finding out exactly what could or could not be done with an authority to prospect was the Opposition lawyer who had been turned away empty handed.
Key point 2
If Exoil, the oil exploration company in which the Premier had a considerable investment, had sought a licence to explore off-shore as alleged, had the matter been discussed by Cabinet and, if so, had the Premier declared his interest?
Key point coverage
On March 2 The Sunday Mail quoted Deputy Premier Gordon Chalk as saying there was no mention at any official level of the Premier's share dealings. The Courier-Mail on March 4 carried Opposition Leader Jack Houston's challenge to the Premier, asking him to deny he had a large financial holding in a company which had had dealings with his Government. The same day, the Telegraph reported how Mines Minister Ron Camm said telegrams would be sent to the successful applicants for (offshore) drilling leases and their names would be released later that day. It reminded readers that in 1967 Exoil had announced it would be seeking such leases and that the Premier was still a large shareholder. The Telegraph on March 5 referred to the State Government being involved in the naming of successful applicants for Queensland offshore oil drilling prospecting authorities. The Courier-Mail of March 5 reported near the end of its story that according to the Opposition leader Exoil had applied for a valuable offshore drilling concession while Bjelke-Petersen was Premier. It quoted Opposition Leader Houston saying: "We believe Mr. Bjelke-Petersen's half a million shareholding makes it impossible for him and his Cabinet to make an impartial decision on this matter."
The Courier-Mail of March 6 said that according to Exoil directors the company had applied for a lease in the Gulf of Papua but the Premier had said he would have nothing to do with policy or decisions affecting any application by Exoil. The same edition carried a story from a senator alleging Exoil had been granted a lease by the mines minister the year before for work on the Great Barrier Reef. The Telegraph later that day expanded on the senator's allegations, saying that for personal gain the Premier had wanted to take an oil company with which he was associated on to the Great Barrier Reef. On March 7 the Telegraph reported the Premier as saying he was only a shareholder in an oil company and had no say in applying for a lease on the reef. The Sunday Mail on March 9 quoted the Opposition's Tom Burns saying that the Premier had demanded that Queenslanders should allow him the special position of holding massive amounts of shares in a company that had regular dealings with his own government. The same story reported Bjelke-Petersen had turned down the Mines Ministry under Nicklin because of his oil shares. On March 23 Sunday Truth said an ALP pamphlet alleged that Exoil had formed a consortium and was one of the applicants for a reef lease.
Appraisal 2
The point was touched on in nine news stories. No newspaper included this point in an editorial, column or feature. There is no mention in the articles of any questions being asked about whether or not this matter would have gone to Cabinet or Executive Council and, if it had, whether or not the Premier had been involved. There is no evidence that the question was put to the Liberal leader. Bjelke-Petersen's admission in The Sunday Mail of March 9 that he realised he should not take the mines ministry because of a conflict of interest should have started questions about why there was any less conflict now he was Premier. But it did not.
General analysis
No newspaper harked back to the Evans allegations of 1962 and the revelations contained in Nation which explained how the scheme of stockbroker Robin CorrieCorrie and Joh Bjelke-Petersen (Sunday Truth, 18-3-62) had more to do with making money than with development of the oil industry. Columnists took the establishment line and dismissed the issue as being of no consequence. In the period before the general election in May the issue was not resurrected.
The Sunday Mail and The Courier-Mail were particularly dismissive of the issue. A column in The Sunday Mail immediately after Opposition Leader Jack Houston's attack summed up by saying: "The A.L.P. charge seems to be that while operating within the letter of the law, Mr Bjelke-Petersen deceived a political colleague and made a lot of money." The assumption from the writer seems to be that a mountain had been made of a mole hill and that this behaviour was acceptable. A day later Courier-Mail readers were told the issue was "not even a real expose...Mr Houston should recognise that most people who make commercial transactions do so to make profits, and that there is nothing dirty about this."
A week after the story had broken, Sunday Mail readers were told by a columnist: "...Mr. Houston's attempt to blacken the name of the Queensland Premier over some pretty fancy, very profitable and undoubtedly legal financial dealings, is over and done with. A flop." The adjective 'undoubtedly' carries implicit trust that the Premier's action was definitely legal and that no questions about propriety were necessary. By March 19 it was over and done with as an issue as far as The Courier-Mail was concerned. It carried an editorial headlined: "Deck is cleared for election." There was not one mention of oil. As the Sunday Truth said on March 23: "The oil deal allegations have become rather quiet." The issue was allowed to fade from the pages of newspapers. Occasionally, stories about the forthcoming election might contain a passing mention of the controversy but there were no fresh insights. On May 16, the day before the election, the editorials failed to mention the issue and in the lengthy addresses of each of the leaders, printed in The Courier-Mail, Houston devoted just one sentence to it, referring to the risk of oil drilling being allowed on the Barrier Reef.
Hindsight
This was the first occasion on which Bjelke-Petersen had been caught in a conflict of interest as Premier. Queensland newspapers failed to intervene to gain action. As with the Evans issue, it set the standard for all future occasions, with Bjelke-Petersen thumbing his nose at critics. It led to a point where Fitzgerald reported of Cabinet procedures (1989: 91): "...there were a number of occasions when persons and organisations who were involved in transactions with the Government were also involved in personal dealings with one of its members, who nonetheless participated in and sometimes dominated the official decision-making process. Frequently there was no disclosure, and the attitudes and practices adopted inside and outside Cabinet effectively obstructed the details from becoming generally known."
CHAPTER !3 - SHIRLEY BRIFMAN CONFESSES
Background
The National Hotel Royal Commission in 1963/64 dealt with allegations that police protected a call girl ring operating from the National Hotel in Brisbane. Evidence of wrongdoing by police officers given by two independent witnesses who came forward voluntarily, was discounted by the Commissioner. .At the inquiry, witness David Young had revealed Shirley Brifman was a prostitute who had told him she was protected by corrupt police which allowed her to solicit at the National Hotel without fear of prosecution (Gibbs: 42-43). Brifman had been called to give evidence but denied being a prostitute and had backed evidence given by corrupt police. Now, in 1971, she was revealing that she had told lies at the inquiry in order to save her life and that her payment for having done so was to gain immunity from prosecution. If she was now telling the truth, she was revealing a conspiracy among police so well organised that she could be offered an immunity against prosecution. Tony Murphy, one of the officers accused of having been corrupt was by now a detective sergeant.
The issue attracted coverage from June 16, 1971, to August 1, 1971, and was mentioned in five news stories.
Coverage
16-6-71 CM p1 news story 19 pars - WOMAN ADMITS/PERJURY AT ROYAL COMMISSION
Mrs Shirley Brickman(sic) admitted on ABC TV last night that she had perjured herself during the Police Force National Hotel Royal Commission in Brisbane. From 1965 to 1969 she had worked as a prostitute and brothel keeper in Sydney, paying a member of the vice squad every week. She was prepared to name the officer. She said that for the first time in her life she was doing the right thing. Through her perjury she had saved the life of herself and her children and been given immunity from prosecution.
16-6-71 Tele p6 news story 15 pars - STATE PROBE INTO PERJURY ADMISSION
The Crown Law Office will investigate a statement by Shirley Briffman(sic) that she committed perjury at the National Hotel Royal Commission. Justice Minister Dr Delamothe said he had asked the Crown Law Office to investigate the matter and to confer with police about it. Mrs Brifman said on television last night she had perjured herself to save the lives of her children and herself. From 1965 to 1969 she had worked as a prostitute and brothel keeper in Sydney, paying a member of the vice squad every week.
20-6-71 SM p8 news story 48 pars - Mrs. Brifman tells of slave girls, vice
Mrs Shirley Brifman said yesterday she was prepared to return to Brisbane to face an inquiry. She said she was prepared to tell the truth, even if it meant a jail sentence. She was in hiding yesterday with a guard. Her friends were frightened something may happen to her.
4-7-71 SM p24 news story 11 pars - Briffman(sic) sees police
Senior police have interviewed Mrs Shirley Briffman(sic) about her claims of having perjured herself at the 1964 National Hotel Royal Commission. Mrs Briffman arrived at the Inns of Court by taxi at 4.20pm on Friday unescorted. She left before 6pm, saying she had spoken to Assistant Commissioner Duncan and Colin Bennett MP. She said she was in hiding in Brisbane. She said she expected to know next week if there was going to be an inquiry.
1-8-71 SM p15 news story nine pars - Police question inquiry witness
Two senior NSW police officers have interviewed Mrs Shirley Brifman in the chambers of Col Bennett MP. She has also been interviewed at least twice by senior Queensland police and says she is in hiding in Brisbane.
Key point
Did Shirley Brifman have enough evidence of corruption in the Queensland police force for the media and/or Opposition to demand an inquiry?
Key point coverage
The Sunday Mail of June 20 and July 4 suggested Brifman had evidence, was prepared to testify at an inquiry and that there had been some sort of discussion with someone about the possibility of an inquiry being called. A second story in the same newspaper on July 4 only mentioned the possibility of an inquiry in the last paragraph and a third story on August 1 not at all.
Appraisal
The Sunday Mail was the only newspaper to carry follow-up stories. The introduction of the story of June 20 focussed on the fact that Brifman was willing to return to Brisbane for an inquiry but then failed to address what she could tell an inquiry. The second story only mentioned an inquiry in the last paragraph and the third story not at all. The topic would not have disappeared in this way had the newspaper identified the fact that it was a key point and needed to be focussed on. Nevertheless, The Sunday Mail did at least follow-up the original story and it did put the possibility of an inquiry in readers minds - just qualifying under category one in the measurement criteria.
General analysis
It is worth noting that the story was broken on television. The Courier-Mail and Telegraph, which both carried stories about Brifman's confession on television the night before, failed to follow up with any articles at all. The Sunday Truth carried no information on Brifman at all. It would seem from the different spellings used for Brifman's surname that at least three journalists and the respective sub-editors did not bother to consult cuttings of the coverage of the National Hotel Inquiry. If this was the case they might not have been aware of the importance of the information that Brifman could give on corruption in the Queensland police force. The fact that she was in hiding might have made it difficult to obtain interviews but The Sunday Mail managed it on June 20 so it was obviously possible.
It was then another fortnight before the issue was mentioned again - in The Sunday Mail of July 4. It said she was in Brisbane and linked her once again with barrister and MP Col Bennett, the man who had sparked the National Hotel Royal Commission. This fact gave a point of contact for any reporter interested in obtaining information about the issue. She said she would know the following week if there was to be an inquiry. There was no follow-up by any newspaper on this aspect. On August 1 - nearly a month later - there is an update from The Sunday Mail which makes no reference to whether an inquiry would be held. In September the Brifman issue burst out afresh but the series of articles which then appeared were based on a different foundation. What is being examined in this thesis are the articles which sprang from Brifman's confession on television in June. In this case the issue ceased to gain coverage after August 1 without newspapers having fully explored the issue.
Hindsight
By August 1 Brifman had been in Brisbane since the beginning of July, seeing police on a weekly basis with her lawyer, Col Bennett. According to Fitzgerald (1989: 34) she had been coached in giving false evidence before the National Hotel Inquiry of 1963/64 by Detective Tony Murphy. In 1971, as police gained more and more information from Brifman in signed statements, one of her self-confessed lovers and confidants, Robin Corrie (Queensland's 'Mr Big' in Oil' Sunday Truth 18-3-62), died of a drug overdose on the Gold Coast on September 6; Shirley Brifman was rushed to hospital suffering from a drug overdose in Brisbane the same weekend; and the manager of the National Hotel, Jack Cooper, was shot dead on September 26. Brifman recovered. Detective Sergeant Tony Murphy was charged with having committed four offences of perjury at the National Hotel Inquiry. Brifman was found dead on March 4, 1972, from a drug overdose shortly before Murphy was due to appear in court.. Hickie (1985: 284) reported that several police attached to the NSW CIB said there was much talk that she had been murdered by two corrupt police officers. Fitzgerald said (1989: 75) of Murphy: "His trial did not proceed because a vital witness died before the hearing. Additionally, there was undisputed evidence...that Murphy was
paid bribes..." Murphy went on to become Assistant Commissioner under corrupt Commissioner Terry Lewis.
Continued in Part Two
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