§ Q4. Mr. Tim Rentonasked the Prime Minister when he next plans to make an official visit to Australia.
§ The Prime MinisterI have at present no plans to visit Australia, Sir.
§ Mr. RentonAs threats of nationalisation, the public sector deficit, and growing unemployment have been the hallmark of recent Australian and British policies, would not such a visit provide the Prime Minister with a salutary lesson? Does not what is happening in Australia at the moment show the dangers of a federal or devolved form of government?
§ The Prime MinisterThe hon. Member is wrong, I think, to draw any conclusions for our own affairs from any problems which arise in Australia, for which there is no ministerial or parliamentary responsibility at Westminster. It would be highly improper for any of us to enter into these very difficult problems—constitutional and others—which have arisen in Australia. In so far as the hon. Gentleman thinks that there is anything for any of us to learn from Australia on the subjects mentioned, of course the situation here is that, on the PSBR that the hon. Gentleman mentioned, proposals are currently being made officially by the Opposition which would lead to a massive increase in unemployment.