Labor People by Chris Bowen

Author:Chris Bowen [Bowen, Chris]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Monash University Publishing
Published: 2021-08-18T00:00:00+00:00

While Dedman had not drafted the White Paper (Coombs could claim primary authorship), he was intimately involved in it and it was his job to steer it through the cabinet, which was no easy task. While Chifley kept a close interest in the paper, his biographer Fin Crisp noted that Chifley and Dedman shared “joint parental concern” for the important document.27 It was criticised internally as not being radical enough and containing too much bureaucratic language. While Dedman had to endure a two and half day cabinet meeting to steer it through, he did so without substantial amendment.

Just as important as the policies contained in the White Paper was the sentiment it represented. As Fin Crisp put it, “by contrast with the 1931 Premiers Plan of bitter memory for Labour men, the White Paper represented the authentic, forward looking reformist tradition of the ALP. It was the product of Labour united and in the ascendancy.”28

While Dedman was usually far from a flowery communicator, he did draw on his passion for full employment when he tabled the White Paper in parliament, declaring to the House:

I make for my colleagues on this side of the House this declaration, paraphrasing Blake –

I will not cease from mental fight

Nor shall my sword sleep in my hand

Till we have built Jerusalem

In Australia’s pleasant land.

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