Ladies and gentlemen, well may we say 'God Save the Queen', because nothing will save the Governor-General. The proclamation you have just heard was countersigned Malcolm Fraser, who will go down in history as Kerr's cur.
Gough WhitlamRead
Conscription is an impediment to achieving the forces Australia needs. It is an alibi for failing to give proper conditions to regular soldiers. We will abolish conscription forthwith. By abolishing it, Australia will achieve a better army, a better-paid army - and a better, united society.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the negative impact of conscription on the military and society, advocating for its abolition to improve conditions for regular soldiers.
Gough Whitlam's quote critiques the practice of conscription in Australia, arguing that it creates barriers to forming an effective military force while also serving as an excuse for not providing adequate support to professional soldiers. He believes that abolishing conscription would not only enhance the quality and pay of the army but also contribute to the creation of a more cohesive and united society.
Themes
ConscriptionMilitaryLeadershipSocietyAbolition
In practice
Example use cases
In a debate about military policy, this quote can be used to support the argument for a volunteer army.
More from Gough Whitlam
All quotes →Australia's treatment of her Aboriginal people will be the thing on which the world will judge Australia and Australians - Not just now, but in the greater perspective of history.
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Hostility towards China distorted Australia's international affairs for 20 years until 1972, but reconciliation with China 30 years ago had produced a quarter century of constructive bipartisan relations with our region and the world, unmatched in Australian history.
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I was profoundly embarrassed by it [the White Australia Policy] and did all I could to change it.
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She was a remarkable person and the love of my life. We were married for almost 70 years. She encouraged and sustained me and our four children, their families and many other people in a life full of engagement with Australians from all walks of life.
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I have more influence now than when I had the power.
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