Введение
Политический скандал в Австралии 1980-х годов WA Inc. был названием для ряда государственно-частных партнерств в Западной Австралии в 1980-х годах, связанных с Корпорацией развития Западной Австралии, что привело к политическому скандалу. Правительство штата, которое на протяжении большей части этого периода возглавлял премьер-министр Брайан Берк, вело деловые отношения с несколькими видными бизнесменами, включая Алана Бонда, Лори Коннелла, Далласа Демпстера, Джона Робертса и Уоррена Андерсона. Эти сделки привели к потере государственных средств, оцениваемой как минимум в 600 миллионов долларов, и к банкротству нескольких крупных корпораций. Бонд и Коннелл были основными спонсорами правящей Лейбористской партии и ее выдающейся структуры сбора средств – Фонда Джона Кертина. В 1990 году премьер-министр от Лейбористской партии Кармен Лоуренс учредила королевскую комиссию (Королевская комиссия по коммерческой деятельности правительства и другим вопросам) для расследования этих сделок. Коннелл заявил [в показаниях Комиссии], что Хоук отказался от предлагаемого налога на золото после того, как Коннелл и несколько влиятельных бизнесменов из Перта пожертвовали по 250 000 долларов Лейбористской партии во время печально известного обеда в офисе Брайана Берка в 1987 году – утверждение, которое бывший премьер-министр категорически отрицал. Лояльность Берка к тем, кто жертвовал свои усилия (и деньги) Лейбористской партии, была не менее сильной. Развивая аксиому Фонда Джона Кертина, Берк создал Корпорацию развития Западной Австралии и назначил своего коллегу-католика Джона Хоргана (на фото второй слева, сверху) на должность с годовым окладом в 800 000 долларов – чрезвычайно высокая сумма для государственного служащего не только в то время, но и сейчас. – Журналист Тони Баррас, 2009 год.
1980s Australian political scandal
WA Inc was the name for a set of public private partnerships in Western Australia in the 1980s associated with the Western Australian Development Corporation, which became a political scandal. The state government, which was led for much of the period by premier Brian Burke, engaged in business dealings with several prominent businessmen, including Alan Bond, Laurie Connell, Dallas Dempster, John Roberts, and Warren Anderson. These dealings resulted in a loss of public money, estimated at a minimum of $600 million and the insolvency of several large corporations. Bond and Connell were major contributors to the party in government, the Labor Party and its remarkable fundraising structure, the John Curtin Foundation. A royal commission (the Royal Commission into Commercial Activities of Government and Other Matters) was established in 1990 by Labor premier Carmen Lawrence to examine the dealings. Connell alleged [in evidence to the Commission] that Hawke dropped a proposed gold tax after Connell and various Perth high flyers donated $250,000 each to Labor during an infamous lunch in Brian Burke's office in 1987—a claim the former PM vigorously denied. Burke's loyalty to those who had donated their efforts (and money) to Labor was no less fervent. Taking the John Curtin Foundation axiom to the next level, Burke created the West Australian Development Corporation and installed fellow Catholic John Horgan (pictured second from left, top) on $800,000 a year, an extraordinary figure for a public servant not only then but now.—Journalist Tony Barrass, 2009. Corporate failures
As an outcome of questionable business practices, precipitated by the 1987 stock market crash, several major businesses based in Perth found themselves in difficulties and ultimately went into bankruptcy. These included:
Rothwells. Described as a merchant bank owned by Connell, but more accurately known in business circles as a 'lender of last resort', Rothwells had built up a stable of businesses it had acquired during the 1980s through aggressive takeovers. In October 1987, investors made a run on the bank and it had to close its doors. Burke, on behalf of the government, provided a $150 million government guarantee. Connell had previously been the adviser to the 1983 government purchase of Northern Mining from Bond Corporation for between $7 and $12 million over value but, as Burke knew at the time and concealed from parliament, Connell was also acting for Bond Corporation. Bell Group, Robert Holmes à Court's flagship company, encountered a cash crisis and Bond Corporation and the government, through the State Government Insurance Commission, acquired major stakes in the business in April 1988,
In 1991, barrister Bevan Lawrence published what he regarded as a conservative itemisation of the government's actual losses. The figures are summarised as follows:
{|
|
| Rothwells and Petrochemicals Plant || align=right | $408 million
|
| Purchase of Bell Group shares from Robert Holmes à Court || align=right | $155 million
|
| Unlisted bonds purchased from Holmes à Court, later assessed as having no value || align=right | $140 million
|
| Westralia Square (Old Perth Technical School site redevelopment) || align=right | $74 million
|
| Central Park property redevelopment || align=right| $100 million
|
| Grand total || align=right style="border top:1px solid;"| $877 million
|}
The WA Inc Royal Commission
On 19 November 1990, Carmen Lawrence, the then Labor premier, announced her government's intention to hold a royal commission to "inquire into certain matters". This decision followed more than a year of strong public advocacy by the activist group, People for Fair and Open Government headed by the premier's brother, barrister Bevan Lawrence, Professor Emeritus Martyn Webb and prominent political scientist Paddy O'Brien. O'Brien edited The Burke Ambush, subtitled Corporatism and Society in Western Australia, which was the first substantial exposé of Burke's pro corporate government—a collection of articles by himself and other Western Australian writers, including Hal Colebatch, Robert Bennett, Joseph Poprzeczny, John Hyde, Paul Nichols, Michael McKinley, Anthony Dale and Tom Herzfeld. The commission of three was headed by Geoffrey Kennedy and joined by Sir Ronald Wilson and Peter Brinsden, with a brief "To inquire into and report" whether there had been "corruption, illegal conduct, improper conduct, or bribery" on the part of any person or corporation in the "affairs, investment decisions and business dealings of the Government of Western Australia or its agencies". The following had died or been incapable on health grounds: Peter Beckwith (Bond Corporation), Bill Burgess (Rothwells), Robert Holmes à Court, Thomas Hugall (Rothwells), Bruce Kirkwood (SECWA), Andrew Mensaros (former Liberal state minister), Terence McDonnell (solicitor), and Jack Walsh (Rothwells). The following declined to give evidence: Yosse Goldberg (entrepreneur), Peter Mitchell (Bond Corporation), Tony Oates (Bond Corporation), and Ms Kim Rooney (wife of David Parker). Dr Shrian Oskar was serving a 6 year prison term in the UK.</blockquote>
In an earlier finding, the commission had summarised:<blockquote>[The Government was not entitled] to risk the public resources of the State without its actions being subjected to critical scrutiny and review. Effective accountability was a casualty of its entrepreneurial zeal. Influence in the conduct of this State's public affairs was captured by a small group of self interested businessmen. and a list of recommendations impinging on open government,
Contracts relating to the Dampier to Perth Natural Gas Pipeline
The acquisition of Northern Mining Corporation NL in 1983
The Swan Building Society
SGIC's acquisition of shares in BHP Limited and the Bell Group
The old Perth Technical College site
Role of Mr Ray O'Connor in alleged bribery
Allegations arising from the trial of Robert Mark Smith and Robert Paul Martin, including those with respect to surveillance activities
The adequacy of certain police investigations
Political donations
WA Inc was the name for a set of public private partnerships in Western Australia in the 1980s associated with the Western Australian Development Corporation, which became a political scandal. The state government, which was led for much of the period by premier Brian Burke, engaged in business dealings with several prominent businessmen, including Alan Bond, Laurie Connell, Dallas Dempster, John Roberts, and Warren Anderson. These dealings resulted in a loss of public money, estimated at a minimum of $600 million and the insolvency of several large corporations. Bond and Connell were major contributors to the party in government, the Labor Party and its remarkable fundraising structure, the John Curtin Foundation. A royal commission (the Royal Commission into Commercial Activities of Government and Other Matters) was established in 1990 by Labor premier Carmen Lawrence to examine the dealings. Connell alleged [in evidence to the Commission] that Hawke dropped a proposed gold tax after Connell and various Perth high flyers donated $250,000 each to Labor during an infamous lunch in Brian Burke's office in 1987—a claim the former PM vigorously denied. Burke's loyalty to those who had donated their efforts (and money) to Labor was no less fervent. Taking the John Curtin Foundation axiom to the next level, Burke created the West Australian Development Corporation and installed fellow Catholic John Horgan (pictured second from left, top) on $800,000 a year, an extraordinary figure for a public servant not only then but now.—Journalist Tony Barrass, 2009. Corporate failures
As an outcome of questionable business practices, precipitated by the 1987 stock market crash, several major businesses based in Perth found themselves in difficulties and ultimately went into bankruptcy. These included:
Rothwells. Described as a merchant bank owned by Connell, but more accurately known in business circles as a 'lender of last resort', Rothwells had built up a stable of businesses it had acquired during the 1980s through aggressive takeovers. In October 1987, investors made a run on the bank and it had to close its doors. Burke, on behalf of the government, provided a $150 million government guarantee. Connell had previously been the adviser to the 1983 government purchase of Northern Mining from Bond Corporation for between $7 and $12 million over value but, as Burke knew at the time and concealed from parliament, Connell was also acting for Bond Corporation. Bell Group, Robert Holmes à Court's flagship company, encountered a cash crisis and Bond Corporation and the government, through the State Government Insurance Commission, acquired major stakes in the business in April 1988,
In 1991, barrister Bevan Lawrence published what he regarded as a conservative itemisation of the government's actual losses. The figures are summarised as follows:
{|
|
| Rothwells and Petrochemicals Plant || align=right | $408 million
|
| Purchase of Bell Group shares from Robert Holmes à Court || align=right | $155 million
|
| Unlisted bonds purchased from Holmes à Court, later assessed as having no value || align=right | $140 million
|
| Westralia Square (Old Perth Technical School site redevelopment) || align=right | $74 million
|
| Central Park property redevelopment || align=right| $100 million
|
| Grand total || align=right style="border top:1px solid;"| $877 million
|}
The WA Inc Royal Commission
On 19 November 1990, Carmen Lawrence, the then Labor premier, announced her government's intention to hold a royal commission to "inquire into certain matters". This decision followed more than a year of strong public advocacy by the activist group, People for Fair and Open Government headed by the premier's brother, barrister Bevan Lawrence, Professor Emeritus Martyn Webb and prominent political scientist Paddy O'Brien. O'Brien edited The Burke Ambush, subtitled Corporatism and Society in Western Australia, which was the first substantial exposé of Burke's pro corporate government—a collection of articles by himself and other Western Australian writers, including Hal Colebatch, Robert Bennett, Joseph Poprzeczny, John Hyde, Paul Nichols, Michael McKinley, Anthony Dale and Tom Herzfeld. The commission of three was headed by Geoffrey Kennedy and joined by Sir Ronald Wilson and Peter Brinsden, with a brief "To inquire into and report" whether there had been "corruption, illegal conduct, improper conduct, or bribery" on the part of any person or corporation in the "affairs, investment decisions and business dealings of the Government of Western Australia or its agencies". The following had died or been incapable on health grounds: Peter Beckwith (Bond Corporation), Bill Burgess (Rothwells), Robert Holmes à Court, Thomas Hugall (Rothwells), Bruce Kirkwood (SECWA), Andrew Mensaros (former Liberal state minister), Terence McDonnell (solicitor), and Jack Walsh (Rothwells). The following declined to give evidence: Yosse Goldberg (entrepreneur), Peter Mitchell (Bond Corporation), Tony Oates (Bond Corporation), and Ms Kim Rooney (wife of David Parker). Dr Shrian Oskar was serving a 6 year prison term in the UK.</blockquote>
In an earlier finding, the commission had summarised:<blockquote>[The Government was not entitled] to risk the public resources of the State without its actions being subjected to critical scrutiny and review. Effective accountability was a casualty of its entrepreneurial zeal. Influence in the conduct of this State's public affairs was captured by a small group of self interested businessmen. and a list of recommendations impinging on open government,
Contracts relating to the Dampier to Perth Natural Gas Pipeline
The acquisition of Northern Mining Corporation NL in 1983
The Swan Building Society
SGIC's acquisition of shares in BHP Limited and the Bell Group
The old Perth Technical College site
Role of Mr Ray O'Connor in alleged bribery
Allegations arising from the trial of Robert Mark Smith and Robert Paul Martin, including those with respect to surveillance activities
The adequacy of certain police investigations
Political donations
Банкротства корпораций
1980s Australian political scandal
WA Inc was the name for a set of public private partnerships in Western Australia in the 1980s associated with the Western Australian Development Corporation, which became a political scandal. The state government, which was led for much of the period by premier Brian Burke, engaged in business dealings with several prominent businessmen, including Alan Bond, Laurie Connell, Dallas Dempster, John Roberts, and Warren Anderson. These dealings resulted in a loss of public money, estimated at a minimum of $600 million and the insolvency of several large corporations. Bond and Connell were major contributors to the party in government, the Labor Party and its remarkable fundraising structure, the John Curtin Foundation. A royal commission (the Royal Commission into Commercial Activities of Government and Other Matters) was established in 1990 by Labor premier Carmen Lawrence to examine the dealings. Connell alleged [in evidence to the Commission] that Hawke dropped a proposed gold tax after Connell and various Perth high flyers donated $250,000 each to Labor during an infamous lunch in Brian Burke's office in 1987—a claim the former PM vigorously denied. Burke's loyalty to those who had donated their efforts (and money) to Labor was no less fervent. Taking the John Curtin Foundation axiom to the next level, Burke created the West Australian Development Corporation and installed fellow Catholic John Horgan (pictured second from left, top) on $800,000 a year, an extraordinary figure for a public servant not only then but now.—Journalist Tony Barrass, 2009. Corporate failures
As an outcome of questionable business practices, precipitated by the 1987 stock market crash, several major businesses based in Perth found themselves in difficulties and ultimately went into bankruptcy. These included:
Rothwells. Described as a merchant bank owned by Connell, but more accurately known in business circles as a 'lender of last resort', Rothwells had built up a stable of businesses it had acquired during the 1980s through aggressive takeovers. In October 1987, investors made a run on the bank and it had to close its doors. Burke, on behalf of the government, provided a $150 million government guarantee. Connell had previously been the adviser to the 1983 government purchase of Northern Mining from Bond Corporation for between $7 and $12 million over value but, as Burke knew at the time and concealed from parliament, Connell was also acting for Bond Corporation. Bell Group, Robert Holmes à Court's flagship company, encountered a cash crisis and Bond Corporation and the government, through the State Government Insurance Commission, acquired major stakes in the business in April 1988,
In 1991, barrister Bevan Lawrence published what he regarded as a conservative itemisation of the government's actual losses. The figures are summarised as follows:
{|
|
| Rothwells and Petrochemicals Plant || align=right | $408 million
|
| Purchase of Bell Group shares from Robert Holmes à Court || align=right | $155 million
|
| Unlisted bonds purchased from Holmes à Court, later assessed as having no value || align=right | $140 million
|
| Westralia Square (Old Perth Technical School site redevelopment) || align=right | $74 million
|
| Central Park property redevelopment || align=right| $100 million
|
| Grand total || align=right style="border top:1px solid;"| $877 million
|}
The WA Inc Royal Commission
On 19 November 1990, Carmen Lawrence, the then Labor premier, announced her government's intention to hold a royal commission to "inquire into certain matters". This decision followed more than a year of strong public advocacy by the activist group, People for Fair and Open Government headed by the premier's brother, barrister Bevan Lawrence, Professor Emeritus Martyn Webb and prominent political scientist Paddy O'Brien. O'Brien edited The Burke Ambush, subtitled Corporatism and Society in Western Australia, which was the first substantial exposé of Burke's pro corporate government—a collection of articles by himself and other Western Australian writers, including Hal Colebatch, Robert Bennett, Joseph Poprzeczny, John Hyde, Paul Nichols, Michael McKinley, Anthony Dale and Tom Herzfeld. The commission of three was headed by Geoffrey Kennedy and joined by Sir Ronald Wilson and Peter Brinsden, with a brief "To inquire into and report" whether there had been "corruption, illegal conduct, improper conduct, or bribery" on the part of any person or corporation in the "affairs, investment decisions and business dealings of the Government of Western Australia or its agencies". The following had died or been incapable on health grounds: Peter Beckwith (Bond Corporation), Bill Burgess (Rothwells), Robert Holmes à Court, Thomas Hugall (Rothwells), Bruce Kirkwood (SECWA), Andrew Mensaros (former Liberal state minister), Terence McDonnell (solicitor), and Jack Walsh (Rothwells). The following declined to give evidence: Yosse Goldberg (entrepreneur), Peter Mitchell (Bond Corporation), Tony Oates (Bond Corporation), and Ms Kim Rooney (wife of David Parker). Dr Shrian Oskar was serving a 6 year prison term in the UK.</blockquote>
In an earlier finding, the commission had summarised:<blockquote>[The Government was not entitled] to risk the public resources of the State without its actions being subjected to critical scrutiny and review. Effective accountability was a casualty of its entrepreneurial zeal. Influence in the conduct of this State's public affairs was captured by a small group of self interested businessmen. and a list of recommendations impinging on open government,
Contracts relating to the Dampier to Perth Natural Gas Pipeline
The acquisition of Northern Mining Corporation NL in 1983
The Swan Building Society
SGIC's acquisition of shares in BHP Limited and the Bell Group
The old Perth Technical College site
Role of Mr Ray O'Connor in alleged bribery
Allegations arising from the trial of Robert Mark Smith and Robert Paul Martin, including those with respect to surveillance activities
The adequacy of certain police investigations
Political donations
WA Inc was the name for a set of public private partnerships in Western Australia in the 1980s associated with the Western Australian Development Corporation, which became a political scandal. The state government, which was led for much of the period by premier Brian Burke, engaged in business dealings with several prominent businessmen, including Alan Bond, Laurie Connell, Dallas Dempster, John Roberts, and Warren Anderson. These dealings resulted in a loss of public money, estimated at a minimum of $600 million and the insolvency of several large corporations. Bond and Connell were major contributors to the party in government, the Labor Party and its remarkable fundraising structure, the John Curtin Foundation. A royal commission (the Royal Commission into Commercial Activities of Government and Other Matters) was established in 1990 by Labor premier Carmen Lawrence to examine the dealings. Connell alleged [in evidence to the Commission] that Hawke dropped a proposed gold tax after Connell and various Perth high flyers donated $250,000 each to Labor during an infamous lunch in Brian Burke's office in 1987—a claim the former PM vigorously denied. Burke's loyalty to those who had donated their efforts (and money) to Labor was no less fervent. Taking the John Curtin Foundation axiom to the next level, Burke created the West Australian Development Corporation and installed fellow Catholic John Horgan (pictured second from left, top) on $800,000 a year, an extraordinary figure for a public servant not only then but now.—Journalist Tony Barrass, 2009. Corporate failures
As an outcome of questionable business practices, precipitated by the 1987 stock market crash, several major businesses based in Perth found themselves in difficulties and ultimately went into bankruptcy. These included:
Rothwells. Described as a merchant bank owned by Connell, but more accurately known in business circles as a 'lender of last resort', Rothwells had built up a stable of businesses it had acquired during the 1980s through aggressive takeovers. In October 1987, investors made a run on the bank and it had to close its doors. Burke, on behalf of the government, provided a $150 million government guarantee. Connell had previously been the adviser to the 1983 government purchase of Northern Mining from Bond Corporation for between $7 and $12 million over value but, as Burke knew at the time and concealed from parliament, Connell was also acting for Bond Corporation. Bell Group, Robert Holmes à Court's flagship company, encountered a cash crisis and Bond Corporation and the government, through the State Government Insurance Commission, acquired major stakes in the business in April 1988,
In 1991, barrister Bevan Lawrence published what he regarded as a conservative itemisation of the government's actual losses. The figures are summarised as follows:
{|
|
| Rothwells and Petrochemicals Plant || align=right | $408 million
|
| Purchase of Bell Group shares from Robert Holmes à Court || align=right | $155 million
|
| Unlisted bonds purchased from Holmes à Court, later assessed as having no value || align=right | $140 million
|
| Westralia Square (Old Perth Technical School site redevelopment) || align=right | $74 million
|
| Central Park property redevelopment || align=right| $100 million
|
| Grand total || align=right style="border top:1px solid;"| $877 million
|}
The WA Inc Royal Commission
On 19 November 1990, Carmen Lawrence, the then Labor premier, announced her government's intention to hold a royal commission to "inquire into certain matters". This decision followed more than a year of strong public advocacy by the activist group, People for Fair and Open Government headed by the premier's brother, barrister Bevan Lawrence, Professor Emeritus Martyn Webb and prominent political scientist Paddy O'Brien. O'Brien edited The Burke Ambush, subtitled Corporatism and Society in Western Australia, which was the first substantial exposé of Burke's pro corporate government—a collection of articles by himself and other Western Australian writers, including Hal Colebatch, Robert Bennett, Joseph Poprzeczny, John Hyde, Paul Nichols, Michael McKinley, Anthony Dale and Tom Herzfeld. The commission of three was headed by Geoffrey Kennedy and joined by Sir Ronald Wilson and Peter Brinsden, with a brief "To inquire into and report" whether there had been "corruption, illegal conduct, improper conduct, or bribery" on the part of any person or corporation in the "affairs, investment decisions and business dealings of the Government of Western Australia or its agencies". The following had died or been incapable on health grounds: Peter Beckwith (Bond Corporation), Bill Burgess (Rothwells), Robert Holmes à Court, Thomas Hugall (Rothwells), Bruce Kirkwood (SECWA), Andrew Mensaros (former Liberal state minister), Terence McDonnell (solicitor), and Jack Walsh (Rothwells). The following declined to give evidence: Yosse Goldberg (entrepreneur), Peter Mitchell (Bond Corporation), Tony Oates (Bond Corporation), and Ms Kim Rooney (wife of David Parker). Dr Shrian Oskar was serving a 6 year prison term in the UK.</blockquote>
In an earlier finding, the commission had summarised:<blockquote>[The Government was not entitled] to risk the public resources of the State without its actions being subjected to critical scrutiny and review. Effective accountability was a casualty of its entrepreneurial zeal. Influence in the conduct of this State's public affairs was captured by a small group of self interested businessmen. and a list of recommendations impinging on open government,
Contracts relating to the Dampier to Perth Natural Gas Pipeline
The acquisition of Northern Mining Corporation NL in 1983
The Swan Building Society
SGIC's acquisition of shares in BHP Limited and the Bell Group
The old Perth Technical College site
Role of Mr Ray O'Connor in alleged bribery
Allegations arising from the trial of Robert Mark Smith and Robert Paul Martin, including those with respect to surveillance activities
The adequacy of certain police investigations
Political donations
В результате сомнительных деловых практик, спровоцированных крахом фондового рынка 1987 года, несколько крупных предприятий, базирующихся в Перте, столкнулись с трудностями и в конечном итоге обанкротились. Среди них:
1980s Australian political scandal
WA Inc was the name for a set of public private partnerships in Western Australia in the 1980s associated with the Western Australian Development Corporation, which became a political scandal. The state government, which was led for much of the period by premier Brian Burke, engaged in business dealings with several prominent businessmen, including Alan Bond, Laurie Connell, Dallas Dempster, John Roberts, and Warren Anderson. These dealings resulted in a loss of public money, estimated at a minimum of $600 million and the insolvency of several large corporations. Bond and Connell were major contributors to the party in government, the Labor Party and its remarkable fundraising structure, the John Curtin Foundation. A royal commission (the Royal Commission into Commercial Activities of Government and Other Matters) was established in 1990 by Labor premier Carmen Lawrence to examine the dealings. Connell alleged [in evidence to the Commission] that Hawke dropped a proposed gold tax after Connell and various Perth high flyers donated $250,000 each to Labor during an infamous lunch in Brian Burke's office in 1987—a claim the former PM vigorously denied. Burke's loyalty to those who had donated their efforts (and money) to Labor was no less fervent. Taking the John Curtin Foundation axiom to the next level, Burke created the West Australian Development Corporation and installed fellow Catholic John Horgan (pictured second from left, top) on $800,000 a year, an extraordinary figure for a public servant not only then but now.—Journalist Tony Barrass, 2009. Corporate failures
As an outcome of questionable business practices, precipitated by the 1987 stock market crash, several major businesses based in Perth found themselves in difficulties and ultimately went into bankruptcy. These included:
Rothwells. Described as a merchant bank owned by Connell, but more accurately known in business circles as a 'lender of last resort', Rothwells had built up a stable of businesses it had acquired during the 1980s through aggressive takeovers. In October 1987, investors made a run on the bank and it had to close its doors. Burke, on behalf of the government, provided a $150 million government guarantee. Connell had previously been the adviser to the 1983 government purchase of Northern Mining from Bond Corporation for between $7 and $12 million over value but, as Burke knew at the time and concealed from parliament, Connell was also acting for Bond Corporation. Bell Group, Robert Holmes à Court's flagship company, encountered a cash crisis and Bond Corporation and the government, through the State Government Insurance Commission, acquired major stakes in the business in April 1988,
In 1991, barrister Bevan Lawrence published what he regarded as a conservative itemisation of the government's actual losses. The figures are summarised as follows:
{|
|
| Rothwells and Petrochemicals Plant || align=right | $408 million
|
| Purchase of Bell Group shares from Robert Holmes à Court || align=right | $155 million
|
| Unlisted bonds purchased from Holmes à Court, later assessed as having no value || align=right | $140 million
|
| Westralia Square (Old Perth Technical School site redevelopment) || align=right | $74 million
|
| Central Park property redevelopment || align=right| $100 million
|
| Grand total || align=right style="border top:1px solid;"| $877 million
|}
The WA Inc Royal Commission
On 19 November 1990, Carmen Lawrence, the then Labor premier, announced her government's intention to hold a royal commission to "inquire into certain matters". This decision followed more than a year of strong public advocacy by the activist group, People for Fair and Open Government headed by the premier's brother, barrister Bevan Lawrence, Professor Emeritus Martyn Webb and prominent political scientist Paddy O'Brien. O'Brien edited The Burke Ambush, subtitled Corporatism and Society in Western Australia, which was the first substantial exposé of Burke's pro corporate government—a collection of articles by himself and other Western Australian writers, including Hal Colebatch, Robert Bennett, Joseph Poprzeczny, John Hyde, Paul Nichols, Michael McKinley, Anthony Dale and Tom Herzfeld. The commission of three was headed by Geoffrey Kennedy and joined by Sir Ronald Wilson and Peter Brinsden, with a brief "To inquire into and report" whether there had been "corruption, illegal conduct, improper conduct, or bribery" on the part of any person or corporation in the "affairs, investment decisions and business dealings of the Government of Western Australia or its agencies". The following had died or been incapable on health grounds: Peter Beckwith (Bond Corporation), Bill Burgess (Rothwells), Robert Holmes à Court, Thomas Hugall (Rothwells), Bruce Kirkwood (SECWA), Andrew Mensaros (former Liberal state minister), Terence McDonnell (solicitor), and Jack Walsh (Rothwells). The following declined to give evidence: Yosse Goldberg (entrepreneur), Peter Mitchell (Bond Corporation), Tony Oates (Bond Corporation), and Ms Kim Rooney (wife of David Parker). Dr Shrian Oskar was serving a 6 year prison term in the UK.</blockquote>
In an earlier finding, the commission had summarised:<blockquote>[The Government was not entitled] to risk the public resources of the State without its actions being subjected to critical scrutiny and review. Effective accountability was a casualty of its entrepreneurial zeal. Influence in the conduct of this State's public affairs was captured by a small group of self interested businessmen. and a list of recommendations impinging on open government,
Contracts relating to the Dampier to Perth Natural Gas Pipeline
The acquisition of Northern Mining Corporation NL in 1983
The Swan Building Society
SGIC's acquisition of shares in BHP Limited and the Bell Group
The old Perth Technical College site
Role of Mr Ray O'Connor in alleged bribery
Allegations arising from the trial of Robert Mark Smith and Robert Paul Martin, including those with respect to surveillance activities
The adequacy of certain police investigations
Political donations
WA Inc was the name for a set of public private partnerships in Western Australia in the 1980s associated with the Western Australian Development Corporation, which became a political scandal. The state government, which was led for much of the period by premier Brian Burke, engaged in business dealings with several prominent businessmen, including Alan Bond, Laurie Connell, Dallas Dempster, John Roberts, and Warren Anderson. These dealings resulted in a loss of public money, estimated at a minimum of $600 million and the insolvency of several large corporations. Bond and Connell were major contributors to the party in government, the Labor Party and its remarkable fundraising structure, the John Curtin Foundation. A royal commission (the Royal Commission into Commercial Activities of Government and Other Matters) was established in 1990 by Labor premier Carmen Lawrence to examine the dealings. Connell alleged [in evidence to the Commission] that Hawke dropped a proposed gold tax after Connell and various Perth high flyers donated $250,000 each to Labor during an infamous lunch in Brian Burke's office in 1987—a claim the former PM vigorously denied. Burke's loyalty to those who had donated their efforts (and money) to Labor was no less fervent. Taking the John Curtin Foundation axiom to the next level, Burke created the West Australian Development Corporation and installed fellow Catholic John Horgan (pictured second from left, top) on $800,000 a year, an extraordinary figure for a public servant not only then but now.—Journalist Tony Barrass, 2009. Corporate failures
As an outcome of questionable business practices, precipitated by the 1987 stock market crash, several major businesses based in Perth found themselves in difficulties and ultimately went into bankruptcy. These included:
Rothwells. Described as a merchant bank owned by Connell, but more accurately known in business circles as a 'lender of last resort', Rothwells had built up a stable of businesses it had acquired during the 1980s through aggressive takeovers. In October 1987, investors made a run on the bank and it had to close its doors. Burke, on behalf of the government, provided a $150 million government guarantee. Connell had previously been the adviser to the 1983 government purchase of Northern Mining from Bond Corporation for between $7 and $12 million over value but, as Burke knew at the time and concealed from parliament, Connell was also acting for Bond Corporation. Bell Group, Robert Holmes à Court's flagship company, encountered a cash crisis and Bond Corporation and the government, through the State Government Insurance Commission, acquired major stakes in the business in April 1988,
In 1991, barrister Bevan Lawrence published what he regarded as a conservative itemisation of the government's actual losses. The figures are summarised as follows:
{|
|
| Rothwells and Petrochemicals Plant || align=right | $408 million
|
| Purchase of Bell Group shares from Robert Holmes à Court || align=right | $155 million
|
| Unlisted bonds purchased from Holmes à Court, later assessed as having no value || align=right | $140 million
|
| Westralia Square (Old Perth Technical School site redevelopment) || align=right | $74 million
|
| Central Park property redevelopment || align=right| $100 million
|
| Grand total || align=right style="border top:1px solid;"| $877 million
|}
The WA Inc Royal Commission
On 19 November 1990, Carmen Lawrence, the then Labor premier, announced her government's intention to hold a royal commission to "inquire into certain matters". This decision followed more than a year of strong public advocacy by the activist group, People for Fair and Open Government headed by the premier's brother, barrister Bevan Lawrence, Professor Emeritus Martyn Webb and prominent political scientist Paddy O'Brien. O'Brien edited The Burke Ambush, subtitled Corporatism and Society in Western Australia, which was the first substantial exposé of Burke's pro corporate government—a collection of articles by himself and other Western Australian writers, including Hal Colebatch, Robert Bennett, Joseph Poprzeczny, John Hyde, Paul Nichols, Michael McKinley, Anthony Dale and Tom Herzfeld. The commission of three was headed by Geoffrey Kennedy and joined by Sir Ronald Wilson and Peter Brinsden, with a brief "To inquire into and report" whether there had been "corruption, illegal conduct, improper conduct, or bribery" on the part of any person or corporation in the "affairs, investment decisions and business dealings of the Government of Western Australia or its agencies". The following had died or been incapable on health grounds: Peter Beckwith (Bond Corporation), Bill Burgess (Rothwells), Robert Holmes à Court, Thomas Hugall (Rothwells), Bruce Kirkwood (SECWA), Andrew Mensaros (former Liberal state minister), Terence McDonnell (solicitor), and Jack Walsh (Rothwells). The following declined to give evidence: Yosse Goldberg (entrepreneur), Peter Mitchell (Bond Corporation), Tony Oates (Bond Corporation), and Ms Kim Rooney (wife of David Parker). Dr Shrian Oskar was serving a 6 year prison term in the UK.</blockquote>
In an earlier finding, the commission had summarised:<blockquote>[The Government was not entitled] to risk the public resources of the State without its actions being subjected to critical scrutiny and review. Effective accountability was a casualty of its entrepreneurial zeal. Influence in the conduct of this State's public affairs was captured by a small group of self interested businessmen. and a list of recommendations impinging on open government,
Contracts relating to the Dampier to Perth Natural Gas Pipeline
The acquisition of Northern Mining Corporation NL in 1983
The Swan Building Society
SGIC's acquisition of shares in BHP Limited and the Bell Group
The old Perth Technical College site
Role of Mr Ray O'Connor in alleged bribery
Allegations arising from the trial of Robert Mark Smith and Robert Paul Martin, including those with respect to surveillance activities
The adequacy of certain police investigations
Political donations
Rothwells. Описываемая как коммерческий банк, принадлежащий Коннеллу, но более точно известная в деловых кругах как «кредитор последней инстанции», Rothwells создала портфель предприятий, которые она приобрела в 1980-х годах посредством агрессивных поглощений. В октябре 1987 года инвесторы начали массово изымать средства из банка, и он был вынужден закрыться. Берк, от имени правительства, предоставил государственную гарантию в размере 150 миллионов долларов. Ранее Коннелл был советником правительства при покупке Northern Mining у Bond Corporation в 1983 году с переплатой от 7 до 12 миллионов долларов, но, как Берк знал в то время и скрывал от парламента, Коннелл также представлял интересы Bond Corporation. Bell Group, флагманская компания Роберта Холмса а Курта, столкнулась с кризисом ликвидности, и Bond Corporation и правительство через Государственную страховую комиссию приобрели значительные доли в бизнесе в апреле 1988 года.
1980s Australian political scandal
WA Inc was the name for a set of public private partnerships in Western Australia in the 1980s associated with the Western Australian Development Corporation, which became a political scandal. The state government, which was led for much of the period by premier Brian Burke, engaged in business dealings with several prominent businessmen, including Alan Bond, Laurie Connell, Dallas Dempster, John Roberts, and Warren Anderson. These dealings resulted in a loss of public money, estimated at a minimum of $600 million and the insolvency of several large corporations. Bond and Connell were major contributors to the party in government, the Labor Party and its remarkable fundraising structure, the John Curtin Foundation. A royal commission (the Royal Commission into Commercial Activities of Government and Other Matters) was established in 1990 by Labor premier Carmen Lawrence to examine the dealings. Connell alleged [in evidence to the Commission] that Hawke dropped a proposed gold tax after Connell and various Perth high flyers donated $250,000 each to Labor during an infamous lunch in Brian Burke's office in 1987—a claim the former PM vigorously denied. Burke's loyalty to those who had donated their efforts (and money) to Labor was no less fervent. Taking the John Curtin Foundation axiom to the next level, Burke created the West Australian Development Corporation and installed fellow Catholic John Horgan (pictured second from left, top) on $800,000 a year, an extraordinary figure for a public servant not only then but now.—Journalist Tony Barrass, 2009. Corporate failures
As an outcome of questionable business practices, precipitated by the 1987 stock market crash, several major businesses based in Perth found themselves in difficulties and ultimately went into bankruptcy. These included:
Rothwells. Described as a merchant bank owned by Connell, but more accurately known in business circles as a 'lender of last resort', Rothwells had built up a stable of businesses it had acquired during the 1980s through aggressive takeovers. In October 1987, investors made a run on the bank and it had to close its doors. Burke, on behalf of the government, provided a $150 million government guarantee. Connell had previously been the adviser to the 1983 government purchase of Northern Mining from Bond Corporation for between $7 and $12 million over value but, as Burke knew at the time and concealed from parliament, Connell was also acting for Bond Corporation. Bell Group, Robert Holmes à Court's flagship company, encountered a cash crisis and Bond Corporation and the government, through the State Government Insurance Commission, acquired major stakes in the business in April 1988,
In 1991, barrister Bevan Lawrence published what he regarded as a conservative itemisation of the government's actual losses. The figures are summarised as follows:
{|
|
| Rothwells and Petrochemicals Plant || align=right | $408 million
|
| Purchase of Bell Group shares from Robert Holmes à Court || align=right | $155 million
|
| Unlisted bonds purchased from Holmes à Court, later assessed as having no value || align=right | $140 million
|
| Westralia Square (Old Perth Technical School site redevelopment) || align=right | $74 million
|
| Central Park property redevelopment || align=right| $100 million
|
| Grand total || align=right style="border top:1px solid;"| $877 million
|}
The WA Inc Royal Commission
On 19 November 1990, Carmen Lawrence, the then Labor premier, announced her government's intention to hold a royal commission to "inquire into certain matters". This decision followed more than a year of strong public advocacy by the activist group, People for Fair and Open Government headed by the premier's brother, barrister Bevan Lawrence, Professor Emeritus Martyn Webb and prominent political scientist Paddy O'Brien. O'Brien edited The Burke Ambush, subtitled Corporatism and Society in Western Australia, which was the first substantial exposé of Burke's pro corporate government—a collection of articles by himself and other Western Australian writers, including Hal Colebatch, Robert Bennett, Joseph Poprzeczny, John Hyde, Paul Nichols, Michael McKinley, Anthony Dale and Tom Herzfeld. The commission of three was headed by Geoffrey Kennedy and joined by Sir Ronald Wilson and Peter Brinsden, with a brief "To inquire into and report" whether there had been "corruption, illegal conduct, improper conduct, or bribery" on the part of any person or corporation in the "affairs, investment decisions and business dealings of the Government of Western Australia or its agencies". The following had died or been incapable on health grounds: Peter Beckwith (Bond Corporation), Bill Burgess (Rothwells), Robert Holmes à Court, Thomas Hugall (Rothwells), Bruce Kirkwood (SECWA), Andrew Mensaros (former Liberal state minister), Terence McDonnell (solicitor), and Jack Walsh (Rothwells). The following declined to give evidence: Yosse Goldberg (entrepreneur), Peter Mitchell (Bond Corporation), Tony Oates (Bond Corporation), and Ms Kim Rooney (wife of David Parker). Dr Shrian Oskar was serving a 6 year prison term in the UK.</blockquote>
In an earlier finding, the commission had summarised:<blockquote>[The Government was not entitled] to risk the public resources of the State without its actions being subjected to critical scrutiny and review. Effective accountability was a casualty of its entrepreneurial zeal. Influence in the conduct of this State's public affairs was captured by a small group of self interested businessmen. and a list of recommendations impinging on open government,
Contracts relating to the Dampier to Perth Natural Gas Pipeline
The acquisition of Northern Mining Corporation NL in 1983
The Swan Building Society
SGIC's acquisition of shares in BHP Limited and the Bell Group
The old Perth Technical College site
Role of Mr Ray O'Connor in alleged bribery
Allegations arising from the trial of Robert Mark Smith and Robert Paul Martin, including those with respect to surveillance activities
The adequacy of certain police investigations
Political donations
WA Inc was the name for a set of public private partnerships in Western Australia in the 1980s associated with the Western Australian Development Corporation, which became a political scandal. The state government, which was led for much of the period by premier Brian Burke, engaged in business dealings with several prominent businessmen, including Alan Bond, Laurie Connell, Dallas Dempster, John Roberts, and Warren Anderson. These dealings resulted in a loss of public money, estimated at a minimum of $600 million and the insolvency of several large corporations. Bond and Connell were major contributors to the party in government, the Labor Party and its remarkable fundraising structure, the John Curtin Foundation. A royal commission (the Royal Commission into Commercial Activities of Government and Other Matters) was established in 1990 by Labor premier Carmen Lawrence to examine the dealings. Connell alleged [in evidence to the Commission] that Hawke dropped a proposed gold tax after Connell and various Perth high flyers donated $250,000 each to Labor during an infamous lunch in Brian Burke's office in 1987—a claim the former PM vigorously denied. Burke's loyalty to those who had donated their efforts (and money) to Labor was no less fervent. Taking the John Curtin Foundation axiom to the next level, Burke created the West Australian Development Corporation and installed fellow Catholic John Horgan (pictured second from left, top) on $800,000 a year, an extraordinary figure for a public servant not only then but now.—Journalist Tony Barrass, 2009. Corporate failures
As an outcome of questionable business practices, precipitated by the 1987 stock market crash, several major businesses based in Perth found themselves in difficulties and ultimately went into bankruptcy. These included:
Rothwells. Described as a merchant bank owned by Connell, but more accurately known in business circles as a 'lender of last resort', Rothwells had built up a stable of businesses it had acquired during the 1980s through aggressive takeovers. In October 1987, investors made a run on the bank and it had to close its doors. Burke, on behalf of the government, provided a $150 million government guarantee. Connell had previously been the adviser to the 1983 government purchase of Northern Mining from Bond Corporation for between $7 and $12 million over value but, as Burke knew at the time and concealed from parliament, Connell was also acting for Bond Corporation. Bell Group, Robert Holmes à Court's flagship company, encountered a cash crisis and Bond Corporation and the government, through the State Government Insurance Commission, acquired major stakes in the business in April 1988,
In 1991, barrister Bevan Lawrence published what he regarded as a conservative itemisation of the government's actual losses. The figures are summarised as follows:
{|
|
| Rothwells and Petrochemicals Plant || align=right | $408 million
|
| Purchase of Bell Group shares from Robert Holmes à Court || align=right | $155 million
|
| Unlisted bonds purchased from Holmes à Court, later assessed as having no value || align=right | $140 million
|
| Westralia Square (Old Perth Technical School site redevelopment) || align=right | $74 million
|
| Central Park property redevelopment || align=right| $100 million
|
| Grand total || align=right style="border top:1px solid;"| $877 million
|}
The WA Inc Royal Commission
On 19 November 1990, Carmen Lawrence, the then Labor premier, announced her government's intention to hold a royal commission to "inquire into certain matters". This decision followed more than a year of strong public advocacy by the activist group, People for Fair and Open Government headed by the premier's brother, barrister Bevan Lawrence, Professor Emeritus Martyn Webb and prominent political scientist Paddy O'Brien. O'Brien edited The Burke Ambush, subtitled Corporatism and Society in Western Australia, which was the first substantial exposé of Burke's pro corporate government—a collection of articles by himself and other Western Australian writers, including Hal Colebatch, Robert Bennett, Joseph Poprzeczny, John Hyde, Paul Nichols, Michael McKinley, Anthony Dale and Tom Herzfeld. The commission of three was headed by Geoffrey Kennedy and joined by Sir Ronald Wilson and Peter Brinsden, with a brief "To inquire into and report" whether there had been "corruption, illegal conduct, improper conduct, or bribery" on the part of any person or corporation in the "affairs, investment decisions and business dealings of the Government of Western Australia or its agencies". The following had died or been incapable on health grounds: Peter Beckwith (Bond Corporation), Bill Burgess (Rothwells), Robert Holmes à Court, Thomas Hugall (Rothwells), Bruce Kirkwood (SECWA), Andrew Mensaros (former Liberal state minister), Terence McDonnell (solicitor), and Jack Walsh (Rothwells). The following declined to give evidence: Yosse Goldberg (entrepreneur), Peter Mitchell (Bond Corporation), Tony Oates (Bond Corporation), and Ms Kim Rooney (wife of David Parker). Dr Shrian Oskar was serving a 6 year prison term in the UK.</blockquote>
In an earlier finding, the commission had summarised:<blockquote>[The Government was not entitled] to risk the public resources of the State without its actions being subjected to critical scrutiny and review. Effective accountability was a casualty of its entrepreneurial zeal. Influence in the conduct of this State's public affairs was captured by a small group of self interested businessmen. and a list of recommendations impinging on open government,
Contracts relating to the Dampier to Perth Natural Gas Pipeline
The acquisition of Northern Mining Corporation NL in 1983
The Swan Building Society
SGIC's acquisition of shares in BHP Limited and the Bell Group
The old Perth Technical College site
Role of Mr Ray O'Connor in alleged bribery
Allegations arising from the trial of Robert Mark Smith and Robert Paul Martin, including those with respect to surveillance activities
The adequacy of certain police investigations
Political donations
В 1991 году адвокат Беван Лоуренс опубликовал то, что он считал консервативной оценкой фактических потерь правительства. Цифры представлены следующим образом:
1980s Australian political scandal
WA Inc was the name for a set of public private partnerships in Western Australia in the 1980s associated with the Western Australian Development Corporation, which became a political scandal. The state government, which was led for much of the period by premier Brian Burke, engaged in business dealings with several prominent businessmen, including Alan Bond, Laurie Connell, Dallas Dempster, John Roberts, and Warren Anderson. These dealings resulted in a loss of public money, estimated at a minimum of $600 million and the insolvency of several large corporations. Bond and Connell were major contributors to the party in government, the Labor Party and its remarkable fundraising structure, the John Curtin Foundation. A royal commission (the Royal Commission into Commercial Activities of Government and Other Matters) was established in 1990 by Labor premier Carmen Lawrence to examine the dealings. Connell alleged [in evidence to the Commission] that Hawke dropped a proposed gold tax after Connell and various Perth high flyers donated $250,000 each to Labor during an infamous lunch in Brian Burke's office in 1987—a claim the former PM vigorously denied. Burke's loyalty to those who had donated their efforts (and money) to Labor was no less fervent. Taking the John Curtin Foundation axiom to the next level, Burke created the West Australian Development Corporation and installed fellow Catholic John Horgan (pictured second from left, top) on $800,000 a year, an extraordinary figure for a public servant not only then but now.—Journalist Tony Barrass, 2009. Corporate failures
As an outcome of questionable business practices, precipitated by the 1987 stock market crash, several major businesses based in Perth found themselves in difficulties and ultimately went into bankruptcy. These included:
Rothwells. Described as a merchant bank owned by Connell, but more accurately known in business circles as a 'lender of last resort', Rothwells had built up a stable of businesses it had acquired during the 1980s through aggressive takeovers. In October 1987, investors made a run on the bank and it had to close its doors. Burke, on behalf of the government, provided a $150 million government guarantee. Connell had previously been the adviser to the 1983 government purchase of Northern Mining from Bond Corporation for between $7 and $12 million over value but, as Burke knew at the time and concealed from parliament, Connell was also acting for Bond Corporation. Bell Group, Robert Holmes à Court's flagship company, encountered a cash crisis and Bond Corporation and the government, through the State Government Insurance Commission, acquired major stakes in the business in April 1988,
In 1991, barrister Bevan Lawrence published what he regarded as a conservative itemisation of the government's actual losses. The figures are summarised as follows:
{|
|
| Rothwells and Petrochemicals Plant || align=right | $408 million
|
| Purchase of Bell Group shares from Robert Holmes à Court || align=right | $155 million
|
| Unlisted bonds purchased from Holmes à Court, later assessed as having no value || align=right | $140 million
|
| Westralia Square (Old Perth Technical School site redevelopment) || align=right | $74 million
|
| Central Park property redevelopment || align=right| $100 million
|
| Grand total || align=right style="border top:1px solid;"| $877 million
|}
The WA Inc Royal Commission
On 19 November 1990, Carmen Lawrence, the then Labor premier, announced her government's intention to hold a royal commission to "inquire into certain matters". This decision followed more than a year of strong public advocacy by the activist group, People for Fair and Open Government headed by the premier's brother, barrister Bevan Lawrence, Professor Emeritus Martyn Webb and prominent political scientist Paddy O'Brien. O'Brien edited The Burke Ambush, subtitled Corporatism and Society in Western Australia, which was the first substantial exposé of Burke's pro corporate government—a collection of articles by himself and other Western Australian writers, including Hal Colebatch, Robert Bennett, Joseph Poprzeczny, John Hyde, Paul Nichols, Michael McKinley, Anthony Dale and Tom Herzfeld. The commission of three was headed by Geoffrey Kennedy and joined by Sir Ronald Wilson and Peter Brinsden, with a brief "To inquire into and report" whether there had been "corruption, illegal conduct, improper conduct, or bribery" on the part of any person or corporation in the "affairs, investment decisions and business dealings of the Government of Western Australia or its agencies". The following had died or been incapable on health grounds: Peter Beckwith (Bond Corporation), Bill Burgess (Rothwells), Robert Holmes à Court, Thomas Hugall (Rothwells), Bruce Kirkwood (SECWA), Andrew Mensaros (former Liberal state minister), Terence McDonnell (solicitor), and Jack Walsh (Rothwells). The following declined to give evidence: Yosse Goldberg (entrepreneur), Peter Mitchell (Bond Corporation), Tony Oates (Bond Corporation), and Ms Kim Rooney (wife of David Parker). Dr Shrian Oskar was serving a 6 year prison term in the UK.</blockquote>
In an earlier finding, the commission had summarised:<blockquote>[The Government was not entitled] to risk the public resources of the State without its actions being subjected to critical scrutiny and review. Effective accountability was a casualty of its entrepreneurial zeal. Influence in the conduct of this State's public affairs was captured by a small group of self interested businessmen. and a list of recommendations impinging on open government,
Contracts relating to the Dampier to Perth Natural Gas Pipeline
The acquisition of Northern Mining Corporation NL in 1983
The Swan Building Society
SGIC's acquisition of shares in BHP Limited and the Bell Group
The old Perth Technical College site
Role of Mr Ray O'Connor in alleged bribery
Allegations arising from the trial of Robert Mark Smith and Robert Paul Martin, including those with respect to surveillance activities
The adequacy of certain police investigations
Political donations
WA Inc was the name for a set of public private partnerships in Western Australia in the 1980s associated with the Western Australian Development Corporation, which became a political scandal. The state government, which was led for much of the period by premier Brian Burke, engaged in business dealings with several prominent businessmen, including Alan Bond, Laurie Connell, Dallas Dempster, John Roberts, and Warren Anderson. These dealings resulted in a loss of public money, estimated at a minimum of $600 million and the insolvency of several large corporations. Bond and Connell were major contributors to the party in government, the Labor Party and its remarkable fundraising structure, the John Curtin Foundation. A royal commission (the Royal Commission into Commercial Activities of Government and Other Matters) was established in 1990 by Labor premier Carmen Lawrence to examine the dealings. Connell alleged [in evidence to the Commission] that Hawke dropped a proposed gold tax after Connell and various Perth high flyers donated $250,000 each to Labor during an infamous lunch in Brian Burke's office in 1987—a claim the former PM vigorously denied. Burke's loyalty to those who had donated their efforts (and money) to Labor was no less fervent. Taking the John Curtin Foundation axiom to the next level, Burke created the West Australian Development Corporation and installed fellow Catholic John Horgan (pictured second from left, top) on $800,000 a year, an extraordinary figure for a public servant not only then but now.—Journalist Tony Barrass, 2009. Corporate failures
As an outcome of questionable business practices, precipitated by the 1987 stock market crash, several major businesses based in Perth found themselves in difficulties and ultimately went into bankruptcy. These included:
Rothwells. Described as a merchant bank owned by Connell, but more accurately known in business circles as a 'lender of last resort', Rothwells had built up a stable of businesses it had acquired during the 1980s through aggressive takeovers. In October 1987, investors made a run on the bank and it had to close its doors. Burke, on behalf of the government, provided a $150 million government guarantee. Connell had previously been the adviser to the 1983 government purchase of Northern Mining from Bond Corporation for between $7 and $12 million over value but, as Burke knew at the time and concealed from parliament, Connell was also acting for Bond Corporation. Bell Group, Robert Holmes à Court's flagship company, encountered a cash crisis and Bond Corporation and the government, through the State Government Insurance Commission, acquired major stakes in the business in April 1988,
In 1991, barrister Bevan Lawrence published what he regarded as a conservative itemisation of the government's actual losses. The figures are summarised as follows:
{|
|
| Rothwells and Petrochemicals Plant || align=right | $408 million
|
| Purchase of Bell Group shares from Robert Holmes à Court || align=right | $155 million
|
| Unlisted bonds purchased from Holmes à Court, later assessed as having no value || align=right | $140 million
|
| Westralia Square (Old Perth Technical School site redevelopment) || align=right | $74 million
|
| Central Park property redevelopment || align=right| $100 million
|
| Grand total || align=right style="border top:1px solid;"| $877 million
|}
The WA Inc Royal Commission
On 19 November 1990, Carmen Lawrence, the then Labor premier, announced her government's intention to hold a royal commission to "inquire into certain matters". This decision followed more than a year of strong public advocacy by the activist group, People for Fair and Open Government headed by the premier's brother, barrister Bevan Lawrence, Professor Emeritus Martyn Webb and prominent political scientist Paddy O'Brien. O'Brien edited The Burke Ambush, subtitled Corporatism and Society in Western Australia, which was the first substantial exposé of Burke's pro corporate government—a collection of articles by himself and other Western Australian writers, including Hal Colebatch, Robert Bennett, Joseph Poprzeczny, John Hyde, Paul Nichols, Michael McKinley, Anthony Dale and Tom Herzfeld. The commission of three was headed by Geoffrey Kennedy and joined by Sir Ronald Wilson and Peter Brinsden, with a brief "To inquire into and report" whether there had been "corruption, illegal conduct, improper conduct, or bribery" on the part of any person or corporation in the "affairs, investment decisions and business dealings of the Government of Western Australia or its agencies". The following had died or been incapable on health grounds: Peter Beckwith (Bond Corporation), Bill Burgess (Rothwells), Robert Holmes à Court, Thomas Hugall (Rothwells), Bruce Kirkwood (SECWA), Andrew Mensaros (former Liberal state minister), Terence McDonnell (solicitor), and Jack Walsh (Rothwells). The following declined to give evidence: Yosse Goldberg (entrepreneur), Peter Mitchell (Bond Corporation), Tony Oates (Bond Corporation), and Ms Kim Rooney (wife of David Parker). Dr Shrian Oskar was serving a 6 year prison term in the UK.</blockquote>
In an earlier finding, the commission had summarised:<blockquote>[The Government was not entitled] to risk the public resources of the State without its actions being subjected to critical scrutiny and review. Effective accountability was a casualty of its entrepreneurial zeal. Influence in the conduct of this State's public affairs was captured by a small group of self interested businessmen. and a list of recommendations impinging on open government,
Contracts relating to the Dampier to Perth Natural Gas Pipeline
The acquisition of Northern Mining Corporation NL in 1983
The Swan Building Society
SGIC's acquisition of shares in BHP Limited and the Bell Group
The old Perth Technical College site
Role of Mr Ray O'Connor in alleged bribery
Allegations arising from the trial of Robert Mark Smith and Robert Paul Martin, including those with respect to surveillance activities
The adequacy of certain police investigations
Political donations
{|
| | Rothwells и завод по производству нефтехимической продукции || align=right | 408 миллионов долларов
| | Покупка акций Bell Group у Роберта Холмса а Курта || align=right | 155 миллионов долларов
| | Некотируемые облигации, приобретенные у Холмса а Курта, впоследствии оцененные как не имеющие ценности || align=right | 140 миллионов долларов
| | Westralia Square (реконструкция территории старой Пертской технической школы) || align=right | 74 миллиона долларов
| | Реконструкция недвижимости Central Park || align=right| 100 миллионов долларов
| | Общая сумма || align=right style="border top:1px solid;"| 877 миллионов долларов
|}
1980s Australian political scandal
WA Inc was the name for a set of public private partnerships in Western Australia in the 1980s associated with the Western Australian Development Corporation, which became a political scandal. The state government, which was led for much of the period by premier Brian Burke, engaged in business dealings with several prominent businessmen, including Alan Bond, Laurie Connell, Dallas Dempster, John Roberts, and Warren Anderson. These dealings resulted in a loss of public money, estimated at a minimum of $600 million and the insolvency of several large corporations. Bond and Connell were major contributors to the party in government, the Labor Party and its remarkable fundraising structure, the John Curtin Foundation. A royal commission (the Royal Commission into Commercial Activities of Government and Other Matters) was established in 1990 by Labor premier Carmen Lawrence to examine the dealings. Connell alleged [in evidence to the Commission] that Hawke dropped a proposed gold tax after Connell and various Perth high flyers donated $250,000 each to Labor during an infamous lunch in Brian Burke's office in 1987—a claim the former PM vigorously denied. Burke's loyalty to those who had donated their efforts (and money) to Labor was no less fervent. Taking the John Curtin Foundation axiom to the next level, Burke created the West Australian Development Corporation and installed fellow Catholic John Horgan (pictured second from left, top) on $800,000 a year, an extraordinary figure for a public servant not only then but now.—Journalist Tony Barrass, 2009. Corporate failures
As an outcome of questionable business practices, precipitated by the 1987 stock market crash, several major businesses based in Perth found themselves in difficulties and ultimately went into bankruptcy. These included:
Rothwells. Described as a merchant bank owned by Connell, but more accurately known in business circles as a 'lender of last resort', Rothwells had built up a stable of businesses it had acquired during the 1980s through aggressive takeovers. In October 1987, investors made a run on the bank and it had to close its doors. Burke, on behalf of the government, provided a $150 million government guarantee. Connell had previously been the adviser to the 1983 government purchase of Northern Mining from Bond Corporation for between $7 and $12 million over value but, as Burke knew at the time and concealed from parliament, Connell was also acting for Bond Corporation. Bell Group, Robert Holmes à Court's flagship company, encountered a cash crisis and Bond Corporation and the government, through the State Government Insurance Commission, acquired major stakes in the business in April 1988,
In 1991, barrister Bevan Lawrence published what he regarded as a conservative itemisation of the government's actual losses. The figures are summarised as follows:
{|
|
| Rothwells and Petrochemicals Plant || align=right | $408 million
|
| Purchase of Bell Group shares from Robert Holmes à Court || align=right | $155 million
|
| Unlisted bonds purchased from Holmes à Court, later assessed as having no value || align=right | $140 million
|
| Westralia Square (Old Perth Technical School site redevelopment) || align=right | $74 million
|
| Central Park property redevelopment || align=right| $100 million
|
| Grand total || align=right style="border top:1px solid;"| $877 million
|}
The WA Inc Royal Commission
On 19 November 1990, Carmen Lawrence, the then Labor premier, announced her government's intention to hold a royal commission to "inquire into certain matters". This decision followed more than a year of strong public advocacy by the activist group, People for Fair and Open Government headed by the premier's brother, barrister Bevan Lawrence, Professor Emeritus Martyn Webb and prominent political scientist Paddy O'Brien. O'Brien edited The Burke Ambush, subtitled Corporatism and Society in Western Australia, which was the first substantial exposé of Burke's pro corporate government—a collection of articles by himself and other Western Australian writers, including Hal Colebatch, Robert Bennett, Joseph Poprzeczny, John Hyde, Paul Nichols, Michael McKinley, Anthony Dale and Tom Herzfeld. The commission of three was headed by Geoffrey Kennedy and joined by Sir Ronald Wilson and Peter Brinsden, with a brief "To inquire into and report" whether there had been "corruption, illegal conduct, improper conduct, or bribery" on the part of any person or corporation in the "affairs, investment decisions and business dealings of the Government of Western Australia or its agencies". The following had died or been incapable on health grounds: Peter Beckwith (Bond Corporation), Bill Burgess (Rothwells), Robert Holmes à Court, Thomas Hugall (Rothwells), Bruce Kirkwood (SECWA), Andrew Mensaros (former Liberal state minister), Terence McDonnell (solicitor), and Jack Walsh (Rothwells). The following declined to give evidence: Yosse Goldberg (entrepreneur), Peter Mitchell (Bond Corporation), Tony Oates (Bond Corporation), and Ms Kim Rooney (wife of David Parker). Dr Shrian Oskar was serving a 6 year prison term in the UK.</blockquote>
In an earlier finding, the commission had summarised:<blockquote>[The Government was not entitled] to risk the public resources of the State without its actions being subjected to critical scrutiny and review. Effective accountability was a casualty of its entrepreneurial zeal. Influence in the conduct of this State's public affairs was captured by a small group of self interested businessmen. and a list of recommendations impinging on open government,
Contracts relating to the Dampier to Perth Natural Gas Pipeline
The acquisition of Northern Mining Corporation NL in 1983
The Swan Building Society
SGIC's acquisition of shares in BHP Limited and the Bell Group
The old Perth Technical College site
Role of Mr Ray O'Connor in alleged bribery
Allegations arising from the trial of Robert Mark Smith and Robert Paul Martin, including those with respect to surveillance activities
The adequacy of certain police investigations
Political donations
WA Inc was the name for a set of public private partnerships in Western Australia in the 1980s associated with the Western Australian Development Corporation, which became a political scandal. The state government, which was led for much of the period by premier Brian Burke, engaged in business dealings with several prominent businessmen, including Alan Bond, Laurie Connell, Dallas Dempster, John Roberts, and Warren Anderson. These dealings resulted in a loss of public money, estimated at a minimum of $600 million and the insolvency of several large corporations. Bond and Connell were major contributors to the party in government, the Labor Party and its remarkable fundraising structure, the John Curtin Foundation. A royal commission (the Royal Commission into Commercial Activities of Government and Other Matters) was established in 1990 by Labor premier Carmen Lawrence to examine the dealings. Connell alleged [in evidence to the Commission] that Hawke dropped a proposed gold tax after Connell and various Perth high flyers donated $250,000 each to Labor during an infamous lunch in Brian Burke's office in 1987—a claim the former PM vigorously denied. Burke's loyalty to those who had donated their efforts (and money) to Labor was no less fervent. Taking the John Curtin Foundation axiom to the next level, Burke created the West Australian Development Corporation and installed fellow Catholic John Horgan (pictured second from left, top) on $800,000 a year, an extraordinary figure for a public servant not only then but now.—Journalist Tony Barrass, 2009. Corporate failures
As an outcome of questionable business practices, precipitated by the 1987 stock market crash, several major businesses based in Perth found themselves in difficulties and ultimately went into bankruptcy. These included:
Rothwells. Described as a merchant bank owned by Connell, but more accurately known in business circles as a 'lender of last resort', Rothwells had built up a stable of businesses it had acquired during the 1980s through aggressive takeovers. In October 1987, investors made a run on the bank and it had to close its doors. Burke, on behalf of the government, provided a $150 million government guarantee. Connell had previously been the adviser to the 1983 government purchase of Northern Mining from Bond Corporation for between $7 and $12 million over value but, as Burke knew at the time and concealed from parliament, Connell was also acting for Bond Corporation. Bell Group, Robert Holmes à Court's flagship company, encountered a cash crisis and Bond Corporation and the government, through the State Government Insurance Commission, acquired major stakes in the business in April 1988,
In 1991, barrister Bevan Lawrence published what he regarded as a conservative itemisation of the government's actual losses. The figures are summarised as follows:
{|
|
| Rothwells and Petrochemicals Plant || align=right | $408 million
|
| Purchase of Bell Group shares from Robert Holmes à Court || align=right | $155 million
|
| Unlisted bonds purchased from Holmes à Court, later assessed as having no value || align=right | $140 million
|
| Westralia Square (Old Perth Technical School site redevelopment) || align=right | $74 million
|
| Central Park property redevelopment || align=right| $100 million
|
| Grand total || align=right style="border top:1px solid;"| $877 million
|}
The WA Inc Royal Commission
On 19 November 1990, Carmen Lawrence, the then Labor premier, announced her government's intention to hold a royal commission to "inquire into certain matters". This decision followed more than a year of strong public advocacy by the activist group, People for Fair and Open Government headed by the premier's brother, barrister Bevan Lawrence, Professor Emeritus Martyn Webb and prominent political scientist Paddy O'Brien. O'Brien edited The Burke Ambush, subtitled Corporatism and Society in Western Australia, which was the first substantial exposé of Burke's pro corporate government—a collection of articles by himself and other Western Australian writers, including Hal Colebatch, Robert Bennett, Joseph Poprzeczny, John Hyde, Paul Nichols, Michael McKinley, Anthony Dale and Tom Herzfeld. The commission of three was headed by Geoffrey Kennedy and joined by Sir Ronald Wilson and Peter Brinsden, with a brief "To inquire into and report" whether there had been "corruption, illegal conduct, improper conduct, or bribery" on the part of any person or corporation in the "affairs, investment decisions and business dealings of the Government of Western Australia or its agencies". The following had died or been incapable on health grounds: Peter Beckwith (Bond Corporation), Bill Burgess (Rothwells), Robert Holmes à Court, Thomas Hugall (Rothwells), Bruce Kirkwood (SECWA), Andrew Mensaros (former Liberal state minister), Terence McDonnell (solicitor), and Jack Walsh (Rothwells). The following declined to give evidence: Yosse Goldberg (entrepreneur), Peter Mitchell (Bond Corporation), Tony Oates (Bond Corporation), and Ms Kim Rooney (wife of David Parker). Dr Shrian Oskar was serving a 6 year prison term in the UK.</blockquote>
In an earlier finding, the commission had summarised:<blockquote>[The Government was not entitled] to risk the public resources of the State without its actions being subjected to critical scrutiny and review. Effective accountability was a casualty of its entrepreneurial zeal. Influence in the conduct of this State's public affairs was captured by a small group of self interested businessmen. and a list of recommendations impinging on open government,
Contracts relating to the Dampier to Perth Natural Gas Pipeline
The acquisition of Northern Mining Corporation NL in 1983
The Swan Building Society
SGIC's acquisition of shares in BHP Limited and the Bell Group
The old Perth Technical College site
Role of Mr Ray O'Connor in alleged bribery
Allegations arising from the trial of Robert Mark Smith and Robert Paul Martin, including those with respect to surveillance activities
The adequacy of certain police investigations
Political donations
Королевская комиссия WA Inc.
1980s Australian political scandal
WA Inc was the name for a set of public private partnerships in Western Australia in the 1980s associated with the Western Australian Development Corporation, which became a political scandal. The state government, which was led for much of the period by premier Brian Burke, engaged in business dealings with several prominent businessmen, including Alan Bond, Laurie Connell, Dallas Dempster, John Roberts, and Warren Anderson. These dealings resulted in a loss of public money, estimated at a minimum of $600 million and the insolvency of several large corporations. Bond and Connell were major contributors to the party in government, the Labor Party and its remarkable fundraising structure, the John Curtin Foundation. A royal commission (the Royal Commission into Commercial Activities of Government and Other Matters) was established in 1990 by Labor premier Carmen Lawrence to examine the dealings. Connell alleged [in evidence to the Commission] that Hawke dropped a proposed gold tax after Connell and various Perth high flyers donated $250,000 each to Labor during an infamous lunch in Brian Burke's office in 1987—a claim the former PM vigorously denied. Burke's loyalty to those who had donated their efforts (and money) to Labor was no less fervent. Taking the John Curtin Foundation axiom to the next level, Burke created the West Australian Development Corporation and installed fellow Catholic John Horgan (pictured second from left, top) on $800,000 a year, an extraordinary figure for a public servant not only then but now.—Journalist Tony Barrass, 2009. Corporate failures
As an outcome of questionable business practices, precipitated by the 1987 stock market crash, several major businesses based in Perth found themselves in difficulties and ultimately went into bankruptcy. These included:
Rothwells. Described as a merchant bank owned by Connell, but more accurately known in business circles as a 'lender of last resort', Rothwells had built up a stable of businesses it had acquired during the 1980s through aggressive takeovers. In October 1987, investors made a run on the bank and it had to close its doors. Burke, on behalf of the government, provided a $150 million government guarantee. Connell had previously been the adviser to the 1983 government purchase of Northern Mining from Bond Corporation for between $7 and $12 million over value but, as Burke knew at the time and concealed from parliament, Connell was also acting for Bond Corporation. Bell Group, Robert Holmes à Court's flagship company, encountered a cash crisis and Bond Corporation and the government, through the State Government Insurance Commission, acquired major stakes in the business in April 1988,
In 1991, barrister Bevan Lawrence published what he regarded as a conservative itemisation of the government's actual losses. The figures are summarised as follows:
{|
|
| Rothwells and Petrochemicals Plant || align=right | $408 million
|
| Purchase of Bell Group shares from Robert Holmes à Court || align=right | $155 million
|
| Unlisted bonds purchased from Holmes à Court, later assessed as having no value || align=right | $140 million
|
| Westralia Square (Old Perth Technical School site redevelopment) || align=right | $74 million
|
| Central Park property redevelopment || align=right| $100 million
|
| Grand total || align=right style="border top:1px solid;"| $877 million
|}
The WA Inc Royal Commission
On 19 November 1990, Carmen Lawrence, the then Labor premier, announced her government's intention to hold a royal commission to "inquire into certain matters". This decision followed more than a year of strong public advocacy by the activist group, People for Fair and Open Government headed by the premier's brother, barrister Bevan Lawrence, Professor Emeritus Martyn Webb and prominent political scientist Paddy O'Brien. O'Brien edited The Burke Ambush, subtitled Corporatism and Society in Western Australia, which was the first substantial exposé of Burke's pro corporate government—a collection of articles by himself and other Western Australian writers, including Hal Colebatch, Robert Bennett, Joseph Poprzeczny, John Hyde, Paul Nichols, Michael McKinley, Anthony Dale and Tom Herzfeld. The commission of three was headed by Geoffrey Kennedy and joined by Sir Ronald Wilson and Peter Brinsden, with a brief "To inquire into and report" whether there had been "corruption, illegal conduct, improper conduct, or bribery" on the part of any person or corporation in the "affairs, investment decisions and business dealings of the Government of Western Australia or its agencies". The following had died or been incapable on health grounds: Peter Beckwith (Bond Corporation), Bill Burgess (Rothwells), Robert Holmes à Court, Thomas Hugall (Rothwells), Bruce Kirkwood (SECWA), Andrew Mensaros (former Liberal state minister), Terence McDonnell (solicitor), and Jack Walsh (Rothwells). The following declined to give evidence: Yosse Goldberg (entrepreneur), Peter Mitchell (Bond Corporation), Tony Oates (Bond Corporation), and Ms Kim Rooney (wife of David Parker). Dr Shrian Oskar was serving a 6 year prison term in the UK.</blockquote>
In an earlier finding, the commission had summarised:<blockquote>[The Government was not entitled] to risk the public resources of the State without its actions being subjected to critical scrutiny and review. Effective accountability was a casualty of its entrepreneurial zeal. Influence in the conduct of this State's public affairs was captured by a small group of self interested businessmen. and a list of recommendations impinging on open government,
Contracts relating to the Dampier to Perth Natural Gas Pipeline
The acquisition of Northern Mining Corporation NL in 1983
The Swan Building Society
SGIC's acquisition of shares in BHP Limited and the Bell Group
The old Perth Technical College site
Role of Mr Ray O'Connor in alleged bribery
Allegations arising from the trial of Robert Mark Smith and Robert Paul Martin, including those with respect to surveillance activities
The adequacy of certain police investigations
Political donations
WA Inc was the name for a set of public private partnerships in Western Australia in the 1980s associated with the Western Australian Development Corporation, which became a political scandal. The state government, which was led for much of the period by premier Brian Burke, engaged in business dealings with several prominent businessmen, including Alan Bond, Laurie Connell, Dallas Dempster, John Roberts, and Warren Anderson. These dealings resulted in a loss of public money, estimated at a minimum of $600 million and the insolvency of several large corporations. Bond and Connell were major contributors to the party in government, the Labor Party and its remarkable fundraising structure, the John Curtin Foundation. A royal commission (the Royal Commission into Commercial Activities of Government and Other Matters) was established in 1990 by Labor premier Carmen Lawrence to examine the dealings. Connell alleged [in evidence to the Commission] that Hawke dropped a proposed gold tax after Connell and various Perth high flyers donated $250,000 each to Labor during an infamous lunch in Brian Burke's office in 1987—a claim the former PM vigorously denied. Burke's loyalty to those who had donated their efforts (and money) to Labor was no less fervent. Taking the John Curtin Foundation axiom to the next level, Burke created the West Australian Development Corporation and installed fellow Catholic John Horgan (pictured second from left, top) on $800,000 a year, an extraordinary figure for a public servant not only then but now.—Journalist Tony Barrass, 2009. Corporate failures
As an outcome of questionable business practices, precipitated by the 1987 stock market crash, several major businesses based in Perth found themselves in difficulties and ultimately went into bankruptcy. These included:
Rothwells. Described as a merchant bank owned by Connell, but more accurately known in business circles as a 'lender of last resort', Rothwells had built up a stable of businesses it had acquired during the 1980s through aggressive takeovers. In October 1987, investors made a run on the bank and it had to close its doors. Burke, on behalf of the government, provided a $150 million government guarantee. Connell had previously been the adviser to the 1983 government purchase of Northern Mining from Bond Corporation for between $7 and $12 million over value but, as Burke knew at the time and concealed from parliament, Connell was also acting for Bond Corporation. Bell Group, Robert Holmes à Court's flagship company, encountered a cash crisis and Bond Corporation and the government, through the State Government Insurance Commission, acquired major stakes in the business in April 1988,
In 1991, barrister Bevan Lawrence published what he regarded as a conservative itemisation of the government's actual losses. The figures are summarised as follows:
{|
|
| Rothwells and Petrochemicals Plant || align=right | $408 million
|
| Purchase of Bell Group shares from Robert Holmes à Court || align=right | $155 million
|
| Unlisted bonds purchased from Holmes à Court, later assessed as having no value || align=right | $140 million
|
| Westralia Square (Old Perth Technical School site redevelopment) || align=right | $74 million
|
| Central Park property redevelopment || align=right| $100 million
|
| Grand total || align=right style="border top:1px solid;"| $877 million
|}
The WA Inc Royal Commission
On 19 November 1990, Carmen Lawrence, the then Labor premier, announced her government's intention to hold a royal commission to "inquire into certain matters". This decision followed more than a year of strong public advocacy by the activist group, People for Fair and Open Government headed by the premier's brother, barrister Bevan Lawrence, Professor Emeritus Martyn Webb and prominent political scientist Paddy O'Brien. O'Brien edited The Burke Ambush, subtitled Corporatism and Society in Western Australia, which was the first substantial exposé of Burke's pro corporate government—a collection of articles by himself and other Western Australian writers, including Hal Colebatch, Robert Bennett, Joseph Poprzeczny, John Hyde, Paul Nichols, Michael McKinley, Anthony Dale and Tom Herzfeld. The commission of three was headed by Geoffrey Kennedy and joined by Sir Ronald Wilson and Peter Brinsden, with a brief "To inquire into and report" whether there had been "corruption, illegal conduct, improper conduct, or bribery" on the part of any person or corporation in the "affairs, investment decisions and business dealings of the Government of Western Australia or its agencies". The following had died or been incapable on health grounds: Peter Beckwith (Bond Corporation), Bill Burgess (Rothwells), Robert Holmes à Court, Thomas Hugall (Rothwells), Bruce Kirkwood (SECWA), Andrew Mensaros (former Liberal state minister), Terence McDonnell (solicitor), and Jack Walsh (Rothwells). The following declined to give evidence: Yosse Goldberg (entrepreneur), Peter Mitchell (Bond Corporation), Tony Oates (Bond Corporation), and Ms Kim Rooney (wife of David Parker). Dr Shrian Oskar was serving a 6 year prison term in the UK.</blockquote>
In an earlier finding, the commission had summarised:<blockquote>[The Government was not entitled] to risk the public resources of the State without its actions being subjected to critical scrutiny and review. Effective accountability was a casualty of its entrepreneurial zeal. Influence in the conduct of this State's public affairs was captured by a small group of self interested businessmen. and a list of recommendations impinging on open government,
Contracts relating to the Dampier to Perth Natural Gas Pipeline
The acquisition of Northern Mining Corporation NL in 1983
The Swan Building Society
SGIC's acquisition of shares in BHP Limited and the Bell Group
The old Perth Technical College site
Role of Mr Ray O'Connor in alleged bribery
Allegations arising from the trial of Robert Mark Smith and Robert Paul Martin, including those with respect to surveillance activities
The adequacy of certain police investigations
Political donations
19 ноября 1990 года Кармен Лоуренс, действующий премьер-министр от Лейбористской партии, объявила о намерении своего правительства провести королевскую комиссию для «расследования определенных вопросов». Это решение последовало за более чем годом активной общественной поддержки активистской группой «Люди за справедливое и открытое правительство», возглавляемой братом премьер-министра, адвокатом Беваном Лоуренсом, профессором по заслугам Мартином Уэббом и известным политологом Пэдди О'Брайеном. О'Брайен отредактировал книгу «Засада на Берка», подзаголовок которой – «Корпоративизм и общество в Западной Австралии», которая стала первым существенным разоблачением прокорпоративного правительства Берка – сборником статей его самого и других западных австралийских писателей, включая Хала Коулбатача, Роберта Беннетта, Джозефа Попрекзного, Джона Хайда, Пола Николса, Майкла Маккинли, Энтони Дейла и Тома Герцфельда. Комиссия состояла из трех человек и возглавлялась Джеффри Кеннеди, в нее также вошли сэр Рональд Уилсон и Питер Бринсден, с мандатом «исследовать и доложить», имелись ли «коррупция, незаконные действия, ненадлежащее поведение или взяточничество» со стороны какого-либо лица или корпорации в «делах, инвестиционных решениях и деловых операциях правительства Западной Австралии или его агентств». Следующие лица умерли или были недееспособны по состоянию здоровья: Питер Беквит (Bond Corporation), Билл Берджесс (Rothwells), Роберт Холмс а Кур, Томас Хьюгалл (Rothwells), Брюс Киркуд (SECWA), Эндрю Менсарос (бывший министр Либеральной партии штата), Теренс Макдоннелл (адвокат) и Джек Уолш (Rothwells). Следующие лица отказались давать показания: Йоссе Голдберг (предприниматель), Питер Митчелл (Bond Corporation), Тони Оутс (Bond Corporation) и г-жа Ким Руни (жена Дэвида Паркера). Доктор Шриан Оскар отбывал 6-летний тюремный срок в Великобритании.
1980s Australian political scandal
WA Inc was the name for a set of public private partnerships in Western Australia in the 1980s associated with the Western Australian Development Corporation, which became a political scandal. The state government, which was led for much of the period by premier Brian Burke, engaged in business dealings with several prominent businessmen, including Alan Bond, Laurie Connell, Dallas Dempster, John Roberts, and Warren Anderson. These dealings resulted in a loss of public money, estimated at a minimum of $600 million and the insolvency of several large corporations. Bond and Connell were major contributors to the party in government, the Labor Party and its remarkable fundraising structure, the John Curtin Foundation. A royal commission (the Royal Commission into Commercial Activities of Government and Other Matters) was established in 1990 by Labor premier Carmen Lawrence to examine the dealings. Connell alleged [in evidence to the Commission] that Hawke dropped a proposed gold tax after Connell and various Perth high flyers donated $250,000 each to Labor during an infamous lunch in Brian Burke's office in 1987—a claim the former PM vigorously denied. Burke's loyalty to those who had donated their efforts (and money) to Labor was no less fervent. Taking the John Curtin Foundation axiom to the next level, Burke created the West Australian Development Corporation and installed fellow Catholic John Horgan (pictured second from left, top) on $800,000 a year, an extraordinary figure for a public servant not only then but now.—Journalist Tony Barrass, 2009. Corporate failures
As an outcome of questionable business practices, precipitated by the 1987 stock market crash, several major businesses based in Perth found themselves in difficulties and ultimately went into bankruptcy. These included:
Rothwells. Described as a merchant bank owned by Connell, but more accurately known in business circles as a 'lender of last resort', Rothwells had built up a stable of businesses it had acquired during the 1980s through aggressive takeovers. In October 1987, investors made a run on the bank and it had to close its doors. Burke, on behalf of the government, provided a $150 million government guarantee. Connell had previously been the adviser to the 1983 government purchase of Northern Mining from Bond Corporation for between $7 and $12 million over value but, as Burke knew at the time and concealed from parliament, Connell was also acting for Bond Corporation. Bell Group, Robert Holmes à Court's flagship company, encountered a cash crisis and Bond Corporation and the government, through the State Government Insurance Commission, acquired major stakes in the business in April 1988,
In 1991, barrister Bevan Lawrence published what he regarded as a conservative itemisation of the government's actual losses. The figures are summarised as follows:
{|
|
| Rothwells and Petrochemicals Plant || align=right | $408 million
|
| Purchase of Bell Group shares from Robert Holmes à Court || align=right | $155 million
|
| Unlisted bonds purchased from Holmes à Court, later assessed as having no value || align=right | $140 million
|
| Westralia Square (Old Perth Technical School site redevelopment) || align=right | $74 million
|
| Central Park property redevelopment || align=right| $100 million
|
| Grand total || align=right style="border top:1px solid;"| $877 million
|}
The WA Inc Royal Commission
On 19 November 1990, Carmen Lawrence, the then Labor premier, announced her government's intention to hold a royal commission to "inquire into certain matters". This decision followed more than a year of strong public advocacy by the activist group, People for Fair and Open Government headed by the premier's brother, barrister Bevan Lawrence, Professor Emeritus Martyn Webb and prominent political scientist Paddy O'Brien. O'Brien edited The Burke Ambush, subtitled Corporatism and Society in Western Australia, which was the first substantial exposé of Burke's pro corporate government—a collection of articles by himself and other Western Australian writers, including Hal Colebatch, Robert Bennett, Joseph Poprzeczny, John Hyde, Paul Nichols, Michael McKinley, Anthony Dale and Tom Herzfeld. The commission of three was headed by Geoffrey Kennedy and joined by Sir Ronald Wilson and Peter Brinsden, with a brief "To inquire into and report" whether there had been "corruption, illegal conduct, improper conduct, or bribery" on the part of any person or corporation in the "affairs, investment decisions and business dealings of the Government of Western Australia or its agencies". The following had died or been incapable on health grounds: Peter Beckwith (Bond Corporation), Bill Burgess (Rothwells), Robert Holmes à Court, Thomas Hugall (Rothwells), Bruce Kirkwood (SECWA), Andrew Mensaros (former Liberal state minister), Terence McDonnell (solicitor), and Jack Walsh (Rothwells). The following declined to give evidence: Yosse Goldberg (entrepreneur), Peter Mitchell (Bond Corporation), Tony Oates (Bond Corporation), and Ms Kim Rooney (wife of David Parker). Dr Shrian Oskar was serving a 6 year prison term in the UK.</blockquote>
In an earlier finding, the commission had summarised:<blockquote>[The Government was not entitled] to risk the public resources of the State without its actions being subjected to critical scrutiny and review. Effective accountability was a casualty of its entrepreneurial zeal. Influence in the conduct of this State's public affairs was captured by a small group of self interested businessmen. and a list of recommendations impinging on open government,
Contracts relating to the Dampier to Perth Natural Gas Pipeline
The acquisition of Northern Mining Corporation NL in 1983
The Swan Building Society
SGIC's acquisition of shares in BHP Limited and the Bell Group
The old Perth Technical College site
Role of Mr Ray O'Connor in alleged bribery
Allegations arising from the trial of Robert Mark Smith and Robert Paul Martin, including those with respect to surveillance activities
The adequacy of certain police investigations
Political donations
WA Inc was the name for a set of public private partnerships in Western Australia in the 1980s associated with the Western Australian Development Corporation, which became a political scandal. The state government, which was led for much of the period by premier Brian Burke, engaged in business dealings with several prominent businessmen, including Alan Bond, Laurie Connell, Dallas Dempster, John Roberts, and Warren Anderson. These dealings resulted in a loss of public money, estimated at a minimum of $600 million and the insolvency of several large corporations. Bond and Connell were major contributors to the party in government, the Labor Party and its remarkable fundraising structure, the John Curtin Foundation. A royal commission (the Royal Commission into Commercial Activities of Government and Other Matters) was established in 1990 by Labor premier Carmen Lawrence to examine the dealings. Connell alleged [in evidence to the Commission] that Hawke dropped a proposed gold tax after Connell and various Perth high flyers donated $250,000 each to Labor during an infamous lunch in Brian Burke's office in 1987—a claim the former PM vigorously denied. Burke's loyalty to those who had donated their efforts (and money) to Labor was no less fervent. Taking the John Curtin Foundation axiom to the next level, Burke created the West Australian Development Corporation and installed fellow Catholic John Horgan (pictured second from left, top) on $800,000 a year, an extraordinary figure for a public servant not only then but now.—Journalist Tony Barrass, 2009. Corporate failures
As an outcome of questionable business practices, precipitated by the 1987 stock market crash, several major businesses based in Perth found themselves in difficulties and ultimately went into bankruptcy. These included:
Rothwells. Described as a merchant bank owned by Connell, but more accurately known in business circles as a 'lender of last resort', Rothwells had built up a stable of businesses it had acquired during the 1980s through aggressive takeovers. In October 1987, investors made a run on the bank and it had to close its doors. Burke, on behalf of the government, provided a $150 million government guarantee. Connell had previously been the adviser to the 1983 government purchase of Northern Mining from Bond Corporation for between $7 and $12 million over value but, as Burke knew at the time and concealed from parliament, Connell was also acting for Bond Corporation. Bell Group, Robert Holmes à Court's flagship company, encountered a cash crisis and Bond Corporation and the government, through the State Government Insurance Commission, acquired major stakes in the business in April 1988,
In 1991, barrister Bevan Lawrence published what he regarded as a conservative itemisation of the government's actual losses. The figures are summarised as follows:
{|
|
| Rothwells and Petrochemicals Plant || align=right | $408 million
|
| Purchase of Bell Group shares from Robert Holmes à Court || align=right | $155 million
|
| Unlisted bonds purchased from Holmes à Court, later assessed as having no value || align=right | $140 million
|
| Westralia Square (Old Perth Technical School site redevelopment) || align=right | $74 million
|
| Central Park property redevelopment || align=right| $100 million
|
| Grand total || align=right style="border top:1px solid;"| $877 million
|}
The WA Inc Royal Commission
On 19 November 1990, Carmen Lawrence, the then Labor premier, announced her government's intention to hold a royal commission to "inquire into certain matters". This decision followed more than a year of strong public advocacy by the activist group, People for Fair and Open Government headed by the premier's brother, barrister Bevan Lawrence, Professor Emeritus Martyn Webb and prominent political scientist Paddy O'Brien. O'Brien edited The Burke Ambush, subtitled Corporatism and Society in Western Australia, which was the first substantial exposé of Burke's pro corporate government—a collection of articles by himself and other Western Australian writers, including Hal Colebatch, Robert Bennett, Joseph Poprzeczny, John Hyde, Paul Nichols, Michael McKinley, Anthony Dale and Tom Herzfeld. The commission of three was headed by Geoffrey Kennedy and joined by Sir Ronald Wilson and Peter Brinsden, with a brief "To inquire into and report" whether there had been "corruption, illegal conduct, improper conduct, or bribery" on the part of any person or corporation in the "affairs, investment decisions and business dealings of the Government of Western Australia or its agencies". The following had died or been incapable on health grounds: Peter Beckwith (Bond Corporation), Bill Burgess (Rothwells), Robert Holmes à Court, Thomas Hugall (Rothwells), Bruce Kirkwood (SECWA), Andrew Mensaros (former Liberal state minister), Terence McDonnell (solicitor), and Jack Walsh (Rothwells). The following declined to give evidence: Yosse Goldberg (entrepreneur), Peter Mitchell (Bond Corporation), Tony Oates (Bond Corporation), and Ms Kim Rooney (wife of David Parker). Dr Shrian Oskar was serving a 6 year prison term in the UK.</blockquote>
In an earlier finding, the commission had summarised:<blockquote>[The Government was not entitled] to risk the public resources of the State without its actions being subjected to critical scrutiny and review. Effective accountability was a casualty of its entrepreneurial zeal. Influence in the conduct of this State's public affairs was captured by a small group of self interested businessmen. and a list of recommendations impinging on open government,
Contracts relating to the Dampier to Perth Natural Gas Pipeline
The acquisition of Northern Mining Corporation NL in 1983
The Swan Building Society
SGIC's acquisition of shares in BHP Limited and the Bell Group
The old Perth Technical College site
Role of Mr Ray O'Connor in alleged bribery
Allegations arising from the trial of Robert Mark Smith and Robert Paul Martin, including those with respect to surveillance activities
The adequacy of certain police investigations
Political donations
В предварительном заключении комиссия резюмировала: [Правительство не имело права рисковать государственными ресурсами штата без критического изучения и проверки его действий. Эффективная подотчетность стала жертвой его предпринимательского рвения. Влияние на общественные дела этого штата было захвачено небольшой группой заинтересованных бизнесменов.] и список рекомендаций, касающихся открытости правительства,
1980s Australian political scandal
WA Inc was the name for a set of public private partnerships in Western Australia in the 1980s associated with the Western Australian Development Corporation, which became a political scandal. The state government, which was led for much of the period by premier Brian Burke, engaged in business dealings with several prominent businessmen, including Alan Bond, Laurie Connell, Dallas Dempster, John Roberts, and Warren Anderson. These dealings resulted in a loss of public money, estimated at a minimum of $600 million and the insolvency of several large corporations. Bond and Connell were major contributors to the party in government, the Labor Party and its remarkable fundraising structure, the John Curtin Foundation. A royal commission (the Royal Commission into Commercial Activities of Government and Other Matters) was established in 1990 by Labor premier Carmen Lawrence to examine the dealings. Connell alleged [in evidence to the Commission] that Hawke dropped a proposed gold tax after Connell and various Perth high flyers donated $250,000 each to Labor during an infamous lunch in Brian Burke's office in 1987—a claim the former PM vigorously denied. Burke's loyalty to those who had donated their efforts (and money) to Labor was no less fervent. Taking the John Curtin Foundation axiom to the next level, Burke created the West Australian Development Corporation and installed fellow Catholic John Horgan (pictured second from left, top) on $800,000 a year, an extraordinary figure for a public servant not only then but now.—Journalist Tony Barrass, 2009. Corporate failures
As an outcome of questionable business practices, precipitated by the 1987 stock market crash, several major businesses based in Perth found themselves in difficulties and ultimately went into bankruptcy. These included:
Rothwells. Described as a merchant bank owned by Connell, but more accurately known in business circles as a 'lender of last resort', Rothwells had built up a stable of businesses it had acquired during the 1980s through aggressive takeovers. In October 1987, investors made a run on the bank and it had to close its doors. Burke, on behalf of the government, provided a $150 million government guarantee. Connell had previously been the adviser to the 1983 government purchase of Northern Mining from Bond Corporation for between $7 and $12 million over value but, as Burke knew at the time and concealed from parliament, Connell was also acting for Bond Corporation. Bell Group, Robert Holmes à Court's flagship company, encountered a cash crisis and Bond Corporation and the government, through the State Government Insurance Commission, acquired major stakes in the business in April 1988,
In 1991, barrister Bevan Lawrence published what he regarded as a conservative itemisation of the government's actual losses. The figures are summarised as follows:
{|
|
| Rothwells and Petrochemicals Plant || align=right | $408 million
|
| Purchase of Bell Group shares from Robert Holmes à Court || align=right | $155 million
|
| Unlisted bonds purchased from Holmes à Court, later assessed as having no value || align=right | $140 million
|
| Westralia Square (Old Perth Technical School site redevelopment) || align=right | $74 million
|
| Central Park property redevelopment || align=right| $100 million
|
| Grand total || align=right style="border top:1px solid;"| $877 million
|}
The WA Inc Royal Commission
On 19 November 1990, Carmen Lawrence, the then Labor premier, announced her government's intention to hold a royal commission to "inquire into certain matters". This decision followed more than a year of strong public advocacy by the activist group, People for Fair and Open Government headed by the premier's brother, barrister Bevan Lawrence, Professor Emeritus Martyn Webb and prominent political scientist Paddy O'Brien. O'Brien edited The Burke Ambush, subtitled Corporatism and Society in Western Australia, which was the first substantial exposé of Burke's pro corporate government—a collection of articles by himself and other Western Australian writers, including Hal Colebatch, Robert Bennett, Joseph Poprzeczny, John Hyde, Paul Nichols, Michael McKinley, Anthony Dale and Tom Herzfeld. The commission of three was headed by Geoffrey Kennedy and joined by Sir Ronald Wilson and Peter Brinsden, with a brief "To inquire into and report" whether there had been "corruption, illegal conduct, improper conduct, or bribery" on the part of any person or corporation in the "affairs, investment decisions and business dealings of the Government of Western Australia or its agencies". The following had died or been incapable on health grounds: Peter Beckwith (Bond Corporation), Bill Burgess (Rothwells), Robert Holmes à Court, Thomas Hugall (Rothwells), Bruce Kirkwood (SECWA), Andrew Mensaros (former Liberal state minister), Terence McDonnell (solicitor), and Jack Walsh (Rothwells). The following declined to give evidence: Yosse Goldberg (entrepreneur), Peter Mitchell (Bond Corporation), Tony Oates (Bond Corporation), and Ms Kim Rooney (wife of David Parker). Dr Shrian Oskar was serving a 6 year prison term in the UK.</blockquote>
In an earlier finding, the commission had summarised:<blockquote>[The Government was not entitled] to risk the public resources of the State without its actions being subjected to critical scrutiny and review. Effective accountability was a casualty of its entrepreneurial zeal. Influence in the conduct of this State's public affairs was captured by a small group of self interested businessmen. and a list of recommendations impinging on open government,
Contracts relating to the Dampier to Perth Natural Gas Pipeline
The acquisition of Northern Mining Corporation NL in 1983
The Swan Building Society
SGIC's acquisition of shares in BHP Limited and the Bell Group
The old Perth Technical College site
Role of Mr Ray O'Connor in alleged bribery
Allegations arising from the trial of Robert Mark Smith and Robert Paul Martin, including those with respect to surveillance activities
The adequacy of certain police investigations
Political donations
WA Inc was the name for a set of public private partnerships in Western Australia in the 1980s associated with the Western Australian Development Corporation, which became a political scandal. The state government, which was led for much of the period by premier Brian Burke, engaged in business dealings with several prominent businessmen, including Alan Bond, Laurie Connell, Dallas Dempster, John Roberts, and Warren Anderson. These dealings resulted in a loss of public money, estimated at a minimum of $600 million and the insolvency of several large corporations. Bond and Connell were major contributors to the party in government, the Labor Party and its remarkable fundraising structure, the John Curtin Foundation. A royal commission (the Royal Commission into Commercial Activities of Government and Other Matters) was established in 1990 by Labor premier Carmen Lawrence to examine the dealings. Connell alleged [in evidence to the Commission] that Hawke dropped a proposed gold tax after Connell and various Perth high flyers donated $250,000 each to Labor during an infamous lunch in Brian Burke's office in 1987—a claim the former PM vigorously denied. Burke's loyalty to those who had donated their efforts (and money) to Labor was no less fervent. Taking the John Curtin Foundation axiom to the next level, Burke created the West Australian Development Corporation and installed fellow Catholic John Horgan (pictured second from left, top) on $800,000 a year, an extraordinary figure for a public servant not only then but now.—Journalist Tony Barrass, 2009. Corporate failures
As an outcome of questionable business practices, precipitated by the 1987 stock market crash, several major businesses based in Perth found themselves in difficulties and ultimately went into bankruptcy. These included:
Rothwells. Described as a merchant bank owned by Connell, but more accurately known in business circles as a 'lender of last resort', Rothwells had built up a stable of businesses it had acquired during the 1980s through aggressive takeovers. In October 1987, investors made a run on the bank and it had to close its doors. Burke, on behalf of the government, provided a $150 million government guarantee. Connell had previously been the adviser to the 1983 government purchase of Northern Mining from Bond Corporation for between $7 and $12 million over value but, as Burke knew at the time and concealed from parliament, Connell was also acting for Bond Corporation. Bell Group, Robert Holmes à Court's flagship company, encountered a cash crisis and Bond Corporation and the government, through the State Government Insurance Commission, acquired major stakes in the business in April 1988,
In 1991, barrister Bevan Lawrence published what he regarded as a conservative itemisation of the government's actual losses. The figures are summarised as follows:
{|
|
| Rothwells and Petrochemicals Plant || align=right | $408 million
|
| Purchase of Bell Group shares from Robert Holmes à Court || align=right | $155 million
|
| Unlisted bonds purchased from Holmes à Court, later assessed as having no value || align=right | $140 million
|
| Westralia Square (Old Perth Technical School site redevelopment) || align=right | $74 million
|
| Central Park property redevelopment || align=right| $100 million
|
| Grand total || align=right style="border top:1px solid;"| $877 million
|}
The WA Inc Royal Commission
On 19 November 1990, Carmen Lawrence, the then Labor premier, announced her government's intention to hold a royal commission to "inquire into certain matters". This decision followed more than a year of strong public advocacy by the activist group, People for Fair and Open Government headed by the premier's brother, barrister Bevan Lawrence, Professor Emeritus Martyn Webb and prominent political scientist Paddy O'Brien. O'Brien edited The Burke Ambush, subtitled Corporatism and Society in Western Australia, which was the first substantial exposé of Burke's pro corporate government—a collection of articles by himself and other Western Australian writers, including Hal Colebatch, Robert Bennett, Joseph Poprzeczny, John Hyde, Paul Nichols, Michael McKinley, Anthony Dale and Tom Herzfeld. The commission of three was headed by Geoffrey Kennedy and joined by Sir Ronald Wilson and Peter Brinsden, with a brief "To inquire into and report" whether there had been "corruption, illegal conduct, improper conduct, or bribery" on the part of any person or corporation in the "affairs, investment decisions and business dealings of the Government of Western Australia or its agencies". The following had died or been incapable on health grounds: Peter Beckwith (Bond Corporation), Bill Burgess (Rothwells), Robert Holmes à Court, Thomas Hugall (Rothwells), Bruce Kirkwood (SECWA), Andrew Mensaros (former Liberal state minister), Terence McDonnell (solicitor), and Jack Walsh (Rothwells). The following declined to give evidence: Yosse Goldberg (entrepreneur), Peter Mitchell (Bond Corporation), Tony Oates (Bond Corporation), and Ms Kim Rooney (wife of David Parker). Dr Shrian Oskar was serving a 6 year prison term in the UK.</blockquote>
In an earlier finding, the commission had summarised:<blockquote>[The Government was not entitled] to risk the public resources of the State without its actions being subjected to critical scrutiny and review. Effective accountability was a casualty of its entrepreneurial zeal. Influence in the conduct of this State's public affairs was captured by a small group of self interested businessmen. and a list of recommendations impinging on open government,
Contracts relating to the Dampier to Perth Natural Gas Pipeline
The acquisition of Northern Mining Corporation NL in 1983
The Swan Building Society
SGIC's acquisition of shares in BHP Limited and the Bell Group
The old Perth Technical College site
Role of Mr Ray O'Connor in alleged bribery
Allegations arising from the trial of Robert Mark Smith and Robert Paul Martin, including those with respect to surveillance activities
The adequacy of certain police investigations
Political donations
Контракты, касающиеся газопровода Dampier to Perth
Приобретение Northern Mining Corporation NL в 1983 году
Swan Building Society
Приобретение SGIC акций BHP Limited и Bell Group
Территория старой Пертской технической школы
Роль г-на Рэя О'Коннора в предполагаемом взяточничестве
Обвинения, возникшие в результате судебного процесса над Робертом Марком Смитом и Робертом Полом Мартином, включая связанные с деятельностью по слежке
Адекватность определенных полицейских расследований
Политические пожертвования
1980s Australian political scandal
WA Inc was the name for a set of public private partnerships in Western Australia in the 1980s associated with the Western Australian Development Corporation, which became a political scandal. The state government, which was led for much of the period by premier Brian Burke, engaged in business dealings with several prominent businessmen, including Alan Bond, Laurie Connell, Dallas Dempster, John Roberts, and Warren Anderson. These dealings resulted in a loss of public money, estimated at a minimum of $600 million and the insolvency of several large corporations. Bond and Connell were major contributors to the party in government, the Labor Party and its remarkable fundraising structure, the John Curtin Foundation. A royal commission (the Royal Commission into Commercial Activities of Government and Other Matters) was established in 1990 by Labor premier Carmen Lawrence to examine the dealings. Connell alleged [in evidence to the Commission] that Hawke dropped a proposed gold tax after Connell and various Perth high flyers donated $250,000 each to Labor during an infamous lunch in Brian Burke's office in 1987—a claim the former PM vigorously denied. Burke's loyalty to those who had donated their efforts (and money) to Labor was no less fervent. Taking the John Curtin Foundation axiom to the next level, Burke created the West Australian Development Corporation and installed fellow Catholic John Horgan (pictured second from left, top) on $800,000 a year, an extraordinary figure for a public servant not only then but now.—Journalist Tony Barrass, 2009. Corporate failures
As an outcome of questionable business practices, precipitated by the 1987 stock market crash, several major businesses based in Perth found themselves in difficulties and ultimately went into bankruptcy. These included:
Rothwells. Described as a merchant bank owned by Connell, but more accurately known in business circles as a 'lender of last resort', Rothwells had built up a stable of businesses it had acquired during the 1980s through aggressive takeovers. In October 1987, investors made a run on the bank and it had to close its doors. Burke, on behalf of the government, provided a $150 million government guarantee. Connell had previously been the adviser to the 1983 government purchase of Northern Mining from Bond Corporation for between $7 and $12 million over value but, as Burke knew at the time and concealed from parliament, Connell was also acting for Bond Corporation. Bell Group, Robert Holmes à Court's flagship company, encountered a cash crisis and Bond Corporation and the government, through the State Government Insurance Commission, acquired major stakes in the business in April 1988,
In 1991, barrister Bevan Lawrence published what he regarded as a conservative itemisation of the government's actual losses. The figures are summarised as follows:
{|
|
| Rothwells and Petrochemicals Plant || align=right | $408 million
|
| Purchase of Bell Group shares from Robert Holmes à Court || align=right | $155 million
|
| Unlisted bonds purchased from Holmes à Court, later assessed as having no value || align=right | $140 million
|
| Westralia Square (Old Perth Technical School site redevelopment) || align=right | $74 million
|
| Central Park property redevelopment || align=right| $100 million
|
| Grand total || align=right style="border top:1px solid;"| $877 million
|}
The WA Inc Royal Commission
On 19 November 1990, Carmen Lawrence, the then Labor premier, announced her government's intention to hold a royal commission to "inquire into certain matters". This decision followed more than a year of strong public advocacy by the activist group, People for Fair and Open Government headed by the premier's brother, barrister Bevan Lawrence, Professor Emeritus Martyn Webb and prominent political scientist Paddy O'Brien. O'Brien edited The Burke Ambush, subtitled Corporatism and Society in Western Australia, which was the first substantial exposé of Burke's pro corporate government—a collection of articles by himself and other Western Australian writers, including Hal Colebatch, Robert Bennett, Joseph Poprzeczny, John Hyde, Paul Nichols, Michael McKinley, Anthony Dale and Tom Herzfeld. The commission of three was headed by Geoffrey Kennedy and joined by Sir Ronald Wilson and Peter Brinsden, with a brief "To inquire into and report" whether there had been "corruption, illegal conduct, improper conduct, or bribery" on the part of any person or corporation in the "affairs, investment decisions and business dealings of the Government of Western Australia or its agencies". The following had died or been incapable on health grounds: Peter Beckwith (Bond Corporation), Bill Burgess (Rothwells), Robert Holmes à Court, Thomas Hugall (Rothwells), Bruce Kirkwood (SECWA), Andrew Mensaros (former Liberal state minister), Terence McDonnell (solicitor), and Jack Walsh (Rothwells). The following declined to give evidence: Yosse Goldberg (entrepreneur), Peter Mitchell (Bond Corporation), Tony Oates (Bond Corporation), and Ms Kim Rooney (wife of David Parker). Dr Shrian Oskar was serving a 6 year prison term in the UK.</blockquote>
In an earlier finding, the commission had summarised:<blockquote>[The Government was not entitled] to risk the public resources of the State without its actions being subjected to critical scrutiny and review. Effective accountability was a casualty of its entrepreneurial zeal. Influence in the conduct of this State's public affairs was captured by a small group of self interested businessmen. and a list of recommendations impinging on open government,
Contracts relating to the Dampier to Perth Natural Gas Pipeline
The acquisition of Northern Mining Corporation NL in 1983
The Swan Building Society
SGIC's acquisition of shares in BHP Limited and the Bell Group
The old Perth Technical College site
Role of Mr Ray O'Connor in alleged bribery
Allegations arising from the trial of Robert Mark Smith and Robert Paul Martin, including those with respect to surveillance activities
The adequacy of certain police investigations
Political donations
WA Inc was the name for a set of public private partnerships in Western Australia in the 1980s associated with the Western Australian Development Corporation, which became a political scandal. The state government, which was led for much of the period by premier Brian Burke, engaged in business dealings with several prominent businessmen, including Alan Bond, Laurie Connell, Dallas Dempster, John Roberts, and Warren Anderson. These dealings resulted in a loss of public money, estimated at a minimum of $600 million and the insolvency of several large corporations. Bond and Connell were major contributors to the party in government, the Labor Party and its remarkable fundraising structure, the John Curtin Foundation. A royal commission (the Royal Commission into Commercial Activities of Government and Other Matters) was established in 1990 by Labor premier Carmen Lawrence to examine the dealings. Connell alleged [in evidence to the Commission] that Hawke dropped a proposed gold tax after Connell and various Perth high flyers donated $250,000 each to Labor during an infamous lunch in Brian Burke's office in 1987—a claim the former PM vigorously denied. Burke's loyalty to those who had donated their efforts (and money) to Labor was no less fervent. Taking the John Curtin Foundation axiom to the next level, Burke created the West Australian Development Corporation and installed fellow Catholic John Horgan (pictured second from left, top) on $800,000 a year, an extraordinary figure for a public servant not only then but now.—Journalist Tony Barrass, 2009. Corporate failures
As an outcome of questionable business practices, precipitated by the 1987 stock market crash, several major businesses based in Perth found themselves in difficulties and ultimately went into bankruptcy. These included:
Rothwells. Described as a merchant bank owned by Connell, but more accurately known in business circles as a 'lender of last resort', Rothwells had built up a stable of businesses it had acquired during the 1980s through aggressive takeovers. In October 1987, investors made a run on the bank and it had to close its doors. Burke, on behalf of the government, provided a $150 million government guarantee. Connell had previously been the adviser to the 1983 government purchase of Northern Mining from Bond Corporation for between $7 and $12 million over value but, as Burke knew at the time and concealed from parliament, Connell was also acting for Bond Corporation. Bell Group, Robert Holmes à Court's flagship company, encountered a cash crisis and Bond Corporation and the government, through the State Government Insurance Commission, acquired major stakes in the business in April 1988,
In 1991, barrister Bevan Lawrence published what he regarded as a conservative itemisation of the government's actual losses. The figures are summarised as follows:
{|
|
| Rothwells and Petrochemicals Plant || align=right | $408 million
|
| Purchase of Bell Group shares from Robert Holmes à Court || align=right | $155 million
|
| Unlisted bonds purchased from Holmes à Court, later assessed as having no value || align=right | $140 million
|
| Westralia Square (Old Perth Technical School site redevelopment) || align=right | $74 million
|
| Central Park property redevelopment || align=right| $100 million
|
| Grand total || align=right style="border top:1px solid;"| $877 million
|}
The WA Inc Royal Commission
On 19 November 1990, Carmen Lawrence, the then Labor premier, announced her government's intention to hold a royal commission to "inquire into certain matters". This decision followed more than a year of strong public advocacy by the activist group, People for Fair and Open Government headed by the premier's brother, barrister Bevan Lawrence, Professor Emeritus Martyn Webb and prominent political scientist Paddy O'Brien. O'Brien edited The Burke Ambush, subtitled Corporatism and Society in Western Australia, which was the first substantial exposé of Burke's pro corporate government—a collection of articles by himself and other Western Australian writers, including Hal Colebatch, Robert Bennett, Joseph Poprzeczny, John Hyde, Paul Nichols, Michael McKinley, Anthony Dale and Tom Herzfeld. The commission of three was headed by Geoffrey Kennedy and joined by Sir Ronald Wilson and Peter Brinsden, with a brief "To inquire into and report" whether there had been "corruption, illegal conduct, improper conduct, or bribery" on the part of any person or corporation in the "affairs, investment decisions and business dealings of the Government of Western Australia or its agencies". The following had died or been incapable on health grounds: Peter Beckwith (Bond Corporation), Bill Burgess (Rothwells), Robert Holmes à Court, Thomas Hugall (Rothwells), Bruce Kirkwood (SECWA), Andrew Mensaros (former Liberal state minister), Terence McDonnell (solicitor), and Jack Walsh (Rothwells). The following declined to give evidence: Yosse Goldberg (entrepreneur), Peter Mitchell (Bond Corporation), Tony Oates (Bond Corporation), and Ms Kim Rooney (wife of David Parker). Dr Shrian Oskar was serving a 6 year prison term in the UK.</blockquote>
In an earlier finding, the commission had summarised:<blockquote>[The Government was not entitled] to risk the public resources of the State without its actions being subjected to critical scrutiny and review. Effective accountability was a casualty of its entrepreneurial zeal. Influence in the conduct of this State's public affairs was captured by a small group of self interested businessmen. and a list of recommendations impinging on open government,
Contracts relating to the Dampier to Perth Natural Gas Pipeline
The acquisition of Northern Mining Corporation NL in 1983
The Swan Building Society
SGIC's acquisition of shares in BHP Limited and the Bell Group
The old Perth Technical College site
Role of Mr Ray O'Connor in alleged bribery
Allegations arising from the trial of Robert Mark Smith and Robert Paul Martin, including those with respect to surveillance activities
The adequacy of certain police investigations
Political donations
Затраты и результаты
Королевская комиссия обошлась в 30 миллионов долларов, включая 12,5 миллионов долларов расходов на свидетелей. Из этой суммы 3,6 миллиона долларов были потрачены на оплату судебных издержек Берка (1,71 миллиона долларов) и Дэвида Паркера (1,92 миллиона долларов). Берк и его предшественник, либеральный премьер-министр Рэй О’Коннор, в конечном итоге были приговорены к тюремному заключению на основании обвинительных приговоров, последовавших за результатами работы комиссии. Премьер-министр, сменивший Берка, Питер Даудинг, и государственный служащий Лен Бруш были признаны виновными в неправомерных действиях. Полномочия Корпорации развития Западной Австралии постепенно сокращались, и она была окончательно ликвидирована в 1998 году.
The royal commission cost $30 million, including $12.5 million in witness costs. Of the latter, $3.6 million funded Burke's own legal fees ($1.71 million) and those of David Parker ($1.92 million). Burke and his predecessor, the Liberal premier Ray O'Connor ultimately served prison sentences as a result of convictions which arose from findings of the commission. The premier immediately after Burke, Peter Dowding, and public servant Len Brush were both found to have acted improperly. The Western Australian Development Corporation's remit was reduced over time, and it was finally wound up in 1998.