EXTRACTS FROM ARTHUR GIETZELT’S PUBLIC SPEECHES ESPOUSING DEMOCRACY
Part 1
Part 1
Introduction by Lee Gietzelt
All over Australia, Arthur Gietzelt publicly argued and advocated the importance of democracy, through the eyes of a socialist.
Because of the outright lies and fanciful speculation produced in some forums regarding Arthur Gietzelt’s loyalty to the ALP, I have selected a few phrases from some of Arthur's speeches which he made throughout his career, which emphasise and confirm Arthur’’s public position on democracy since joining the ALP.
Before listing a selection of speech extracts, it is important to put the term ‘Socialism’ in context. Socialism has been part of the ALP’s official platform over many decades and has been espoused by many senior ALP figures during that time. For instance:
Furthermore, Arthur made scores of other speeches supporting ALP policies when he was Shadow Minister for Agriculture, Shadow Minister for Consumer Affairs, and Minister of Veterans’ Affairs. Whilst some of his other speeches don’t specifically put forward his and the official ALP’s support of democratic socialism, they very strongly relate to ALP policy.
The speech extracts listed below are in no particular order, and it should be noted that they are only excerpts – the full speeches Arthur made contain much more depth.
Finally, Arthur's family has not finished sorting through his extensive collection of ALP records. There are many more of Arthur's speeches to come advocating democracy, and once collated, the next installment will be published on this website as ‘Part 2’.
Extracts from Arthur Gietzelt’s speeches:
1. Seminar on the Future of Manufacturing Industry – 7-8 June 1977
“I welcome the extra-parliamentary activity, not only because the answers will not be found solely in the parliamentary process, but because we need to expand the democratic processes if we are to consummate the expectations of a modern community, to improve living standards and to stabilise our role in a changing world.” (p.1)
2. Grass-Roots Democracy The Only Solution: Gietzelt – undated, but spoken at an ALP seminar held in Launceston when Gietzelt was Shadow Minister for Consumer Affairs, late 1970s
“[Gietzelt] stressed the importance of the Labor Party and the Labour movement encouraging democracy at all levels. Democracy at all levels is the essence of socialism.” (p.1)
3. Does the Socialist Objective have a Future? – undated, but about 1981
“The kind of democratic socialist tradition with which we are familiar in Western Europe and Australasia is very different indeed from the relentlessly authoritarian Marxist-Leninist socialism of the Soviet Union, China and their respective satellites” (p.10)
This point needs to be strongly emphasised: Arthur Gietzelt refers to “the relentlessly authoritarian Marxist-Leninist socialism of the Soviet Union….”
Gietzelt publicly expressed the view that the Soviets were relentlessly authoritarian. That Gietzelt was a communist or communist sympathiser is completely at odds with what he actually believed in, and what he publicly stated.
“There appear to be three such values which lie at the very heart of democratic socialism, and these are, respectively, the values of equality, democracy and liberty.” (p.11)
4. Trade Unions and the Modern World – undated, but about 1970 when Arthur Gietzelt was President (Mayor) of Sutherland Shire, presented to a seminar at Sydney University convened by the Trade Union Education and Research Centre)
“The quality of life as compared to the 19th century has improved greatly, but the larger term objectives of democratic social change, due to divisions in the labour movement, are still a long way off.” (p.4)
5. The Way Forward – undated but, the “last time I was in Tasmania - in June of this year” - possibly 24 November 1979
“One of the main faults of the Whitlam Government was its failure to appreciate the need for a commitment to grass-roots democracy.” (p.3)
6. Untitled – undated
“I do not presume to speak on behalf of the Left, or even of the ALP Left. As a socialist, I
regard the plurality of views, opinions and philosophies as the keystone of a democratic society“ (p.1)
7. Whither the Left in Australia? – undated, a speech, partly reproduced in other forums
“The strategy for socialism in Australia must be vastly different to the socialist models developed elsewhere. Nowhere in the dozen socialist states led by communist parties can it be said there is sufficient emphasis on democratic processes.” (p.11)
“Socialism is applicable to Australia, because we now need to plan society so that society’s needs can be provided without the waste of human and natural resources; not centrally planned economies like the communist countries.” (p.14)
“Part of the strategy of the democratic socialist movement is to retain much of the innovative character of small businesses while reducing corporate power.” (p.15)
“The importance of the struggle for democratic rights to the socialist movement cannot be underestimated.” (p.17)
“Socialists within the Labour Movement have the responsibility to present alternatives with the objective of strengthening real democracy in this country.” (p.19)
“We should repudiate authoritarian doctrines, totalitarianism, oppression and dogmatic tendencies.” (p.21)
8. Whither the Left in Australia? – 15 April 1978 Fabian Society, Brisbane. (A similar speech to the above, with some phrases / sentences repeated.)
“The strategy for socialism in Australia must be vastly different to the socialist models developed elsewhere. Nowhere in the dozen socialist states led by communist parties can it be said there is sufficient emphasis on democratic processes.” (p.13)
“Today the concept of the dictatorship of the proletariat, hitherto basic to communist interpretation of Marxism, is being rejected by some communists and, as well, by all socialists.” (p.14)
“The importance of the struggle for democratic rights to the socialist movement cannot be underestimated.” (p.18)
“The Left should be guaranteeing the principles involved with a pluralist society. The right of all organised groups to be represented. The right of all organised groups to be represented in the areas of power, subject of course to the majority decision. ...
“The Left should be at the forefront of establishing a Human Rights concept - the right to dissent, the right of all persons to act according to their own conscience, with the only proviso, that their individual decision shall not abrogate the right of another.” (p.19)
“To ensure that socialism is politically acceptable, we must include in the forefront of this strategy the guarantee of democracy.” (p.22)
9. Speech to NSW Young Labor Conference – 29 April 1978
“I think it would be fair to say that I have little quarrel with the aims of the [West German] social democrats: equality, democratic means, a pluralist society - I am all for that. But I do not think those aims can be achieved by attempting to ‘manage’ capitalism.” (pp.19-20)
“I am all for [equality, democratic means, a pluralist society]”
“At the forefront of this strategy must be the guarantee of democracy.” (p.20)
10. The Future of the ALP – 27 April 1978, Adelaide
“I agree with Bob Carr (‘Social Democracy and Australian Labor’) ... that one of the greatest liabilities of the ALP is that it is a party without doctrines or ideological foundations; it has a
‘hollowness at the centre’...” (p.1)
“I agree with Bob Carr that a paramount task now is to develop a cogent and thorough ideology and strategy, to give our movement for genuine social change a firm theoretical basis, a shape and a form; a purpose.
“I also find myself largely agreeing with Bob as regards the fundamental aims of that ideology. I would not argue against striving for greater equality in matters of income and wealth, states and power, increasing personal freedom, social contentment and justice, political, industrial and economic democracy, and commitment to democratic means and pluralism.” (p.2)
“What separates the social democrats from myself is not any differing view as to a commitment to democratic means and to a pluralist society. I am not part of what Bob Carr calls the
‘totalitarian Left’, nor are most of my colleagues on the Left.” (p.12)
“[I agree with]... a commitment to democratic means and to a pluralist society.”
“Where we would disagree with the social democrats is that we simply do not believe that this can be achieved by trying to manage the capitalist system.” (p.13)
11. Towards the Future - Socialism and the ALP – 29 October 1978, Robertson FEC Conference
“To be successful, [democratic social and economic] planning requires:
* the strengthening of democracy and democratic participation in decisions affecting all levels of society; [and]
* iron clad guarantees of social and personal freedom and human rights; ...” (p.16) “There can be no socialism without democracy.” (p.22)
12. The Socialist Objective – 18 February 1981, speech to Lowe FEC.
“Socialism, like Christianity, has many varieties - many interpretations - many supporters and opponents. For us, socialism must be democratic, based on a system of co-operation and human understanding.” (p.1)
“… the communist section of the labour movement must become more committed to democratic processes and to the principle of human rights.” (p.8)
“communist[s] ... must become more committed to democratic processes...”
“An authentic, indigenous Australian socialism would thus be based on the proper concept of democracy, freedom for all citizens...” (p.11)
13. Imperatives for Democratic Socialism – 12 October 1981
“It is true that those of us with a commitment to socialism and democracy do face difficult times and a fight against powerful forces and influential ideas. In our favour is a conviction that a democratically organised socialism will enable people to best lead their lives, have access to a full range of goods and knowledge and live with the fullest freedom.” (p.4 Tharunka Vol. 27 no.11 UNSW student newspaper)
14. May Day 1978 – [written on] 29 April 1978, Newcastle Trades Hall
“It is opportune for socialists ... to unite in their determination to build a free society, a democratic society, a socialist society.” (p.1)
“We will remain in the political wilderness forever if we insist, as some have and are doing - that we follow the Soviet model, the Chinese model or the Social-democratic model of Western Europe.” (p.4)
“We must emphasise our adherence to a thoroughly democratic and pluralist society.”(p.5)
“I suggest the contemporary socialist strategy must contain at least the following ingredients: (a) A guarantee and extension of democratic rights.
(b) The right of citizens to dissent.
(c) An end to all forms of discrimination.” (p.6)
15. Paths to a Socialist Australia – 17 July 1982, Council of ALP Students’ Conference
“I want to make reference to our party’s often neglected objective - the task of developing a sound economic and industrial policy which will open up the possibilities for the extension of democracy and socialism.” (p.2)
16. The elitist Government – 1974-75 whilst the ALP was in its second term, at a YLA Conference, as recorded in Socialist and Industrial Labor No.2 (new series)
“Strategically, the Australian Labor Government is about creating not a socialist society, but a society of equal opportunity, of extending democracy, of re-allocating national resources”. (p.2)
17. Speech to Hughes Y.L.A. [Young Labor] – 13 May 1978
[Note: some sentences were repeated in different forums. Hence page references may vary]
“We will remain in the political wilderness forever if we insist, as some have and are doing - that we follow the Soviet model, the Chinese model or the Social-democratic model of Western Europe.” (p.5)
“We must emphasise our adherence to a thoroughly democratic and pluralist society.” (p.8) “We must emphasise our adherence to a thoroughly democratic and pluralist society.” “I suggest the contemporary socialist strategy must contain at least the following ingredients:
(a) A guarantee and extension of democratic rights.
(b) The right of citizens to dissent.
(c) An end to all forms of discrimination.” (p.9)
18. Untitled – undated, but it was about the time of “The coming Easter Conference convened by a small number of Left personalities” (p.1), a guess is late 1970s - early 1980s, certainly after 1977
“The right of all people to participate in the political process, to speak, write, act and demonstrate without the power of the State to persecute them is the lynch pin (sic) of the democratic socialist position” (p.2)
“there can be no socialist society without real democracy” (p.2)
“Socialism is... a system that can only function properly when it is supported by an overwhelming majority of the community” (p.2)
“[Democratic Socialists] see the essential need for pluralism, for equality of opportunity, for a free society and for social well-being of the collective community as well as the individual. It is absurd for people to believe that those of the Left who are democratic socialists are for regimentation, for restriction on personal freedom, or for less democracy. Democratic socialists stand for an extension of democracy.”(p.5)
“We respect the rights of the small business sector, recognising the need for personal initiative, innovation and the value of this important activity to lend protection against the national and international corporations. This does not however, imply that we can support the view that wages and conditions of those who work in the small business sector should be deregulated and lowered.” (p.6)
19. Brisbane Speech – undated, but towards the end of Bjelke-Petersen’s disgraceful reign
“I am very conscious of being in Queensland to speak on the subject of Socialism ... Bjelke- Petersen will shortly be... a sad and rejected part of Australia’s past ... We cannot accept him and what he stands for... The answer I believe is Socialism - genuine democratic, participatory and co- operative Socialism”. (pp.1,2)
“For me, and for us, for socialists, socialism means democracy. This is the most fundamental characteristic of socialism - democracy in all aspects of life, human rights, human needs.” (p.6)
“The socialist movement itself must be democratic and participative. (p.12) We must aim to extend this freedom, this democratic method. (p.12)
“… real socialism opposes the possession of power by any elite group or class.” (p.13)
“What I am emphasising is that the socialist movement needs to be about the acceptance and practice of the principle of participatory democracy.” (p.14)
20. Technological Change and Youth Unemployment – 9 February 1979, 25th Council Meeting of the National Youth Council of Australia, Melbourne
“It is our task to see that the [technological] changes that are and will take place will reduce the power of those at the top of society and extend the power of those at the bottom. We should be much more involved in extending the democratic concepts.” (p.2)
21. Aims and role of the ALP in Australia – 4 March 1977, Macquarie Uni ALP Club
“The socialism I see emerging in this country must have an emphasis on freedom and equality” (p.8)
“ [I see]... an emphasis on freedom and equality”
22. Class Struggle – undated, but early 1970s
“I have from the start been opposed to the Vietnam war, when there was hesitancy in our own ranks, [opposed] to conscription and any extension [of Australian involvement] in Laos or Cambodia. I opposed the Australian Government sending troops to prop up a corrupt and undemocratic regime in South Vietnam. Similarly I opposed the Soviet invasion into Czechoslovakia. I have actively campaigned for nuclear disarmament, and for peaceful co-existence, for the rights of all people to determine their own affairs. I fully support the unanimous views of the last meeting of our Federal ALP Executive which commended those people in the community who have pioneered the fight against the war in Vietnam.”
23. There is an Alternative – undated, but it was after the re-election of the Fraser-Anthony Govt
“the struggle against war, particularly in Vietnam, and racism, the ecological movements, the movements against uranium mining, and the women’s movement, are some of the more notable grassroots activities which highlight the value of democratic processes. They influence parliament and are an essential ingredient in the whole process of defining a new strategy for the Labor Movement.” (p.2)
“We repudiate the suggestion that socialism is by its nature undemocratic or authoritarian“ (p.5) [Note: the whole of the document including the preliminary above statements was supported by 30
members of the ALP Caucus, and others in the ALP who supported these views.]
24. Rural Report – 5 July 1977, 1977 National Conference
presented by Senator A.T.Gietzelt, Chairman National Rural Committee. The context is “why the market place is not helping the producer.”
“Adam Smith, even Karl Marx and others all suggested the market place could help to rationalise resources properly. This misnomer is borne out in a number of ways.” (p.7)
This quote is included to confirm that Gietzelt did not adhere to hardline Marxism. These two economists at opposite ends of the spectrum did not provide solutions to the problems in the market place. In the context of being accused as a communist, this example shows that Gietzelt did not blindly follow Marx or any other political theorist. Arthur Gietzelt strongly believed that Australia should develop its own brand of democratic socialism.
25. Speech Jannali ALP – 25 June 1976
“The socialist principles upon which the Australian Labor Party is founded have the objective of seeking to make Australia an egalitarian, humane, tolerant society ...”
“Socialist principles [seek] to make Australia an egalitarian, humane, tolerant society”
26. Hansard – 15 December 1988, Parliamentary Debates (Senate)
“I am passionate in respect of the democratic processes. I am passionate for democracy. I am passionate for human rights.” (p.4309)
27. From the National Left Review of Effectiveness (p.20) – 14 September 1988, [Arthur Gietzelt’s own handwriting - input into the official ALP Left’s support for democratic socialism].
Be absolutely clear about this: Arthur Gietzelt is doing his utmost to influence the Left of the Labour
Movement, to include, promote and maintain basic democratic principles. “To promote and maintain a Democratic Socialist perspective...”
All over Australia, Arthur Gietzelt publicly argued and advocated the importance of democracy, through the eyes of a socialist.
Because of the outright lies and fanciful speculation produced in some forums regarding Arthur Gietzelt’s loyalty to the ALP, I have selected a few phrases from some of Arthur's speeches which he made throughout his career, which emphasise and confirm Arthur’’s public position on democracy since joining the ALP.
Before listing a selection of speech extracts, it is important to put the term ‘Socialism’ in context. Socialism has been part of the ALP’s official platform over many decades and has been espoused by many senior ALP figures during that time. For instance:
- F.E. “Joe” Chamberlain (Federal ALP President): “The Labor Party submits that its objective must be construed as democratic socialism.” (in a pamphlet: ‘Should Labor Revise its Economic Policy?’, c1956, p.4)
- Charlie Oliver (NSW State ALP President): “We have a glorious history and we must continue to go forward to our objective of democratic socialism.” (Presidential Address, 1961 ALP Annual Conference (NSW), p.4)
- Gough Whitlam (Deputy Leader of the Federal Opposition): “We see socialism as the proper basis for all human relationships both within and without Australia. It is necessary that the community as a whole should exercise control over production and the means of production.” (Sydney Morning Herald, 7 Aug 1963, p.8)
- Gough Whitlam again (as Leader): “The quality of life and equality in life is what socialism is all about” (Let Us Now Begin!: Towards a National Party with a National Purpose - ALP Annual Conference (Victoria), 9 June 1967, p.1)
- Gough Whitlam: “We are members of the Labor Party because we have a political philosophy of democratic socialism which we wish to see working in practice and shaping the course of events and the quality of life of this nation” (Let Us Now Begin!: Towards a National Party with a National Purpose - ALP Annual Conference (NSW), 10 June 1967, p.2)
- Peter Westerway (General Secretary NSW ALP): “Democratic Socialism must be able to help people here and now. Ordinary Australians must feel that our proposals have some relevance to their own daily lives.” (The Radical, Vol.2 No.1, July 1970, p.7)
- Bill Hayden (Federal Opposition Leader): “Mr Hayden yesterday urged the Labor Party to stand by its democratic socialist objective.” (The Sun, 1 June 1981, p.13).
Furthermore, Arthur made scores of other speeches supporting ALP policies when he was Shadow Minister for Agriculture, Shadow Minister for Consumer Affairs, and Minister of Veterans’ Affairs. Whilst some of his other speeches don’t specifically put forward his and the official ALP’s support of democratic socialism, they very strongly relate to ALP policy.
The speech extracts listed below are in no particular order, and it should be noted that they are only excerpts – the full speeches Arthur made contain much more depth.
Finally, Arthur's family has not finished sorting through his extensive collection of ALP records. There are many more of Arthur's speeches to come advocating democracy, and once collated, the next installment will be published on this website as ‘Part 2’.
Extracts from Arthur Gietzelt’s speeches:
1. Seminar on the Future of Manufacturing Industry – 7-8 June 1977
“I welcome the extra-parliamentary activity, not only because the answers will not be found solely in the parliamentary process, but because we need to expand the democratic processes if we are to consummate the expectations of a modern community, to improve living standards and to stabilise our role in a changing world.” (p.1)
2. Grass-Roots Democracy The Only Solution: Gietzelt – undated, but spoken at an ALP seminar held in Launceston when Gietzelt was Shadow Minister for Consumer Affairs, late 1970s
“[Gietzelt] stressed the importance of the Labor Party and the Labour movement encouraging democracy at all levels. Democracy at all levels is the essence of socialism.” (p.1)
3. Does the Socialist Objective have a Future? – undated, but about 1981
“The kind of democratic socialist tradition with which we are familiar in Western Europe and Australasia is very different indeed from the relentlessly authoritarian Marxist-Leninist socialism of the Soviet Union, China and their respective satellites” (p.10)
This point needs to be strongly emphasised: Arthur Gietzelt refers to “the relentlessly authoritarian Marxist-Leninist socialism of the Soviet Union….”
Gietzelt publicly expressed the view that the Soviets were relentlessly authoritarian. That Gietzelt was a communist or communist sympathiser is completely at odds with what he actually believed in, and what he publicly stated.
“There appear to be three such values which lie at the very heart of democratic socialism, and these are, respectively, the values of equality, democracy and liberty.” (p.11)
4. Trade Unions and the Modern World – undated, but about 1970 when Arthur Gietzelt was President (Mayor) of Sutherland Shire, presented to a seminar at Sydney University convened by the Trade Union Education and Research Centre)
“The quality of life as compared to the 19th century has improved greatly, but the larger term objectives of democratic social change, due to divisions in the labour movement, are still a long way off.” (p.4)
5. The Way Forward – undated but, the “last time I was in Tasmania - in June of this year” - possibly 24 November 1979
“One of the main faults of the Whitlam Government was its failure to appreciate the need for a commitment to grass-roots democracy.” (p.3)
6. Untitled – undated
“I do not presume to speak on behalf of the Left, or even of the ALP Left. As a socialist, I
regard the plurality of views, opinions and philosophies as the keystone of a democratic society“ (p.1)
7. Whither the Left in Australia? – undated, a speech, partly reproduced in other forums
“The strategy for socialism in Australia must be vastly different to the socialist models developed elsewhere. Nowhere in the dozen socialist states led by communist parties can it be said there is sufficient emphasis on democratic processes.” (p.11)
“Socialism is applicable to Australia, because we now need to plan society so that society’s needs can be provided without the waste of human and natural resources; not centrally planned economies like the communist countries.” (p.14)
“Part of the strategy of the democratic socialist movement is to retain much of the innovative character of small businesses while reducing corporate power.” (p.15)
“The importance of the struggle for democratic rights to the socialist movement cannot be underestimated.” (p.17)
“Socialists within the Labour Movement have the responsibility to present alternatives with the objective of strengthening real democracy in this country.” (p.19)
“We should repudiate authoritarian doctrines, totalitarianism, oppression and dogmatic tendencies.” (p.21)
8. Whither the Left in Australia? – 15 April 1978 Fabian Society, Brisbane. (A similar speech to the above, with some phrases / sentences repeated.)
“The strategy for socialism in Australia must be vastly different to the socialist models developed elsewhere. Nowhere in the dozen socialist states led by communist parties can it be said there is sufficient emphasis on democratic processes.” (p.13)
“Today the concept of the dictatorship of the proletariat, hitherto basic to communist interpretation of Marxism, is being rejected by some communists and, as well, by all socialists.” (p.14)
“The importance of the struggle for democratic rights to the socialist movement cannot be underestimated.” (p.18)
“The Left should be guaranteeing the principles involved with a pluralist society. The right of all organised groups to be represented. The right of all organised groups to be represented in the areas of power, subject of course to the majority decision. ...
“The Left should be at the forefront of establishing a Human Rights concept - the right to dissent, the right of all persons to act according to their own conscience, with the only proviso, that their individual decision shall not abrogate the right of another.” (p.19)
“To ensure that socialism is politically acceptable, we must include in the forefront of this strategy the guarantee of democracy.” (p.22)
9. Speech to NSW Young Labor Conference – 29 April 1978
“I think it would be fair to say that I have little quarrel with the aims of the [West German] social democrats: equality, democratic means, a pluralist society - I am all for that. But I do not think those aims can be achieved by attempting to ‘manage’ capitalism.” (pp.19-20)
“I am all for [equality, democratic means, a pluralist society]”
“At the forefront of this strategy must be the guarantee of democracy.” (p.20)
10. The Future of the ALP – 27 April 1978, Adelaide
“I agree with Bob Carr (‘Social Democracy and Australian Labor’) ... that one of the greatest liabilities of the ALP is that it is a party without doctrines or ideological foundations; it has a
‘hollowness at the centre’...” (p.1)
“I agree with Bob Carr that a paramount task now is to develop a cogent and thorough ideology and strategy, to give our movement for genuine social change a firm theoretical basis, a shape and a form; a purpose.
“I also find myself largely agreeing with Bob as regards the fundamental aims of that ideology. I would not argue against striving for greater equality in matters of income and wealth, states and power, increasing personal freedom, social contentment and justice, political, industrial and economic democracy, and commitment to democratic means and pluralism.” (p.2)
“What separates the social democrats from myself is not any differing view as to a commitment to democratic means and to a pluralist society. I am not part of what Bob Carr calls the
‘totalitarian Left’, nor are most of my colleagues on the Left.” (p.12)
“[I agree with]... a commitment to democratic means and to a pluralist society.”
“Where we would disagree with the social democrats is that we simply do not believe that this can be achieved by trying to manage the capitalist system.” (p.13)
11. Towards the Future - Socialism and the ALP – 29 October 1978, Robertson FEC Conference
“To be successful, [democratic social and economic] planning requires:
* the strengthening of democracy and democratic participation in decisions affecting all levels of society; [and]
* iron clad guarantees of social and personal freedom and human rights; ...” (p.16) “There can be no socialism without democracy.” (p.22)
12. The Socialist Objective – 18 February 1981, speech to Lowe FEC.
“Socialism, like Christianity, has many varieties - many interpretations - many supporters and opponents. For us, socialism must be democratic, based on a system of co-operation and human understanding.” (p.1)
“… the communist section of the labour movement must become more committed to democratic processes and to the principle of human rights.” (p.8)
“communist[s] ... must become more committed to democratic processes...”
“An authentic, indigenous Australian socialism would thus be based on the proper concept of democracy, freedom for all citizens...” (p.11)
13. Imperatives for Democratic Socialism – 12 October 1981
“It is true that those of us with a commitment to socialism and democracy do face difficult times and a fight against powerful forces and influential ideas. In our favour is a conviction that a democratically organised socialism will enable people to best lead their lives, have access to a full range of goods and knowledge and live with the fullest freedom.” (p.4 Tharunka Vol. 27 no.11 UNSW student newspaper)
14. May Day 1978 – [written on] 29 April 1978, Newcastle Trades Hall
“It is opportune for socialists ... to unite in their determination to build a free society, a democratic society, a socialist society.” (p.1)
“We will remain in the political wilderness forever if we insist, as some have and are doing - that we follow the Soviet model, the Chinese model or the Social-democratic model of Western Europe.” (p.4)
“We must emphasise our adherence to a thoroughly democratic and pluralist society.”(p.5)
“I suggest the contemporary socialist strategy must contain at least the following ingredients: (a) A guarantee and extension of democratic rights.
(b) The right of citizens to dissent.
(c) An end to all forms of discrimination.” (p.6)
15. Paths to a Socialist Australia – 17 July 1982, Council of ALP Students’ Conference
“I want to make reference to our party’s often neglected objective - the task of developing a sound economic and industrial policy which will open up the possibilities for the extension of democracy and socialism.” (p.2)
16. The elitist Government – 1974-75 whilst the ALP was in its second term, at a YLA Conference, as recorded in Socialist and Industrial Labor No.2 (new series)
“Strategically, the Australian Labor Government is about creating not a socialist society, but a society of equal opportunity, of extending democracy, of re-allocating national resources”. (p.2)
17. Speech to Hughes Y.L.A. [Young Labor] – 13 May 1978
[Note: some sentences were repeated in different forums. Hence page references may vary]
“We will remain in the political wilderness forever if we insist, as some have and are doing - that we follow the Soviet model, the Chinese model or the Social-democratic model of Western Europe.” (p.5)
“We must emphasise our adherence to a thoroughly democratic and pluralist society.” (p.8) “We must emphasise our adherence to a thoroughly democratic and pluralist society.” “I suggest the contemporary socialist strategy must contain at least the following ingredients:
(a) A guarantee and extension of democratic rights.
(b) The right of citizens to dissent.
(c) An end to all forms of discrimination.” (p.9)
18. Untitled – undated, but it was about the time of “The coming Easter Conference convened by a small number of Left personalities” (p.1), a guess is late 1970s - early 1980s, certainly after 1977
“The right of all people to participate in the political process, to speak, write, act and demonstrate without the power of the State to persecute them is the lynch pin (sic) of the democratic socialist position” (p.2)
“there can be no socialist society without real democracy” (p.2)
“Socialism is... a system that can only function properly when it is supported by an overwhelming majority of the community” (p.2)
“[Democratic Socialists] see the essential need for pluralism, for equality of opportunity, for a free society and for social well-being of the collective community as well as the individual. It is absurd for people to believe that those of the Left who are democratic socialists are for regimentation, for restriction on personal freedom, or for less democracy. Democratic socialists stand for an extension of democracy.”(p.5)
“We respect the rights of the small business sector, recognising the need for personal initiative, innovation and the value of this important activity to lend protection against the national and international corporations. This does not however, imply that we can support the view that wages and conditions of those who work in the small business sector should be deregulated and lowered.” (p.6)
19. Brisbane Speech – undated, but towards the end of Bjelke-Petersen’s disgraceful reign
“I am very conscious of being in Queensland to speak on the subject of Socialism ... Bjelke- Petersen will shortly be... a sad and rejected part of Australia’s past ... We cannot accept him and what he stands for... The answer I believe is Socialism - genuine democratic, participatory and co- operative Socialism”. (pp.1,2)
“For me, and for us, for socialists, socialism means democracy. This is the most fundamental characteristic of socialism - democracy in all aspects of life, human rights, human needs.” (p.6)
“The socialist movement itself must be democratic and participative. (p.12) We must aim to extend this freedom, this democratic method. (p.12)
“… real socialism opposes the possession of power by any elite group or class.” (p.13)
“What I am emphasising is that the socialist movement needs to be about the acceptance and practice of the principle of participatory democracy.” (p.14)
20. Technological Change and Youth Unemployment – 9 February 1979, 25th Council Meeting of the National Youth Council of Australia, Melbourne
“It is our task to see that the [technological] changes that are and will take place will reduce the power of those at the top of society and extend the power of those at the bottom. We should be much more involved in extending the democratic concepts.” (p.2)
21. Aims and role of the ALP in Australia – 4 March 1977, Macquarie Uni ALP Club
“The socialism I see emerging in this country must have an emphasis on freedom and equality” (p.8)
“ [I see]... an emphasis on freedom and equality”
22. Class Struggle – undated, but early 1970s
“I have from the start been opposed to the Vietnam war, when there was hesitancy in our own ranks, [opposed] to conscription and any extension [of Australian involvement] in Laos or Cambodia. I opposed the Australian Government sending troops to prop up a corrupt and undemocratic regime in South Vietnam. Similarly I opposed the Soviet invasion into Czechoslovakia. I have actively campaigned for nuclear disarmament, and for peaceful co-existence, for the rights of all people to determine their own affairs. I fully support the unanimous views of the last meeting of our Federal ALP Executive which commended those people in the community who have pioneered the fight against the war in Vietnam.”
23. There is an Alternative – undated, but it was after the re-election of the Fraser-Anthony Govt
“the struggle against war, particularly in Vietnam, and racism, the ecological movements, the movements against uranium mining, and the women’s movement, are some of the more notable grassroots activities which highlight the value of democratic processes. They influence parliament and are an essential ingredient in the whole process of defining a new strategy for the Labor Movement.” (p.2)
“We repudiate the suggestion that socialism is by its nature undemocratic or authoritarian“ (p.5) [Note: the whole of the document including the preliminary above statements was supported by 30
members of the ALP Caucus, and others in the ALP who supported these views.]
24. Rural Report – 5 July 1977, 1977 National Conference
presented by Senator A.T.Gietzelt, Chairman National Rural Committee. The context is “why the market place is not helping the producer.”
“Adam Smith, even Karl Marx and others all suggested the market place could help to rationalise resources properly. This misnomer is borne out in a number of ways.” (p.7)
This quote is included to confirm that Gietzelt did not adhere to hardline Marxism. These two economists at opposite ends of the spectrum did not provide solutions to the problems in the market place. In the context of being accused as a communist, this example shows that Gietzelt did not blindly follow Marx or any other political theorist. Arthur Gietzelt strongly believed that Australia should develop its own brand of democratic socialism.
25. Speech Jannali ALP – 25 June 1976
“The socialist principles upon which the Australian Labor Party is founded have the objective of seeking to make Australia an egalitarian, humane, tolerant society ...”
“Socialist principles [seek] to make Australia an egalitarian, humane, tolerant society”
26. Hansard – 15 December 1988, Parliamentary Debates (Senate)
“I am passionate in respect of the democratic processes. I am passionate for democracy. I am passionate for human rights.” (p.4309)
27. From the National Left Review of Effectiveness (p.20) – 14 September 1988, [Arthur Gietzelt’s own handwriting - input into the official ALP Left’s support for democratic socialism].
Be absolutely clear about this: Arthur Gietzelt is doing his utmost to influence the Left of the Labour
Movement, to include, promote and maintain basic democratic principles. “To promote and maintain a Democratic Socialist perspective...”
He also wanted the following included...
“To work for a more democratic party, and the extension of the democratic processes in all sectors of society [and] human activity.”
[It is undeniably certain that Arthur Gietzelt had a long term vision for the ALP and Australian society, based on democracy.
28. Untitled – unknown, the last page of a speech made somewhere. p.24
“... yes, I think the Left has a future in Australia. But we have to take up the initiative to open up the areas of ideas, involve the people in a discussion of what sort of society they want and show them how they can achieve it.
That role is the responsibility of the Left initially - then it becomes the role of the whole Labor movement to educate and lead the Australian people to a democratic and socialist society.”
29. Shire President replies to criticism – 9 Nov 1961, [Sutherland] Shire Pictorial. The context is Gietzelt convening a public meeting (supported unanimously by Council, even though the ALP had only 6 votes out of 15) regarding numerous local issues, specifically unemployment. Via a Letter to the Editor, Arthur Gietzelt was replying to another ridiculous claim by local Liberal MLA, Ian Griffith, that there was pro-Soviet bias at the meeting. Griffith was better known for propping up the bar at Cronulla and Woolooware Golf Clubs.
“Democracy means ‘a form of government in which the supreme power is vested in the people’. NOT governments, politicians or newspapers or opportunists.”
30. Socialism and the ALP - The Way of the Future – 19 November 1978, Tasmania
“It was in Czechoslovakia that the movement for socialism with a human face developed - later to be crushed by ... authoritarian communists.” (p.2)
“with the Socialist goal of ensuring the freedom, and the extension of democracy...” (p.13)
“Socialism needs to be recovered˝ from its abductors - the authoritarian Left - and restored o
its original role as a democratic process; for Socialism is only viable... when it has overwhelmingly
popular support, and it is a process based by its very nature on co-operation, goodwill and acceptance - and thorough ongoing democracy.” (p. 13A)
“[the role of Socialism] is to work for the creation of a free, democratic and socialist society.” (p. 16)
“To be successful [future] planning requires:
“The hope for Australia lies in the exercise of the rights and freedoms which we have won in the West after centuries of struggle by progressive forces...” (p.18)
“…the rights and freedoms... [have been] won in the West after centuries of struggle by progressive forces.”
[Again, I have to emphasise this point in the strongest terms - according to Arthur Gietzelt, the rights and freedoms [of democracy] were won in the West, not in the communist countries]
“When I speak of Socialism then - I am not talking about a totalitarian, authoritarian, bureaucratic and restrictive regime. ... I am not talking about bloody revolution... ” (p.18)
[Arthur Gietzelt opposes totalitarianism, authoritarian, bureaucratic and restrictive regimes. He does not believe in revolution]
“There can be no socialism without democracy “ (p.20)
“I do not believe that socialists should be concerned to socialise all the means of production. There is a strong case to maintain the initiative and innovative character of small scale production and exchange. I believe small entrepreneurs have a role of social importance to play, both in the productive process and the retail sector - and of course in services.
Diversity and competition are essential components of socialist goals, and, I believe, necessary for the future of Australia, and we should reject the simplistic concept of nationalising and socialising everything.
There is a role for the private sector in an Australian socialist society…" (p.22)
“…we should reject the simplistic concept of nationalising and socialising everything. There is a role for the private sector in an Australian socialist society…”
[It is undeniably certain that Arthur Gietzelt had a long term vision for the ALP and Australian society, based on democracy.
28. Untitled – unknown, the last page of a speech made somewhere. p.24
“... yes, I think the Left has a future in Australia. But we have to take up the initiative to open up the areas of ideas, involve the people in a discussion of what sort of society they want and show them how they can achieve it.
That role is the responsibility of the Left initially - then it becomes the role of the whole Labor movement to educate and lead the Australian people to a democratic and socialist society.”
29. Shire President replies to criticism – 9 Nov 1961, [Sutherland] Shire Pictorial. The context is Gietzelt convening a public meeting (supported unanimously by Council, even though the ALP had only 6 votes out of 15) regarding numerous local issues, specifically unemployment. Via a Letter to the Editor, Arthur Gietzelt was replying to another ridiculous claim by local Liberal MLA, Ian Griffith, that there was pro-Soviet bias at the meeting. Griffith was better known for propping up the bar at Cronulla and Woolooware Golf Clubs.
“Democracy means ‘a form of government in which the supreme power is vested in the people’. NOT governments, politicians or newspapers or opportunists.”
30. Socialism and the ALP - The Way of the Future – 19 November 1978, Tasmania
“It was in Czechoslovakia that the movement for socialism with a human face developed - later to be crushed by ... authoritarian communists.” (p.2)
“with the Socialist goal of ensuring the freedom, and the extension of democracy...” (p.13)
“Socialism needs to be recovered˝ from its abductors - the authoritarian Left - and restored o
its original role as a democratic process; for Socialism is only viable... when it has overwhelmingly
popular support, and it is a process based by its very nature on co-operation, goodwill and acceptance - and thorough ongoing democracy.” (p. 13A)
“[the role of Socialism] is to work for the creation of a free, democratic and socialist society.” (p. 16)
“To be successful [future] planning requires:
- strengthening democracy and democratic participation in decisions affecting all levels of society;
- iron clad guarantees of social and personal freedom and human rights;
- the guarantee of minority viewpoints and freedoms;
- a genuine free media, articulating real community needs;
- guarantees for people of control over their own bodies and personal lives (subject to the qualification that nobody else is harmed).” (p.17)
“The hope for Australia lies in the exercise of the rights and freedoms which we have won in the West after centuries of struggle by progressive forces...” (p.18)
“…the rights and freedoms... [have been] won in the West after centuries of struggle by progressive forces.”
[Again, I have to emphasise this point in the strongest terms - according to Arthur Gietzelt, the rights and freedoms [of democracy] were won in the West, not in the communist countries]
“When I speak of Socialism then - I am not talking about a totalitarian, authoritarian, bureaucratic and restrictive regime. ... I am not talking about bloody revolution... ” (p.18)
[Arthur Gietzelt opposes totalitarianism, authoritarian, bureaucratic and restrictive regimes. He does not believe in revolution]
“There can be no socialism without democracy “ (p.20)
“I do not believe that socialists should be concerned to socialise all the means of production. There is a strong case to maintain the initiative and innovative character of small scale production and exchange. I believe small entrepreneurs have a role of social importance to play, both in the productive process and the retail sector - and of course in services.
Diversity and competition are essential components of socialist goals, and, I believe, necessary for the future of Australia, and we should reject the simplistic concept of nationalising and socialising everything.
There is a role for the private sector in an Australian socialist society…" (p.22)
“…we should reject the simplistic concept of nationalising and socialising everything. There is a role for the private sector in an Australian socialist society…”