On this day in 1971 it was reported on the front page of The Canberra Times the Commonwealth government's special law and order legislation, the Public Order Act, would become the main vehicle used by police in the ACT to control demonstrations and other public disturbances.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
"This fact has emerged from the extensive use made by the police of the Public Order Act in last week's demonstrations involving participants in the Aquarius Festival of University Arts and from interviews with responsible Ministers," the story read.
"Altogether 209 people were charged during the demonstrations. Only six were not charged under the Public Order Act.
"The Commissioner of Police. Mr R.A. Wilson, declined to comment yesterday on police use of the new Act, or of its general policy towards it.
"Earlier in the week the Minister for the Interior, Mr Hunt, similarly declined to comment."
Kathryn Lewis
I am a breaking and general news reporter. Contact me with tips or story ideas at kathryn.lewis@canberratimes.com.au
I am a breaking and general news reporter. Contact me with tips or story ideas at kathryn.lewis@canberratimes.com.au
