Guide to the Papers of Sir John Latham

Series 1. General correspondence, 1896-1963

Wherever possible letters have been placed in series relating to specific activities, subjects, events and organisations (Series 10-81). The remaining letters, being of a more general or personal nature, have been placed in this series. It is arranged chronologically and covers the whole of Latham's adult life. However, there are not many letters dating from earlier than 1914, nor are there many dating from World War II. Among the subjects discussed are Latham's overseas trips in 1918-1919 and 1932, his appointment as Attorney-General (1925) and as a Privy Councillor (1933), and his knighthood (1935). The correspondence for the last 15 years of Latham's life is very extensive.

Most of Latham's own letters were typed and the series therefore contains carbon copies of hundreds of his own letters, as well as the letters that he received. Among the people with whom he maintained a long or extensive correspondence were H. W. Allen, Sir Thomas Bavin, Lord Casey, Sir Owen Dixon, J. G. Duncan-Hughes, Thomas P. Dunhill, Sir Frederic Eggleston, Sir Robert Garran, Sir Henry Gullett, B. A. Levinson, J. A. Lyons, Sir Robert Menzies, Walter Murdoch, Sir George Pearce, Sir Arthur Robinson, Sir Percy Spender, and H. A. Standish.

Series 2. Diaries, 1896-1962

The series contains pocket diaries for the years 1896-1899, 1901-1902, 1906-1909, 1923-1932, 1934-1939 and 1941-1962. The diaries for 1896-1899, when Latham was an undergraduate at the University of Melbourne and a teacher at the Hamilton Academy, are quite detailed and record his reading as well as his various activities. The later diaries mainly contain appointments and some of them were not used for weeks at a time.

When Latham was overseas he usually started a diary and continued it for some days or even weeks. These diaries have been placed in the appropriate series: 1919 Paris Peace Conference (Series 21), 1926 League of Nations Assembly and Imperial Conference (Series 30), 1934 Eastern Mission (Series 58) and 1955 Milan Conference on Cultural Freedom (Series 71). There are also diary notes on the events leading to the withdrawal of the John Brown prosecution in 1929 (Series 38), and on the events leading to the formation of the United Australian Party in 1931 (Series 49).

Series 3. Newscuttings, 1892-1963

Most of the specific series (10-81) contain newspaper cuttings dealing with the subject or events covered by the series. In this series are some loose cuttings concerning Latham or subjects that interested him and also the cutting books which he kept for much of his career.

Series 4. Publications, 1856-1963

In this large series is an extremely mixed collection of periodicals, pamphlets and reprints, and also a few books. They include pamphlets and articles written by Latham, parliamentary papers and other official publications, legal works, political pamphlets, numerous tourist publications and street maps. There are only one or two issues of most periodicals, but there are longer sets of Round Table (1918-1919), Balkan Review (1919), Pan Pacific Worker (1929-1931), Institute of Public Affairs Review (1947-1951), and International Conciliation (1948-1949).

Whenever possible periodicals and pamphlets have been placed in the appropriate specific series. Box 37 contains publications written by Latham.

Comprises 17 boxes and one folio box.

Series 5. Programs and invitations, c.1896-1963

The series contains theatre and concert programs, invitations and programs for political, legal, academic and other ceremonies, invitations and menus for lunches and dinners, and invitations for a wide range of social functions.

Series 6. Business papers, 1904-1949

The papers include an account book kept by Latham in 1904-1905, in which he recorded his assets and every item of expenditure. Most of the other papers date from the 1930s and consist of invoices, receipts and rate notices.

Comprises Files 1-3 (Items 1-1274).

Series 7. Speeches, 1917-1963

The series contains handwritten and typed notes for hundreds of speeches made by Latham, mostly in the period 1930-1960. They are generally dated. In addition, there are some extracts and reprints from Hansard and other printed speeches.

Most of the political series and some other series contain pencilled notes for speeches.

Series 8. Photographs, 1901-1963

Apart from some postcards, mostly acquired in 1918-1919, the photographs are of Latham and his friends and colleagues. There is a small album of photographs taken on a camping holiday at Mount Buffalo in 1906-1907, the 1907 Australian lacrosse team, cricket photographs, and many photographs of holidays at Waterfall Farm, near Khancoban.

There are many family photographs in Series 10 and there are also photographs in Series 12, 20, 21, 30, 52, 56, 58, 68, 71 and 75.

Also included are some Christmas cards and copper plates for Latham's name cards (1910s-1920s).

Series 9. Christmas cards, 1936

This series contains a small collection of Christmas cards received by Latham and his wife in 1936.

Comprises one bag of cards.

Series 10. Family papers, 1868-1964

This series mainly comprises correspondence between Latham and various members of his family. Where Latham's letters to his family deal entirely with public affairs, such as many of his letters written in 1918-1919, they have been placed in the appropriate series but where they are concerned with private family matters they have been placed in this series.

Latham's mother, Janet Scott, migrated to Australia from the Orkneys, Scotland, and married a tinsmith, Thomas Latham, on 2 March 1876. The first papers are a few letters written to Janet Scott by John Houston referring to mutual friends in the Orkneys (1868-1891). The earliest letters received by J. G. Latham were written by his brothers and cousins, Russell and Ethel Fenton, on his tenth birthday in 1887. There is a small amount of correspondence between Latham and his mother when he was teaching at the Hamilton Academy (1897-1898) and when he was holidaying at Mt. Gambier (1901). There are a few other letters from his mother written shortly before her death in 1912.

Latham married Ella Tobin on 19 December 1907 and there are a great many letters which they wrote to each other over the next fifty years, particularly when Latham was overseas in 1918-1919, 1926, 1941 and 1956. Most of the other family letters date from about 1910 onwards. The correspondents include Latham's father, Thomas, who died in 1938, his brothers Bertram, Leslie and Alan, his sister Elsie, his children Richard, Freda and Peter, his cousins the Fentons, and his English cousins the Greigs. There are not many letters written after 1943.

Apart from the letters of Ella Latham, the largest group of letters were written by Latham's eldest son Richard. They date from 1916 to his death in 1943. Like his father, Richard went to Scotch College and Ormond College at the University of Melbourne. He was President of the Students Representative Council and in 1931 was Victoria's Rhodes Scholar. He studied law at Magdalen College, Oxford, and was elected a Fellow of All Souls' College, Oxford. He lectured in law at Oxford and at King's College, London, and wrote several articles on constitutional law. He travelled widely and was in Spain during the Civil War. He joined the British Foreign Office shortly before the War, but later enlisted with the RAF and became a navigator. His plane was lost on a flight to Norway in 1943. Richard Latham wrote regularly to his mother and fairly frequently to his father right up to his death, and he kept his parents' letters. They provide a detailed record of English political and intellectual life in the 1930s, as well as of Richard's personal affairs.

In addition to the correspondence, the series contains documents, manuscripts, newscuttings, publications and photographs. There are typescript copies of documents concerning the Scott Family; certificates awarded to Richard Latham; manuscripts, speeches and a cutting book (c.1917) of Richard Latham; articles by and obituaries of members of the family in the Australian Intercollegian (1928), Melbourne University Magazine (1928), Victorian Historical Magazine (1938), Golden Jubilee of Ivanhoe Methodist Church (1940), Reveille (1944), and the Medical Journal of Australia (1950); a few cuttings concerning Janet and Richard Latham; an album and photographs, including many of Richard and Freda Latham; and the tributes by the Commonwealth Parliament on the death of Sir John Latham, 11 August 1964.

Series 11. Scotch College, 1885-1951

Latham attended State Schools and there is a photograph of his class at the George Street School. He won a scholarship to Scotch College, Melbourne, in 1890 and stayed there for three years. The series contains a small number of school notebooks, exam papers, certificates and newspaper cuttings. Latham was not active in old scholars' activities, but he did keep a number of letters, invitations, menus, and publications concerning Scotch College and the Old Scotch Collegians' Association. The series also has some exam papers and certificates of the Wesleyan Methodist Sunday School, which Latham attended in 1885-1887.

Comprises Files 1-4 (Items 1-196).

Series 12. University of Melbourne, 1893-1963

Latham matriculated in 1893 and enrolled at the University of Melbourne. He graduated as a Bachelor of Arts in 1897 and as a Master of Arts in 1899. After teaching at Hamilton for two years Latham returned to the University to study law and graduated as a Bachelor of Laws in 1902. He was a tutor in philosophy at Ormond College from 1903-1907, a part-time lecturer in philosophy from 1907-1910, and a part-time lecturer in the Law of Contracts and Personal Property from 1910-1920. Latham was a member of the Council of the University from 1922-1949, Deputy Chancellor from 1935-1939 and Chancellor from 1939-1941. This large series has three major components: Items 1-620 date from the period when Latham was a student and lecturer; Items 621-2360 date mainly from the period when he was a member of the Council; and Items 2120-2360 consist of publications, invitations and newscuttings.

Items 1-620 consist of exam papers and newscuttings; leaflets, letters, photographs, and notes on university societies; Latham's notes for debates; letters, notes and cuttings on Ormond College; notes, newscuttings and publications concerning Victoria's first Rhodes Scholarship in 1904; letters, leaflets and newscuttings concerning the proposal in 1910 to establish a Faculty of Divinity; notes on logic; notes and exam papers on law; general publications; and letters concerning the University before World War I.

Items 621-2119 comprise an extensive correspondence, Council papers and minutes, newspaper cuttings and extracts from publications. The subject matter of the papers includes the proposal to establish a university in Canberra (1927); University finances (1928); the activities of the Extension Board; the functions of the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor (1935-1937); the report of R. E. Priestley on his survey of overseas universities (1936); the work of the anthropologist Donald Thompson in Arnhem Land; the conflict and debate leading up to the appointment of J. G. Medley as Vice-Chancellor in 1937; the public statement by University staff on the censorship of newspapers (1940); the University and the war effort (1940); proposed changes in the Law curriculum (1944); the Ormond College Appeal (1952); and the University Building Fund (1959). The principal correspondents are Sir James Barrett, Sir John Medley and Sir George Paton.

Series 13. Barrister, 1897-1935

The series contains correspondence and documents concerning Latham's articled clerkship (1902), his final Bar examination papers, documents concerning his admission to the Bar (1904), and papers on his admission to the New South Wales Supreme Court (1919) and the English Bar (1920, 1926). There is a small amount of correspondence (1914-1935), an index to opinions, copies of opinions (1929-1935), retainers (1915-1935), a notebook entitled 'Fraudulent conveyances', and other papers. Finally there is the transcript of the 1919 High Court case, Public Curator of Queensland v. Davies Brothers Ltd, in which Latham was counsel for the defendants.

Series 14. Education Act Defence League, 1871-1915

The Victorian Education Act permitted clergymen and lay teachers to give religious instruction in State Schools. The Scripture Instruction Campaign Council sought an amendment of the Act to enable State School teachers to give Scripture lessons as part of the ordinary curriculum, subject to a conscience clause. In 1907, 1910 and 1913 Scripture Referendum Bills were introduced in the Victorian Parliament but the 1907 Bill was abandoned and the other Bills were defeated in the Legislative Assembly in October 1910 and November 1913. The Education Act Defence League was set up in 1907 to oppose the amendment to the Act and it arranged public meetings, circulated leaflets and lobbied parliamentarians. Henry Gyles Turner was President and Latham was Secretary.

The series contains pamphlets, leaflets and other publications of the Education Act Defence League, the Scripture Instruction Campaign Council, the Australian Catholic Truth Society, the Australian Catholic Federation and the Secular Education League, several Irish National School Books publications, and the report of the Royal Commission on Religious Instruction in State Schools in Victoria (1900). Manuscript material includes Latham's drafts of the League's platform, circulars and campaign literature; the League's minute book (1907-1914); a register of members of the League; balance sheets, a receipt book and cheque book; and correspondence, arranged chronologically. The principal correspondents are H. G. Turner, Richard Crouch, J. G. Horne, J. F. Noack and Robert Vickers. Finally, there are newscuttings books and loose newscuttings, including Latham's letters to the press.

Series 15. Boobooks, 1903-1963

The Boobooks were a group of Melbourne academics and professional men who dined and argued together every month or so. The first meeting was in November 1902 when B. A. Levinson and F. W. Eggleston called together fifteen friends at the Old Mitre Tavern to hear Bernard O'Dowd give a paper on 'Democracy and the Poet'. Latham, the first secretary, was for a time Arch-Boobook, and was still a member at the time of his death.

This small series includes a paper read by Latham in June 1903 on the philosophy of Goethe's Faust, some Boobook verse, including 'The masque of the Boobooks' (1912, 1958), minutes and notices of meetings, dinner menus, and correspondence with the secretaries H. W. Allen and G. L. Wood. There are many references to the Boobooks in Series 1 and other series.

Comprises Files 1-2 (Items 1-78).

Series 16. Journalism, 1908-1909

In January 1908 Latham became the Melbourne representative of the London newspaper, The Standard, and wrote regular articles on Australian affairs. In May 1908 The Standard began publishing a weekly supplement, The Standard of Empire, containing cables received from the British dominions and colonies. Due to the pressure of his legal work Latham ceased to write cables after a few months, but he continued to write articles for The Standard until May 1909. In the first part of the series are Latham's cable books (May-July 1908), notes for articles and cables, Australian press comments on The Standard and its relations with the Deakin Government, and Latham's correspondence with the editor, E. A. Gwynne, and with government departments and organisations, seeking information for articles. There are also copies of Latham's articles on Australian naval policy, Deakin's defence scheme, the Income Tax Case appeal in the Privy Council, and the Queensland elections.

The papers in the latter part of the series relate to The Trident, a monthly magazine published in Melbourne between April 1908 and March 1909. The editorial staff consisted of Latham, Walter Murdoch, A. T. Strong, Bernard O'Dowd, B. A. Levinson and H. H. Champion. The papers include an agreement between the editors and the publisher, T. A. Lothian, an agreement between the editors on the sharing of profits, financial accounts, and correspondence, mainly with Lothian.

Comprises Files 1-2 (Items 1-512).

Series 17. Conscription, 1915-1918

In August-October 1915 a Universal Service League was established in the various states to press for universal compulsory military service, to secure the necessary legislation, and to support the Government by providing the organisation to implement the policy. Latham and O. Masson were the secretaries of the Victorian branch.

This small series contains printed items such as the manifesto of the League, lists of New South Wales officers, and a pamphlet written by Latham and A. T. Strong entitled A proposal for national service. Typescript material includes the League's platform, a paper entitled 'A proposal for national service for war purposes', and lists of members. The correspondence mostly dates from 1915, the main correspondent being T. R. Bavin, the secretary of the New South Wales branch. Finally, there are some newscuttings.

Comprises Files 1-4 (Items 1-80).

Series 18. Military and naval papers, 1914-1919

Latham enlisted for home service in the 53rd (Glenferrie) Regiment and in August 1915 he was appointed a lieutenant. In May 1917 he transferred to the Royal Australian Naval Brigade on a full-time basis. He was made an honorary lieutenant commander and was engaged in intelligence work. He was based at the Navy Office in Melbourne.

Items 1-62 relate to Latham's military service and comprise copies of the Commonwealth Gazette, newscuttings, a few letters, district orders, tactical exercises, reports, military handbooks and training manuals, and a small number of photographs. Items 63-121 relate to the Navy Office. There is correspondence concerning Latham's appointment and service (April 1917-September 1919), including a letter from Sir William Creswell, a diary kept by Latham in July 1917 and notes on intelligence work in October 1917, a few memoranda, and papers on the AIF Education Service (1918).

Comprises Files 1-8 (Items 1-121).

Series 19. Round Table, 1916-1956

The Round Table Group was formed in Britain in 1909 to organise influential citizens in Britain and the dominions to discuss the Empire and its future. The journal Round Table commenced publication in 1911, each issue containing anonymous articles about each of the dominions. In 1910 Lionel Curtis and John Dove visited Australia to promote the formation of local groups.

Most of the papers in this small series date from the years 1916-19, with a few letters from later years. They include notices of meetings, correspondence, articles, notes, a report of the activities of the Australian Round Table in 1917, and minutes of conferences of Round Table groups in July 1917 (Melbourne), September 1919 (Melbourne) and May 1921 (Sydney). Latham attended meetings of the London group in 1918 and there is correspondence concerning Britain's failure to consult the dominions about the terms of the Armistice in November 1918. The correspondents include R. Coupland, Philip Kerr, L. Curtis, Isabel Fussel, and T. H. Laby. There are notes on the freedom of the seas and notes by W. Harrison Moore and W. Jethro Brown on the alteration of the Australian Constitution. The articles deal with White Australia, Australia and the South Pacific (1921), the institute of Pacific Relations (1925) and the defence of Australia (1935).

Comprises Files 1-2 (Items 1-179).

Series 20. 1918 Imperial War Conference, 1917-1919

In April 1918 Latham left Australia to attend the Imperial War Conference in London as the adviser to the Minister for the Navy, Sir Joseph Cook. The Conference, chaired by Walter Long, the Secretary of State for the Colonies, commenced on 12 June 1918 and closed on 27 July 1918. The Australian delegation arrived on 17 June 1918. The Australian delegates, the Prime Minister, W. M. Hughes, and Cook, and Latham and R. R. Garran, the Solicitor-General attended all the meetings. As in 1917, the Imperial War Cabinet met on alternate days to those of the Conference. Hughes represented Australia in the Imperial War Cabinet. Its meetings ended on 20 August 1918 but the Australian delegation decided to remain in England. In October 1918 the Imperial War Cabinet was summoned again and its meetings continued until December 1918. Latham was present at some of its meetings.

Items 1-434 consist of printed papers relating to the Imperial War Conference and also the Imperial War Cabinet, beginning with the list of subjects suggested by the various governments (June 1918). There are memoranda prepared for the Conference on the following subjects: Imports and Exports (Temporary Control) Bill, Committee on Imperial Meat Resources, Imperial War Graves Commission, Emigration Bill, control of shipping, nationality and naturalization, Non Ferrous Metal Industry Act, enemy debts, Empire Cotton Growing Committee, dye manufacturing industry, German pronouncements on economic policy, Trade Commissioner Service, Imperial News Service, Imperial Statistical Bureau, Imperial Bureau of Mycology, Imperial Court of Appeal, and reciprocity of treatment between India and the dominions. These are followed by draft resolutions; final resolutions; publication of British Empire Producers' Organizations; minutes of the Conference (incomplete); and proceedings of the Conference. In addition, there are published speeches of David Lloyd George and Lord Curzon and the minutes of a few meetings of the Imperial War Cabinet (June, December 1918).

Items 435-586 consist of manuscript material. They include Australian memoranda on the Pacific and Australia's claim to the German islands, memoranda written by Latham for Cook, notes for speeches, notes on demobilisation, double income tax and the fate of the Kaiser. There are also cables received by the Australian High Commission (July-August 1918), notes on Australian Imperial Forces and Cook's visit to AIF units and court martial statistics, instructions of the 15th Australian Infantry Brigade (August 1918), and programs of visits, addresses and miscellaneous notes by Latham. Items 587-865 consist of correspondence (April-December 1918). There are circular letters written by Latham to his friends (20 June, 23 July, 16 October 1918), describing inter alia his visits to France, and a circular letter which he drafted for Cook (2 September 1918). There are letters of introduction from Harrison Moore, Gilbert Rigg and W. J. Schutt. The correspondence between Latham and friends and relatives in Australia, friends serving in the AIF, and acquaintances in England gives his general impressions of the military situation and describe his hectic official and social life, but there are few references to the Conference. Many of the letters are invitations to dinner or to join clubs. The correspondents include Bertram Latham, R. H. Gregory, H. W. Allen, E. Thring, F. Eggleston, T. P. Dunhill and Marion Phillips.

The last part of the series contains a large collection of invitations, programs, menus, tourist and other publications, accounts and receipts, Latham's passport, photographs of Cook and Latham, drawings, and newscuttings concerning the War, the Imperial Conference, speeches of Hughes and Cook, and peace negotiations.

Series 21. 1919 Paris Imperial Peace Conference, 1907-1921

The Peace Conference began on 12 January 1919 with a meeting of the Supreme War Council, now called the Council of Ten (representing the United States, France, Britain, Italy and Japan). It agreed that the British Empire should have 14 representatives at the Peace Conference, including two from Australia. Hughes and Cook were the Australian representatives. Latham was an assistant secretary to the British Empire Delegation, the Secretary being Sir Maurice Hankey. The Peace Conference was a complex affair. The plenary Conference held only six sessions. The most important decisions were taken by the Council of Ten, and later the Council of Four (the United States, France, Britain and Italy). Lloyd George represented Britain, and the Australian delegates could influence him at the regular meetings of the British Empire Delegation. The Australian delegates were present when the Council of Ten considered the future of the German colonies and Latham was one of the authors of the system of classified mandates adopted by the Conference. Commissions were set up to frame the sections of the Peace Treaty dealing with the League of Nations, the International Labour Office, reparations and other matters. Cook was a member of the Czechoslovakian Commission and Latham was one of its secretaries. The draft peace terms were submitted to Germany on 7 May 1919. Following memoranda of protest, some changes were made and the Treaty of Peace was signed at the Palace of Versailles on 28 June 1919. The Australian delegates immediately returned to Australia, reaching Melbourne on 30 August 1919.

The first part of this large series (Items 1-1283) contains a great deal of printed material. It includes the General Scheme of the Treaty of Peace, the Conditions of Peace, the observations of the German delegation on the conditions of peace (May 1919), the note from Count Brockdorff-Rantzau on the responsibility for the War (28 May 1919), the reply and summary of the reply made by the Allies to the German comments. There are agenda of the Supreme War Council, minutes of the Supreme War Council (17 June 1919), minutes of the Council of Five (24 January-3 June 1919), minutes of a meeting of Foreign Ministers (18-19 June 1919), minutes of the League of Nations Commission (11 April 1919), minutes of the Commission on German Colonies (24-25 April 1919) minutes of the Commission on Czechoslovakian Affairs (28 February-13 March 1919), minutes of the Under-Commission on Frontiers (1-13 March 1919), and reports and notes prepared by the Commission on Czechoslovakian Affairs. These are followed by a list of the British Empire Delegation and staff, the minutes of a few meetings of the British Empire Delegation (27 January-10 June 1919) and the British Empire Delegation papers on prisoners of war, the International Labour Convention, the German attitude to the League of Nations, Admiralty policy in relation to the Peace Settlement, the Sarre Basin, reparations, the treatment of German religious missions, German property abroad, German colonies, and the economic clauses of the Treaty. Finally, there are the Australian Parliamentary Papers on the Peace Treaties (1919-21).

The second part of the series (Items 1284-1408) consists of memoranda on the German colonies in the Pacific. They include: 'The British case with reference to the captured German colonies' (January 1919), 'Memorandum regarding the Pacific Islands' by W. M. Hughes (8 February 1919), 'Mandates', 'New Hebrides', 'Memorandum on mandates' by Lord Milner (8 March 1919), memorandum for the War Cabinet on the German Colonies by W. L. Long and 'Some further remarks on the German colonies' by Lord Curzon (25 July 1918). Several memoranda were written by Latham: 'Australia and the German Islands' (5 December 1918), 'Australia's claim to the German Islands' (19 December 1916), 'The case against internationalisation of the Pacific Islands south of the Equator' (25 January 1919), 'Control by a mandatory state of certain German colonies: a criticism' (27 January 1919) and 'Mandatory system and the German Pacific Islands' (21 February 1919).

There is a notebook kept at the Conference and a fairly detailed diary kept during February 1919 (Item 1409). The series also contains a small amount of correspondence (Items 1412-1459), including letters that Latham wrote to his wife and to Admiral Sir William Creswell. They mostly give general impressions of the Conference, the signing of the Peace Treaty, dinners, concerts and tours of Paris and the French countryside.

Finally, there are menus, programs, passes, financial papers, newscuttings, books, pamphlets and maps which Latham collected during 1919, mostly on political questions but some of a tourist nature. There is a large set of handbooks (Items 2073-2242) issued by the Historical Section of the British Foreign Office in 1919.

Series 22. Writings on the Peace Conference, 1916-1936

The first items in the series are Latham's pamphlet The significance of the PeaceConference from an Australian point of view (Melbourne, 1920), and Percy Deane's pamphlet Australia's rights: the fight at the Peace Table. They are followed by typescript notes on the Peace Conference, including 'The effect of the Peace Treaty upon Imperial relations' and 'The Peace Conference at work' and handwritten notes for many speeches on the Conference which Latham delivered between 1919 and 1925.

Most of the correspondence dates from 1919-1921 and is concerned with the publication and reception of Latham's pamphlet and the addresses that he gave to various clubs and societies. There is also correspondence with E. L. Piesse on Japanese opposition to the New Guinea mandate (1920); with Clement Jones on the role of the Dominions at the Conference, especially in relation to the mandates (1920), and with C. E. W. Bean concerning the Official War History (1934-1936).

The series also contains miscellaneous documents used by Piesse in 1920, articles by Latham in the Melbourne University Magazine (July 1920) and Both Sides (October 1920), notices of meetings addressed by Latham, and newscuttings (1919-1920).

Comprises Files 1-7 (Items 1-173). Newscuttings in Folder 7 have not been assigned item numbers.

Series 23. League of Nations Union, 1918-1934

In February 1921 Latham, F. W. Eggleston and J. W. Colville called a meeting in Melbourne to consider steps to make the objects and nature of the League of Nations known to the Australian people. Latham had already been in correspondence with the League of Nations Union in London. He was elected first President of the Victorian branch of the League of Nations Union and held that office until 1925.

Publications in the series include the Covenant of the League of Nations, S. M. Bruce's report on the second General Assembly (September-October 1921), the report of the Australian delegation to the fourth General Assembly (September 1923), papers prepared for the fifth General Assembly (August 1924), and miscellaneous publications of the League. There are also notices of meetings of the League of Nations Union and other organisations at which Latham spoke about the League.

The minutes of the second annual League of Nations Union Conference at Melbourne (May 1923) are followed by correspondence with T. R. Bavin concerning the formation of the League of Nations Union in Sydney and with the League of Nations Secretariat in Geneva. There are also letters about meetings and publications of the League. Most of the correspondence dates from 1921-24, with very little after 1927. There are also handwritten notes for speeches on the League and newscuttings on the 1926 General Assembly.

Series 30 also contains material on the League of Nations. The records of the Victorian branch of the League of Nations Union are held in the National Library (MS 2198).

Series 24. 1922 elections, 1922-1923

At the Federal election of December 1922 Latham won the Melbourne seat of Kooyong. He stood as an Independent Liberal, supported by the Liberal Union, in opposition to the sitting Nationalist Member, Sir Robert Best. The election resulted in the Country Party holding the balance of power and after long negotiations, in which Latham took an active part, W. M. Hughes resigned as Prime Minister and a coalition Government was formed, headed by S. M. Bruce and Earle Page.

The series contains correspondence dating from October 1922-March 1923 organising campaign meetings and the distribution of leaflets, discussing issues with pressure groups, wishing Latham success and congratulating him on his victory. The pressure groups include the Liberal Union, the Single Purpose League, the Returned Soldiers and Sailors Imperial League, the Navy League, the Proportional Representation Society, the Australian Railways Union, and the Victorian Protestant Federation.

Other papers comprise a return of electoral expenses, handwritten notes for speeches, a book containing the names of canvassers and officers of organisations in the Kooyong Electorate, lists of helpers and meetings, two books containing press cuttings and leaflets, and a few loose newscuttings from Melbourne newspapers.

Comprises Files 1-9 (Items 1-425b). Newscuttings in Folder 9 have not been assigned item numbers.

Series 25. Member for Kooyong, 1921-1934

This large series contains Latham's correspondence with his constituents and letters which he received in his capacity as a parliamentarian. Most of the papers date from the period when he was a backbencher (1923-1925). Papers which he wrote or received in his capacity as a Minister are contained in Series 27-42, 44, 52-58, and other political papers are in Series 24, 26, 43, 45-46, 48-51 and 59.

The letters and other papers are arranged chronologically, with replies and follow-up letters attached to the initial letters. Many of the letters are concerned with constituents' grievances, meetings and functions in the electorate, the distribution of Hansards, and the needs and views of a wide range of pressure groups. There is extensive correspondence on the following subjects: import duties on chemical apparatus and chemicals required by universities, tax assessment, repatriation benefits, defence, High Court salaries, industrial relations, payment of women in the Public Service, letter deliveries, the Victorian police strike of 1923, applications for War Service homes, the work of the Repatriation Commission, wireless regulations, the Budget, customs, cancer research, and the design of the National War Memorial. The final papers include invitations, notes and other souvenir material relating to the opening of Parliament House in Canberra in May 1927.

Series 26. 1925 elections, 1925

On 14 November 1925 the Bruce-Page Government was returned to power with an increased majority. Latham had joined the Nationalist Party a few months earlier.

The series contains leaflets, pamphlets, a notebook and notes for speeches, correspondence, a book listing Party helpers in the Kooyong electorate, a chart setting out the Party organisation in the electorate, lists of helpers and meetings, and a few newscuttings. The correspondence deals with the organisation of the campaign in Kooyong, the arrangement of meetings, publicity, the Prime Minister's views on the progress of the campaign (26 October 1925), and the views of pressure groups, including the Victorian Protestant Federation, the Australian Industries Protection League, the National Council of Women and the Musicians' Union of Australia. There are also letters and telegrams wishing Latham success and congratulating him on his victory.

Comprises Files 1-9 (Items 1-343). Newscuttings in Folder 9 have not been assigned item numbers.

Series 27. 1926 Crimes Act, 1920-1928

On 18 December 1925 Latham took up office as Attorney-General in the Bruce-Page Government. His first task was to draft legislation to deal with the serious maritime strikes and threats to essential services which had occurred throughout 1925. An attempt by the Government to deport Tom Walsh and Jacob Johnson, leaders of the Seamen's Union, had been blocked by the High Court in November 1925. Latham introduced a Crimes Bill in Parliament in January 1926 and it was passed in March 1926.

This small series has copies of the 1926 Crimes Bill, heavily annotated by Latham, copies of his second reading speech, notes on the 1925 Peace Officers Act, many handwritten notes for his speech on the Crimes Bill, a memorandum on deportation and a typescript entitled 'The Communist menace in Australia'. There are also articles on Communism and the Seamen's Union taken from the London Times, The Argus, The Age, Daily News, Workers Weekly and Worker (1925-1928) and issues of The Communist, The Young Communist Workers Weekly, and Australian Communist (1920-1925).

Comprises Files 1-6 (Items 1-247).

Series 28. Industrial arbitration, 1921-1929

As Attorney-General Latham was responsible for the administration of the Commonwealth Conciliation and Arbitration Act and the Industrial Peace Act. He introduced the 1927 Conciliation and Arbitration Bill which was passed by Parliament in 1928 and which included many significant amendments to the original Act. Further papers on industrial relations can be found in Series 27, 29, 33, 36, 37, 38, 39, 43 and 45.

This large series commences with several printed papers (Items 1-69) including the 1925 report on industrial relations in Australia (unsigned, but written by W. Harrison Moore and E. C. Dyason), the report of the Industrial Delegation to the United States in 1925, the 1926 New South Wales Industrial Arbitration (Amendment) Act, the 1904-1926 Commonwealth Conciliation and Arbitration Act, Regulations made under the Act, the 1927 Conciliation and Arbitration Bill, leaflets attacking the Bill, the Single Purpose League's The curse of compulsory arbitration, H. Belshaw's Memorandum to the National Industrial Conference (27 March 1928), A. H. Tocker's Lecture on compulsory arbitration (2 February 1928), and issues of the Constitutionalist and the Employers Monthly Review.

They are followed by some typescript papers (Items 70-170) including Latham's 'Some observations upon the tariff and the Arbitration Act' (17 December 1926), 'The Arbitration Bill' (1927), notes on the Chamber of Manufactures deputation on the Arbitration Act (29 May 1927), notes by various people on the 1927 Arbitration Bill, a memorandum concerning the 1926 referendum and the 1927 Arbitration Bill, notes on the 1928 Arbitration Act, notes on Munden's report on the observance of Arbitration Court awards, notes on the secret ballot (28 May 1928) and on the powers of the Arbitration Court in relation to overseas ships (18 August 1928). There are a few Cabinet papers, such as 'Strike and lockout penalties in the Arbitration Act' (August 1927), 'Arbitration Bill: points for further consideration' (5 November 1927), 'Arbitration Court and the economic effects of awards' (28 May 1928) and 'Industrial legislation and penalties' (28 April 1929). There are also a volume of notes written by Latham during the debates on the 1928 Arbitration Bill, notes for a speech on the Bill, and notes from the industrial Registrar, A. Stewart.

The correspondence (Items 397-584) dates from May 1925-October 1929. It includes a copy of a letter from Justice Powers to Sir Littleton Groom recommending changes in the Arbitration Act (May 1925) and suggestions on amendments to the Act in 1927-1928 by the Industrial Registrar, the Advisory Committee of Employers, the Stockowners Association, the Victorian Employers Federation, the Metal Trades Employers Association, and the Australasian Council of Trade Unions. In most cases Latham's replies have been retained and there is also his draft reply to the Australian Workers Union concerning the proposed Industrial Peace Conference (March 1928).

Finally, there is a large collection of newscuttings, mostly dating from December 1921-May 1929. The majority are from the Argus, Age and Herald and the subjects include working hours, trade union conferences, the Australian Labor Party's industrial policy, the Industrial Peace Conference, the 1928 Arbitration Act, employer opposition to compulsory arbitration, and industrial disputes.

Series 29. Referenda, 1926

In May 1926 the Bruce-Page Government announced that it would hold two referenda to seek constitutional amendments to give the Commonwealth greater powers to regulate industry and industrial relations and to control essential services in times of emergency. During the campaign it became apparent that all the political parties, the employers and the trade unions were deeply divided towards the proposed amendments relating to industrial regulation. The referenda were held on 4 September 1926 and on both questions the Government suffered defeat.

Printed items in the series include the booklet setting out the Government's proposals, a speech by S. M. Bruce on the amendments (11 August 1926), T. R. Ashworth's The industry and commerce referendum, and Latham's address to the Victorian Chamber of Manufacturers (21 July 1926). There are typescript extracts from speeches by Bruce, notes on Sir Arthur Robinson's speech (7 July 1926), a press statement (12 July 1926), explanatory memoranda, draft circulars, and notes on Owen Dixon's opinion (2 July 1926). The newscuttings (22 May-3 August 1926) are mostly from the Age and Argus.

Comprises Files 1-4 (Items 1-160). Newscuttings in Folders 3-4 have not been assigned items numbers.

Series 30. 1926 overseas trip, 1923-1927

In August 1926 Latham left Australia to attend the seventh General Assembly of the League of Nations at Geneva. He afterwards travelled to London to appear in a Privy Council case and his visit coincided with the 1926 Imperial Conference, at which Australia was represented by S. M. Bruce and Sir Neville Howse. Latham returned to Australia in February 1927.

In this series there are firstly notes, mostly handwritten, for speeches at the General Assembly or dealing with the League, a diary listing appointments (September-December 1926), and rough diary notes. They are followed by the text of debates, journal, and verbatim record of the General Assembly (6-25 September 1926), the report of the Australian delegation (December 1926), some of the papers and reports prepared for the Assembly, and the minutes of the First and Third Committees. There are two letters, one written to Bruce (11 September 1926) and one to Ella Latham (23 November 1926). The later papers in the series consist of Australian and British newscuttings, lists of engagements, invitations, dinner plans, photographs, leaflets, and summaries of the proceedings of the 1923 and 1926 Imperial Conferences.

Series 31. Public finance, 1925-1928

This series contains many printed papers collected by Latham, including speeches by Earle Page, S. M. Bruce and Latham on the Budgets of 1925-1926, 1926-1927 and 1927-1928 and the 1926 and 1927 States Grants Bills, the report of the 1925 Royal Commission on the Finances of Western Australia as affected by Federation (Chairman: W. G. Higgs), Budget papers and other parliamentary papers, speeches by Page on the 1927 Financial Agreement, an address by Russell Cooke on Australian finance (December 1927), Sir William McPherson's Reasons for voting against the financial agreements, and a paper on the establishment of a common sinking fund for the repayment of the internal and external debts of the Australian States. There are also rough drafts of the 1927 Financial Agreement, a proposed scheme for the transfer of State debts, notes on surplus and tax revenue, papers on per capita payments, and financial tables. Finally, there are a few cuttings and some letters from Sir Edward Mitchell, Sir Alexander Peacock, F. W. Eggleston and others dealing with public finance.

Comprises Files 1-6 (Items 1-206). Newscuttings in Folder 6 have not been assigned item numbers.

Series 32. Child endowment, 1925-1927

Child endowment was first introduced by the Lang Government in New South Wales in 1927 and became a contentious issue in both State and Federal politics. This small series contains Acts, Bills, the report of the 1927 Premiers' Conference, and statements by the Victorian Chamber of Manufacturers, T. R. Bavin, Sir Thomas Henley, and A. B. Piddington. There are also handwritten notes by Latham on child endowment, draft terms of reference for a Royal Commission on child endowment, notes on the proposed Royal Commission, typescript memoranda on child endowment (February-March 1927), statistics prepared for the 1927 Premiers Conference, and a few newscuttings.

Comprises Files 1-3 (Items 1-1180).

Series 33. 1928 elections, 1925-1928

At the general election held on 17 November 1928 the coalition parties lost eight seats but retained power. This small series contains booklets and leaflets, including S. M. Bruce's policy speech and Facts about the Bruce-Page Government, a roneoed copy of a speech delivered by Latham at Hawthorn (17 October 1928), notes on polling booths and the number of electors in the Kooyong electorate, and notes for speeches, dealing particularly with the Financial Agreement, migration, industrial relations, and the 1928 Arbitration Act. There are also a few letters, including one by Latham on industrial relations policy for the campaign handbook.

Comprises Files 1-4 (Items 1-179).

Series 34. 1927-1929 Royal Commission on the Constitution, [1926]-1929

This small series contains copies of the report and evidence of the Royal Commission on the Constitution, pamphlets by D. H. Drummond, Constitutional changes in Australia (1926) and J. H. Keating, Reasons for a constitutional convention, correspondence with Sir John Peden concerning the membership of the Commission (August 1927) and with J. A. Lyons concerning the Commission's recommendations (February 1932) and a small number of newscuttings (July-August 1927).

Comprises Files 1-5 (Items 1-23).

Series 35. 1928 Royal Commission on allegations of political bribery, 1928

In 1928 Judge Edward Scholes was appointed a Royal Commissioner to investigate allegations by a Labor parliamentarian W. H. Lambert that, following the failure of E. G. Theodore to win the Federal seat of Herbert in 1925, financial inducements were offered to Lambert, P. E. Coleman, F. Anstey, and W. G. Mahony to resign their seats. Mahony did, in fact, resign as the Member for Dalley in January 1927 and Theodore won the subsequent by-election. The Commission concluded that Coleman and Mahony were offered money and that Mahony accepted the offer (probably £5,000), but that there was no evidence as to who offered or gave the money.

The papers in this small series include the report of the Royal Commission (July 1928), notes on counsels' fees, an opinion given to Latham, as Attorney-General, by J. E. Lamb and A. J. Hill on whether proceedings should be instituted against any individual mentioned in the report, and a Cabinet paper by Latham on the same subject (26 July 1928). There are also some newscuttings.

Comprises File 1 (Items 1-28).

Series 36. Waterside workers, 1927-1929

In November 1927 and September 1928 the Waterside Workers Federation organised nationwide strikes. In the 1928 strike the Bruce-Page Government instituted proceedings against the Federation and also legislated to control employment on the waterfront and to protect volunteer labour. Latham took a deep interest in conditions on the waterfront throughout 1928 and 1929.

In this series are some unsigned reports by an agent who investigated allegations of pilfering and criminal activities on the waterfront in Sydney, Fremantle, Adelaide and Melbourne in July-November 1927. There are some notes on the waterside workers' strikes of 1927 and 1928, including a record of a conversation between Latham and C. Crofts of the Australasian Council of Trade Unions concerning the Transport Workers Act (25 September 1928). Printed items include W. Jethro Brown, 'The strike of the Australian waterside workers' ( Economic Record, May 1929), copies of the 1928 and 1929 Transport Workers Acts and Regulations, and of the waterside workers' award issued by Judge G. S. Beeby in June 1928. The correspondence dates from January-August 1929 and is concerned with the efficiency of volunteer labour, grievances of volunteers, disputes at Port Adelaide, unemployment among Federation members at Brisbane, and Latham's proposal for the decasualisation and self-government of the stevedoring industry. The correspondents include A. S. Elford of the Commonwealth Steamship Owners' Association and R. S. Butler, the South Australian Premier. Finally, there are some newscuttings (April-August 1929).

Comprises Files 1-7 (Items 1-143). Newscuttings in Folder 7 have not been assigned item numbers.

Series 37. Timber workers, 1928-1929

In January 1929 the Timber Workers Union began a strike in protest against an award handed down by Judge L. O. Lukin, and especially the extension of the working week. The very bitter strike continued in New South Wales and Victoria until October 1929, with many clashes between pickets and volunteers.

The series contains copies of the 1929 timber workers' award, a Cabinet paper by Latham on the dispute (2 February 1929), press statements, notes on the dispute, a list of unions contributing to the strike fund, and a large number of newscuttings (January-June 1929). The correspondence dates from March-August 1929 and includes letters from S. M. Bruce, the Industrial Registrar, and the Timber Merchants Association of Victoria concerning the dispute and especially picketing.

Comprises Files 1-9 (Items 1-48). Newscuttings in Folders 4-9 have not been assigned items numbers.

Series 38. John Brown prosecution, 1929

On 1 March 1929 an 18 month lockout began on the northern coalfields of New South Wales when 10,000 miners, who would not accept wage reductions, were dismissed. On 22 March 1929 Latham announced that one of the leading mine-owners, John Brown, would be prosecuted under the Industrial Peace Act and the Arbitration Act. However, in opening a conference between the owners and the miners on 8 April 1929, Bruce stated that the prosecution would be dropped, a decision which had long-term political repercussions.

The proceedings of the Coal Mining Industry Conference in Sydney (8-18 April 1929) are in this series. There is a typescript copy of the official file on the Brown prosecution, consisting of Latham's correspondence with his advisers Sir Robert Garran, W. H. Sharwood and G. A. Watson and the solicitors E. M. Brissenden and J. R. Neild (28 February-31 August 1929). There is a statement by Bruce on the reasons for the withdrawal of the prosecution, a booklet The dispute in the coal industry, and speeches by Bruce and Latham. The other papers are Latham's notes on the events leading up to the withdrawal (5-11 April 1929) and the telegrams he sent to Bruce (9-10 April 1929).

Comprises Files 1-2 (Items 1-108).

Series 39. 1929 Maritime Industries Bill, 1919-1929

At a Premiers' Conference in Canberra on 28 May 1929 S. M. Bruce announced that unless full industrial powers were granted to the Commonwealth he would ask Parliament to repeal all Federal arbitration laws. With the exception of the shipping and stevedoring industries, industrial regulation would be left to the States. On 23 August 1929 Bruce introduced the Maritime Industries Bill which repealed the Arbitration Act and provided for the regulation of the maritime industries. On 10 September 1929 the Government was defeated in the committee stage, when W. M. Hughes, E. A. Mann and four Nationalists voted with the Labor Party, and the Bill never became law.

The series contains Acts and speeches, including Bruce's speech at the Premiers' Conference, articles on industrial relations by K. H. Bailey in the Australian Intercollegian (September-October 1929) and leaflets issued by the Australasian Council of Trade Unions. There is a Cabinet paper by Latham, entitled 'Industrial policy' (10 June 1929). The correspondence includes letters and telegrams from Bruce and Latham to colleagues and supporters warning them of the impending change in policy (24-31 May 1929), letters from trade unions protesting against the new policy, submissions by Arbitration Court judges on the Maritime Industries Bill, and letters from the Commonwealth Steamship Owners Association. There are typescript notes on industrial relations, the trade unions supporting strike funds, wages and conditions of workers covered by Commonwealth awards, the Australasian Council of Trade Unions and its affiliation with the Pan-Pacific Trade Union Secretariat, the Australian Railways Union's record on arbitration, the Age's contradictory stand on arbitration, and the opposition of unions to arbitration since 1919. Finally, there are press cuttings (14 March-9 September 1929) and a set of the Pan-Pacific Worker.

Series 40. 1929 Premiers' Conference, 1929

This small series contains lists of subjects to be submitted by the Commonwealth for discussion at the Conference and memoranda by the Commonwealth Government on the unification of railway gauges, social legislation, health, development of power resources, gold mining, observance of ANZAC Day, Aboriginal reservations, migration, life assurance, uniformity of voting methods, conventions of the International Labour Organisation, fur-bearing rabbits, survey maps, uniform legislation concerning fertilizers and pure seeds, execution of documents outside Australia, and the registration of Commonwealth titles to land. There are also documents on Empire markets, and industrial laws and reports of the Commonwealth Transport Committee and the Overseas Shipping Conference.

Comprises File 1 (Items 1-78).

Series 41. Attorney-General, 1923-1929

In this series are miscellaneous papers which Latham wrote or acquired as a Minister or specifically as Attorney-General. They include notes on subjects to go to Cabinet (1927), notes on a draft arbitration treaty submitted by the United States (7 December 1928), a draft of the 1929 Seat of Government (Administration) Bill, papers on the Navigation Act, rough notes on the advice to be given to the Governor-General on the dissolution of Parliament (11 September 1929), letters from Sir Robert Garran (January 1927) and from Latham to S. M. Bruce (July 1927) on general political matters, and correspondence on migration, the taxation of bodies outside Australia, the position of Broome, the dispute over the Spotwood-Altona highway, and communist activities in Australia.

The series also includes files on the following subjects: duties on electrical machinery, sub-letting of leases in Canberra, the Abrahams brothers tax evasion case and a proposed amusements tax.

Series 42. Cabinet papers, 1928-1929

The series contains an incomplete set of Cabinet agenda (March-August 1929), an incomplete set of numbered Cabinet papers, mostly roneoed (1928-29, mostly 1929), and a few unnumbered Cabinet papers (December 1928-July 1929).

Comprises Files 1-6 (Items 1-614).

Series 43. Australian Labor Party, 1924-1929

This small series consists mostly of newscuttings on the Australian Labor Party, its conferences, preselection of candidates, and its relations with trade unions and communism, taken from the Age, Argus, Sydney Morning Herald and Industrial Australian and Mining Standard (October 1925-July 1928). There are also reports of the New South Wales Labor Council (1924-1925), typescript notes on the New South Wales Labor Party (August 1929) and some booklets.

Comprises Files 1-2 (Items 1-31). Newscuttings in Folder 2 have not been assigned item numbers.

Series 44. Royal Commission on Jacob Johnson, 1929-1931

In July 1928 Jacob Johnson, Secretary of the Seamen's Union, was charged, under the Crimes Act, with hindering interstate shipping during the marine cooks' strike. He was convicted and sentenced to six months imprisonment. There were later allegations that he was convicted on the basis of false evidence as a result of a conspiracy between a faction of the Seamen's Union, the shipowners, the Investigation Branch, and the Crown-Solicitor's Office. In 1931 the Scullin Government appointed Judge G. S. Beeby as a Royal Commissioner to inquire into the allegations, but he reported that they were unfounded.

This small series has letters and copies of letters on the Johnson Case, including correspondence about witnesses and a letter from Latham to the solicitors, Sullivan Brothers, stating that he was satisfied no injustice had been done to Johnson (22 June 1929). Later papers include a letter from Johnson to Federal parliamentarians (10 April 1931) and correspondence concerning the Royal Commission (August-September 1931).

Comprises File 1 (Items 1-46).

Series 45. 1929 elections, 1926-1929

Following the defeat of the Bruce-Page Government in Parliament on the Maritime Industries Bill, Parliament was dissolved and a general election was held on 12 October 1929. The Government was overwhelmingly defeated, losing 18 seats, including those of five Ministers.

Publications include Bruce's policy speech, Facts for the use of National Campaign workers: the dispute in the coal industry, extracts from Hansard of speeches by Latham, Bruce and Sir George Pearce on arbitration, Earle Page's 1929-1930 Budget speech, and leaflets. There are roneoed notes prepared by Ministers on various subjects, including the reduction of wages, the attitude of the Age to the Federal Arbitration Court, the withdrawal of the John Brown prosecution and the Governor-General's visits to the Islands. There are also some Country Party notes on arbitration. They are followed by handwritten notes for speeches, typescript speeches, Latham's statement on the reasons for the defeat (Item 232) and correspondence concerning arbitration, the campaign in Kooyong, the Nationalist Party platform, and the Government's defeat. There are also a few newscuttings.

Series 46. Leader of the Opposition, 1913-1933

In November 1929, following the defeat of S. M. Bruce by E. J. Holloway in the general election, Latham was elected leader of the Nationalist Party. On 17 April 1931 Latham announced that, with the formation of the United Australia Party, he would be resigning as Leader of the Opposition and would be succeeded by J. A. Lyons. Latham was Deputy Leader of the Opposition until December 1931.

The series contains many reprints of speeches in Hansard, notes for speeches, draft press statements, newscuttings, publications, correspondence, notes on the objective of the Nationalist Party and the report of the Organizing Committee of the Nationalist Council. Apart from letters of congratulation on Latham's election as Leader, the correspondence deals with that arrangement of parliamentary business, the appointment of Sir Isaac Isaacs as Governor-General, economic matters, tariff investigations and relations with the Country Party.

Items 246-334 relate to the 1930 Constitution Alteration (Power of Amendment) Bill and the Constitution Alteration (Industrial Powers) Bill, both of which were rejected by the Senate. They include notes on referenda and correspondence with State Leaders and the Nationalist organisation.

Items 335-521 relate to the 1930 Royal Commission on Mungana and Chillagoe Mines (Commissioner: Justice L. J. Campbell). The Commission investigated allegations against the Treasurer E. G. Theodore and three former associates regarding mining transactions. The papers include the report of the Royal Commission, a report of a speech by Theodore in Brisbane (14 March 1931), typescript papers on the Queensland Supreme Court case R. v. P. L. Goddard, F. Reid, W. McCormack and E. G. Theodore, a paper on the Mungana Case sent to Latham by the Queensland Premier's Office (August 1930), notes for speeches, correspondence with Theodore, A. E. Moore, the Queensland Premier, and Nationalist politicians and officials (July 1929-November 1930), and newscuttings.

Series 47. Newspaper syndicate, 1930

This small series is concerned with a syndicate formed to purchase the Sunday Times Newspaper Company and to publish a new evening newspaper and a new Sunday and/or Saturday evening newspaper. R. Windeyer and T. E. Rofe were the provisional directors and among those concerned with the venture were Latham, Sir Henry Braddon, J. M. Dunlop, H. S. Nicholas, B. S. Stevens, David Maughan and Charles Lloyd Jones. The papers comprise typescript notes concerning meetings and the organisation of the syndicate, and correspondence between Latham and Sir Adrian Knox, H. S. Nicholas, Sir Samuel Hordern and Sir Kelso King, in which Latham appealed for support for the venture (April-July 1930).

Comprises Folders 1-2 (Items 1-77)

Series 48. Statute of Westminster, 1929-1933

The 1929 Conference on the Operation of Dominion Legislation and Merchant Shipping and the 1930 Imperial Conference discussed ways in which law could be brought into line with the 1926 Balfour Declaration on the relations between the United Kingdom and self-governing Dominions. Subsequently, the British Parliament passed the 1931 Statute of Westminster which repealed the 1865 Colonial Laws Validity Act, limited the power of the British Parliament to legislate for the Dominions, and gave the parliaments of the Dominions full power to make laws having extra-territorial operation. The Australian Parliament did not adopt the Statute until 1942.

The series contains parliamentary papers, debates, newscuttings, notes, correspondence and the report of the 1929 Conference. There is a copy of a cable from the Secretary of State for the Dominions concerning resolutions from the State parliaments protesting against the Statute of Westminster (11 August 1931), notes by Sir Robert Garran on Western Australia's objections (8 September 1931), and correspondence with the Australian delegate, Sir William Harrison Moore, the Attorney-General's Department, and State Attorneys-General (August 1930-August 1932).

Comprises Files 1-4 (Items 1-123).

Series 49. Formation of the United Australia Party, 1930-1931

In January 1931 J. A. Lyons resigned as Postmaster-General in the Scullin Government and left the Australian Labor Party, followed by five other Federal parliamentarians. In March 1931 Latham and Lyons had discussions and under pressure from the Capel Court Group and from political bodies such as the All for Australia League the Nationalist Party decided to seek immediate unity between the Opposition parties. On 17 April 1931 Latham announced that the Nationalist Party was prepared to join Lyons and his supporters in forming a new party under Lyons' leadership. On 7 May 1931 the United Australia Party was formed. The Country Party declined to join the new party and at the State level negotiations and conflict between the Nationalist Party and other conservative groups continued for many months before they achieved unity.

The series consists mostly of correspondence recording the negotiations, disputes and agreements between the Opposition parties between March and November 1931. Items 1-100 are correspondence between Latham and Lyons, Archdale Parkhill, Federal parliamentarians, Country Party leaders, state branches of the Nationalist Party, the All for Australia League, the Sane Democracy League, and the Producers' Advisory Council.

Items 101-180 consist of typescript papers, including Lyons' seven-point policy (26 March 1931), the joint statement of Latham, Lyons and T. Paterson (27 March 1931), notes by Latham on the events of 24 March-7 April 1931, Latham's statement declaring his Party's willingness to serve under Lyons (17 April 1931), resolutions of a conference between the National Association of New South Wales and the All for Australia League, and of the Australian National Federation Interstate Conference (April 1931), the agenda for the meeting of parliamentarians which formed the United Australia Party (7 May 1931), and papers on a unity conference in Sydney attended by the National Association, the United Country Movement, the All for Australia League and the Producers' Advisory Council (31 November 1931).

There are a small number of newscuttings and the rest of the papers are letters congratulating Latham on his decision to give up the leadership (Items 196-420). Later papers on the United Australia Party are contained in Series 51.

Comprises Files 1-9 (Items 1-420).

Series 50. 1931 elections, 1925-1932

On 25 November 1931 a group of Labor parliamentarians led by J. A. Beasley voted with the Opposition to defeat the Scullin Government in Parliament. Parliament was dissolved and at the general election on 19 December 1931 the Government suffered a great defeat. The United Australia Party and the Country Party won 56 of the 75 seats in the House of Representatives and 15 of the 18 Senate vacancies.

The publications in the series include extracts from Hansard, parliamentary papers, J. A. Lyons' policy speech, the platform and rules of the National Federation, UAP speakers' notes and leaflets (including some on the New South Wales election of 25 October 1930). There are a large number of handwritten notes for speeches, a transcript of a broadcast (16 December 1931), and notes on the federal platform. The correspondence (Items 436-974) includes letters from W. M. Hughes and other parliamentarians, D. B. Copland and the Chamber of Manufactures, but the great majority of the letters are congratulatory (30 November 1931-14 January 1932). There are also some newscuttings, mostly from the Argus and Age.

Series 51. United Australia Party, 1931-1934

The papers in this series deal with the formation of United Australia Party branches, especially in New South Wales, the activities and problems of the Party, and its strained relations with the Country Party.

Items 9-118 are letters concerning the affairs of the Party, the correspondents including J. A. Lyons, the National Union, the Australian Women's National League, the Country and Progressive National League, and the Queensland Women's Electoral League (February 1932-March 1934).

Items 119-186 are roneoed papers issued by the Country Party, mostly critical of the Federal Government (1933), and notes and statements on the Country Party, and especially on the Government's tariff policy and the pre-election promises made by Latham and Lyons. Items 187-242 are correspondence with parliamentarians and party officials concerning the 1931 unity conference and attacks of the Country Party (28 December 1931-31 August 1933). There are also newscuttings on the Country Party, the tariff and Country Party criticisms of the Government.

Comprises Files 1-7 (Items 1-270).

Series 52. Deputy Prime Minister, 1931-1934

The first Lyons Ministry took office on 6 January 1932 and Latham was a Minister in it until his retirement from politics on 12 October 1934. This large series contains the papers which Latham received or wrote as a Minister, other than those relating specifically to his three portfolios of Attorney-General, External Affairs and Industry.

The first items are booklets, including S. M. Ferguson's The Australian tariff debate and A. C. Davidson's Australia's share in international recovery. They are followed by general correspondence, dating from 28 December 1931-21 December 1934 (items 6-1017). They include memoranda entitled 'Some notes on unemployment' and 'Notes on the coal industry' (21 March 1932); letters which Latham wrote to Lyons from London (May 1932); letters from S. M. Bruce in London and other Ministers, from individuals such as A. C. Davidson of the Bank of New South Wales, and from pressure groups, particularly the Australian Pensioners League; a copy of a letter from Sir George Pearce to the Treasurer on the need for increased defence expenditure (28 April 1933); correspondence with Lyons on various policy matters; a letter from R. G. Casey on Commonwealth-State financial relations (18 January 1934) and from the Taxpayers Association of Victoria; and some correspondence dealing with matters which arose during the 1934 Eastern Mission. The general correspondence is arranged chronologically.

The remaining papers (Folders 14-22) have been arranged by subject.

Series 53. Attorney-General, 1929-1934

The general correspondence in this series (Items 1-101) deals with cases involving the Commonwealth, the administration of the Attorney-General's Department, the consolidation of Commonwealth Acts, industrial law, the possibility of outlawing the Communist Party, relations with the High Court, and legislation and administrative matters outstanding at the time of Latham's retirement. The correspondents include Sir Robert Garran, G. S. Knowles and Sir Edward Mitchell.

The remaining papers (Folders 2-12) have been divided by subject.

Series 54. Minister for External Affairs, 1932-1934

This small series contains correspondence dating from February 1932-October 1934, three reports by Andrew Cairns to the Empire Marketing Board on his travels in Western Siberia, the Volga region, Ukraine, Crimea and Caucasus in June-August 1932, and a report of a visit by Captain H. J. Feakes to China and Japan in July 1933.

Other papers on Latham's activities as Minister for External Affairs are contained in Series 56-58.

Comprises Files 1-3 (Items 1-55c).

Series 55. Minister for Industry, 1928-1946

Latham first became Minister for Industry in December 1928, but no department was ever established. This small series contains a statement by S. M. Bruce on the functions of the proposed department (December 1928), correspondence with A. S. Elford of the Joint Committee of Shipowners on relations with the Waterside Workers Federation (February-December 1932), a Cabinet paper on the waterside industry (1932), and correspondence concerning the International Labour Office.

A paper by R. G. Casey 'A note on industry in Australia' (September 1946) has also been placed in this series.

Comprises Files 1-2 (Items 1-31). Papers in Folder 2 have not been assigned item numbers.

Series 56. Disarmament conference, 1932

The World Disarmament Conference, which opened at Lausanne in February 1932, was organised by the League of Nations following the report of the Preparatory Commission in 1930. In the first phase of the Conference, when it was in plenary session, Australia was represented by Sir Granville Ryrie. Latham arrived in Lausanne in late April 1932 and stayed for about three weeks. At this stage work was being carried on by a series of committees, which discussed the idea of 'qualitative' disarmament and the definition of 'aggressive' and 'defensive' armaments. Latham left for London in mid May 1932 and Australia was subsequently represented by F. G. Shedden. The Conference adjourned in July 1932, having achieved negligible results. The Conference continued in 1933, but after Germany withdrew in October it gradually faded away.

Publications in this series include Latham's report to Parliament on the work of the Conference (25 July 1932), a statement concerning armaments in Australia (October 1931), the League of Nations pamphlet Disarmament, a list of the British delegation and staff and the directory of delegations. There are notes by Latham for meetings, and notes on the Imperial Defence College and the press in London. The correspondence (Items 48-171) includes letters from F. G. Shedden, and Sir Maurice Hankey, a report by Latham to Sir George Pearce, the draft of a letter to Arthur Henderson, the President of the Conference, Latham's report of a conversation with J. Ramsay MacDonald, a letter from the Marquis of Londonderry, the British Minister for Air, concerning a proposal to abolish the Royal Australian Air Force as a separate organisation, and a letter from Latham to J. A. Lyons, written in London.

The other papers consist of typescript and handwritten notes for speeches and press statements (Items 172-283), newscuttings, photographs, Latham's passport, publications which he collected while he was overseas, programs, menus, invitations to functions in Geneva and London, bills and miscellaneous documents.

Series 57. 1932 Imperial Economic Conference, 1932-1933

The Imperial Economic Conference met in Ottawa in July-August 1932, the Australian delegates being S. M. Bruce and H. S. Gullett. It followed the passing of the British Import Duties Act in February 1932 and its object was 'the promotion of intra-Empire trade and the consummation of a closer economic union between the British Nations'. The Conference dealt with trade, customs administration, commercial relations with foreign countries, monetary and financial questions, and economic co-operation. Fifteen trade agreements were signed at the conclusion of the Conference.

This small series contains correspondence, dating from April-July 1932, which Latham had with British and Australian Ministers when he was in London. It deals with the approaching Ottawa Conference, press leakages concerning pre-Ottawa negotiations, imperial trade, the Australian tariff, British preference, trade with the Dutch East Indies and relations with other countries. The correspondents include J. A. Lyons, C. A. S. Hawker, F. L. McDougall, S. Baldwin and J. Ramsay MacDonald. In addition, there are reports of the Conference, memoranda on imperial economic consultation, imperial co-operation in agricultural, scientific and economic research, and problems and possibilities at Ottawa, and some newscuttings.

Comprises Files 1-2 (Items 1-139).

Series 58. Australian Eastern Mission, 1932-1934

The Australian Goodwill Mission to the Far East, which was led by Latham, was the first Australian mission of a diplomatic character to visit foreign countries. It spent two months (April-May 1934) visiting the Dutch East Indies, Malaya, Indo-China, Hong Kong, China, Japan and the Philippines. Latham had discussions with government officials, businessmen and academics concerning trade relations, defence, immigration policy and cultural relations.

The publications in the series consist of H. W. Gepp's Report on tradebetween Australiaand the Far East (1932) and A. C. V. Melbourne's Report on Australian intercourse with Japan and China (1932). There are four volumes of newscuttings taken from Australian, British, American, Japanese and Chinese newspapers, some loose newscuttings, Latham's speech in Parliament and his report on the Mission (6 July 1934), pencilled diary notes (5 April-5 July 1934), and itineraries. There are a small number of letters (Items 48-66), passport photographs, lists of guests, menus and tourist publications.

A secret report of the Eastern Mission, dated 3 July 1934, is held in the papers of Sir Earle Page (MS 1633, Folder 240).

Series 59. 1934 elections, 1932-1934

Latham did not stand for re-election at the election on 15 September 1934 but he did devote time to supporting Government candidates. This small series contains correspondence with J. A. Lyons, R. G. Casey, H. S. Foll and others discussing Party affairs, the campaign and congratulating them on their victory. There is also a typescript of a broadcast by Latham (14 September 1934) and a press statement by Lyons concerning the Country Party (24 September 1934).

Comprises Files 1-3 (Items 1-92).

Series 60. Retirement from politics, June-December 1934

On 4 July 1934 Latham wrote to J. A. Lyons and the Kooyong Election Committee stating that he had decided not to stand at the coming election. Latham denied rumours that he would soon become a Justice of the High Court, but said that he was anxious to return to the Bar. In this series there are many letters, dating from 5 July-29 November 1934, expressing disappointment that he was retiring from Parliament and congratulating him on his political achievements. There are also notes for speeches, menus, guest lists and newscuttings concerning farewell functions, particularly a lunch given to Latham in Sydney on 19 November 1934.

Comprises Files 1-4 (Items 1-245).

Series 61. Australian-eastern relations, 1934-1941

Latham kept in touch with many of the officials and academics whom he met in Japan and China during the 1934 Eastern Mission and he was an advocate of closer economic and cultural relations between Australia and the two countries. He was president of the Melbourne branch of the Japan-Australia Society in 1935 and his deep interest in Japan was recognised when he was appointed the first Australian Minister to Japan in 1940.

Items 1-324 in this series consist of correspondence, dating from 1934-1940, dealing with the report of the 1934 Goodwill Mission, trade with China and Japan, an exchange of professors between Australian and Chinese universities, the establishment of a wireless service between Australia and Japan, Australian investment in the Chinese textile industry, F. M. Cutlack's book on the East and Chinese reactions to it, the formation of a branch of the Japan-Australian Society in Melbourne, an article by Latham on Australia and Japan in the Argus (20 April 1935), the Chinese press in Australia, a proposal to present a collection of Australian etchings to Japan, and the visit of K. Debuchi to Australia in 1935. The correspondents include K Hirota, the Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs, W. P. Chen and C. J. Pao, Chinese consuls in Australia, K. Murai the Japanese consul in Sydney, J. A. Lyons, E. Longfield Lloyd, H. J. Temperley, J. Leighton Stuart, and Sir Alexander Cadogan. Most of the letters date from 1934-1935.

Other papers include notes for speeches on the Eastern Mission; Latham's paper 'Australia and Japan'; Latham's review of F. Mourette's Social aspects of industrial development in Japan; a typescript 'Sports in Japan' and extracts from other publications; A. C. V. Melbourne's - Report on a visit to universities of China and Japan (1936); A. G. Coon's 'China's imports and exports of foodstuffs', Chinese Economic Journal (1934); and a few newscuttings from Australian and Japanese newspapers.

Comprises Files 1-9 (Items 1-452).

Series 62. Chief Justice, 1935-1961

Latham was appointed Chief Justice of the High Court on 11 October 1935, succeeding Sir Frank Gavan Duffy. He retired in April 1952. In 1940-1941 he was on leave from the Court as Minister to Japan.

Items 1-836 consist of letters. They date from 1935-1952, but there is almost no correspondence for the years 1941-1946. Many of the letters were written by Latham's fellow-justices, Sir George Rich, Sir Hayden Starke, Sir Owen Dixon, H. V. Evatt, Sir Edward McTiernan, Sir William Webb and Dudley Williams, and the Solicitors-General Sir George Knowles and K. H. Bailey. Many of the letters are concerned with arranging sittings and finalising judgements; only a few deal with the substance of the judgements. Many of the letters of Starke and Evatt reflect the disharmony in the Court. Apart from administrative matters, the letters deal with appointments to the International Court of Justice, Nassoor's Case (1937), the 1940 Judiciary Bill, Evatt's resignation from the Court in 1940, Latham's move to Japan, Webb's work on the International War Crimes Tribunal at Tokyo, the proposal for a Federal Bill of Rights (1949), the Communist Party Dissolution Case, and the revision of the High Court rules (1951-1952). There are several letters from people who believed they were victims of injustice, and also letters congratulating Latham on his retirement in 1952.

Other papers include a list of constitutional and national security cases decided since the outbreak of the War, the report of the Royal Commission on the Communist Party in Victoria, notes for discussion on the Banking Case (21 May 1948), miscellaneous notes and Bills, notes on cases and legal subjects (Items 888-926), notes on the Communist Party Dissolution Case (Items 927-996), an index to cases, papers on the farewell to Latham (7 April 1952), the report of the Royal Commission on the Brisbane Line, and newscuttings.

Series 63. Legal interests, 1920-1963

In this series have been placed papers relating to the law and the legal profession, but which are not concerned with Latham's work as Chief Justice. There are manuscripts on Federal competence in labour matters, the interpretation of the Constitution and other subjects, miscellaneous publications, including the roll kept by the Victorian Bar Council (1957), and the drafts of speeches, including 'The functions of law in society,' 'Law and the citizen,' 'The lawyer as a citizen' (1950), 'The Australian judiciary since 1918' and 'Reception of the common law in Australia' (1959). The correspondence (Items 210-716) dates from February 1933-August 1962 and is concerned with the activities of such bodies as the Law Council of Australia, the Australian and New Zealand Society of International Law, the United Nations League of Lawyers, the International Bar Association and the International Commission of Jurists, and contributions by Latham to law journals and law books. The correspondents include Sir Frederic Eggleston, Geoffrey Sawer, Sir Kenneth Bailey, Sir Charles Lowe, W. Friedmann, H. G. Aldermann, Sir George Paton, Kenneth Wheare, Julius Stone and Sir Owen Dixon. There are also invitations, programs and menus for legal conventions, legal dinners and other functions.

Comprises Files 1-8 (Items 1-743).

Series 64. National Debt Commission, 1935-1951

The National Debt Commission was set up in 1923 under the National Debt Sinking Fund Act. It was responsible for applying the Commonwealth National Debt Sinking Fund to the repurchasing or redeeming of Commonwealth securities and it controlled the state sinking funds established under the Financial Agreement. The Chief Justice was one of the members of the Commission.

The series contains various annual reports of the Commission, papers and minutes of some of its meetings, typescript agenda papers (including minutes, reports, financial statements and cables) and a pamphlet of the Victorian Treasury Committee entitled Sinking and depreciation funds of governments and public bodies (1935). There is a small amount of correspondence, dating from April 1936-November 1950, mainly with W. C. Thomas and A. C. Joyce, the Secretaries of the Commission and with H. J. Sheehan of the Commonwealth Treasury. It is concerned with the application of sinking fund moneys in London, the minutes of meetings, and the interpretation of the 1930 National Debt Sinking Fund Act.

Series 65. Minister to Japan, 1940-1941

In August 1940 Latham was appointed the first Australian Minister to Japan and he arrived in Tokyo in December 1940. He left in September 1941 for consultations in Singapore and Australia. He was seriously ill in Singapore, but returned to Australia in November 1941. With the outbreak of War his appointment was terminated.

Items 1-495 are mainly letters of congratulation on Latham's appointment as Minister, dating from August-November 1940. They are followed by a typescript entitled 'The Japanese at home,' some newscuttings, notes for an interview with R. G. Menzies (8 July 1940), and a draft letter to the Minister of External Affairs on salaries, allowances, and leave for the Mission staff. The rest of the papers (Items 539-652) consist of correspondence dating from January-December 1941. There are letters and cables from F. Stewart, H. V. Evatt and W. R. Hodgson, especially concerning Latham's departure from Japan and his illness and operation in Singapore. There are cables from Tokyo to Singapore concerning the Australian Mission and letters of sympathy. Finally, there are memoranda by Latham on the invasion of Australia (15 August 1941), the need for a co-operative arrangement for the defence of South East Asia (5 November 1941) and the military position in the Malay States (16 December 1941).

Comprises Files 1-9 (Items 1-652).

Series 66. Libraries, 1936-1961

Latham first became actively involved with the development of public libraries in 1937, when he was elected President of the Free Library Movement in Victoria. In 1950 the Australian Institute of Librarians was reconstituted as the Library Association of Australia and Latham was the first President, holding office for three years. In 1952 he was the chairman of the Advisory Committee for the UNESCO Library Seminar held in Canberra and Sydney.

The series contains publications of the Free Library Movement, and the Library Association of Australia and other printed works, such as C. R. Pitt's State aid to libraries (1939), K. Binns' Library services in Tasmania (1943), and H. L. White's Australian library development (1943). Items 79-181 consist of correspondence, dating from March 1937-May 1953, concerning the Free Library Movement, the Australian Institute of Librarians, the organisation of the Library Association of Australia, a grant of $35,000 to the Library Association by the Carnegie Corporation in 1951, and book import restrictions. The correspondents include G. C. Remington, K. S. Cunningham, John Metcalfe, and Irving Benson. The other papers are roneoed reports and minutes of the Library Association of Australia General Council and committees (Items 183-285), correspondence and minutes of the 1952 UNESCO Library Seminar (Items 286-313), newscuttings and a typescript entitled 'Library planning in Great Britain'.

Comprises Files 1-9 (Items 1-321).

Series 67. Gowrie Scholarship Trust Fund, 1943-1960

The Gowrie Scholarship Trust Fund was based on voluntary contributions and provided scholarships for members of the Australian Armed Forces and their dependants, and especially for the children of servicemen killed in the War. It was established in 1943 as an expression of sympathy for Lord and Lady Gowrie, whose only son was killed in North Africa. The trustees of the Fund were Latham, Sir Robert Garran, Sir Claude Reading and later H. B. Piper.

Items 1-170 include the report of the Administrative Subcommittee (1944), lists of scholarships available in each State, the 1942-1943 report of the Soldiers' Children Education Board, notes on the Commonwealth Reconstruction Training Scheme, press statements on the Gowrie scholarships (1945), agenda and minutes of meetings of the trustees (1944-1945), lists of donors, notes on the basis for awarding scholarships, balance sheets (1945-1960), and application forms for Gowrie scholarships.

The correspondence (Items 171-863) dates from November 1943-July 1956, although there are very few letters after 1945. The subject matter includes the draft Trust Deed, investments, meetings of the trustees, the launching of the appeal, relations with the Naval War Auxiliary, existing bursaries and scholarships, the views of Directors of Education and Vice-Chancellors on the criteria to be used in granting scholarships, the appointment of a secretary and auditors, directions for the State Advisory Committees, tax exemptions, and the progress of particular scholarship winners. Most of the letters were written by the various trustees or by the secretary P. Cureton.

Series 68. Australian-American relations, 1946-1963

Most of the papers are concerned with the Australian-American Association, which Latham joined in 1948. There is a small amount of correspondence about the Association, the unveiling of the United States War Memorial in Canberra in 1954, and Fulbright awards. There are also leaflets, circulars, annual reports of the Victorian Section of the Australian-American Association (1950-1961), an address by Latham at a luncheon of the Association (7 September 1962), other speeches, and photographs of the unveiling of the American War Memorial.

The other papers deal with the United States Educational Foundation in Australia, of which Latham was a director. There are a few letters, the agreement between Australia and the United States (June 1946), the 1956 and 1958 Fulbright programs, and State Department publications on the Fulbright Scheme.

Comprises Files 1-7 (Items 1-165).

Series 69. Royal Empire Society, 1938-1957

Latham was a member of the Council of the Victorian branch of the Royal Empire Society. The Society (founded in 1882 as the Royal Colonial Society) held meetings to discuss subjects of Imperial interest and acquired books and newspapers from all parts of the Empire. The series contains the proceedings of conventions of the Australian branches in Sydney in 1948 and Melbourne in 1956, a list of members of the Victorian branch (1946), an annual report (1943), issues of Notes and News (1946-1948) and Royal Empire Society News (1957). There are also notes for a speech, and correspondence, dating from January 1950-June 1958, with the Secretary, H. A. Bartlett, concerning meetings, the extension of membership, luncheons, and a lecture by Latham on the government of Australia.

Comprises Files 1-4 (Items 1- 128).

Series 70. Saionji scholarships, 1955-1959

The Saionji Memorial Society was formed in 1951, largely on the initiative of John Galvin, to honour a former Prime Minister of Japan, Prince Saionji, who died in 1940. In 1955 Galvin established a scholarship which would enable an Australian graduate to study in Japan for a year. The first scholarship was awarded to Joyce Ackroyd in 1956. Latham was chairman of the Australian Selection Committee. The series contains correspondence with T. R. Critchley, F. Alexander, K. R. Hodgkin and others concerning the methods of selection. There are also applications by candidates, notes on candidates, minutes (1955-1959) and agenda papers.

Comprises File 1 (Items 1-56).

Series 71. Australian Association for Cultural Freedom, 1950-1962

The Congress for Cultural Freedom was established in June 1950 when 118 writers, artists and scientists from 21 countries met in Berlin and decided to create a permanent association to fight against any threats to cultural freedom. A secretariat was set up in Paris. H. R. Krygier was the Australian representative of the Congress and in March 1954 he announced that the International Executive had approved the formation of an Australian Committee for Cultural Freedom. The name was changed to the Australian Association for Cultural Freedom in 1957. Latham was President from 1954-1961.

Items 1-601 in this large series consist of correspondence dating from February 1954-October 1961. The correspondents include Richard Krygier, Clem Christesen, W. A. Townsley, James McAuley, R. N. Spann and G. Patterson. They deal with the formation of the executive, the establishment of the periodicals Free Spirit and Quadrant, criticisms of the Association as being excessively anti-communist, the visits of Malcolm Muggeridge and Stephen Spender in 1954 and James T. Farrell in 1955, the Milan Conference in 1955 which Latham attended, the case of Professor S. Orr (1956), the Stuart case (1959), the finances of the Association, and efforts to obtain a Commonwealth Literary Fund grant for Quadrant.

There are several publications (Items 602-724) including the Manifesto of the Congress for Cultural Freedom (1950), works on the Orr case, an article on Soviet historians by B. D. Wolfe, issues of the London journal Science and Freedom, and many issues of the Association's bulletin Free Spirit (1954-1962). Items 725-923 are papers delivered at the 1955 Milan Conference, speeches, itineraries and other papers relating to Latham's overseas trip. Finally, there are minutes, rules, financial papers, secretary's reports, reports of the editorial committee, president's statements, lists of members, and a diary kept by Latham in September-October 1955 (Item 1051). There are also some photographs and newscuttings.

The records of the Australian Association for Cultural Freedom are also held in the National Library (MS 2031).

Series 72. Australian Elizabethan Theatre Trust, 1953-1961

The Elizabethan Theatre Trust was founded in 1954, on the initiative of H. C. Coombs, C. Moses, J. D. Pringle and others, to establish by public subscription a fund to support Australian drama, opera and ballet. Latham was invited to be President and held that office until 1961.

Items 1-147 consist of correspondence, dating from December 1953-July 1957, concerning the appointment of an executive officer (Hugh Hunt), the formation of advisory committees in each State, proposals for an Australian Opera Company and Australian Drama Company, the performance of Douglas Stewart's play 'Ned Kelly' in the 1956 Olympic Festival, and relations with the National Theatre Movement. The correspondents include H. C. Coombs, Aubrey Gibson, Hugh Hunt and F. Alexander. The other papers comprise agenda papers, the text of a radio broadcast on the Trust (13 July 1954), the report of the directors for 1954-1955, the 1961 annual report, reports of the executive director, notes on opera, financial statements, press cuttings, and the memorandum and articles of association.

Comprises Files 1-6 (Items 1-252).

Series 73. Australian Red Cross Society, 1941-1961

Latham was Vice-President of the Australian Red Cross Society from 1944-1961 and in 1961 was awarded the Australian Red Cross Medal of Honour. The series contains the Royal Charter and Incorporation of Rules (1941), annual reports and notes on activities (1943-1949) minutes of meetings of the National Executive (1942-1947), notices of meetings, agenda, papers, and a report by J. Newman Morris on a visit to England, Canada and America. The correspondence, dating from June 1942-November 1961, with J. Newman Morris, A. G. Brown, Peter MacCallum and others, is mainly concerned with meetings and administrative matters, but there is some discussion of civil defence.

There are some other Red Cross Society papers in Series 78.

Comprises Files 1-6 (Items 1- 161).

Series 74. Governor-General, 1944-1951

This small series contains details of procedure and correspondence concerning the swearing in of Sir Winston Dugan as Administrator of the Commonwealth in September 1944, and the opening of the Federal Parliament in November 1946, February 1950, and June 1951. There is also a document signed by the Duke of Gloucester appointing Latham his deputy for the purpose of opening Parliament in November 1946.

Comprises File 1 (Items 1-43).

Series 75. 1956 Formosan Mission, c.1950s-1957

The Australian Goodwill Mission which visited Formosa (Taiwan) in August 1956 was led by Latham and the other members consisted of eight Federal parliamentarians, one state parliamentarian, an academic and a former military officer.

The series contains programs of the Mission, a resume of its activities, texts of radio talks by Latham, an account of the trip by J. G. Gorton in Free Spirit (September 1956), correspondence, notes for speeches and notes concerning the Mission's program, publications on Formosa, statements issued by the Chinese Embassy in Canberra, tourist and government publications, an article on Formosa by Latham in Meanjin (Spring 1957), invitations, menus, visitors' cards, many photographs of the Mission, and a few cuttings from Formosan and Australian newspapers. The correspondence (Items 20-83) includes letters to Ella Latham and R. G. Casey and letters from other members of the Mission.

Series 76. New Caledonia centenary, c.1949-1953

In September 1953 Latham and his wife represented Australia at the celebrations of the centenary of French settlement of New Caledonia. The small series contains the program of their visit, a speech in French given by Latham, notes on New Caledonia, a message from R. G. Casey, a few newscuttings, and some correspondence, mostly with Alan Watt and Mary Stewart of the Department of External Affairs, and including Latham's report to Casey.

Comprises Files 1-2 (Items 1-83).

Series 77. Civil Aviation Agreement, 1945-1961

In October 1952 an agreement was made between the Commonwealth and Australian National Airlines Pty Ltd (ANA Pty Ltd) to provide for the regular review of air routes, timetables, fares and freights so as to avoid unnecessary overlapping of services and wasteful competition. An independent chairman would be appointed to confer with representatives of the Australian National Airlines Commission and ANA Pty Ltd if agreement had not been reached and he would also grant certificates of approval for the purchase or hiring of aircraft from the Commonwealth. The agreement was incorporated in the 1952 Civil Aviation Agreement Act and Latham was appointed chairman in April 1953. In 1957 a new agreement was signed between the Australian National Airlines Commission, ANA Pty Ltd and Ansett Airways Pty Ltd. It provided for a Rationalization Committee, with a Government-appointed Coordinator, but either airline could appeal to the chairman against a decision of the Coordinator. Latham remained chairman until August 1961.

Among the printed items in this series are the Australian National Airlines Acts of 1945, 1947 and 1952, the Civil Aviation Agreement Acts of 1952 and 1957, speeches by R. G. Menzies and S. D. Paltridge on civil aviation (September 1957), a few reports of ANA Pty Ltd and TAA and an address by G. Packer on air transport (20 May 1954). There is a small amount of correspondence between Latham and J. A. Spicer, the Attorney-General, G. P. N. Watt of the Australian National Airlines Commission, and Sir lvan Holyman of ANA Pty Ltd concerning the powers and duties of the Chairman and the 1957 agreement with Ansett Transport Industries.

Comprises Files 1-3 (Items 1-58).

Series 78. Prisoners of War Advisory Committee, 1944-1945

The Prisoners of War Advisory Committee, which had five members, was set up in September 1944 to advise the Department of External Affairs on problems concerning the welfare and repatriation of Australian prisoners of war and internees in Japanese hands. Latham was chairman of the Committee. The correspondence (Items 1-50) dates from August 1944-June 1945 and deals with the composition of the Committee, meetings, and a wireless message scheme. There are also circulars, reports, and minutes of the Australian Red Cross Society relating to prisoners of war.

Comprises File 1 (Items 1-67).

Series 79. Save the Dandenongs League, 1951-1965

The Save the Dandenongs League was formed in 1951 to oppose the further destruction of forests and beauty spots in the Dandenong Mountains. Latham, who had a house in the Dandenongs, was a patron. The correspondence dates from May 1951-January 1962 and is mostly with May Moon, Professor J. S. Turner and Henry Bolte, concerning relations with Government departments and the Fern Tree Gully Council, the League's opposition to the construction of a factory at Ferny Creek, the management of Sherbrooke Forest, and objections to the Lilydale Planning Scheme. There is also a printed memorandum issued by the League in April 1953 and resolutions of meetings.

Comprises File 1 (Items 1-103).

Series 80. United Nations, 1953-1954

This small series contains a few letters concerning the Committee on the Constitutional Structure of the United Nations, set up by the International Bar Association in 1953, including Latham's comments on the Committee's draft report. There are also Latham's 1953 Roy Milne Memorial Lecture on open diplomacy, issues of United Nations News, J. Pinder's United Nationsreform; proposals for Charter amendment (1953) and the agenda and report of the United Nations Charter Revision Convention at Sydney in October 1954.

Comprises File 1 (Items 1-55).

Series 81. White Australia policy, 1922-1961

The correspondence in this series dates from October 1960-June 1961 and is concerned with Latham's review in Quadrant of the Immigration Reform Group's booklet Control or colour bar?. There are letters from A. R. Downer about Indian immigration control and from James McAuley about the review and a rejoinder by J. A. C. Mackie and K. Rivett. The remaining papers comprise the typescript of Latham's review and material he collected on immigration, including a typescript written by the Board of Social Studies, notes on immigration restrictions in Malaya, Thailand and Pakistan, Japanese and Malayan publications on immigration regulations, articles by Sir James Barrett on the White Australia policy (1922-1927), and cuttings from such periodicals as Forum (1923), Mid-Pacific (1925), Liberty (1928) and Catholic Worker (1960-1961).

Comprises Files 1-5 (Items 1-5).

Series 82. Miscellaneous papers, 1916-1958

In this series are typescripts of articles by Latham on industrial relations (1952) and Australian government (1958) and a broadcast on the death of King George VI (1952); an address by G. Anderson entitled 'Astrology, charlatans and dupes'; typescript and handwritten verse, mostly of a humorous kind; a deed of partnership concerning the property of Bonna Vonna in Queensland (1938); notes on various subjects which Latham sent to the Government during World War II; notes on the 1943 elections; and postcards.

Miscellaneous photographs in Folder 6 include two group portraits taken at Officer Training School, Broadmeadows, December 1915-January 1916 and Billy Hughes unveiling the Cross of Sacrifice at Bonnay Cemetery, France, 1921.

Comprises Files 1-6 (Items 1-101). Items in Folder 6 have not been numbered.