2006.0023
PAPERS RELATING TO THE 'LOANS AFFAIR' [1974-1976]
Creator(s): 
Fraser, John Malcolm [1930-2015]

Material relating to the 'Loans Affair' maintained by J M (Malcolm) Fraser as Leader of the Opposition (March-November 1975). The Loans Affair had its origins in controversial arrangements, initiated in 1974 by the Whitlam Government, to borrow $4 billion from overseas sources through a Pakistani dealer, Tirath Khemlani. The Affair reached its peak in mid-1975, but contributed to the Opposition blocking Supply in the Senate and the subsequent downfall of the Government in November of that year. Two senior Whitlam Ministers involved, Rex Connor (Minister for Minerals and Energy) and Dr Jim Cairns (Treasurer) had already lost their portfolios. The Queensland Government (Premier Joh Bjelke-Petersen) prompted further investigations in early 1976, but with no significant result. Some items are currently held at the National Archives of Australia (see list for details). Formerly National Archives of Australia series M1363.

0.61 metres (4 boxes)
Community and Political, individuals