William Jack (Australian politician)
| William Jack OBE | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Member of the Australian Parliament for North Sydney | |
| In office 10 December 1949 – 31 October 1966 | |
| Preceded by | Billy Hughes |
| Succeeded by | Bill Graham |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 1 May 1890 Dundee, Scotland |
| Died | 14 September 1982 (aged 90) Sydney Nsw Australia |
| Nationality | Scottish Australian |
| Political party | Liberal Party of Australia |
| Occupation | Grocer |
William Mathers Jack, OBE (1 May 1892 – 14 September 1982), known as 'Silent Billy', was an Australian politician. Born in Dundee in Scotland, he migrated to Australia in 1912, having been an apprentice grocer at the age of 14. Upon arrival in Australia, Jack became a grocer and businessman in North Sydney, and was elected to Willoughby Council.
In 1949, he was elected to the Australian House of Representatives as the Liberal member for North Sydney, a position he held until his retirement in 1966. During his parilamentary service, Jack earned the sobriquet "Silent Billy" as he only made five speeches in parliament including his maiden and farewell speeches.[1]
On 29 August 1962, he commenced his first speech in seven years with the words: I can remain silent no longer.[2]
However, he was a very popular local member, noted for his strong constituent service, and retired without having lost an election. In the New Years Honours of 1968, he was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire for services to the Parliament and the community.[3]
Jack died in 1982.[4]
References
- ↑ Green, Anthony (2007). "North Sydney". ABC Election Guide. Retrieved 2009-09-04.
- ↑ Gavin Souter, Acts of Parliament, p. 450
- ↑ It's an Honour
- ↑ Carr, Adam (2008). "Australian Election Archive". Psephos, Adam Carr's Election Archive. Retrieved 2008-05-24.
| Parliament of Australia | ||
|---|---|---|
| Preceded by Billy Hughes |
Member for North Sydney 1949 – 1966 |
Succeeded by Bill Graham |