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 (1890-05-01)1 May 1890
Dundee, Scotland
Died 14 September 1982(1982-09-14) (aged 90)
Sydney Nsw Australia
Nationality Scottish Australian
Political party Liberal Party of Australia
Occupation Grocer

William Mathers Jack, OBE (1 May 1890 – 14 September 1982), known as "Silent Billy", was an Australian politician. Born in Dundee in Scotland, where he became an apprentice grocer at the age of 14, he migrated to Australia in 1912. After 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 parliamentary service, Jack earned the sobriquet "Silent Billy" because he only made five speeches in the House in 17 years, 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 Year 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

  1. ↑ Green, Anthony (2007). "North Sydney". ABC Election Guide. Australian Broadcasting Corporation. Retrieved 2009-09-04.
  2. ↑ Gavin Souter, Acts of Parliament, p. 450
  3. ↑ "Jack, William Mathers". It's an Honour. Australian Government. Retrieved 2015-10-28.
  4. ↑ 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


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