Member for Balaclava and other political papers, 1924-53

Component identifier:

Series 6

Content Summary:

White's entry into Federal politics began with an unsuccessful candidature for the safe Labor seat of Maribyrnong in November 1925. In August 1929 he won a by-election for the bayside seat of Balaclava which he held, first as a Nationalist then as a Liberal, until 1951. He returned to Australia whilst on active service during World War II to recontest the 1943 election.

The folders contain a range of material documenting White's political activities and interests, and include copies of letters exchanged between Robert Menzies and Earle Page in 1939, White's 1946 suspension from Parliament, 'This Week in Canberra' radio transcripts, a letter from William Hutchinson concerning the 1943 leadership ballot, and a comprehensive run of White's parliamentary speeches from 1932 to 1951.

Additional papers documenting White's activities as Member for Balaclava are filed in Series 3 and 7.

Immediate source of acquisition:

The papers were donated to the Library by White's daughters in two consignments in January 1997 and March 1998, and together constitute an impressive record of White's varied and distinguished career as a pilot, politician, diplomat and writer.

Names:

Thomas White

Contents

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