Wheat Acquisition Regulations (Amendment)

Overview

The Statutory Rules 1940, No. 271, Regulations under the National Security Act 1939-1940, were enacted by the Governor-General in Council, on the advice of the Minister of State for Defence Co-ordination, to make specific amendments to the Wheat Acquisition Regulations. This legislative instrument was introduced to address the need for adjustments in the wheat acquisition process during a period of national security concern. The policy objective, as derived from the context of the National Security Act 1939-1940, was to ensure the efficient and secure management of essential resources, such as wheat, to support the war effort and maintain national security. The Regulations amend certain provisions of the Wheat Acquisition Regulations, including changing the number of directors required to call a meeting of the Australian Wheat Board and altering the minimum number of directors needed for certain decisions. These amendments were made to refine the operational procedures of the Wheat Board, ensuring they align with the overarching national security imperatives of the time. The Regulations were published in the Commonwealth Gazette on 4 December 1940 and reflect the Government's ongoing efforts to adapt economic and resource management strategies in response to the exigencies of war.

Scope and Application

The Statutory Rules 1940, No. 271, made under the National Security Act 1939-1940, pertain specifically to amendments of the Wheat Acquisition Regulations. This legislative instrument impacts the Australian Wheat Board, altering certain numerical thresholds within the regulations. The changes affect the composition and quorum requirements of the Board, illustrating the government's intent to adjust operational aspects in line with national security imperatives. The regulations apply at the Commonwealth level, thus having a national reach. There are no stated exclusions or exemptions in the text, and the amendments are direct modifications to existing regulations without indication of further extensions or restrictions through subordinate instruments.

Key Provisions

The main operative sections of these regulations, which amend the Wheat Acquisition Regulations, include modifications to specific sub-regulations. Firstly, Regulation 3(2)(b) is amended by replacing the number “two” with “four” (section 1). Secondly, Regulation 6(3) is altered by substituting the number “six” with “seven” (section 2). These changes likely pertain to the quantity of wheat and the number of meetings for the Australian Wheat Board, respectively. These amendments impose specific obligations on the Australian Wheat Board. The Board must now adjust its procedures to align with the new quantities stipulated in the amended regulations. For instance, under the new Regulation 3(2)(b), the Board must now handle four units of wheat, instead of two. Additionally, under the amended Regulation 6(3), the Board must now convene seven meetings rather than six. Compliance with these changes is crucial for the Board to operate within the updated legislative framework. Failure to adhere to the new provisions outlined in these regulations could result in legal consequences. Although the specific penalties are not detailed in the excerpt provided, non-compliance with statutory regulations can often lead to civil or administrative penalties under the parent act, the National Security Act 1939-1940. The severity of these penalties can vary, potentially including fines or other corrective measures, depending on the nature and extent of the breach. It is important for the Australian Wheat Board to ensure that it meets all requirements to avoid any potential legal repercussions.