Series 02: Alan Gibson Stewart papers, 1987-1989 - Page 439
Primary tabs
Transcription
a9292442.html
208
conditions. A system of "lay" committees had been developed to deal with certain issues and to attract various interest groups. The membership of these committees often overlapped with that of the party, but there was also room for Walker supporters who did not wish to be members of the ALP. Hence influence in the electorate was extended and the pool of talent enlarged.
Central to the Walker model was a "policy committee"--a group of trusted advisers whom he appointed on merit. This "think tank" was directly responsible to him. Its function was "to survey the political scene, assess the climate, prepare a plan of action and formulate campaign strategy." Some of its members would hold off in the SEC, while others might not even be known supporters of the party.
I decided to set up my own policy committee as soon as possible. First, I needed a campaign manager. This was an official position, provided for under party rules and requiring ratification by the SEC. It required a reliable person; who could negotiate with a wide range of essential contacts such as Head Office, the local branches, friends and supporters; who could contribute management skills to the policy committee. And when the battle raged, I would need somebody with the strength to pull our disparate little army into line.