James ministry facts for kids
The James Ministry was a government in Western Australia. It was the sixth group of leaders to run the state. Walter James was the Premier, which is like the leader of the state government. This government started on 1 July 1902. It took over after the previous Premier, George Leake, passed away on 24 June 1902.
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What Was the James Ministry?
The James Ministry was a team of politicians. They worked together to govern Western Australia. They got support from independent politicians. They also had help from the Labour Party. The group that used to be against them slowly joined the new government. Some members became independents.
How the Ministry Started
The James Ministry began because the previous Premier died. This meant a new leader was needed. Walter James stepped up to lead the state. He formed his group of ministers. These ministers were in charge of different parts of the government.
How the Ministry Ended
The James Ministry lasted for about two years. In 1904, there was a state election. The Labor Party almost won enough seats to form a government. When Parliament met, James's government lost support. This happened during a "vote of no confidence." A vote of no confidence means that enough politicians no longer support the current government. Four independent politicians decided to support Henry Daglish from the Labor Party. Because of this, Walter James's government had to step down. The new government, led by Henry Daglish, started on 10 August 1904.
Key People in the James Ministry
The James Ministry had several important members. Each person had a special job. Here are some of the main roles and the people who held them:
- Premier and Attorney-General: Walter James was the leader. He was also the main legal advisor for the government.
- Colonial Secretary: Walter Kingsmill was in charge of many public services.
- Minister for Mines: Henry Gregory looked after the mining industry.
- Minister for Lands: This role was held by two people. Adam Jameson served first, then John Marquis Hopkins took over. They managed land use and development.
- Colonial Treasurer: James Gardiner was in charge of the state's money.
- Commissioner of Railways and Minister for Works: Hector Rason managed the railways and public construction projects. He also became the Treasurer later on.
- Ministers without Portfolio: These ministers had special roles without a specific department. They included Matthew Moss and John Nanson. John Nanson later became the Minister for Works.
