William Jack (Australian politician)

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.

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 92) Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Nationality	Scottish Australian
Political party	Liberal Party of Australia
Occupation	Grocer

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]