British Columbia--Politics and government--1952-1972

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British Columbia--Politics and government--1952-1972

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British Columbia--Politics and government--1952-1972

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British Columbia--Politics and government--1952-1972

183 Archival description results for British Columbia--Politics and government--1952-1972

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Lois Mabel (Hill) Haggen interview

The item is an audio recording of an interview with Mabel Haggen made in 1974.
T0288:0001 tracks 1 & 2: Lois Haggen : C.C.F. MLA in the 1950s. Personal background and life in the interior of British Columbia in the 1920s and 1930s. Discussion of the work of her husband Rupert Haggen and involvement with the C.C.F. Rupert's election as an MLA in 1949. Discussion of Coalition government and problems. The growth of Social Credit and its election victory. Description of the life of an MLA's wife and the social life in Victoria. The disappointment of the C.C.F. at not forming the government in 1952, and its impact on the party. Party leaders in the 1950s. Running for election in 1956 and early role as an MLA. Her reaction to Social Credit and W.A.C. Bennett.
T0288:0002 tracks 1 & 2: Interview with Lois Haggen, C.C.F. and NDP Member of the Legislative Assembly during the fifties and sixties. Discussion and description of campaigning in elections. Her role as a woman in politics. The role of her party as the opposition party. Her interests and goals in various legislation. Work to repeal taxes on children's clothing; efforts on the part of rural electrification; interest in rights of women. Discussion of committee work in the Legislature. Changing attitudes of government. Reaction to the takeover of B.C. Electric. Accomplishments as an MLA. Defeat and leaving government.

Lyle Wicks interview

CALL NUMBER: T2348:0001 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Beginnings of Social Credit in B.C. PERIOD COVERED: 1912-1950 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1976-10-14 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Mr. Wicks describes his personal background. He tells of his efforts to work during the Great Depression. Work for B.C. Electric during World War II. He describes his beginning interest in Social Credit in 1944. He joins Social Credit and becomes immediately involved. Mr. Wicks describes the various factions in Social Credit in British Columbia at this time. TRACK 2: Continued discussion of changes in the Social Credit. Mr. Wicks becomes 1st Vice-President of Social Credit Association of Canada, B.C. Section, in 1946. Mr. Wicks helps to establish the Vancouver Area Council for Social Credit. When Major Jukes fails to call a convention for Social Credit in B.C., Mr. Wicks is asked to do so, creating a split in Social Credit. At the convention, Wicks is chosen President and Eric Martin Vice-President. Description of role of Social Credit in 1949 provincial election. Relations of the B.C. Section with Social Credit Alberta. CALL NUMBER: T2348:0002 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): 1952 election and campaigning PERIOD COVERED: 1948-1952 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1976-10-14 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Mr. Wicks describes his reactions to W.A.C. Bennett crossing the floor of the Legislature to sit as an independent, and the concept of forming another party under Bennett. The 1951 Esquimalt by-election and the role of Social Credit. The impact of the British Columbia Hospital Insurance Service on the electorate. Eric Martin's close relationship with W.A.C. Bennett and efforts to bring Bennett into the Social Credit League. Mr. Wicks meets Mr. Bennett in 1951. Social Credit convention at the Russell Hotel, New Westminster. Expansion of Social Credit provincially. Wicks re-elected President of the Social Credit League. Role of Alberta in the development of the Social Credit League in B.C. Problems between B.C. and Alberta. TRACK 2: Divisions on the executive about bringing Bennett into Social Credit. 1952 provincial election. Tilly Rolston joins Social Credit. Campaign efforts by Social Credit. Reaction of electorate to Social Credit. The use of the transferable ballot. Reaction to the results of the election. CALL NUMBER: T2348:0003 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Formation of Social Credit government, 1952 PERIOD COVERED: 1951-1952 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1976-10-16 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Mr. Wicks consults Solon E. Low on the idea of having W.A.C. Bennett join the Social Credit League. Opposition to Bennett from Alberta Social Credit. Meeting with Hugh Sheriff to discuss Bennett. Wicks' role as President of the Social Credit League. Development of the Social Credit campaign platform. Problems of keeping the executive from becoming divided. Financing of Social Credit in the 1952 election. TRACK 2: Selection of legislative leader in the Hotel Vancouver. Wicks' comment on changes in his role. Choice of W.A.C. Bennett. Choice of cabinet. Bennett's instructions to MLAs upon arrival in Victoria. Reaction to becoming a cabinet minister. CALL NUMBER: T2348:0004 SUMMARY: [No documentation or transcript available for this tape.]

Major William Cummings interview

RECORDED: [location unknown], [ca. 1965] SUMMARY: Cummings became involved with Social Credit in 1952; importance of efficient, business-like government; discussion of the Social Credit League; characteristics of Bennett government described; negative comments about organised labour; general comments about the Social Credit government.

May Bennett interview : [Czernin, 1978]

SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Interview with May Bennett, CHIM-FM, Kelowna PERIOD COVERED: 1897-1978 RECORDED: Kelowna (B.C.), 1978-08 SUMMARY: A radio program based upon an interview with Mrs. May Bennett, recorded by Jaquie Czernin for CHIM-FM Kelowna, August 1978.;

Mel Smith interview

SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Mel Smith RECORDED: [location unknown], [1978?] SUMMARY: NOTE: Mel Smith was a member of B.C. public service for 31 years (1960-1991), and served as a Deputy Minister in various ministries from 1977 to 1991. From 1967 to 1987, he was B.C. government's leading advisor on constitutional reform and other issues involving federal-provincial relations. [No content summaries or documentation are available for this interview.]

Miscellaneous film footage

The item consists of various reels of footage, made in 1964 and 1969.

  1. Hon. Dan Campbell announces an employment creation plan which will involve the provincial government paying part of the salaries of eligible participants.
  2. Opening of the Vancouver International Trade Fair. Exterior shots. German submersible, amphibious car, dignitaries.
  3. Golfers playing at 108 Mile Ranch, B.C.
  4. Handover ceremonies for the M.V. "Queen of Nanaimo", 1964, in Victoria's Inner Harbour. Premier W.A.C. Bennett comes on board and is shown at the helm with a young boy.
  5. General Electric ad for 11" portable TV set
  6. Shots of the Okanagan harvest of apricots.

Miscellaneous film footage

The item consists of five reels of miscellaneous film footage created around 1971:

  1. Interview with Daniel Campbell, Minister of Municipal Affairs, regarding the Job Opportunities Program. He displays a "Certificate of Opportunity" and optimistically forecasts the creation of 10,000 jobs: negative picture with optical sound
  2. Revegetation : Placer Development Ltd. Conair small aircraft being loaded, takes off, flies over mine; pan of grass; man digs up soil sample; children playing on grass : duplicate print
  3. Vancouver skyline: duplicate print
  4. CP Air : executive jet service : reversal outs
  5. B.C. California tour promotion, BC officials tour California with slide show and pamphlets inviting Californians to visit BC. Shows actor Glenn Ford. Actor Sebastian Cabot receives a totem pole model : negative picture

Miscellaneous film footage

The item consists of four film reels including:

  1. Boeing 737 press flight, negative outs
  2. B.C. California tour promotion, 1969: negative outs
  3. Kaiser Coal deal, 1968: negative with optical sound
  4. Bennett Bonds, audience listening to speaker in a large room. Close-up of Premier W.A.C. Bennett speaking; audience clapping. Interview with Bennett on the bond issue, 1969: negative.

NDP/Strachan election program

The item consists of film footage of political commercials in 1966. NDP leader Robert Strachan refers to election of September 30, 1966. Shots of the Vancouver General Hospital (ambulance arriving, pharmacy), various industries, university students then back to the narrator.

Notes and correspondence

Series consists of notes and correspondence pertaining to Skillings' career as insurance agent (1951-1971), Victoria City alderman (1947-1952), M.L.A. (1963-1972) and cabinet minister (1968-1972). includes newspaper clippings, certificates and personal memorabilia.

Peer Vernon Paynter interview

CALL NUMBER: T1175:0001 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Paynter's early life and the origins of Social Credit in B.C. PERIOD COVERED: 1898-1945 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-03-04 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Born in 1898 in Saskatchewan. Paynter's early life in Saskatchewan: association with the cooperative movement, farm life, public school education to the end of grade ten, religion in the Paynter family, worked for 9 years as a grain buyer. Moved to Vancouver, 1931. Work history in Vancouver in 1930s and 1940s, including Palm Ice Cream Co., carpentry work, Boeing Aircraft Co., CP Airlines.; President of union local at CP Airlines during part of World War II. Labour relations. TRACK 2: Paynter's first contact with the ideas of Social Credit, 1932. The first Socred study group in B.C. Bill Tutte was the leader of the study group. The operation of the study group. Social Credit League of British Columbia formed in 1934 (?). Description of the first office. Anti-Semitism within the Socred movement. The possibility of communists within the early Socred movement. The Social Credit theory: Major Douglas' analysis of the monetary system, the 'A plus B theorem', 'national dividend', 'just price discount'. CALL NUMBER: T1175:0002 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): The Origins of Social Credit in British Columbia : 1932-1945 PERIOD COVERED: 1932-1945 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-03-04 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Paynter discusses the danger of dogmatically applying the Douglas theory of Social Credit. The philosophy of Social Credit: the oppression of monetary control. The differences between Social Credit and Technocracy. Members of the original Social Credit study group. Links between Social Credit and the British-Israel Association. Social Credit as the philosophy of "free enterprise". Differences between Social Credit and socialism. TRACK 2: Social Credit organizations: Social Credit League of B.C. and Union of Electors. Techniques of organizing Social Credit study groups. The Perfect Circle, a clandestine Social Credit organization during World War II. Perfect Circle kept Social Credit ideas alive during the war. Relations between B.C. Socreds and the Social Credit Secretariat in Li;verpool {London?]. The first Social Credit government in Alberta. Types of people in the Social Credit organization in the 1930s. CALL NUMBER: T1175:0003 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Social Credit in British Columbia in the 1930s PERIOD COVERED: 1932-1936 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-03-04 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Characteristics of early Socreds. Incident when Harold Winch and others tried to convince Paynter to run for the C.C.F. in Vancouver East, 1933. Social Credit never contested municipal elections. Paynter's opinion that politicians should be "individuals" rather than members of a political party. Leading figures in Social Credit in the 1930s. The visit to B.C. in 1934 of Major C.H. Douglas, 1934. The visit of Rev. Hewlett Johnson, Dean of Canterbury, to Vancouver to speak on Social Credit, ca. 1934. Premier William Aberhart's role in B.C. Social Credit in the mid 1930s. Paynter describes Aberhart, and Aberhart's many visits to Vancouver. [TRACK 2: blank.]; CALL NUMBER: T1175:0004 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Social Credit in British Columbia, 1932-1951 PERIOD COVERED: 1932-1951 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-04-05 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: The formation of the first Social Credit study group in Vancouver, 1932. Discussions of the monetary theory of Social Credit and the "Douglas Social Credit for Canada" piece by William Tutte. Talks about Social Credit literature and the "Perfect Circle", a Socred secret society during WWII. Formation and dissolution of Social Credit groups in 1930s and 1940s. Other monetary theories discussed. Paynter asked to be Harold Winch's running mate in 1933 provincial election. Talks about other members of the Perfect Circle: description of William Tutte and Bill Rose. Social Credit League of B.C., from 1934. The provincial election of 1937 and Social Credit involvement of it. TRACK 2: More on the 1937 election. Social Credit did not run in the provincial election of 1941. Internal problems within Social Credit, 1937-1944. The Union of Electors. Organizational details about the 1930s. The formation of the Social Credit Association of Canada (B.C. Section), 1944. The founding convention, 1944. Eric Martin and Peer Paynter on the new executive. Activities of the new association. The 1945 provincial election. Paynter a candidate in Burrard. Paynter runs in the 1945 federal election. Paynter accused of being a communist, c. 1946.; CALL NUMBER: T1175:0005 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Social Credit in British Columbia, 1945-1952 PERIOD COVERED: 1945-1952 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-04-05 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Paynter continues discussing how he was accused by some other Socreds of being a communist, 1946. Formation of the Vancouver Area Council of Social Credit. Major Jukes as a divisive force in Social Credit, late 1940s. The split in Social Credit, 1948-49. The 1949 provincial election. Character of Major A.H. Jukes. More on the split. Name changes of the Social Credit organization. Dal Grauer of B.C. Electric makes large contributions to the Socreds in 1949 election. More on the 1948-49 split. TRACK 2: More on Major Jukes. Paynter runs in Chilliwack in 1949. Organizational work between 1949 and 1952 elections. Work of Lyle Wicks, Eric Martin and Peer Paynter. Social Credit League headquarters in Lyle Wicks' house. Paynter becomes the first paid Social Credit organizer in B.C., 1951. Organizing techniques. Organizing Social Credit groups around the province. Hospital insurance as an issue in the 1952 election. Internal organizational details. "Christian image" of Social Credit. More about organizing. Development of electoral platform for 1952 election. The weakness of the Coalition. CALL NUMBER: T1175:0006 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Preparing for power : the Social Credit in British Columbia, 1949-1952 PERIOD COVERED: 1949-1952 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-04-06 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: The development of policy prior to the 1952 election. Individualism as part of the Social Credit philosophy. More on the Social Credit platform and Paynter's political philosophy. Comments on C.C.F. leader, Harold Winch. More on political philosophy. The role of government regulation in the economy. Comments on the takeover of B.C. Electric, 1961. The 1950 and 1951 Social Credit conventions. TRACK 2: More on the conventions. Less emphasis on monetary reform and the effects of many new members. Lack of basic Social Credit knowledge among many Socred MLAs. The 1951 Social Credit Convention in Chilliwack. Emotional plea at the convention by Lyle Wicks. Strong support for Social Credit from the Mennonites. The strong influence of Aberhart and Manning on fundamentalists in B.C. Pro-Christian and anti-socialist ideas within Social Credit. The connections between socialism and dictatorship. Paynter's assessment of the weakness of the Coalition government. The by-election in Esquimalt in 1951. Assistance to B.C. Socreds from Alberta Socreds. Advice on political strategy coming from Ernest Manning. CALL NUMBER: T1175:0007 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): W.A.C. Bennett and Social Credit come to power in B.C.: 1952 PERIOD COVERED: 1951-1952 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-04-06 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Albertans who assisted with organizational work in B.C.: Orvis Kennedy, David Ure, John Blackmore, Jack Landeryou. Paynter's salary as an organizer paid for by the Alberta Socreds. Critical executive meeting regarding the assistance of the Alberta Socreds in the 1952 election. The 1951 Social Credit convention. W.A.C. Bennett at the 1951 convention. Paynter leery of Bennett as a Socred leader. First contacts between Bennett and the Socreds. Personal animosity towards Paynter by Bennett. The role of Eric Martin in bringing Bennett into the Social Credit League. TRACK 2: More on the entry of Bennett into the Social Credit League. The attitude of the Socreds to Bennett. W.A.C. Bennett as a new Socred member. The 1952 leadership convention. Hansell selected as interim leader. The Social Credit assessment of the 1952 election. Paynter an unsuccessful candidate in Revelstoke, 1952. Social Credit preparations for the 1952 election. Paynter has no regrets about never being elected. CALL NUMBER: T1175:0008 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Provincial election of 1952 and Paynter as national organizer, 1952-57 PERIOD COVERED: 1952-1958 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-04-06 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Paynter philosophical about never being elected despite several attempts. Paynter narrowly defeated in Burrard federal riding in 1953 and 1957. Significance of the transferable ballot in the 1952 election. Paynter refutes accusations that he was not doing all he could in the 1952 election. The role of Hansell in the election. Paynter's assessment of the strength of the C.C.F. in the 1952 election, namely Harold Winch. Social Credit critique of the C.C.F. Paynter's critique of socialism. Help from Alberta Premier Manning. Trouble finding candidates in the 1952 election. The quality of Social Credit candidates. The nomination of P.A. Gaglardi in Kamloops, 1952. Election night in 1952 and the period of uncertainty. TRACK 2: Bennett elected as leader by Social Credit caucus, July 1952. Paynter, Gaglardi and Irwin oppose Bennett. More on the election of Bennett. Paynter opposed to the appointment of Bonner and Gunderson to the cabinet. Paynter becomes Assistant National Organizer for Social Credit after 1952 election, until 1957. Financial situation of the federal organization. Aspects of Social Credit adopted by other parties. Paynter on federal executive until 1958. Laments the lack of knowledge of Social Credit principles by current MLAs. Brief comments on Free Enterprise Educational Fund. CALL NUMBER: T1175:0009 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Leading Figures in Social Credit, 1935-1960 PERIOD COVERED: 1935-1960 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-04-06 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Relations between a government and a party. W.A.C. Bennett as Premier. John Perdue defeats Paynter at 1952 Socred convention. Paynter as a candidate in the 1953 federal election. Social Credit badly defeated in 1958 in federal election. Effects of the "Sommers scandal" on Social Credit. Comments on Social Credit pioneers: J. Alan Reid, Orvis Kennedy, John Blackmore, Tilly Rolston, William Aberhart, Ernest Manning. TRACK 2: Comments on more Social Credit pioneers: Ernest Manning continued, Robert Thompson, Real Caouette, Ernest Hansell, Solon Low, Thomas Irwin, W.N. Chant, Eric Martin, Lyle Wicks, Robert Bonner. Summation of 45 years of active involvement in Social Credit. (End of interview)

Phil Gaglardi interview : [Mitchell & Nikitiuk, 1978]

CALL NUMBER: T1644:0002 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Phil Gaglardi on his early life and church activities PERIOD COVERED: 1913-1978 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-08-14 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Phil Gaglardi discusses: his family background; early influences upon his character; early life in the Silverdale area; his interests as a youth; his perception of himself as a "loner"; religion; his conversion to the Pentecostal Church; his entry into the church ministry. TRACK 2: Gaglardi discusses: some ideas on Christianity and democracy; his marriage to Jennie Sandin; his move to Kamloops, B.C.; his formal education; his work as a mechanic; his family relationships; his travels in Europe in 1949; and his singing ability. CALL NUMBER: T1644:0003 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Work experience and interest in politics PERIOD COVERED: [no date]-1952 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-08-14 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Gaglardi discusses: his work as a diesel mechanic in the forest industry; his work as a catskinner; his church and children's work in Kamloops; his bible studies in the United States; his work with the young; his radio broadcasts; and his influence on the people of Kamloops. TRACK 2: Gaglardi discusses: his first interest in politics, his opinion of the Coalition government; other political parties; socialism; government intervention in the economy; his first association with Social Credit; his first election; his first meeting with the embryo cabinet of 1952; receiving his appointment as Minister of Public Works; and the place of religion in politics.; CALL NUMBER: T1644:0004 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): The election of 1952 and appointment as minister, 1952 PERIOD COVERED: 1952-1952 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-08-15 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Gaglardi discusses: his first meeting with W.A.C. Bennett; the provincial election of 1952; the appeal of Social Credit in 1952; the effects of the single transferable ballot; being appointed Minister of Public Works; the choosing of the Social Credit leader in 1952. TRACK 2: Gaglardi discusses: the appointment of the cabinet in 1952; his appointment as Minister of Public Works; assuming office; intradepartmental conflict; priorities as Minister of Public Works; patronage; the "Sommers case"; his involvement in both church and politics. CALL NUMBER: T1644:0005 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Minister of Public Works : 1952-1955 PERIOD COVERED: 1952-1968 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-08-15 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Gaglardi discusses: bridge and highway openings; his first session in government; communications within his department; his impression of Harold Winch as Leader of the Opposition; the defeat of the government in 1953; party and government strategy; the provincial election of 1953; the connection between politics and highways; charges of political patronage in the Kamloops area; his large custom-built desk. TRACK 2: Gaglardi discusses: his driving record; police harassment; press coverage of his activities; his impression of Arthur Laing; his attitude toward the opposition in the House. CALL NUMBER: T1644:0006 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Minister of Highways, 1955 - 1968 PERIOD COVERED: 1954-1968 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-08-15 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Gaglardi discusses: his use of government aircraft; political patronage in the Department of Highways; civil service appointments in his department; the nature of federal-provincial relations; in the area of highways construction; his views on Quebec separatism; B.C. as a "have" province; B.C. separatism; the division of the Department of Public Works into the Department of Public Works and the Department of Highways; his priorities as Minister of Highways. TRACK 2: Gaglardi discusses: relationship between government departments; the nature of the administrative staff in the Department of Highways; the decentralization of the Highways department; federal-provincial cost-sharing in highway construction; his world-wide travels on behalf of the Highways department; the B.C. Ferries system; policy making in his department. CALL NUMBER: T1644:0007 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Social Credit cabinet minister in the 1960s PERIOD COVERED: 1955-1968 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-08-16 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Gaglardi discusses: his views on labour organizations; government-union relations; his contempt-of-court conviction in 1960; accusations of his political patronage from 1960 to 1963; his evaluation of Robert Strachan as Opposition leader. TRACK 2: Gaglardi discusses: the timing of the 1960 provincial election; the timing of elections generally; his ideas on power development in B.C. in the 1960s; the takeover of B.C. Electric in 1961; the nature and extent of government intervention in the economy; the proposed Wenner-Gren project. CALL NUMBER: T1644:0008 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Public Works and the Sommers case PERIOD COVERED: 1958-1960 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-08-16 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Gaglardi discusses: the building of the B.C. Ferries fleet; his proposed causeway to Vancouver Island; the nature of Social Credit membership in Kamloops; his activities in federal elections; the collapse of the Second Narrows bridge, 1958; the 1958 by-election in Trail. TRACK 2: Gaglardi discusses: the Sommers affair; repercussions of the Sommers affair; harassment and investigations of his private life. CALL NUMBER: T1644:0009 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Federal and provincial politics in the 1960s PERIOD COVERED: 1961-1968 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-08-16 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Gaglardi discusses: the effects political life has had on his family life; the provincial election of 1963; his campaign against Davie Fulton in that election; the reasons why some people did not admit to voting for Social Credit; the relations between provincial and federal Social Credit parties; his impressions of Real Caouette and Robert Thompson; his resignation as Minister of Highways. TRACK 2: Gaglardi discusses: the redistribution of seats prior to the 1966 provincial election; Bonner's defeat in the 1966 provincial election; the events leading up to his resignation as Minister of Highways and the charges laid against him by the press and the Opposition. CALL NUMBER: T1644:0010 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Resignation from the Department of Highways PERIOD COVERED: 1968-1968 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-08-16 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Gaglardi discusses: his resignation as Minister of Highways, 1968; the efforts made to keep him in government; the results of his resignation; his activities as Minister Without Portfolio; the Provincial Alliance of Businessmen; the effect of Bonner's resignation from government; the leading candidate for the succession to the premiership; the means of choosing a new party leader; his aspirations in the private sector. [TRACK 2: blank.]; CALL NUMBER: T1644:0011 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Treasury Board and construction projects as Minister of Highways PERIOD COVERED: 1952-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-08-21 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Gaglardi discusses the reasons he does not drink or smoke. Gaglardi describes the experience of coming before the Treasury Board as a Minister in the government of W.A.C. Bennett. Anecdote about procuring funds for paving of Trans-Canada highway through the Fraser Valley. Gaglardi explains why the Trans-Canada Highway was renamed B.C. #1. Gaglardi discusses the variety of achievements in the realm of highway construction he directed as Minister of Highways. TRACK 2: Gaglardi discusses the construction of the Port Mann Bridge; Hudson Hope Bridge; Castlegar Bridge; construction of "the first jet-driven snow plough in the world"; Rogers Pass; events surrounding the construction and maintenance of the Rogers Pass. Construction of the Cascade Highway. The use of expertise from all over the world in B.C. construction projects. The role of the B.C. Highways and Bridges Toll Authority. Anecdote about instructions given to toll collectors on the Lion's Gate Bridge. Gaglardi's role in ;the development of the B.C. Ferries system. CALL NUMBER: T1644:0012 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Minister of Rehabilitation and Social Improvement, 1969 - 1972 PERIOD COVERED: 1952-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-08-21 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Gaglardi explains the reasons for the fact that the B.C. Ferry system does not run on an operating profit today; Gaglardi comments on the "lack of vision in British Columbia" today. Gaglardi discusses the relationship between the cost of maintenance and construction of highways. The genesis of the Provincial Alliance of Businessmen. The operations of the Provincial Alliance of Businessmen while he was Minister Without Portfolio. The events leading up to his appointment as Minister of Rehabilitation and Social Improvement. TRACK 2: Gaglardi discusses his theory of labour relations which is opposed to the "closed shop" principle; the origin of Beautiful British Columbia Magazine. The 1969 election. More on his re-instatement as Minister of Rehabilitation and Social Improvement; administration philosophy and priorities of the new department; the role and importance of a cabinet minister's personal secretary; criticisms which were levelled at Gaglardi by Herb Capozzi; relations with the federal government as Minister of Rehabilitation and Social Improvement. CALL NUMBER: T1644:0013 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Defeat of the Social Credit Government, 1972 PERIOD COVERED: 1970-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-08-21 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Gaglardi continues to discuss his relations with the federal government as Minister of Rehabilitation and Social Improvement; internal problems within the department; conflict over government; policy with Dan Campbell; press criticism; reasons for resignation as Pastor of Calvary Temple, 1972; the calling and timing of the 1972 election; the lack of a successor to W.A.C. Bennett; the 1972 election campaign; W.A.C. Bennett's weaknesses. The role of David Barrett. TRACK 2: Gaglardi comments on dissent within the Social Credit party as a factor leading towards the government's defeat in 1972. The interview with a "Toronto Star" reporter in the 1972 election campaign around which much controversy exists. General comments on the Socreds 1972 defeat. Gaglardi not interested in party leadership after 1972 election. [End of interview]

Phil Gaglardi interview : [Young, 1966]

SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Philip Gaglardi : A Social Credit cabinet minister, 1952-1966 PERIOD COVERED: 1952-1966 RECORDED: [location unknown], [ca. 1966] SUMMARY: Gaglardi had no interest in Social Credit theories prior to running for election. Use of government revenue. "Pay-as-you-go" financing. Gaglardi's background in construction. Social Credit success in B.C. Press relations. Discussion of the economy of B.C. The B.C. Legislature and legislative reform. Gaglardi's personal electoral success. Social Credit and religion. Discussion of Christianity, socialism and individualism. Gaglardi's desire to serve people.

Premier's records

  • GR-1414
  • Series
  • 1953-1972

This series contains official correspondence, reports, briefs to cabinet, articles and messages, etc. accumulated during W.A.C. Bennett's tenure as premier. It includes files on Dominion-provincial relations, civil defence, centennial celebrations, railways and major business corporations. Also includes copies of congratulatory letters sent to senior citizens by Bennett's successor, Premier David Barrett. Photographs transferred to Visual Records Division; maps, plans, and printed material transferred to Library and Maps Section. GR-1414 consists of a large number of records created and accumulated during the tenure of Premier William Andrew Cecil (W.A.C.) Bennett [1952-1972]. The records originally comprised the Central Registry of the Premier's Office. Included are letters from private individuals and business corporations, inter-departmental memoranda, copies of the premier's articles and messages, briefs to cabinet and other reports submitted for the premier's consideration. This unit also includes documents pertaining to Dominion-Provincial relations, as well as correspondence from federal politicians and foreign diplomats. The records, which comprise this unit, were transferred to the Provincial Archives from the Premier's Office in November 1982. Ten years earlier-following the defeat of Mr. Bennett's Social Credit government-the records had been consigned to a vault in the basement of the Parliament Buildings. Sometime later they were placed in cardboard boxes and removed to a builders' shed in the Parliament Buildings precinct. There they remained, apparently untended, until 1982 when they came to the attention of the Archives. When the records were transferred to the Archives a number of file folders were found to be empty. In most cases, the empty folders concerned cabinet ministers and the work of various government departments. Similarly, contemporary file lists [see Box 131, File 11] indicate that a number of folders were missing from the original series of files. No files marked "Anonymous," for example, were among the boxes received by the Archives, despite the fact that files containing anonymous letters inward were maintained over the years by the Premier's Office. Nor were any "Confidential" files included with the transfer, although they were part of the Premier's filing system. These files may have been removed when W.A.C. Bennett left office in 1972, or they may have been removed sometime after 1976 when W.R. Bennett became premier. [In her interview (taped in 1978) Mrs. Mylrea noted that Premier Bennett asked her to "go through" the correspondence files on 31 August 1972, the day after his party's electoral defeat. Mrs. Mylrea spent the next two weeks reviewing "every piece of paper in those files." "I did not find one thing that nobody else could have looked at" she related, "there was nothing that anybody need be afraid that anybody could see, opposition or otherwise." Nevertheless, some of the files were removed and were taken by Mr. Bennett to his Kelowna home. [SMID 3236:1-2, pp.16-17] Researchers should also note the absence of W.A.C. Bennett's constituency files in this collection. According to the premier's secretary, records dealing with the South Okanagan riding were maintained separately in the premier's Kelowna office. After his death in February, 1979, the Bennett family donated the records to the Simon Fraser University archives. [SMID 3236:1-1, p.17] Despite the absence of certain files, GR-1414 is a remarkably rich collection of executive records. The evolution of the Social Credit Party can be detected in many of the memos and reports in the collection; public attitudes towards government policies can be seen in much of the correspondence inward, while the province's economic growth can be discerned in files devoted to industrial development or to particular companies. Federal-provincial relations are also well documented, as are the activities of local chambers of commerce and sundry community groups throughout the province. Indeed, as a source of documentation for British Columbia in the 1950s and 1960s, GR-1414 is unrivalled.

British Columbia. Premier

Provincial Archives of British Columbia audio interviews, 1974-1992

  • GR-3377
  • Series
  • 1974-1992

The series consists of oral history interviews recorded by staff members and research associates of the Provincial Archives of B.C. Major subject areas include: political history (especially the Coalition era, the W.A.C. Bennett years, and David Barrett's NDP government); ethnic groups (including Chinese- and Japanese-Canadans); frontier and pioneer life; the forest industry; B.C. art and artists; the history of photography, filmmaking and radio broadcasting in the province; and the history of Victoria High School.

The interviewers include: Kathryn Bridge, Janet Cauthers, David Day, Patrick Dunae, Terry Eastwood, Merna Forster, Eric Gee, Frances Gundry, Maya Koizumi, W.J. Langlois, Charles Lillard, Theresa Low, Indiana Matters, David Mattison, Patriick May, David Mitchell, Constantine Nikitiuk, Andrew Petter, Derek Reimer, Allen W. Specht, Loree Stewart, and Reuben Ware.

Ralph Loffmark interview

CALL NUMBER: T3093:0001 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Early life and education PERIOD COVERED: 1920-1960 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-07 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Ralph Loffmark discusses: his family background; his early life in the interior of B.C.; his education in Chase, B.C., Kamloops, B.C., at the University of B.C., and at the University of Toronto; his election to the student council at the University of Toronto as athletic director; and his enlistment in the Canadian army. TRACK 2: Ralph Loffmark discusses: his service in the armed forces, his close encounters with death; his first experience with a conscious political policy; his law and business education experiences as a veteran; his first employment as a lawyer; his interests in accountancy; teaching commerce at UBC; his experience writing in areas of the law and commerce; his first interests in politics. CALL NUMBER: T3093:0002 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Loffmark's first election and some of his political ideas PERIOD COVERED: 1950-1963 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-07 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Ralph Loffmark discusses: his first exposure to politics; his entry into politics as a Social Credit candidate in 1963; the 1963 election campaign; his perceptions of the Social Credit Party at that time; his concern over the state of roads in B.C. during that period. TRACK 2: Ralph Loffmark discusses the expropriation of B.C. Electric as a major issue in the1963 provincial election; the nature of the Social Credit membership in Point Grey; the nature of nomination and candidacy procedure; dams on the Peace and Columbia Rivers; the crippling effects of cost overruns in government projects; some of his perceptions about the political parties in B.C.; and his primary occupational objectives. CALL NUMBER: T3093:0003 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Being elected and joining the cabinet PERIOD COVERED: 1963-1968 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-07 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Loffmark discusses: the role of the backbencher in the legislature; joining the cabinet as Minister of Industrial Development, Trade and Commerce in 1964; attempts at influencing cabinet ministers; his priorities as a cabinet minister; and transportation problems in Canada. TRACK 2: Loffmark discusses: Canadian freight rates; trade promotion activities; Japanese business connections; contrasts between doing business with Japan and India; his appointment to Treasury Board; the duties of Treasury Board; and inter-departmental relations. CALL NUMBER: T3093:0004 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Minister of Trade and Commerce PERIOD COVERED: 1964-1968 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-07 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Loffmark discusses: the development of the Bank of British Columbia; the run on B.C. bonds after the expropriation of B.C. Electric; the opportunities for tax reductions open to a business man; foreign investment in B.C.; secondary industries in B.C.; the poor state of dominion-provincial relations; B.C. separatism; the contention over the adequacy of Vancouver harbour; the possible over-production of pulp and paper. TRACK 2: Loffmark discusses: the redistribution of seats prior to the 1966 provincial election; the 1966 election campaign in Vancouver South; his travels on trade missions; joint American-Canadian development around the area of the Alaskan Panhandle. CALL NUMBER: T3093:0005 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Minister of Health PERIOD COVERED: 1964-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-07 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Loffmark discusses: his move from the Ministry of Trade and Industry to Health; Phil Gaglardi's removal as Minister of Highways and its effect on the Social Credit Party; the problems he perceived in the field of health; his priorities as Health minister; the ban on liquor and tobacco advertising; the death penalty for persistent drug traffickers; the operation of government liquor stores; the debate over pollution control; the necessity to maintain some kind of control over doctors who were abusing medicare; Scott Wallace's position in the Social Credit Party; and pharmacare and dentacare. TRACK 2: Loffmark discusses: dentacare and pharmacare; the publishing of doctors' earnings; the resource development vs. social services debate; the Clearwater incident; B.C. government efforts to fight heroin addiction; the government's power to allow certain doctors to use hospital facilities; the effects of Scott Wallace's crossing the floor; and the 1972 provincial election. CALL NUMBER: T3093:0006 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Health care and some general political perceptions PERIOD COVERED: 1964-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-07 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Loffmark discusses: the 1972 election; the Dease Lake railway extension; his major accomplishments as Minister of Health; his decision to retire from politics; his impressions of politics in general and of the party system; his relationship with W.A.C. Bennett; and cabinet meetings. TRACK 2: Ralph Loffmark discusses the timing of elections; the nature of the relationship between the civil service and the government; decision-making in his ministries; all-night sittings of the Legislature; his relationship with the press; government-organized group relations; opposition party unity; the effectiveness of opposition parties; and his perception of persons in the opposition parties. CALL NUMBER: T3093:0007 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Some general political perceptions PERIOD COVERED: 1964-1978 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-07 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Loffmark discusses: his views on the Dease Lake railway extension; cost reductions in health care; the home medical care scheme; his present activities; religion in politics; the effectiveness of a good political leader; the role of an MLA; the reasons behind W.A.C. Bennett's success; the Social Credit party as a coalition; reforms in the procedure of the House; the nature of the makeup of the Social Credit government; the nature of Social Credit policy-making; the proper functions of government; the rise of administrative tribunals; the decline of the Legislature. [TRACK 2: blank; end of interview]

Randolf Harding interview : [Petter 1978 : part 1]

CALL NUMBER: T3288:0001 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Family background and early political recollections, 1914-1940 PERIOD COVERED: 1914-1940 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-07-10 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Mr. Harding discusses his family background and his childhood in Silverton. Discussion of transportation systems in the Slocan area. Description of community life in Silverton: prostitution, religion, entertainment. Early political interests: first contact with socialism during the 1930s Depression. TRACK 2: Effects of the Depression on the Harding family and on Silverton. Discussion of Harding's move to Vancouver, 1931, and conditions in Vancouver. Discusses reasons for becoming a teacher. Attends normal school in Vancouver; gets post at Burton; conditions at Burton. C.C.F. influences on Harding: George Doughty, George Walton (1933 C.C.F. provincial candidate in Kaslo-Slocan), Joe Grey (and his role in converting Bert Herridge to the C.C.F.). Early recollections of Bert Herridge. Harding becomes actively involved in Kaslo-Slocan C.C.F. despite approaches from the Liberals and Conservatives. CALL NUMBER: T3288:0002 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Early political involvement and World War II, 1935-1945 PERIOD COVERED: 1935-1945 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-07-10 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Recollections of early political meetings: Gerry McGeer, Grant MacNeil, Colin Cameron, Grace MacInnis. Harding becomes increasingly involved in Kaslo-Slocan C.C.F. Effect of Coalition government on the C.C.F. in Kaslo-Slocan (particularly in relation to the 1945 provincial election). Recollections of 1935 federal election: Herridge runs for C.C.F. Comments regarding the nature of the C.C.F. in the West Kootenay area: factionalism, etc (effects of Connell split). The 1937 provincial election: Herridge runs again. Comments on the emergence of the Social Credit movement in the region. Economic conditions in Kaslo-Slocan during the late thirties. Problems relating to being a teacher while being politically active in C.C.F. Involvement in B.C. Teachers' Federation. World War II: enlists (1944) TRACK 2: More on WW II: C.C.F. position on the war; conscription; politics within the army; Harding's wife dies; returns to Kootenays. Background on Herridge's split from the C.C.F. and Harding's involvement in the controversy: 1940 federal election, 1941 provincial election (Herridge runs in Rossland-Trail). Aside on Japanese internment during the war: C.C.F. position, political backlash, Japanese camps in the Slocan Valley, discrimination against Japanese. CALL NUMBER: T3288:0003 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): The 1945 provincial election campaign PERIOD COVERED: 1945-1945 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-07-10 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: The 1945 provincial election (and more on Harding's involvement in the Herridge controversy): Harding decides to run, nominating convention, campaign, effect of Herridge controversy on campaign, nature of the campaign (style, tactics). TRACK 2: More on the 1945 campaign in Kaslo-Slocan. Recollections of election victory and election eve. CALL NUMBER: T3288:0004 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): The 1945 campaign aftermath and first legislating experiences PERIOD COVERED: 1945-1949 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-07-11 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: More comments on the 1945 campaign and aftermath. Harding elected president of West Kootenay C.C.F. Association (November 1945). Harding helps resolve financial difficulties between C.C.F. and People's C.C.F. Helps gets Herridge reinstated in C.C.F. Comments on charges linking Herridge with communists. Harding describes his first impressions of the Legislature, first session and maiden speech. TRACK 2: First legislative speeches (cont'd): speech-making (Harold Winch, Bert Gargrave, Gordon Wismer, Ernest Carson, Joe Corsbie); description of Premier John Hart; accessibility of Coalition cabinet ministers; description of C.C.F. caucus; discussion regarding the role of the Legislature and of legislators. Recollections of first term as MLA: sales tax issue; public power issue (rural electrification); resignation of W.A.C. Bennett to run in Yale by-election, 1948 (Harding works in by-election against Bennett); public insurance issue. CALL NUMBER: T3288:0005 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): First Term as an MLA and 1949 provincial election, 1946-1952 PERIOD COVERED: 1946-1952 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-07-11 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: First term as an MLA (cont'd): advocates liberalizing Canadian divorce laws; caucus revolt against Harold Winch; recollections of Ernie Winch; changes in personal life, life as an MLA, marries Frances. Comments on rightward drift of C.C.F. TRACK 2: Mr. Harding discusses 1949 provincial election: the provincial and Kaslo-Slocan campaigns, issues of campaign, Communist scare tactics, the Japanese vote. 1950-52 legislative sessions: rifts in Coalition and Premier Byron Johnson. CALL NUMBER: T3288:0006 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Legislative work and the 1952 provincial election, 1952-1953 PERIOD COVERED: 1950-1953 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-07-11 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: 1950-1952 legislative sessions (cont'd): more on rifts in the Coalition ranks; preferential ballot; manoeuvres of W.A.C. Bennett -- crossing the floor; hospital insurance issue; sales tax issue; break-up of Coalition. Local issues: Celgar pulp project (background on forest management situation in B.C.); Dr. Stephen Norwell controversy. TRACK 2: Local issues (cont'd): highway work (Kaslo-Lardeau Road); patronage. 1952 provincial election: rise of Social Credit League; effect of preferential ballot; Harding attends nomination meeting in Rossland-Trail; hospital insurance and sales tax; Kaslo-Slocan campaign; reaction to Social Credit victory (abortive attempt to get recount in Vancouver Burrard). 1952 by-elections. 1953 session: Rolston Formula, J. Allan Reid speech. CALL NUMBER: T3288:0007 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): 1953 provincial election and 1953-56 sessions PERIOD COVERED: 1953-1956 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-07-11 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: 1953 session (cont'd): more on J. Allan Reid speech; impressions of Social Credit government; W.A.C. Bennett; more on the Rolston Formula. Controversy regarding Winch's leadership and his wishes to be named Premier (following Social Credit defeat in the Legislature). Winch resigns. Webster becomes leader (Harding declines). Reflects on the role of a leader in British Columbia. Comments on Arnold Webster. TRACK 2: 1953 provincial election: W.A.C. Bennett; Kaslo-Slocan campaign; Webster; preferential ballot. 1953-56 legislative sessions: hospital insurance changes; legislation by exhaustion; Kaiser Dam proposal (and Mica Dam and Columbia River Treaty); Social Credit fiscal policy; Gordon Gibson Sr. resigns over allegations regarding forestry practices; the Sommers case. CALL NUMBER: T3288:0008 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): The Sommers case, W.A.C. Bennett, and C.C.F. leadership, 1953-1956 PERIOD COVERED: 1953-1956 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-[07-11] SUMMARY: TRACK 1: The Sommers case (cont'd). W.A.C. Bennett and his government (general comments). Harding advocates pay increases for civil service and politicians. Webster resigns as leader -- Strachan runs for and wins leadership. Caucus's role in influencing the party regarding the question of leadership. [TRACK 2: blank.]

Randolf Harding interview : [Petter 1978 : part 2]

CALL NUMBER: T3288:0009 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): 1956 election, the Hoxsey Cancer Clinic, and Doukhobors PERIOD COVERED: 1956-1960 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-07-12 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Reasons for Strachan being chosen leader. 1956 provincial election: Sommers affair; Kaslo-Slocan campaign; homeowner grant; highway construction. Reaction to the Winnipeg Declaration. Legislative sessions 1957-60: Hoxsey Cancer Clinic controversy. TRACK 2: 1957-60 sessions (cont'd): more on Hoxsey Cancer Clinic; preservation of sternwheeler "Moyie" (loss of the "Minto"); Wenner-Gren development scheme. Overview of Doukhobor situation and Harding's involvement with the Doukhobors. CALL NUMBER: T3288:0010 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): 1960 election, B.C. Electric take-over and Columbia River Treaty PERIOD COVERED: 1957-1963 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-07-12 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: More on Doukhobor situation. More on 1957-60 sessions: homeowner grant issue; Robert Strachan (Webster, Winch); government enters ferry business (Vancouver-Victoria run); Kettle Valley Railway service curtailed. 1960 provincial election: C.C.F. expectations of victory; business support for Social Credit. TRACK 2: Aside on 1958 Rossland-Trail by-election. 1960 provincial election (cont'd): Kaslo-Slocan campaign. C.C.F. merger with CLC, and the birth of the NDP: choosing a name for the new party; the need for a labour tie-in. 1961-1963 legislative sessions: B.C. Electric take-over; Columbia River Treaty (two-rivers policy). CALL NUMBER: T3288:0011 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Columbia River Treaty, 1957-1967 PERIOD COVERED: 1957-1967 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-07-12 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Columbia River Treaty (cont'd): High Arrow Dam; reservoir clearing and environmental issues; Duncan Dam; the McNaughton plan; legislative input; negotiations with the United States; financial; settlements; NDP's inability to get information on treaty from government. TRACK 2: Columbia River Treaty (cont'd): Harding's work on behalf of residents of Arrow Lakes basin -- clearing of Arrow Lakes basin, effects on fish and game, expropriation of land (compensation issue); Harding attends Duncan Dam opening uninvited; Harding claims Hydro should be assessed for school taxes; Gerald Mead suicide. Harding discusses Social Credit labour legislation (general comments). CALL NUMBER: T3288:0012 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): 1963 and 1966 elections, and the 1967 Berger leadership challenge PERIOD COVERED: 1963-1969 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-07-12 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: More on Social Credit legislation: Bill 42; political implications of Social Credit labour policies. Social Credit members urge Harding to cross the floor. Controversy surrounding Cedric Cox's trip to Cuba: repercussions in the C.C.F. caucus; repercussions in the Legislature. 1963 provincial election: Columbia River Treaty issue; Kaslo-Slocan campaign; Strachan's image. 1963-66 legislative sessions: Harding proposes government take over West Kootenay Power and Light Company (rural electrification, additional benefits from the construction of the Duncan Dam); Harding considers running federally (1965); redistribution (Angus report). TRACK 2: Redistribution (cont'd): problems surrounding the creation of the new riding of Revelstoke-Slocan. 1966 provincial election: nomination meetings (NDP, Social Credit; redistribution (cont'd); Revelstoke-Slocan campaign. Berger challenges Strachan for the NDP leadership: reasons for the challenge; reasons for Harding's support of Berger; Harding campaigns for Berger; 1967 convention; factionalism and acrimony resulting from the leadership contest. CALL NUMBER: T3288:0013 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): From provincial to federal politics, 1966-1974 PERIOD COVERED: 1966-1974 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-07-12 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: More on Thomas Berger: comparison of Berger and Barrett. Comments on Phil Gaglardi. Harding's involvement in the C.C.F./NDP executive: general comments; Rod Young; left-right split in the party. Involvement in Silverton municipal politics. Harding decides to run federally in Kootenay West: Herridge nominates Harding. 1968 federal election. TRACK 2: 1968 federal election (cont'd). 1968 Revelstoke-Slocan by-election: Harding campaigns for Bill King. Impressions of Parliament (comparison with Legislature). Recollections of parliamentary sessions, 1968-74: pension increases, changes to Canada Water Act, environmental issues, energy control. Change in NDP leader: Douglas to Lewis (comments on Ed Broadbent). 1972 federal election: Harding fails to get Herridge's endorsement. CALL NUMBER: T3288:0014 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Minority government, defeat and humorous anecdotes, 1972-1978 PERIOD COVERED: 1972-1978 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-07-12 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: More on differences between Harding and Herridge (1972): union issue in Trail. Minority government, 1972-74: Harding opposes decision to defeat government in 1974; attitude towards alliance between Liberals and NDP. David Lewis (general comments). 1974 federal election: Harding loses; extent of backlash due to provincial policies; reaction to loss. Future plans. Participation in 1972 provincial election and reaction to NDP win. Banquet honouring Harding's service to the C.C.F./NDP (1974). Involvement on Universities Council of B.C. Humorous anecdotes: Thomas Uphill. TRACK 2: Humorous anecdotes (cont'd): Thomas Uphill; Leo Nimsick and the steelworkers; incident while campaigning. (End of interview)

Ray Orchard interview

SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Ray Orchard interview PERIOD COVERED: 1931-1978 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-01-26 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: An interview with Ray Orchard, Director of Provincial Information at the Ministry of the Provincial Secretary and Travel Industry. Orchard discusses: his childhood and education, the role of Lawrie Wallace on his life, going to Vic High, driving across Canada, working in radio and plays in England, getting married and moving back to Canada. Orchard then turns to his role in the 1971 centennial, and working for the Ministry of the Provincial Secretary. Discusses changes in the civil service when the NDP took over in 1972. Clare Copeland selling the provincial government time on the radio station CFAX. Ron Worley, an aide to W.A.C. Bennett, suggested Orchard be the voice of the government in the radio commercial. Commercial was called "Ask Your Provincial Government"; ran 5 times a day on Saturdays and Sundays. Difficulty in editing ministers responses; Orchard wanted the commercials to be informative, not just advertisements for the Social Credit Party. TRACK 2: Orchard continues discussing his role in the Ministry of the Provincial Secretary: Lawrie Wallace retained as deputy minister; Orchard's "Ask Your Provincial Government" was ended; duties he was responsible for as director of public information and personnel. Orchard says he has always been a generalist, so he liked the challenge of doing different things in the ministry. Discusses working with Mrs. McCarthy, Wayne Currie; satisfaction with the eventual split between the public information and the personnel roles; the new Socred government. (End of interview)

Ray Williston interview : [Reimer, 1975 : part 1]

CALL NUMBER: T1375:0001 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Childhood and Youth, 1914-1933 PERIOD COVERED: 1914-1933 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975-01-02 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Born in Victoria, 1914. United Empire Loyalist stock in New Brunswick, 1786. Family moves to B.C. in 1912 (?). Father in feed business. Moved to Ladner. Father in debt. Moved to Salmon Arm. Father killed in 1927, putting the family into even greater debt. TRACK 2: Works for "The SAFE" in Salmon Arm. Mother ran a boarding house. Played in dance band through the Depression. Ambition to become a pilot. Normal School in Victoria. Member of Older Boys' Parliament. Worked as warehouseman and clerk. Depression years in Salmon Arm. CALL NUMBER: T1375:0002 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Student and teacher, 1934-1939 PERIOD COVERED: 1934-1939 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975-01-02 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Williston discusses his first teaching job in Hendon, B.C. in 1934. He then took a B.A. at UBC summer school, starting in 1935. Taught in Surrey, B.C. Talks about Surrey social life at the time, and his marriage in 1939. Moves to Princeton, B.C. Graduates from UBC in 1940. Discusses the social life in Princeton in the late 1930s. TRACK 2: Discusses teaching at the Princeton High School. UBC summer session discussed. Walks over Hope-Princeton trail in 1939. Gordon Shrum and Professor Sedgewick at UBC. Williston has attack of "nervous exhaustion". He develops an "abhorrence" of socialism during the 1930s. CALL NUMBER: T1375:0003 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Airman and School Administrator, 1940-1952 PERIOD COVERED: 1940-1952 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975-01-02 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Rejects BCTF militancy in the 1930s. Rejection of socialism. RCAF (1940-1945) in Alberta. Returns to teaching in 1945. Supervising principal in Prince George. Joins the Department of Education as school inspector. TRACK 2: Reprimand by W.T. Straith, Minister of Education. Declines to run as a Socred in 1952. Runs in 1953 and elected (Fort George constituency). Unschooled in Socred monetary theory. Thought W.A.C. Bennett too conservative in financial matters. Socialism versus "adapted free enterprise". Voted for various parties in 1930s and 1940s. CALL NUMBER: T1375:0004 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Social Credit politician, 1952-1954 PERIOD COVERED: 1952-1954 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975-01-02 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Attracted to the Social Credit Party in 1952 by the people in it. Nominating meeting in 1953. Had job as a lecturer at the University of Washington, 1954. Became Minister of Education, April 1954. Aquatic events in the Gorge, Victoria. [TRACK 2: blank.]; CALL NUMBER: T1375:0005 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): MLA and Minister of Education, 1953-1956 PERIOD COVERED: 1953-1956 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975-10-06 SUMMARY: Williston reprimanded by William T. Straith, Minister of Education, for making public statements about education. Asked to resign as school inspector when he was nominated in 1953. 1953 election. W.A.C. Bennett speaks on behalf of Williston, 1953. Williston's first speech in Legislative Assembly. Williston gets favourable reaction from all sides. Responsibilities of "the press". Williston becomes Minister of Education, April 1954. Appointment kept secret until last minute. Initial problems and issues in education -- financing, teacher training, curriculum. Role of deputy ministers. Some senior public servants try to embarrass the new government, especially with regard to finances. School finances. CALL NUMBER: T1375:0006 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Minister of Education, 1954-1956 PERIOD COVERED: 1954-1956 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975-10-06 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Problems of school construction and finance, 1954-56. Establishment of teacher training in universities. British Columbia College of Education. Reinstatement of World Review in the schools. Education problems with Doukhobors. Doukhobor school at New Denver, B.C. The socializing role of the school system. TRACK 2: More on B.C. College of Education. Personalities in B.C. education. Salaries of education officials. School openings. CALL NUMBER: T1375:0007 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): The "Sommers" Case PERIOD COVERED: 1955-1957 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975-10-06 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: "Sommers scandal" in which Robert Sommers is accused and convicted of accepting bribes in relation to the granting of forest land tenures. Williston's personal assessment of Sommers. Williston appointed Minister of Lands and Forests, 1956. Reaction within government to the scandal. Mel Bryan crosses the floor to protest Attorney-General Bonner's handling of the affair. TRACK 2: More on Mel Bryan and "Sommers scandal". Assessment of Ron Worley. Sloan Commission on Forestry, 1957.

Ray Williston interview : [Reimer, 1975 : part 2]

CALL NUMBER: T1375:0008 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): A Cabinet Minister in the 1950s PERIOD COVERED: 1956-1971 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975-10-07 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: The granting of a tree farm licence in Squamish in late 1960s. Chief Justice Gordon McGregor Sloan and the Royal Commission on Forestry report, 1957. Sloan appointed permanent advisor on forestry, 1958. Relations between Sloan and Williston. Sloan's death in 1959 and associated problems, including unfinished assignments. Opposition to the TFL system by smaller logging companies. Williston's rejection of their arguments. TRACK 2: More on small operators' opposition to TFL policy. "Contractor clauses" in TFLs. Small loggers in B.C. Centennial celebrations of 1958. Role of L.J. Wallace and the centennial committee. CALL NUMBER: T1375:0009 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Royal visit 1958 and the Wenner-Gren plans PERIOD COVERED: 1956-1960 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975-10-07 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Centennial celebrations, 1958. Details and anecdotes about Princess Margaret's visit, 1958. Other centennial events. Williston less involved with later centennial celebrations. Northern development in B.C. and Williston's role in promoting it. Williston's ideas about industrial development in B.C. TRACK 2: More on northern and industrial development. Wenner-Gren in British Columbia: Memorandum of intent, 1956, details about the original contacts, necessity of the letter of intent, Hydro power investigations, role of Percy Gray in the original conception of the development, the actual negotiations between the government and Bernard Gore and Burger Strid, roles of Williston, Bonner, Gunderson and Bennett in the negotiations, opposition to the agreement from press, legislative opposition and B.C. and Yukon Chamber of Mines, questions about Wenner-Gren personally. CALL NUMBER: T1375:0010 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): The plans of Wenner-Gren and the Columbia River Treaty PERIOD COVERED: 1954-1960 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975-10-07 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Reaction to Axel Wenner-Gren. Role of Einar Gunderson and potential conflict of interest. Williston meets Wenner-Gren, 1957. More details on Wenner-Gren development. The Columbia River Treaty: Williston involved from 1956 to 1972, positions held by Williston, roles of Bennett and Bonner. TRACK 2: Secondary role of cabinet in Columbia River Treaty matters. Bennett only concerned with larger implications of the treaty. Developments to 1956. Kaiser proposal to dam the Columbia, early 1950s. Kaiser proposal rejected by Gen. A.G.L. McNaughton. Williston's personal assessment of McNaughton. McNaughton's "anti-American" attitudes. The "McNaughton Plan" for the Columbia River and Williston's reasons for rejecting it. More on General McNaughton. CALL NUMBER: T1375:0011 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Hydro Electric Power Development in B.C., 1956-1960 PERIOD COVERED: 1956-1960 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975-10-07 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Role of General A.G.L. McNaughton in the Columbia River Treaty negotiations. Details of the treaty negotiations from Williston's point of view. Key role of Art Paget. Government strategy in the development of the Peace River region. The importance of timing between the Columbia and Peace power developments. TRACK 2: Decision not to proceed with the Columbia development until after a start was made on the Peace. The two-river policy. Williston tours the province to convince people of the value of the two-river policy. More on the two-river policy. Planning and negotiations, 1957-60. Circumstances regarding the detailed report of Paddy Sherman. Controversy about the Sherman article. More on planning and negotiations, 1957-1960. CALL NUMBER: T1375:0012 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): The Columbia River Treaty PERIOD COVERED: 1956-1962 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975-10-07 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Firing of B.C. Power Commission general manager Lee Briggs, 1957. Progress in federal-provincial negotiations, 1957-1959. Consideration of flooding in East Kootenay and Arrow Lakes areas. The; International Columbia River Engineering Board report 1959, and the options for developing the Columbia River. TRACK 2: Considerations about the Libby Dam proposal. Role of Ed Bassett in the treaty negotiations. Complex financing of the engineering studies for the Columbia River projects. Columbia River Treaty signed, January 1961. Anecdotes about the signing ceremony. The key positions of B.C. Electric Co. Problems of marketing power in B.C. and the United States. The importance of making a long-term sale of power to the United States. CALL NUMBER: T1375:0013 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Hydro Electric Power development in B.C., 1957-1963 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975-10-07 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Discussion of negotiation of the Columbia River Treaty. The roles of other cabinet ministers and technical advisors. Williston's personal assessment of the Columbia River Treaty. Issues arising from the public hearings on water licences for the Treaty projects. The takeover of B.C. Electric and Peace River power development companies, 1961. TRACK 2: More on the hydro power takeovers. Williston on the new board of B.C. Hydro and Power Authority. Other board members. Gordon Shrum and Hugh Keenleyside as co-chairmen of B.C. Hydro. CALL NUMBER: T1375:0014 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Negotiating the Columbia River Treaty PERIOD COVERED: 1960-1975 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975-10-07 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Gordon Shrum and Hugh Keenleyside as co-chairmen of B.C. Hydro. Clashes between E. Davie Fulton and W.A.C. Bennett. Negotiations for the sale of downstream benefits from the Columbia River. Delays due to federal election of 1962. Tenders for the Portage Mountain dam (Bennett Dam). Canadian ratification of the Columbia River Treaty. Relationship between Paul Martin (Sr) and Bennett. More on the sale of downstream benefits. TRACK 2: Sale of downstream benefits completed. Bennett not totally satisfied with the overall terms of the treaty. Williston's own unhappiness with regard to the division of flood control benefits. Federal-provincial negotiations on treaty implementation. Signing of the protocol to the treaty, 1964. Hearings before the External Affairs Committee, Ottawa. Peace Arch ceremony, 1964. Summary remarks about the treaty. Williston comments on the effects of inflation on the treaty. Information supplied during negotiations from Americans. No consideration given to power conservation.

Ray Williston interview : [Reimer, 1975 : part 3]

CALL NUMBER: T1375:0015 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Hydro Electric Power Development in B.C., 1960s PERIOD COVERED: 1960-1975 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975-10-08 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Williston's assessment of the Columbia River Treaty. Gordon Shrum and Hugh Keenleyside as co-chairmen of B.C. Hydro. Discussion of Gordon Shrum and his role in B.C. power development. Decision to lower the height of Bennett Dam. TRACK 2: Flooding the reservoir behind Bennett Dam. Clearing problems and environmental criticisms. Williston and son take canoe trip down the Parsnip and Peace Rivers prior to flooding. More on the clearing of the reservoir. Williston took strong personal interest in the flooding problems. CALL NUMBER: T1375:0016 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Water resources and economic development, 1950s and 1960s PERIOD COVERED: 1955-1975 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975-10-08 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Clearing activities in reservoirs planned by B.C. Forest Service. Williston Lake named after R.G. Williston. Opening of Peace River Power Project. Stories about the construction of Bennett Dam. Planned development of hydro power and industry in northern B.C. Proposed hydro power and flood control developments on the Fraser River: Moran Dam, McGregor River diversion, opposition by fishing lobby. TRACK 2: Conflicts between log drives and fisheries interests. More on flood control on the Fraser River. Hydro power schemes for the Liard and Homathko Rivers. Planned economic development in; northern B.C. The role of planning in the Social Credit government. Attempts to divert economic activity in the Yukon and NWT through B.C. W.A.C. Bennett's proposal to annex northern territory. CALL NUMBER: T1375:0017 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Northern development and B.C. forest industry, 1950s and 1960s PERIOD COVERED: 1956-1969 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975-10-08 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Northern development in B.C. and W.A.C. Bennett's proposal to annex the Yukon Territory to the Province of B.C. Development of the PGE Railway. Bennett's interest in the PGE. Creation of a separate Water Resources department in 1962. Internal Organization of the Department of Lands, Forests and Water Resources. Discussion about C.D. Orchard, Deputy Minister of Forests. TRACK 2: Senior personnel in B.C. Forest Service: C.D. Orchard, Gerry McKee, Lorne Swannell, Norm McRae, John Stokes, F.S. McKinnon, Peter Hemphill, Ian Cameron, Ted Young, Bill Young and Walter Hughes. Anomalies in the granting of Tree Farm Licences. TFLs granted after 1958. CALL NUMBER: T1375:0018 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Development of the forest industry PERIOD COVERED: 1956-1965 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975-10-08 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Merger of MacMillan Bloedel and Power River Co. Personalities in the forest industry: John Liersch, J.V. Clyne, Foley Family, Relations between Williston and senior management in the large forest companies. Responsibilities entailed in a TFL. Differences between industrial foresters and government foresters. MacMillan Bloedel leaders in forestry practice. Importance of fire protection during the 1950s and 1960s. TRACK 2: More on fire protection. Water bombers. Development of self-dumping log barges. Expansion of the forest industry in the Interior: discussion of wasteful practices, possibility of establishing pulp mills, the role of Canadian Forest Products, the idea of a pulp-harvesting area. CALL NUMBER: T1375:0019 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): The development of pulp milling in B.C. Interior, 1960-1972 PERIOD COVERED: 1960-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975-10-08 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Details about the granting of pulp harvesting agreements: Prince George - Prince George Pulp and Paper; Kamloops - Crown Zellerbach. Details about the first pulp mills in the Interior, especially Prince George Pulp and Paper Co. TRACK 2: More details about Interior pulp mills: the relationship between sawmills and pulp mills, "third band" wood. Interior manufacturers become small wood processing experts. Establishment of the pulp mill in Kamloops. Establishment of the Skookumchuk pulp mill: Japanese investment and business practice, the economics of pulp milling in the East Kootenays. CALL NUMBER: T1375:0020 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Resource management in B.C., 1956-1972 PERIOD COVERED: 1955-1975 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975-10-08 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: "Close utilization" slower to be accepted on the coast. Private versus public forest management. Problems of financing the B.C. Forest Service. Williston's ideas on company towns. Public access to logging roads. TRACK 2: Williston's ideas on multiple use. Multiple versus single purpose resource use. Opposition to some of the ideas of the Sierra Club. Williston's role in the establishment of ecological reserves. Slash burning and clear-cutting as forest management techniques. Formation of the Department of Recreation and Conservation, 1957. Formation of the Environment and Land Use Committee, 1969.

Ray Williston interview : [Reimer, 1975 : part 4]

CALL NUMBER: T1375:0021 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Environmental issues, federal-provincial relations and government finance PERIOD COVERED: 1954-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975-10-09 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Williston discusses: the formation and operation of the Environment and Land Use Committee (ELUC); unusual power of ELUC; pollution control problems, specifically pulp mill effluent; greenbelts; lakeshore development policies; dominion-provincial relations; restrictions and sanctions against travel and conferences; Resources for the Future Conference and the Canadian Council of Resource Ministers. Cabinet and Bennett never discussed separation from Canada. TRACK 2: Williston talks about: offshore mineral rights; government's interest in the Bank of B.C. Treasury Board and procedures for control of government spending; details on the operation of Treasury Board; W.A.C. Bennett as Finance Minister; budget preparation. CALL NUMBER: T1375:0022 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Resource issues in the 1950s and 1960s PERIOD COVERED: 1956-1970 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975-10-09 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Discusses government policy to encourage Japanese investment in B.C., and gives details about Japanese investment. Williston and Bennett meet Japanese Crown Prince and Princess. Development of the quota system in the allocation of timber rights. Quota system provides stability in the forest industry. Williston never unduly pressured by forest companies. Disparaging comments about North American Water and Power Alliance (NAWAPA). TRACK 2: More on NAWAPA. 1960 truck loggers' convention and flare-up with Gordon Gibson Sr. Williston discusses issue of bribes and gifts to ministers. Personal assessment of Gordon Gibson Sr. Williston then discusses Pollution Control Board: 1965 legislation; impetus for change from various sources, air pollution not included; weakness of a system that imposes fines; the need for political involvement in pollution control; differences of opinion over control standards with Health Minister Ralph Loffmark. CALL NUMBER: T1375:0023 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Resource and environment issues, 1956-1972 PERIOD COVERED: 1956-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975-10-09 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Pollution control: differences of opinion between Williston and Ralph Loffmark; air quality standards difficult to set; onus of responsibility for pollution on the polluter; local, regional and provincial pollution standards; Williston, Loffmark and Campbell on Pollution Control Board (PCB) as of 1969; restrictions on those who could appear before the PCB. Economic growth versus conservation and environmental control. Role of public opinion in altering Williston's thinking on environmental issues. Williston not very concerned about foreign and non-resident ownership of land. Use of land and resources the important thing. Preservation of waterfront for public recreation. [TRACK 2: blank.]; CALL NUMBER: T1375:0024 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Resource issues in the 1960s and 1970s PERIOD COVERED: 1960-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975-10-09 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Williston's perspectives on: Buttle Lake controversy; mining in a provincial park; logging within Strathcona Park; the establishment of Rathtrevor Park and the exchange of timber within Strathcona Park. Discusses Skagit River controversy; involvement of Liberal Party. Williston assesses the recreational potential as modest. Discusses provincial obligations related to this issue. Cypress Bowl. TRACK 2: More on Cypress Bowl. Nitinat Triangle issue: the extension of Pacific Rim National Park. CALL NUMBER: T1375:0025 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Social Credit Cabinet Minister, 1954-1972 PERIOD COVERED: 1953-1975 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975-10-09 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Question of the extension of the boundaries of Pacific Rim National Park, 1970-71. Nuclear power in B.C. Gordon Shrum interested in nuclear power. Williston cool to the social side of politics, such as state balls and legislative openings. Williston opposes the right to strike in the public sector. Changes in the public service, 1953-1972. Elections and election strategy. The central role of W.A.C. Bennett in elections. Decision to end the preferential ballot in 1955. TRACK 2: More on the preferential ballot. Provincial election, 1956. Provincial election, 1960. Williston's thoughts on campaigning in general. Political and economic philosophy. Comments on the NDP government. Fiscal conservatism of W.A.C. Bennett. The religious appeal of Social Credit. CALL NUMBER: T1375:0026 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Elections and conventions, the 1972 defeat and aftermath PERIOD COVERED: 1952-1975 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975-10-09 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Further discusses the religious appeal of Social Credit. Redistribution 1966. Relations between B.C. Social Credit government and federal party. Provincial election, 1972: issues in election; factors leading to defeat; Bennett in the election; negative role of P.A. Gaglardi; Williston's personal defeat in Fort George; Williston willing to oppose Gaglardi for Socred leadership; New Westminster incident. Talks about winding up the affairs of government after the election. Comments on Robert Williams. TRACK 2: More on government changeover. Job offers after 1972 election. United Nations; (FAO) jobs in Indonesia, Peru and Bangladesh. Other job offers. Personal assessment of P.A. Gaglardi. Social Credit League. Members and supporters in Fort George constituency. Role of Social Credit League and conventions in policy formation. Typical Socred convention described. Place of socialism in B.C. society. CALL NUMBER: T1375:0027 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): The Legislative Assembly, 1953-1972 PERIOD COVERED: 1953-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975-10-09 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Williston's political philosophy. Negative aspects of centralized control in a socialist bureaucracy. Williston's assessment of the key role of Bob Williams in the NDP government. Role of pressure groups. The Legislative Assembly: all-night sessions; Ernest Winch; Arnold Webster; Thomas Berger; Dave Barrett; contact between parties outside the House; anecdote about Tom Uphill. TRACK 2: Anecdotes about the Legislature. Williston discusses prominent Liberals: Arthur Laing; Ray Perrault; Pat McGeer. Williston feels Hansard to be of limited value. Opposition and press become more negative in later years to the way in which Williston handled his portfolios. Bob Williams becomes Williston's strongest critic. Defection of G. Scott Wallace, 1971. Williston's opinion of the Vancouver press. CALL NUMBER: T1375:0028 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): British Columbia politics, 1953-1972 PERIOD COVERED: 1953-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975-10-09 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: W.A.C Bennett and the press. Incident regarding secret loan from the Bank of Nova Scotia. More on the press. Comments on Stuart Keate, newspaper publisher. Opposition to Williston in the Prince George press. Robert Bonner's move to MacMillan Bloedel. Relations with Vancouver press. W.A.C. Bennett and his style of leadership. TRACK 2: More details on Bennett and personal relationship between Bennett and Williston. Debt reduction schemes in the 1950s. The Kelowna "bondfire". Anecdotes about Williston's friend and industrialist, Ben Ginter: the construction industry; starting in the brewing business. Constituency relations. Williston's role in establishing a flag for B.C. Mobil cabinet meetings. The "George E.P. Jones case". CALL NUMBER: T1375:0029 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Personal Reflections PERIOD COVERED: 1953-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975-10-09 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: No lack of new ideas in the later years. Williston maintained good health throughout his period as minister. Involved with the YMCA in Victoria. Williston planning to retire within a few years of 1972 election. Regrets having little time for his family. Williston describes typical working day. Did not socialize with Bennett. Few social relations between ministers in the Socred government. Williston moved permanently to Victoria in 1954. Williston's close personal friends with Harold Moffat and family. Hobby of photography. Williston's attitudes on alcohol. Heavy demands for personal appearance. TRACK 2: Comments about changes as a result of 20 years in public life. Lack of concern about personal safety. Summation.

Ray Williston interview : [Young, 1965]

SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): R.G. Williston : Social Credit cabinet minister PERIOD COVERED: 1953-1965 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1965 SUMMARY: Runs for Social Credit in 1953. Did not study Social Credit monetary theory. Reasons for success of Social Credit. Social Credit League. Role of government in economic planning and control. Criticism of the Social Credit government.

Rev. Dermott McInnes interview

SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Recollections of W.A.C. Bennett in Edmonton during the 1920s PERIOD COVERED: 1920-1930 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-06-07 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Dermott McInnes recollects his involvement with a church youth group in Edmonton during the 1920s, through which he met W.A.C. Bennett. Comments on W.A.C. Bennett as a young man. Conditions in Edmonton in the 1920s. Impressions of R.J. Gillis, mentor of the youth group. TRACK 2: Further comments on the church youth group. Reaction to W.A.C. Bennett becoming Premier of British Columbia. (End of interview)

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