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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.

CALL NUMBER: T0995:0006 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Minister without Portfolio, 1966-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1980 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Grace McCarthy recalls the first time she met W.A.C. Bennett. Relations with the Premier as a member of the Vancouver Parks Board. General impressions of W.A.C. Bennett as Premier. W.A.C. Ben;nett and Vancouver. Reasons for W.A.C. Bennett's image in the press. Early views of Social Credit. Comments on her husband's involvement in Social Credit politics. Civic politics in Vancouver. Backgro;und to decision to run as a Social Credit candidate in the provincial election of 1966. Recollections of the 1966 election. First impressions as an MLA. Reaction to being appointed a Minister without Portfolio. Frustration of serving in cabinet without a portfolio after the first few years. During the period she served under W.A.C. Bennett he was becoming increasingly shielded from reality. Reasons for the lack of intra-governmental communication during the last years of W.A.C. Bennett's government. TRACK 2: Government and teamwork. Comments on cabinet under W.A.C. Bennett. Comparison between; government during W.A.C. Bennett's tenure as Premier and the government of Bill Bennett. Different attitudes towards development in B.C. W.A.C. Bennett's attitude toward government. Representing British Columbia on behalf of the Premier at the 1968 Premiers' Conference in Saskatchewan. Intuition that she would attend the conference. Comments on the conference. Discussion of remarks made in correspondence found in W.A.C. Bennett's papers concerning the conference. W.A.C. Bennett's attitude toward conferences. Preparation for the conference. Reasons why she was asked to represent the province at the conference. Comments on electioneering. Running a campaign in a dual-member constituency. Recollection of her seat-mate in Vancouver-Little Mountain, Les Peterson. CALL NUMBER: T0995:0007 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Recollections of W.A.C. Bennett and B.C. politics RECORDED: [location unknown], 1980 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Grace McCarthy discusses the changing nature of Social Credit in British Columbia, 1952-72. Social Credit as the party of business. Political parties as coalitions. Comments on the character of the NDP in British Columbia. Objections to socialism. Socialism and communism. Individual freedom versus state control. Government intervention in the economy. Evaluation of different leaders of the NDP in B.C.: Robert Strachan, Thomas Berger, David Barrett. The NDP in opposition. The role of a parliamentary opposition. Polarization in British Columbia politics. The inevitability of the opposition becoming government. TRACK 2: The possibility of W.A.C. Bennett entering federal politics in Canada. The possibility that W.A.C. Bennett intended to retire prior to 1972. W.A.C. Bennett and premonitions. W.A.C. Bennett and the power of positive thinking. W.A.C. Bennett's loyalty to colleagues. Comments on theories of predestination. W.A.C. Bennett's government was not a "one-man-government". Reasons why voters in B.C. would not admit to supporting Social Credit. Loyalty as a political weakness of W.A.C. Bennett. W.A.C. Bennett's strengths and weaknesses as a leader. W.A.C. Bennett as a shy man. His attitude toward women. Reaction to and the effect of Robert Bonner's resignation as Attorney-General, 1968. Recollection of Bonner's victory in the Cariboo by-election in 1966. CALL NUMBER: T0995:0008 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): The 1972 provincial election RECORDED: [location unknown], 1980 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Grace McCarthy discusses the Social Credit cabinet's tour of British Columbia in the spring of 1972. Press coverage of the tour. The climax of the tour at a meeting at New Westminster which resulted in a violent demonstration by organized labour. Reasons for the angry demonstration. Press commentary on the event. Reaction to the demonstration. The changing nature of the political climate in B.C. in the early 1970s. Reasons for the decline of Social Credit in the period leading up to the 1972 election. The calling of elections under the leadership of W.A.C. Bennett. As Minister without Portfolio, she assumed responsibility for the provincial Job Opportunities Program. Work in the area of social policy. Personal feelings going into the 1972 election campaign. Recollection of election night, 1972. The fickle loyalties of some Socred supporters. Speaking with Premier Bennett on election night. Reaction to the defeat of the government. General reflections on the election. [TRACK 2:; blank?] (End of 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)

CALL NUMBER: T1364:0001 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): A career in B.C.'s educational system (part one) PERIOD COVERED: 1925-1939 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1974-10-03 SUMMARY: This tape begins with Dr. English's early years as a student, then his early career in education as a teacher and principal. Discusses Putnam-Weir Report. Effect of Depression on education. CALL NUMBER: T1364:0002 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): A career in B.C.'s educational system (part two) PERIOD COVERED: 1935-1945 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1974-10-03 SUMMARY: Dr. English describes changes in education in the 1930s, and his experiences as a school inspector in the Peace River school district. CALL NUMBER: T1364:0003 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): A career in B.C.'s educational system (part three) PERIOD COVERED: 1943-1962 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1974-10-03 SUMMARY: Dr. English discusses his experiences as an inspector in Trail-Rossland district, and the differences between this district and the Trail school board. Talks about the problem of Doukhobors' refusal to send their children to school. Implementation of Cameron Report in the Greater Victoria area. CALL NUMBER: T1364:0004 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): A career in B.C.'s educational system (part four) PERIOD COVERED: 1946-1963 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1974-10-03 SUMMARY: Discussion of advantages and disadvantages of re-organization according to the Cameron Report. Discussion of changes in organization of the Department of Education, and changing responsibilities of officials. Policy decision under Social Credit government. Curriculum revision. The Chant Report. CALL NUMBER: T1364:0005 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): A career in B.C.'s educational system (part five) PERIOD COVERED: 1945-1965 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1974-10-03 SUMMARY: Career as Deputy Minister of Education: discussion of implementation of Chant Report, of contribution of Ministers of Education, of changes in organization of Department of Education. Observations on the Legislature. General comments about trends in education and the preparation of annual reports. (End of interview)

CALL NUMBER: T1366:0001 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Civil Service Commissioner 1945-1969 (part 1) RECORDED: [location unknown], 1974-11-14 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Family background and education. Career as teacher and school inspector. Appointment as Chief Personnel Officer. Early history of Civil Service. Reorganization Report 1945. Installing system. TRACK 2: Post-war employment situation. Cost of living bonus. Streamlining. Changing role of Commission. Coalition government and CSC. B.C. Government Employees Association and CSC. Salary settlements. CALL NUMBER: T1366:0002 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Civil Service Commissioner 1945-1969 (part 2) RECORDED: [location unknown], 1974-11-14 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Coalition government and collective bargaining. Advent of Social Credit and CSC. Social Credit and staffing. Grievance procedures. In-service training. Employees Safety Program. TRACK 2: Dismissal of Dave Barrett. New Provincial Secretary Wesley Black. New Government and CSC. Carrothers Report. Government opposition to collective bargaining. Ferry workers "strike". CALL NUMBER: T1366:0003 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Civil Service Commissioner 1945-1969 (part 3) RECORDED: [location unknown], 1974-11-14 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Collective bargaining issue. Salary discussions. 1972 Civil Service Report. Collective bargaining and paternalistic system. NDP government and British versus American civil service system. Retrospect. (End of interview)

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.

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.

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.

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.

CALL NUMBER: T1378:0001 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): A farmer in Ontario and Alberta, 1895-1920 PERIOD COVERED: 1895-1920 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Born in Brampton, Ontario, 1895. Discusses family background: family were quite prosperous farmers, personal and family religious beliefs. Personal background: Chant's education to first year; high school, matters of personal philosophy, early interest in firearms and engines. Family moved to Alberta in 1913. More on engines. TRACK 2: Conscripted in 1918 but did not fight due to influenza. Description of "power farming" around Camrose, Alberta. Climate change as a result of farming. Changes in Alberta agriculture. Techniques of land breaking after 1913. Steam versus internal combustion engine for farm work.

CALL NUMBER: T1378:0002 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): An Alberta farmer : 1918-1927 PERIOD COVERED: 1918-1927 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Description of the Chant family farm, Camrose, Alberta. Churches in Camrose. Met wife in Baptist church. Marries in 1931. [TRACK 2: blank.]

CALL NUMBER: T1378:0003 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Political activity and Social Credit monetary theory : 1927-1935 PERIOD COVERED: 1927-1935 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Continued farming after WW I. Ran for School Trustee in 1927. Lloyd George municipal councillor, 1932-1935. Welfare and relief during the Depression. Depression conditions around Camrose, Alberta. Member of United Farmers of Alberta (UFA) prior to 1935. "Moral" problems of UFA government. Supported "Progressives" in federal elections. Becomes interested in Social Credit about 1933. Heard Major Douglas being questioned by Alberta Legislature. William Aberhart's Prophetic Bible Institute radio broadcasts. Chant studies Social Credit theory. "Just price". Chant as President of Camrose Social Credit Group, 1933. TRACK 2: Camrose Social Credit study group. Aberhart visits Camrose in 1935. Social Credit monetary theory. "$25 dividend". Aberhart's Social Credit proposals. Chant, Douglas; and Aberhart in general agreement. "New Age Club" and controversy over Aberhart's interpretation of Social Credit. "The National Dividend". "Poverty in the midst of plenty". "A Plus B Theorem". The question of anti-Semitism within the Social Credit movement. The appeal of Social Credit in Alberta during the 1930s.

CALL NUMBER: T1378:0004 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Social Credit in Alberta in the 1930s PERIOD COVERED: 1935-1940 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Founding convention of the Social Credit party, Edmonton, Alberta, 1935. Monetary theory and resentment toward banks in the 1930s. Comparison between William Aberhart and Ernest Manning. 1935 nominating meeting for Camrose constituency. Meeting of Social Credit nominees with Aberhart. Campaign for the 1935 provincial election. TRACK 2: Monetary theory in Alberta in the 1930s. The $25 dividend. Other issues in 1935 election: conditions of employment, debt adjustment, government debt. Debt Adjustment Boards. Social Credit sweeps 1935 election. Chant selected as Minister of Agriculture. Caucus meets for first time. Swearing in of the new cabinet, Sept. 3, 1935. Problems of an inexperienced cabinet. Problems and disagreements between Aberhart and Chant. Chant's resignation from the cabinet, 1937.

CALL NUMBER: T1378:0005 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): The first Social Credit government : 1935-1940 PERIOD COVERED: 1935-1940 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Chant resigns as Minister of Agriculture, 1937. Personal assessment of Aberhart. Problems within the government. Relations between Aberhart's government and Major C.H. Douglas. The Social Credit "experts" and problems of implementing Social Credit policies. The "Bankers' Toadies" incident. "Insurgents" within Social Credit caucus. Government priorities after the 1935 election. The opposition. TRACK 2: G.L. MacLachlan as a leader of the opposition to Aberhart. Attempts at instituting Social Credit monetary policies. Prosperity certificates. Bad relations between Aberhart and the Alberta press. Attempts to purchase the Calgary Albertan. More on Chant's resignation as a cabinet minister. Chant does not contest the 1940 election.

CALL NUMBER: T1378:0006 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Social Credit in Alberta : 1933-1948 PERIOD COVERED: 1933-1950 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Chant's affiliation with the United Farmers of Alberta. Monetary reformers in Alberta. Chant's early rejection of socialism. Runs as an Independent in 1944 election. Chant was politically inactive 1944-48. Chant's farming operations, 1940-48. Chant's hobbies: economics, hunting. TRACK 2: Critique of socialism. Chant's personal religious beliefs. Popular association of Christianity and Social Credit. Chant present in Alberta legislature when Major C.H. Douglas questioned, 1934. Nominating procedures prior to the 1935 election. More details about the Social Credit "experts". More on "prosperity certificates". More details about Chant's resignation, 1937. Chant moves to Victoria, 1948. Began organizing for Social Credit, 1950.

CALL NUMBER: T1378:0007 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Social Credit in B.C. : The critical years, 1950-1953 PERIOD COVERED: 1950-1953 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Organizing Social Credit groups on Vancouver Island, 1950. Worked with Elmer McEwan and Herb Bruch organizing Social Credit study groups. Chant disliked the Coalition government because of patronage system. Social Credit conventions in early 1950s. The Wicks-Jukes conflict. Other Socred organizer in B.C. Social Credit fiscal policy in B.C. Finances of the Social Credit League. TRACK 2: Discussion of the 1951 by-election in Esquimalt. Influence of Albertans in the B.C. Social Credit League. The 1952 election: Chant unsuccessful in Esquimalt. Albertans leery of W.A.C. Bennett's leadership. The 1953 election: Chant elected in Victoria.

CALL NUMBER: T1378:0008 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): A Social Credit MLA and Minister of Public Works PERIOD COVERED: 1953-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1976 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: The 1953 election: Chant elected in Victoria. Einar Gunderson defeated in 1954 by-election. Reaction to the appointments of Gunderson and Bonner. The legislature and the Social Credit caucus. Chant becomes Minister of Public Works, 1955. Some Alberta Socreds displeased when Chant appointed minister. Chant's assessment of Ernest Manning. TRACK 2: Chant sworn in, 1955. The conduct of W.A.C. Bennett's cabinet meetings. Budgetary procedures and controls: Treasury Board, role of W.A.C. Bennett on the Treasury Board. First priorities as Minister of Public Works.

CALL NUMBER: T1378:0009 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Minister of Public Works : 1955-1972 PERIOD COVERED: 1955-1976 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1976 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Administrative problems in the Public Works department: firing a deputy minister, departmental administration. Chant discusses the Legislative opposition. The Victoria and Duncan courthouses. More on the Legislature. TRACK 2: All-night sittings of the Legislature. Fiscal policies of the Bennett government. Net debt and "contingent liabilities". Bennett's fiscal conservatism. Gerald Bryson, Deputy Minister of Finance. Bennett as a wise manager of public funds. Comments on the Columbia River Treaty.

CALL NUMBER: T1378:0010 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): The Department of Public Works, fiscal policy and comments on unions PERIOD COVERED: 1955-1976 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1976 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Plans for the development of the parliamentary precinct. Comments on the construction of the Museum and Archives complex. Comments on tight fiscal control exercised by Treasury Board. Fires in 1957: the Birdcages and Government House. Chant's interest in the University of Victoria. TRACK 2: Comments on the confidentiality of Treasury Board and cabinet. The Sommers case and comments on political integrity. The 1956 election. Chant's negative comments about organized labour and reaction to them. Discussion of some labour issues: closed shops, compulsory arbitration, public service collective bargaining, and the right to strike in the public sector.

CALL NUMBER: T1378:0011 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Labour relations and economic development in British Columbia : 1953-1972 PERIOD COVERED: 1953-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1976 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Pressure groups. Civil Service strike, 1959, and Chant's negative reaction to it. The Carruthers report. Comments on union power and the "closed shop". Problems of commercial monopolies such as the banks. Monetary theory. Economic development in northern B.C. TRACK 2: The plans of Wenner-Gren. More on economic development. Comments on the proper role of governments. The economic system in B.C. CALL NUMBER: T1378:0012 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Comments and opinions of a Social Credit cabinet minister PERIOD COVERED: 1953-1976 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1976 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: The takeover of the B.C. Electric Co. Social Credit a "free enterprise" party. More on the takeover of B.C. Electric Co. Dominion-provincial relations. Language problems in Canada. Chant's negative opinions of P.E. Trudeau. TRACK 2: The morality of P.E. Trudeau. The duties of an elected representative. Chant's strengths and weaknesses as a minister. Press relations. The use of telephones; within the public service. Chant a member of Canadian Club and rotary.

CALL NUMBER: T1378:0013 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Social life, Phil Gaglardi, the B.C. Building and the 1972 election PERIOD COVERED: 1953-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1976 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: The social side of cabinet duties: state balls, royal visits. Chant's views in favour of the monarchy. Chant's personal support of the Red Ensign as the official flag of Canada. Phil Gaglardi: Chant's lack of personal confidence in him; Chant declines to attend Gaglardi's reinstatement to cabinet; Bennett and Gaglardi. Chant had no "special" friends within the cabinet. Relations between W;.A.C. Bennett and Chant. The planning for the large government building in Vancouver. TRACK 2: More on the 55-story building in Vancouver. Bennett's personal interest in this project. Discussion of the conduct of cabinet meetings. Violent incident in New Westminster during the 1972 election campaign.

CALL NUMBER: T1378:0014 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): The federal Social Credit Party and early B.C. Social Crediters PERIOD COVERED: 1948-1976 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1976 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Relations between the federal and provincial wings of the Social Credit Party. Influence of the Alberta Socreds in B.C. Alberta influences directed against Chant. Discussion of the 1951 by-election in Esquimalt. The federal Social Credit Party. TRACK 2: The B.C. Socred ministers took part in varying degrees in federal elections. Chant's comments on the federal Socred leaders: Solon Low, Robert Thompson, Real Caouette. Federal organizing and finances. The split between the federal and provincial wings of the party and Chant's reaction to it. 1962 federal leadership convention. Comments on the roles of Major A.H. Jukes, Peer Paynter and Lyle Wicks in the Social Credit League in the late 1940s and early 1950s.

CALL NUMBER: T1378:0015 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Chant as the Minister of Public Works PERIOD COVERED: 1953-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1976 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Design and execution of the fountains at the Vancouver Courthouse and the Parliament buildings. Projects of which Chant was particularly proud. More on the B.C. Building, Vancouver. Bennett's interest in the B.C. Building. Problems with the B.C. Building. The Bank of British Columbia. TRACK 2: Bennett's attitudes towards confederation. Bennett's notion of a guaranteed annual income. Chant accepted no gifts from contractors. Comments on the Legislature. Comments on Robert Bonner's departure from the cabinet, 1968. Considerations in the calling of elections.

CALL NUMBER: T1378:0016 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): A cabinet minister's life PERIOD COVERED: 1953-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1976 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Chant discusses cabinet procedures and elections. The period between the 1972 defeat and the NDP takeover of the administration. The 1966 electoral redistribution. Practical and political considerations in redrawing electoral boundaries. TRACK 2: The defections of Don Marshall and Scott Wallace to the Conservatives. Chant's assessment of W.A.C. Bennett as a leader. Comments of Waldo Skillings, Don Smith and Lydia Arsens. Security in the vicinity of the Legislature. General security for the public buildings. Chant's secretary. Chant's decision to retire. Chant's negative feelings towards socialism. Chant describes a typical working day.

CALL NUMBER: T1378:0017 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Personal reflections PERIOD COVERED: 1953-1976 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1976 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: The work of administering a department. Chant's personal scheduling. Travel. The Social Credit organization in Victoria. Chant's relations with various Victoria city councils. Assessment of the new government of W.R. Bennett. Personal reflections on a life in public office. Main interests and influences: motive power, economic theory, Christianity. The influence of Christianity on Chant's thinking. [TRACK 2: blank? End of interview.)

SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Dave Barrett : 1980 interview RECORDED: [location unknown], 1980 SUMMARY: David Mitchell interview former BC Premier and NDP Leader David Barrett. [No content summary or documentation available.];

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]

SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): From the father unto the son: the political education of Bill Bennett PERIOD COVERED: 1930-1952 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-01-06 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Premier Bill Bennett discusses growing up in Kelowna during the 1930s. Relationship with his brother and sister. Social life and education. The Bennett household. W.A.C. Bennett as a father. The role of his mother. Religion and the Bennett family. The effect of politics on the Bennett family. Relations within the family. Recollections of the Bennett home and surrounding grounds. Education. Attending private school. The decision to enter the family business on a full-time basis. TRACK 2: Premier Bill Bennett discusses the question of when he personally attained adulthood. Visiting the Penthouse cabaret in Vancouver in the early 1950s. Young adulthood as the son of the Premier. The reasons why he did not drink alcoholic beverages as a young man. Reading habits as a boy. Reaction to his father joining the Social Credit Party, 1951. Reaction to his father becoming Premier, 1952. Working for his father during election campaigns. Taking over the family hardware business with his brother. The argumentative nature of the relationships between members of the Bennett family. Politics and public service. (End of interview)

CALL NUMBER: T1410:0001 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Personal history and teaching experience PERIOD COVERED: 1925-1953 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975 SUMMARY: Wesley Drewett Black describes: his early career in the teaching profession; his service in B.C. at Newlands, Giscome, Britannia Beach and Creston. Joined Social Credit party in 1951 and attended early Socred organization meetings in this year. He was a winning candidate for the Socreds in the 1952 provincial election in the Nelson-Creston constituency. Appointed Provincial Secretary in July 1952. Mr. Black reflects upon the first Social Credit cabinet in B.C. CALL NUMBER: T1410:0002 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): W.D. Black's contribution to the first and second W.A.C. Bennett governments PERIOD COVERED: 1952-1953 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975 SUMMARY: W.D. Black continues to discuss the first Social Credit administration in B.C. in 1952. He reflects upon the defeat of this minority government and their subsequent re-election in 1953. Black recalls in detail the underlying political climate during this era in B.C. history. He discusses in detail the problems he encountered in improving mental health policy in B.C. during the early period of the second W.A.C. Bennett government. CALL NUMBER: T1410:0003 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Administrative problems and policy, 1953-54 PERIOD COVERED: 1952-1954 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975 SUMMARY: W.D. Black continues his explanation of the reforms that he implemented in the civil service after 1953 when he was Provincial Secretary. Discussion of life as a cabinet minister. Reference to changes in legislative procedures and the electoral process. Discussion of the implementation of Social Credit policies during 1953-54. CALL NUMBER: T1410:0004 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Role of the civil service, 1952-1972 PERIOD COVERED: 1952-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: W.D. Black discusses the civil service 1952-72. The problem of coming to grips with the civil service upon taking office. The work of the Stevenson Kellogg Co. in studying the civil service. The development of programs and pension plans for the civil service. TRACK 2: Also discusses the growth of the B.C. Government Employees Association. The one day strike of the association is discussed. The implications of the Carruthers Report, and relations between the government and the association. CALL NUMBER: T1410:0005 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Development of medicare PERIOD COVERED: 1952-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: W.D. Black discusses: relations with the press; workload as a cabinet minister and travel demands; the Columbia River Basin development on his constituency; road building programs. TRACK 2: Black describes the development of a provincial medicare plan, the problems of devising a comprehensive medicare scheme, and relation with the medical profession. CALL NUMBER: T1410:0006 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Implementation of medicare plan PERIOD COVERED: 1952-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: W.D. Black discusses the final stages in the development of the Medical Services Plan of B.C., and the legislation that brought the plan into being. W.D. Black appointed as Minister of Health to implement plan. Negotiations with Ottawa to bring the plan under the national scheme's framework. TRACK 2: The Sommers scandal and the charges made by Gordon Gibson Sr. regarding payoffs in the granting of forest management licenses. CALL NUMBER: T1410:0007 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): 1958 Centennial PERIOD COVERED: 1952-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Plans for the 1958 Centennial under the direction of L.J. Wallace and W.D. Black. Discussion of W.A.C. Bennett's concept of Northern Development. TRACK 2: Mr. Black's attention to constituency matters during his period in office. The development of regional districts in B.C. CALL NUMBER: T1410:0008 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): The Woodlands School, Hansard, civil defense, and the B.C. flag PERIOD COVERED: 1952-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: W.D. Black discusses Woodlands School and problems with the press regarding it. Development of a legislative Hansard for B.C. The 1958 ferry strike and the development of the idea for a B.C. ferry system. The origination of the official B.C. flag. TRACK 2: Discussion of civil defense, the building of fall-out shelters and the problems of getting people involved in civil defense. Discussion of the 1960 provincial election and elections in general.

CALL NUMBER: T1410:0009 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): 1960 provincial election PERIOD COVERED: 1952-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: W.D. Black discusses the 1960 election in detail: campaign issues, organization in his constituency, funding of election campaigns. Description of conduct of MLAs in the legislature and the importance of freedom of behaviour. TRACK 2: More discussion on campaign funding and the reaction of people to Frank McMann's support of the Social Credit in the 1960 election. Discussion of the need for increase in transportation facilities for Vancouver. Options for mass transit and the problems of planning in the transportation field. CALL NUMBER: T1410:0010 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Mental health, 1962 federal election and E. Davie Fulton PERIOD COVERED: 1952-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: W.D. Black discusses the Woodlands School and the problem of providing adequate mental health facilities for B.C. The formation of the NDP and the reasons for Bill 42 limiting the check off of union dues. Also mentioned is the problem of labour relations. TRACK 2: Mr. Black details the involvement of the Social Credit government in the 1962 federal election. The details of organizing the campaign for Social Credit. He also discusses federal-provincial relations and his meetings with Diefenbaker and various federal cabinet ministers. He talks about the role of E. Davie Fulton as leader of the Conservative party, provincially. He relates his knowledge of the development of Simon Fraser University. CALL NUMBER: T1410:0011 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Social Welfare Department, B.C. Electric, and the C.C.F.-to-NDP PERIOD COVERED: 1952-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: W.D. Black discusses the formation of the Social Welfare Department and his goals as its first minister. The problems of reorganizing it. Dealing with the concept of welfare. The New Willington School for Girls. Problem of staffing the department and working with social workers. TRACK 2: The problem of handling a rapidly growing department and the demand for more and more services. Financial constraints. Discussion of the overlap between provincial and municipal welfare programs. Provision of welfare service to northern B.C. and some of the problems involved. The takeover of B.C. Electric and some of the reactions to this policy. The establishment of the NDP as a party. CALL NUMBER: T1410:0012 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): The 1966 election, health care and the Bank of B.C. PERIOD COVERED: 1952-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: W.D. Black discusses his impression of leaders of the opposition: Dave Barrett, Harold Winch. Some of the examples of government austerity programs. Establishment of the Bank of British Columbia. Discussion of role as Provincial Secretary. Electoral redistribution in 1966. The 1966 provincial election and campaign issues. Role of W.A.C. Bennett in the 1966 election. TRACK 2: Mr. Black becomes Minister of Health and Hospital Insurance. Some of the immediate reactions to being minister of this department. Problems with providing extended care facilities for the province. Rising health care costs. The Agnew-Peckam Report on Vancouver General Hospital. CALL NUMBER: T1410:0013 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): The 1969 and 1972 elections, and the press PERIOD COVERED: 1952-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: W.D. Black discusses the creation of regional hospital districts in 1967. He evaluates his 20 years as a cabinet minister. The impact of the resignation of Robert Bonner. Press relations. TRACK 2: W.A.C. Bennett's interest in taking over the Yukon and the Northwest Territories. Plans for the development of the north. The impact of the development of Robert Banks Super Port and coal mining in the Kootenays. Also discusses: the 1969 provincial election, and campaign issues; 1972 provincial election; the Kelowna Charter; New Westminster demonstration; and Phil Gaglardi. CALL NUMBER: T1410:0014 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): The 1971 Centennial, culture, and his role as minister PERIOD COVERED: 1952-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1975 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: W.D. Black discusses his role as Provincial Secretary, the 1971 Centennial, and the building of Heritage Court. He remembers Willard Ireland, Provincial Archivist. Discusses the concept of culture. TRACK 2: Support of cultural programs and funding. Changing character of Members of Legislative Assembly. Role of women in government. His workload as a cabinet minister. Major illness in 1967. CALL NUMBER: T1410:0015 - 0016 SUMMARY: [No content summaries or other documentation are available for these two recordings.]

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.]

CALL NUMBER: T2639:0001 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Financial policies of the Social Credit government, 1952-1960 PERIOD COVERED: 1900-1960 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-05-16 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Einar Gunderson discusses his background, education and training; his work as a chartered accountant in Edmonton; his experience working for the Alberta government as head of the income tax department in the 1930s. Gunderson came to British Columbia in 1945 and became established with one of the largest chartered accountancy firms in the province. Gunderson discusses his relationship with W.A.C. Bennett and the background to his involvement in British Columbia politics which led to his appointment as Minister of Finance in 1952. TRACK 2: Gunderson discusses the 1952 by-election in Similkameen after which he took his seat in the Legislature. Ideas regarding fiscal and economic policy which were adopted by the Social Credit government. Comments about the 1953 provincial election in which Gunderson was defeated and the subsequent by-election in Victoria which he also lost. Gunderson discusses his on-going relationship with Premier W.A.C. Bennett as financial and economic advisor; his role as vice-president of the P.G.E. and Director of B.C. Hydro. Gunderson also comments on his general influence on government policies, especially debt-reduction. CALL NUMBER: T2639:0002 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Financial policies of the government of W.A.C. Bennett PERIOD COVERED: 1952-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-05-19 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Einar Gunderson discusses his family background, attitude toward the Social Credit government in Alberta in the 1930s, relationship between Socreds in B.C. and Alberta, the Kelowna "bond-fire;", financial policies of W.A.C. Bennett, debt reduction, the issue of contingent liabilities, budget-making, economic development under Social Credit, the Toll Bridges and Highway Authority, B.C. Ferries, homeowners grant, parity bonds. TRACK 2: Reaction to the issue of parity bonds, the B.C. Free Enterprise Educational Fund, election fund raising, free enterprise vs. public ownership, the role of government in the economy, socialism, inter-relationships in the Socred cabinet, the Sommers Affair, W.A.C. Bennett and loyalty, personal relationship with W.A.C. Bennett, comments on Bennett's character and personality, travelling with W.A.C. Bennett, federal-provincial relations, equalization payments. CALL NUMBER: T2639:0003 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Aspects of government during the tenure of W.A.C. Bennett PERIOD COVERED: 1952-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-05-19 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Einar Gunderson discusses the differences between equalization payments and W.A.C. Bennett's proposed negative income tax; relations with different federal administrations; federal-provincial conferences; the Briggs affair; the Wenner-Gren plan for the development of the interior of B.C.; Axel Wenner-Gren; the genesis of the two-river policy; the takeover of the B.C. Electric Co., the Stonehill affair, the genesis of the Bank of British Columbia. TRACK 2: Continuation of discussion of the proposal for a Bank of British Columbia, concluding remarks on Bennett and 20 years of power. (End of interview)

CALL NUMBER: T2641:0001 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Early years and personal background of Arthur Helps PERIOD COVERED: 1912-1940 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Born in Toronto in 1912. Early memories and family background. Family moved to Prairies, father was a missionary for the Presbyterian Church. Father went to work for Columbia Records and sold some of the first musical disc recordings in the Canadian West. Moved to B.C. in the 1920s. Early education in Regina and Vancouver. M.J. Coldwell was principal of school in Regina. Work and the Depression in Vancouver. TRACK 2: Arthur Helps' adventures at sea. Joining the militia. Harsh discipline at sea with the merchant marine. Camaraderie among crew with the British merchant marine. Adventure in the Mediterranean. Return to B.C. Efforts to secure employment in B.C. CALL NUMBER: T2641:0002 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Early career of Arthur Helps PERIOD COVERED: 1930-1943 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Seeks career in the military. Early political interests -- was on the executive of the B.C. Young Liberals. Life in the militia. Ian Mackenzie as federal Minister of National Defence. Conditions in the Army. Vancouver and work in the post office. Harsh conditions of working postal routes in Vancouver. Marriage. Attempts to go into business in Vancouver. TRACK 2: Entry into Armed Forces. Life in Point Grey Armed Forces Camp. Helps' conflicts in the Armed Forces. Agitation for pay for soldiers. Helps leaves the Army, attempts to enter the R.C.A.F. but joins the Irish Fusiliers. CALL NUMBER: T2641:0003 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Genesis of Town Meeting of the Air in Canada PERIOD COVERED: 1932-1950 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Army life with the Irish Fusiliers, 2nd Battalion. Helps attained rank of Staff Sergeant. Was denied service outside of B.C. because of physical impairment. Discharge from Army. History of the idea of Town Meeting of the Air. Vancouver's radio audience in the 1940s. Top stations were CJOR and CKWX. CBC represents a system of thought control. TRACK 2: Broadcasting in Canada was behind the times. Helps favours American institution of freedom of speech. CJOR in Vancouver. The founding of the CBC in the 1930s. Ira Dilworth as regional director of CBC. Helps meets George Denny, moderator of Town Meeting of the Air in America. Description of the administration and operation of America's Town Meeting of the Air. CALL NUMBER: T2641:0004 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Arthur Helps' political background PERIOD COVERED: 1940-1960 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: While working in the Attorney-General's department in 1945, Helps assists in forming the B.C. Government Employees Association. Idea behind the Association. Helps claims that the government was quite cooperative with the efforts to form an employee association. Helps' involvement with the Credit Union movement in B.C. Some of the early successes and failures of the Credit Union movement in B.C. TRACK 2: Arthur Helps' politics. Helps ran as a Liberal in the 1953 federal election in Vancouver-Kingsway against Angus MacInnis. He was not successful. He also ran in the provincial election of 1960 as a Liberal in Delta. Was again defeated, this time by the C.C.F. candidate. CALL NUMBER: T2641:0005 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Origins of Town Meeting of the Air in Canada PERIOD COVERED: 1940-1945 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Origins of Town Meeting of the Air in Canada. George Denny persuades Helps to start his own show in Vancouver. The problems in getting the show on the air. Opposition of CBC; negotiations with CKWX; skeptical cooperation of CJOR. First program of its kind in Canada. Discussion of early broadcast regulations. Leon Ladner assisted in raising funds for the program. Support for the program in its early stages was widespread despite opposition from established radio interests. Helps' views on the CBC and opposition to state-controlled broadcasting. TRACK 2: Show had surprisingly high ratings right from the start. How ratings were calculated. Program was broadcast throughout the country. George Chandler, owner of CJOR, and his attitude toward the program. Early history of Town Meeting of the Air in Canada. CALL NUMBER: T2641:0006 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Early years of Town Meeting of the Air in Canada : 1943 - 1947 PERIOD COVERED: 1943-1947 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Town Meeting of the Air in Canada commenced broadcasting from CJOR in 1943. The show grew in popularity greatly during the early period, 1943-1947. It was broadcast on stations across Canada in every province except Quebec. Cooperation between the show and its American counterpart. It was the first Canadian radio program to carry western opinion eastward. At the peak of its popularity the program was broadcast by thirty radio stations in Canada. Administration and operation of the program. July 31, 1947, America's Town Meeting of the Air comes to Vancouver for a special International Broadcast. TRACK 2: The International Broadcast was aired around the world. It was broadcast from Malkin Bowl in Stanley Park. Furor over fact that Dorothy Steeves was one of the Canadian speakers on the program. The federal government failed to provide a speaker for the show. Pressure was applied by Ottawa to prevent Steeves from participating in the program because it was felt that she was not representative of Canadian opinion. Despite all the difficulties, the show was a huge success. The CBC never cooperated. CALL NUMBER: T2641:0007 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Achievements of Town Meeting of the Air in Canada PERIOD COVERED: 1947-1958 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Lack of CBC cooperation and its effect on the International Broadcast of Town Meeting of the Air in Vancouver. Reasons why Helps does not look with favour on the CBC. Estimated listening audience for the special program was 50 million. Process of obtaining speakers for the regular weekly Canadian programs. Recollection of special banquet for Town Meeting of the Air which was attended by a variety of public celebrities. How topics for the show were decided upon. TRACK 2: Topics purposefully avoided. Religious topics. Anecdote about Harold Winch appearing on the program. Anecdote about Colin Cameron and Harold Pritchett almost coming to blows on the show. One of the most sensational shows involved Tim Buck. Problems with the airing of that program. Opposition of the Vancouver business community. Tim Buck was disappointed and upset over how the show was run (he debated on the program with Alex MacDonald) and he subsequently "disappeared". Buck did not appear on the radio again for several months. Topics which were illegal to discuss on radio because of broadcast regulations. CALL NUMBER: T2641:0008 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): History of Town Meeting of the Air in Canada PERIOD COVERED: 1943-1955 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Town Meeting of the Air in Canada was banned by Communist Party of Canada. Helps believes that this was because the CPC did not believe in free speech. Some of the controversial local issues which were discussed on the program. Free speech is the essence of democracy. Helps' presentation to the Massey Royal Commission on broadcasting, 1955. TRACK 2: Helps' criticism of the CBC. CBC's attitude toward Town Meeting of the Air. The CBC is anathema to freedom of broadcasting. Helps discusses the two Town Meeting of the Air programs which were censored. CALL NUMBER: T2641:0009 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Town Meeting of the Air in Canada and Social Credit in B.C. PERIOD COVERED: 1943-1955 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Helps claims that his own involvement in politics did not affect his impartiality as moderator of Town Meeting of the Air. Political allegiances and personalities. Helps claims that his program greatly facilitated the election of B.C.'s first Social Credit government in 1952. Helps discusses many of the Socred personalities who became involved with Town Meeting of the Air: William Rose, Ralph Chetwynd, Eric Martin, Peer Paynter, etc. TRACK 2: Anecdote regarding W.A.C. Bennett's attainment of the leadership of the Social Credit Party. Anecdote regarding Robert Bonner's appearance on Town Meeting of the Air as a Conservative and subsequent entry into the Socred administration. After 1952, the Socreds rarely appeared on the program. Some other memorable programs. CALL NUMBER: T2641:0010 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Travelling with Town Meeting of the Air in Canada PERIOD COVERED: 1943-1965 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Story about broadcasting a program from Powell River. Town Meeting of the Air had a tremendous audience in Powell River. The show won an international award for the program recorded there. Helps discusses his travels throughout B.C. and Canada with Town Meeting of the Air. TRACK 2: Helps continues discussion of the history of Town Meeting of the Air as it travelled from coast to coast. Anecdotes about particular shows in St. John's, Newfoundland. CALL NUMBER: T2641:0011 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): The decline of Town Meeting of the Air in Canada PERIOD COVERED: 1969-1971 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Helps explains why Town Meeting of the Air left the air in 1971. Lack of sponsorship and money matters were important factors. Helps believes that Town Meeting of the Air was going against the trends in radio broadcasting. Censorship of the program made it a difficult show to sponsor. TRACK 2: Television had superceded radio and it helped to eclipse a program like Town Meeting of the Air. CJOR, and the internal politics of the station, did not hinder the program. The achievement of Town Meeting of the Air in Canada.

CALL NUMBER: T2662:0002 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Earle C. Westwood discusses his early life PERIOD COVERED: 1909-1953 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-05-31 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Earle C. Westwood discusses his early life. He describes his family, their pioneering experiences in the Nanaimo area, his education, and his work as a bank clerk, longshoreman, and millwright assistant. Mentioned in context are Nanaimo, B.C.; Port Alice, B.C.; Britannia High School in Vancouver; Wesley Black. TRACK 2: Earle Westwood discusses the Depression, his return to Nanaimo, his funeral parlour businesses in Nanaimo and Duncan, and his involvement in the Junior Chamber of Commerce, the Nanaimo City Council, and his period as mayor of Nanaimo. He also relates his impressions of; the Coalition government, his early career ambitions, and his organizational membership. Westwood describes his first interests in Social Credit and his first meeting with W.A.C. Bennett. In addition, he discusses the provincial election of 1953. Mentioned in passing are Ernie Carson, George S. Pearson, Byron Johnson, Peter Maffeo, and Lorenzo Giovando. CALL NUMBER: T2662:0003 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Earle C. Westwood discusses his experiences as a cabinet minister PERIOD COVERED: 1956-1960 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-05-31 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Earle C. Westwood discusses the provincial elections of 1953 and 1956 as well as his own election in 1956 and his appointment as Minister of Trade and Industry. Mentioned also are his travels with Premier Bennett in 1954, party platforms in the 1953 and 1956 elections, and his perceptions of his political opponents. He describes his objectives as MLA and cabinet minister and the projects undertaken by the Department of Trade and Industry while it was under his direction. TRACK 2: Earle Westwood discusses the origins and policies of the Department of Recreation and Conservation, the nature of the tourist industry in B.C. during the late 1950s, and the creation of Beautiful B.C. Magazine. He also discusses decision and policy making in his ministry as well as some activities of the B.C. Federation of Fish and Game Clubs. Westwood also relates how his estimates were approved by Treasury Board. CALL NUMBER: T2662:0004 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Earle C. Westwood on his later political life and his period as Agent-General PERIOD COVERED: 1960-1968 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-06-02 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Earle C. Westwood recalls his days as Minister of Recreation and Conservation, and Commercial Transport. He discusses the provincial election of 1960, the Pacific Northern Railway, and the B.C. government takeovers of the B.C. Electric Co. and the Black Ball ferry fleet. Westwood also discusses northern development and some speculation that B.C. would seek the Winter Olympics. TRACK 2: Earle C. Westwood evaluates the effectiveness of the C.C.F. opposition during his years in office, focusing on the roles of Robert Strachan, Dave Barrett and Leo Nimsick. He also comments on the nature of the Social Credit opposition during the Dave Barrett administration. Westwood recalls the provincial election of 1963 and his retirement from politics. Also discussed are his period as Agent-General, the effects of socialism in Britain and Westwood's travels with W.A.C. Bennett in Europe. CALL NUMBER: T2662:0005 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Earle C. Westwood on his time as Agent-General and his general perception of politics PERIOD COVERED: 1964-1978 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-06-02 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Earle C. Westwood recalls his travels in Europe with W.A.C. Bennett and his accomplishments as Agent-General. He discusses his activities upon returning to B.C. and comments on his perceptions of various political figures including: Dave Stupich, Leo Nimsick, Tom Uphill, Gordon Gibson, Deane Finlayson, Robert Bonner, Einar Gunderson, Phil Gaglardi, Robert Thompson, and Ronald Worley. Westwood also discusses how cabinet was run during the W.A.C. Bennett years, how policies were developed, and his own relationship with Bennett. TRACK 2: Westwood discusses the relationship between the Social Credit party in B.C. and Social Credit parties in other provinces (Alberta and Quebec) and the relationship with the federal Social Credit party. He also describes his activities before the caucus and his perceptions of W.A.C. Bennett as premier. Also discussed are Westwood's relationship with the press, government-organized group relations, and his perceptions of other political parties. Westwood also comments on the role of government. CALL NUMBER: T2662:0006 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Earle C. Westwood discusses various political and social issues PERIOD COVERED: 1939-1978 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-06-08 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Earle C. Westwood discusses civil defence in Nanaimo during World War II; all night sessions in the Legislature; his first interests in Social Credit; the Coalition government in B.C.; dominion-provincial relations during his terms in office; the Robert Sommers case; his concept of free enterprise and socialism; his impressions of Lyle Wicks, Eric Martin, and William Chant; proselytizers of the original Social Credit theories; and the current administration of W.R. Bennett. He also discusses California's Proposition 13 and the appeal of Social Credit to British Columbians. TRACK 2: Westwood discusses public reluctance to admit their support for Social Credit; eastern perceptions of Social Credit in B.C.; his meeting with Joey Smallwood; the fishing industry in B.C.; and his former plans for Newcastle Island as Minister of Recreation and Conservation. Westwood completes the interview with a brief account of his present activities.

CALL NUMBER: T2664:0001 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Growth of socialist politics in British Columbia (part 1) PERIOD COVERED: 1900-1974 RECORDED: Vancouver (B.C.), 1977-07-06 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Daisy Webster recalls the early history of labour and socialist politics in BC, 1900-1925. Early labour/left-wing MLAs. Summary of labour/left-wing political involvement across Canada. The role of J.S. Woodsworth. The formation of the CCF in 1932. The Regina Manifesto. The principles of the Co-operative Commonwealth Federation. Change in the CCF policy after 1932. The situation in BC in the 1930s. Rev. Robert Connell as the first BC leader. The 1936 split of the BC CCF. The CCF does poorly in 1937 provincial election. Harold Winch as leader of the CCF. CCF as the Official Opposition 1933-37, 1941-72. CCF women MLAs: Dorothy Steeves, Laura Jamieson, Grace MacInnis. TRACK 2: Description of E.E. Winch, Harold Winch. More details about Dorothy Steeves, Laura Jamieson and Grace MacInnis. Summary of the career of Mrs. Webster's husband Arnold. Description of Dr. Lyle Telford. CALL NUMBER: T2664:0002 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Growth of socialist politics in British Columbia (part 2) PERIOD COVERED: 1933-1972 RECORDED: Vancouver (B.C.), 1977-07-06 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Continuation of the discussion of the career of Arnold Webster. Arnold Webster as Parks Commissioner in Vancouver. Arnold Webster becomes provincial leader of the CCF, 1953. More on Arnold Webster's political career. Webster as Leader of the Opposition, 1953-56. Robert Strachan becomes political leader in 1956. [TRACK 2: blank; end of interview.];

CALL NUMBER: T2665:0001 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Personal background and the Great Depression PERIOD COVERED: 1916-1937 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-07-04 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Born in 1916 in the Peace River country of Alberta. Details about Kiernan's family and homesteading. Father killed in WW I; mother remarries and they continue to farm. Left Peace River country in 1927. After several stops, settled on a farm at Sumas Prairie. More details about Kiernan's family. Tough economic conditions in the Peace River district. Kiernan's education and work history to 1935. Ends formal education after grade 8. Reading habits as a young man. TRACK 2: Took correspondence courses from the Canadian Legion. Leisure activities as a youth: Trail Rangers and basketball. Delivered newspapers in Chilliwack area. "Rode the rods" to the Prairies in 1935. Economic struggles of Alberta and Saskatchewan, 1935-37. Returned to B.C. on the rods in October 1937. Anecdotes about riding the rods. CALL NUMBER: T2665:0002 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Life during the 1930s Depression and World War II PERIOD COVERED: 1935-1948 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-07-04 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Continuation of anecdote about riding the rods, 1935-37. Marginal economic circumstances of the Kiernan family during the Depression. Worked in Fraser Valley mills. Contracted pneumonia. Worked for Eddy's Nurseries, 1937-40. Joined the New Westminster Regiment, 1940. Interested in Social Credit in Alberta, 1935-37, but not a member. Read works of Marx but rejected them in the 1930s. Critique of Marx and of Canadian economic system in the 1930s. TRACK 2: Kiernan in motorized corps in Canada, 1940-46. Eventually became a Warrant Officer II. Not able to go overseas because of previous pneumonia. Comments on military discipline. Kiernan into business as a garage operator near Chilliwack, 1946. Flooded out in 1948. CALL NUMBER: T2665:0003 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): The Fraser River flood of 1948 and the 1952 provincial election PERIOD COVERED: 1948-1952 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-07-06 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Kiernan describes his experiences in being flooded out during the 1948 flood of Fraser River. Description of his return to the flooded home and service station. Becomes president of local PTA in 1950. Joined Social Credit in 1951. Comments on the Coalition government. Comments on Coalition/Liberal Premier Boss Johnson and Conservative leader Herbert Anscomb. TRACK 2: Kiernan becomes very active as a Social Credit organizer, 1951-52. Kiernan takes 1952 Social Credit nomination. Organizational details about Social Credit in Chilliwack. Early meetings emphasized monetary reform. The "Christian image" of Social Credit. The importance of individualism in Social Credit. General discussion of political philosophy. Liberals and Conservatives unaware of the upsurge of Social Credit in Chilliwack. Circumstances under which Kiernan took 1952 nomination. Defeated sitting Conservative Leslie Eyres. Key roles of Alberta Socreds in 1952 election. CALL NUMBER: T2665:0004 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Social Credit comes to power : 1952 election PERIOD COVERED: 1952-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-07-06 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: The importance of W.A.C. Bennett in the 1952 election. Kiernan says Alberta influence was minimal ca. 1952. 1952 Social Credit convention. Ernest Hansell as 1952 campaign leader. Bennett disillusioned with Conservatives. Kiernan sometimes "scared" by the vision of W.A.C. Bennett in things such as the two-river policy. Kiernan gives a sample of his 1952 election style. TRACK 2: Kiernan's experiences as a public speaker. The hard work of political campaigning. Description of Social Credit cabinet meetings. Kiernan's recollections of election night in 1952. Kiernan went to visit Bennett in Kelowna shortly after 1952 election. The decision is made to have W.A.C. Bennett as political leader, July 1952. CALL NUMBER: T2665:0005 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): British Columbia's first Social Credit government, 1952 PERIOD COVERED: 1952-1956 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-07-06 & 1977-09-13 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Kiernan is selected to be Agriculture Minister in the first Social Credit government. Anecdotes about becoming government. Comments on the Bennett style of leadership. The formation of the first cabinet. Kiernan speculates on the reasons for his selection as Minister of Agriculture. Comments on communist scare tactics used against the C.C.F. Socialist economic planning inappropriate for B.C. Problems with the dairy industry were the first big problems faced by Kiernan in the Agriculture portfolio. TRACK 2: The transition to power: early cabinet meetings, help from senior civil servants. Cabinet procedures. The selection of Robert Bonner and Einar Gunderson. Rev. H.D. Francis and Orr Newton resign in order to provide seats. Kiernan downplays the notion that the senior civil service opposed the new government. The firing of Percy Richards. Hospital insurance reforms after the 1952 election. Alternatives to hospital insurance proposed. CALL NUMBER: T2665:0006 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Minister of Agriculture PERIOD COVERED: 1952-1956 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-09-13 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Facing the problem of hospital insurance after the 1952 election. Building the cabinet team, 1952-53. Discussion of the 1953 session of the Legislature. Socreds maneuvering for defeat? Bennett sure of dissolution? The legislative defeat of Social Credit and the unusual passage of bills prior to dissolution. The "atmosphere" in the House at the time of the 1953 defeat. The resignation of Harold Winch as C.C.F. leader. The 1953 election. TRACK 2: Discussion of the 1953 election continued. The defeat of Tilly Rolston and Einar Gunderson. Their importance as cabinet ministers. Gunderson as a member of the Treasury Board. The election of John Perdue as president of the Social Credit League. Issues within the Department of Agriculture: brucellosis control, irrigation, hay shortages. Comments on W.H. Robertson and William McGillivray as Kiernan's deputy ministers. CALL NUMBER: T2665:0007 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): The Sommers affair PERIOD COVERED: 1952-1958 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-09-13 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Kiernan gives background to the Sommers affair. Comments on Gordon Gibson Sr. The "money talks" speech, February 1955. Gibson's charges not substantiated by the Lord Commission. Gibson's charges treated with great skepticism. Kiernan did not see the RCMP report to the Attorney-General's Department. The government has private investigator investigate the charges against Sommers. Sommers a known gambler to Kiernan. TRACK 2: More on Sommers' gambling. No pressure from ministers on Bennett to fire Sommers. Sommers called on to account for the allegations by cabinet and caucus. Sommers consistent in his denials. Circumstances surrounding the resignation of Bonner. Kiernan becomes Minister of Mines. CALL NUMBER: T2665:0008 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): The Sommers case and Minister of Mines and Petroleum Resources, 1956-1964 PERIOD COVERED: 1953-1964 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-09-26 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Death of Tilly Rolston, 1953. Discussion of Sommers case, continued. Opposition to Forest Management Licences. Sommers' resignation and Kiernan takes over the Mines portfolio, 1956. Robert Bonner and delays in the case. Comments on Mel Bryan who crossed the floor on the Sommers case. More on the delays. Sommers case harms Social Credit government. Kiernan expresses doubts about the guilt and illegal intentions of Sommers. Case did not affect timing of 1956 election. Not aware of Sommers' cabinet contact. TRACK 2: No suggestion of impropriety by Sommers in the Mines portfolio. Gifts to cabinet ministers. Sommers investigated by private detective. Kiernan's general observations on the Sommers case. "Politics is war". Kiernan Minister of Mines and Petroleum Resources, 1956-64. The challenge of taking over a new portfolio. Comments on Deputy Ministers of Mines: John Walker, P.J. Mulcahy. The framing of new petroleum legislation. Comments on the B.C. petroleum and gas industry.; CALL NUMBER: T2665:0009 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Minister of Mines and Petroleum Resources, 1956-1964 PERIOD COVERED: 1945-1964 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-09-26 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: The development of oil and natural gas leasing systems. Development of the Peace River region. The building of Westcoast Transmission pipeline. Description of Frank McMahon. Comments on foreign ownership of petroleum and natural gas resources. Description of the auction of oil and natural gas leases. TRACK 2: The auction system continued. Frank McMahon in the 1960 election. Anecdotes about some B.C. mining executives: Ozzie McDonald, Spud Huestis, Mel O'Brien. The opening of Bethlehem Copper Corporation mine in the Highland Valley. Changes in mining taxation and land tenure systems, c. 1957. Problems of establishing an iron and steel industry in B.C. Vehement industry opposition to changes in mining legislation. CALL NUMBER: T2665:0010 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Mines and Petroleum Resources, and Recreation and Conservation, 1956-1972 PERIOD COVERED: 1956-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-09-26 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Major problems faced as mines minister: taxation legislation, departmental expansion, mine safety. Dispute with federal government over offshore mineral rights. "Political" decision by the Supreme Court of Canada on this issue. The reclamation of mining sites. Kiernan expresses his opposition to the idea of company towns. Taxation on profits vs. royalties in the mining industry. Kiernan concerned about "penny mines" on the Vancouver Stock Exchange. TRACK 2: The formation of the Department of Recreation and Conservation, 1957. Kiernan becomes Minister of Recreation and Conservation, 1963. Anomalies in the classification of provincial parks. Mineral claims and timber leases in provincial parks. The case of Western Mines in Strathcona Park. The role of pressure groups in the Buttle Lake controversy. Preparation for his new portfolio of Recreation and Conservation. General comments on park development in B.C.; CALL NUMBER: T2665:0011 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Minister of Recreation and Conservation PERIOD COVERED: 1964-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-09-27 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Skepticism about the idea of wilderness preservation. The illogic of some park boundaries. The changing of the boundary of Manning Park to facilitate mining. Kiernan's ideas on the multiple use concept. Kiernan's impressions of the B.C. Wildlife Federation, SPEC, Sierra Club. The role of the Sierra Club in the boundary determinations for Pacific Rim National Park. TRACK 2: More on the Sierra Club of B.C. W.A.C. Bennett's attitudes on park matters. Public access on forestry roads. The formation of the Environment and Land Use Committee (ELUC) in 1969. Comments on the operation of ELUC and the Secretariat. ELUC originally a problem-solver rather than policy-maker. Comments on a few specific issues dealt with by ELUC. Kiernan not convinced of the concept of a single Minister of the Environment. Williston as chairman of ELUC. Land use questions more practical than moral or ethical. "Nature the adversary". The evolution of environmental attitudes in B.C. The minister as an arbitrator of attitudes.; CALL NUMBER: T2665:0012 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Environmental and economic issues PERIOD COVERED: 1964-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-09-27 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Kiernan's efforts to curb the excesses of the "throw-away" society. The Anti-Litter Act. The recycling of derelict automobiles. Deputy Ministers of Recreation and Conservation: Dave Turner, H.G. McWilliams, Lloyd Brooks. Comments on the proposed flooding of the Skagit River Valley. Opposition by the fishing lobby. Benefits of flood control on the Fraser River. TRACK 2: Flood control on the Fraser River continued. More comments on the fishing lobby. The benefits of fish versus the benefits of hydro power and flood control. Short term as Minister of Commercial Transport, 1963-64. Minister of Travel Industry, 1967-1972. The formation of the department, 1967. Ron Worley as Deputy Minister of the Travel Industry department. British Columbia tourist promotions. Comments on "The Wonderful World of W.A.C. Bennett". Kiernan's comments on our political society. Comments on the role of socialism in B.C. B.C. still in the frontier stage. General comments on the NDP caucus prior to 1972. Analysis of the B.C. economy. The need for new hydro electric power developments in B.C.

CALL NUMBER: T2705:0001 - 0005 RECORDED: [location unknown], [1980?] SUMMARY: [No content summaries or documentation available for these first five tapes.]; CALL NUMBER: T2705:0006 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Reminiscences of W.A.C. Bennett, 1941-1979 PERIOD COVERED: 1941-1975 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1980 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Waldo Skillings recalls his first impressions of W.A.C. Bennett. Comments on B.C. politics during the Coalition era. Speculation about W.A.C. Bennett. Bennett being offered a Coalition cabinet post. Pattullo and W.A.C. Bennett. Bennett's public image versus his true character. Bennett was a shy and emotional man. Bennett's weaknesses. The role of Bob Bonner in the first Social Credit government. Bonner's resignation as Attorney-General, 1968 and its effect on the government. The question of succession to the leadership of the Social Credit party after W.A.C. Bennett. Bennett wanted his son to succeed him as leader. TRACK 2: Patronage and the first Social Credit government. Public relations men and the W.A.C. Bennett government. Comments on Cam Kenmuir and Dan Ekman. Anecdote about Ekman, Kenmuir and Clancey drinking in W.A.C. Bennett's presence. Discussion of the 1972 election. Reasons for the defeat of the Social Credit government. Recollection of events during the election campaign. Comments on Phil Gaglardi. Comments about Skillings' personal fate in the 1972 election. Reaction to the defeat of the government. The effect of the defeat on W.A.C. Bennett. Comments on B.C. politics since 1972. Personal assessment of Bill Bennett as Premier. W.A.C. Bennett's last days. Anecdote about Skillings travelling to Japan as Minister of Industrial Development, Trade and Commerce and taking his bank manager with him at the bank's expense.

CALL NUMBER: T2706:0001 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Memories of growing up as the daughter of W.A.C. Bennett PERIOD COVERED: 1928-1952 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-06-17 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Anita Tozer discusses her family background: the Bennett family's move to Kelowna, 1930; early memories of life in Kelowna; growing up in the Okanagan Valley during the Depression; relations with her brothers; anecdotes about W.A.C. Bennett as a father; family backgrounds of mother and father; education of the Bennett family; W.A.C. Bennett's years in Edmonton. TRACK 2: Anita Tozer discusses the background to her mother and father's marriage in Edmonton, 1927. Her parent's involvement in a religious youth group in Edmonton. Anecdote about her father teaching Chinese immigrants in Edmonton. Religion and the Bennett family. The nature of the Bennett household. Discipline and the Bennett family. Attending the University of Alberta. The education of her brothers. CALL NUMBER: T2706:0002 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Politics and the Bennett family, 1950 - 1975 PERIOD COVERED: 1950-1975 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-06-17 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Anita Tozer discusses her education and teaching career. Marriage to Geoffrey Tozer, 1952. Growth of family. Relationship between the Bennetts and Tozers. The Capozzis and the Bennetts. Family involvement in election campaigns. Comments on her father's political career: reactions to W.A.C. Bennett joining Social Credit and becoming Premier. TRACK 2: Anita Tozer discusses aspects of her own life as the daughter of the Premier of British Columbia. Further comments on her teaching career. Attitudes towards teaching, teachers, the B.C.T.F. and compulsory union membership. Women in politics. Her mother's role in her father's political career. The effect of the 1972 election defeat. Reaction to her brother Bill's entry into politics and attainment of the Premiership. Comments on the book she intends to write on her father's career.

CALL NUMBER: T2719:0001 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Gordon and Jack Gibson : the Gibson family (part 1) PERIOD COVERED: 1886-1939 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Mother's and father's personal background. Mother to Vancouver in 1886, father in 1896. Family's economic situation. Father (William F. Gibson) involved in Bridge River gold rush. Family in Yukon, 1903-05. G. Gibson born in Yukon, 1904. Family to Vancouver in 1906. Father's work history. Father a timber staker and cruiser. TRACK 2: Comments on the Vancouver real estate boom, 1912. Father; joined Forestry Corps, 1914. Odd jobs for young brothers. Father rejected for overseas service, 1915. G. Gibson goes logging with his father, 1917. Logging aircraft spruce during WW I. Building their first mill after WW I. Gibson family moves to Ahousat in early 1920s. The Gibson's on the West Coast of Vancouver Island: boats, the pilchard industry, 1925-32. Ahousat during the Depression.; CALL NUMBER: T2719:0002 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Gordon and Jack Gibson : the Gibson family (part 2) PERIOD COVERED: 1932-1952 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Description of Ahousat and the Native people. The purchase of the SS "Malahat". Anecdotes about the "Malahat". Hauling logs on the Queen Charlottes. TRACK 2: More anecdotes about the "Malahat". The end of the "Malahat". Logging airplane spruce during WW II. Dividing the work between the four brothers. Built sawmill at Tahsis after WW II. Building Tahsis. The Gibsons amalgamate with the East Asiatic Co. The Gibsons in the whaling business at Coal Harbour. CALL NUMBER: T2719:0003 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Gordon and Jack Gibson : the Sommers case (part 1) PERIOD COVERED: 1945-1960 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Continuation of the story of the Gibsons' involvement in the whaling industry. Gibsons sell out completely to the East Asiatic Company, 1952. Relations between the Gibsons and East Asiatic, 1948-52. Jack Gibson's political career: Gibson's predecessor A.W. Neill; 1945 nominating convention; Gibson MP, 1945-53; Gibson sat as an independent; comments on his communist seat-mate Fred Rose. How Gordon Gibson came to run in 1953 provincial election. G. Gibson's position before the Sloan Commission. Anecdotes about the 1953 election campaign. TRACK 2: Improper granting of FMLs under the Coalition government, 1947-52. The role of campaign funds. Discussion of the Sommers case. Gibson's resignation over the Sommers case. Gibson's defeat in 1955 by-election. Gibson feels Social Credit party involved in FML scandal. Discussion of the "money talks" speech, 1955. Sammy Craig and BCFP incident. Story of G. Gibson's address to UBC forestry class. CALL NUMBER: T2719:0004 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Gordon and Jack Gibson : the Sommers case (part 2) PERIOD COVERED: 1948-1958 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Comments on the Sloan Commission hearings. Bob Filberg of Canadian Western Forest Industries was the campaign funds "collector" for the Coalition from the forest industries. Circumstances surrounding the granting of FML #2. Why the Gibson brothers did not apply for an FML. Comments on R. Sommers' gambling. Gambling with people in the forest industry. Gordon Gibson recalls discussing FMLs with W.A.C. Bennett. H.R. MacMillan opposed to FMLs at one time. Anecdote about Gordon Gibson being ejected from the B.C. Legislature, 1955. The Lord Commission, 1955, discussed. The people involved in the hearings: Arthur Lord, Alfred Bull, T.W. Brown. TRACK 2: Ron Howard, Gibson's lawyer. G. Gibson's reaction to the findings of the Lord Commission. Comments on Bonner's role. Positive assessment; of Judge Arthur Lord. The Lillooet by-election, 1955. Anecdotes about the by-election campaign. The Gibsons' connection with David Sturdy. Discussion of Sturdy and Charles Eversfield. Meetings to discuss the Eversfield evidence with the Gibson brothers, Ron Howard, Tommy Gold, Stuart Keate and Donald Cromie. Payments to Sturdy. Comments on Sturdy's judgement. Comments on Eversfield. RCMP Inspector W.J. Butler. CALL NUMBER: T2719:0005 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Gordon and Jack Gibson : the Sommers case (part 3) PERIOD COVERED: 1953-1958 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Comments on the "money talks" speech. Discussion of the presentation of the Eversfield evidence to the Sloan Commission, Dec. 1955. The role of Charles Locke, the Sloan Commission counsel. The Gibsons have never seen the Butler Report. J. Gibson asked federal Justice Minister Stuart Garson to see the Butler Report but was refused. Discussion of the Tahsis Company in the Butler Report. The role of C.D. Orchard and the Forest Service. Davie Fulton, federal Justice Minister, put pressure on the Sommers case. Implications of Sommers case for Jack Gibson's role as a Liberal party fund-raiser. TRACK 2: Payments from Gibson to Sturdy. Peripheral involvement of James Sinclair, Johnny Fairburn and Sid Smith. Gibson has no specific knowledge of the alleged payoffs to keep Sommers out of the country. Gibson did not attend trial. Comments on the role of C.D. Scultz. Gibson did not know the Gray brothers. No ministers other than Sommers benefited personally from the bribery scheme. The Gibson brothers considered applying for an FML. Gibson cannot recall details of meeting with Sommers prior to famous speech. Miscellaneous comments. (End of interview);

CALL NUMBER: T2741:0001 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): The early years and political background of Herb Capozzi PERIOD COVERED: 1925-1966 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-09-13 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Herb Capozzi discusses his early years, education and family background. Comments on the roles of his mother and father in the family. Relationship with the Bennetts. Recollections of the growth of the Capozzi's family business interests. First interest in politics. The role and influence of W.A.C. Bennett. TRACK 2: Capozzi discusses the 1963 provincial election when he first ran for public office. The 1966 provincial election in which he was elected as Socred MLA for Vancouver-Centre. Experience as a government backbencher. Comments on his family and their attitudes towards his involvement in politics. Relationship with W.A.C. Bennett as Premier. Attitude toward the NDP and socialism. Some recollections of memorable incidents in the House. CALL NUMBER: T2741:0002 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): The final years of the Social Credit government and the 1972 election PERIOD COVERED: 1969-1977 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Herb Capozzi discusses the controversy over the use of government aircraft by former Socred minister Phil Gaglardi. Impressions of Phil Gaglardi. Relations with the Opposition in the B.C. Legislature. Recollections of W.A.C. Bennett as Premier. The Socred caucus system. All-night sittings. Comments on the provincial election, 1969. Differences of opinion between Capozzi and Bennett. The reasons why Capozzi was never appointed a Minister of the Crown. The genesis of the Alliance of Businessmen in B.C. The question of succession to the leadership of the Social Credit party. Comments on liquor and tobacco advertising ban, 1971. TRACK 2: Capozzi discusses the factors leading up to the defeat of the Social Credit government in 1972. Comments on his personal defeat in Vancouver-Centre. Evaluation of Capozzi's career since 1972. Comments on politics and politicians in general. (End of 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.]

SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Captain Alexander Peabody RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-07-19 SUMMARY: NOTE: Captain Alexander Peabody was President and General Manager of Puget Sound Navigation Company (operating under the trade name the Black Ball Line). Part of this service was sold to Washington State's' Toll Bridge Authority in 1951 and became the Washington State Ferry Service. Peabody retained its Canadian subsidiary, Black Ball Ferries Ltd., which was later purchased by the British Columbia government and became part of the B.C. Ferry Authority. [No content summary or documentation is available for this 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]

CALL NUMBER: T3095:0001 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): The 1972 provincial election (part 1) PERIOD COVERED: 1970-1973 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-07-13 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Derrill Warren discusses his personal and family background. Education and legal training. Experience in Alberta with Peter Lougheed. Return to British Columbia and immersion in Conservative politics. Comments on politics in British Columbia prior to 1972. Assumption of the leadership of the Conservative Party in British Columbia. Strategy and planning in the 1972 provincial election. Anecdote about a confrontation with W.A.C. Bennett at the time of calling the 1972 election. TRACK 2: The 1973 by-election in South Okanagan. Anecdotes about the night of the by-election and Bill Bennett's victory. Reasons for lack of success as leader of the provincial Conservative Party. Styles of politics in British Columbia. The 'Majority Movement' in British Columbia and the reasons for its lack of success. Story about a meeting with W.A.C. Bennett after the defeat of his Social Credit government in 1972. CALL NUMBER: T3095:0002 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Derril Warren and the Conservative Party in B.C. politics PERIOD COVERED: 1972-1973 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-07-13 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Derril Warren continues the story of his meeting with W.A.C. Bennett in Kelowna after the 1972 provincial election. Comments on the 1973 South Okanagan by-election campaign. Resigning the leadership of the Conservative Party after the by-election loss. Further comments on politics in British Columbia.