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Archival description
British Columbia Conservative Party
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Herbert Anscomb interview : [Robin, 1967]

SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Herbert Anscomb : Conservative Coalition cabinet minister, 1941-1952 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1967 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Comments on J.G. Diefenbaker. Explanation of conservative values and ideology. Anscomb's first election as an MLA ("independent" Conservative), 1933. The decline of the B.C. Conservative Party after 1952. Says "no difference between socialism and communism". Differences between Social Credit and Conservatives. Reasons for the formation of the Coalition, 1941. Anscomb's opposition to the social welfare system. Comment on the 1950 Conservative leadership convention. Enjoyed Public Works portfolio more than any other. Ancomb has "no hobbies but work". TRACK 2: The breakup of the Coalition government, January 1952. Premier Byron Johnson. Repeat of some parts of track 1. Anscomb came to Canada at the age of 19, in 1911.

Dave Stupich : [press conferences, etc., 1977 & 1978]

CALL NUMBER: T1248:0001 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Comments on government quarterly financial report RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-03-01 SUMMARY: David Stupich, NDP financial critic, comments on the Social Credit government's recently released quarterly financial report. March 1, 1977.

CALL NUMBER: T1248:0002 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): David Stupich, Gordon Gibson and Victor Stephens comment on the provincial budget RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-04-10 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: In a press conference, NDP MLA Dave Stupich, Liberal leader Gordon Gibson (Jr.) and Conservative leader Victor Stephens review and criticize the provincial budget. There is some speculation that it is an election budget, putting the Socred government in position to call a fall election. April 10, 1978. [TRACK 2: blank.]

W.A.C. Bennett interview : [Mitchell, 1976-1978 : part 1]

CALL NUMBER: T1675:0013 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): The early years and family background of W.A.C. Bennett, 1900-1930 PERIOD COVERED: 1900-1930 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1976-05-12 SUMMARY: W.A.C. Bennett discusses his early years, the background of his family in New Brunswick, family relationships and early education. First interest in politics. Recollections of political figures. Apprenticeship in the hardware business. Moving to Edmonton after the First World War. Religious and business activities in Edmonton. Attitudes towards tobacco and alcohol. Meeting his future wife, Annie Elizabeth May Richards. Moving to British Columbia, 1930. CALL NUMBER: T1675:0014 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): British Columbia politics from the 1930s to the Second World War PERIOD COVERED: 1930-1939 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1976-10-08 SUMMARY: W.A.C. Bennett discusses British Columbia politics during the 1930s and comments on the personalities and political styles of Premiers Simon Fraser Tolmie and T.D. Pattullo. W.A.C. Bennett recounts his first involvement in provincial politics as a Conservative. Elected in 1941 in South Okanagan. Pattullo and the Rowell-Sirois Commission. Reasons why Pattullo was "turned out" by his own party. Formation of the coalition. Social Credit and economics during the Depression in the 1930s. CALL NUMBER: T1675:0015 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): W.A.C. Bennett and Coalition politics in B.C., 1941-1951 PERIOD COVERED: 1941-1951 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1976-10-08 SUMMARY: W.A.C. Bennett discusses his service as an MLA on the Post-War Rehabilitation Council. The effect of Pat Maitland's death on the Coalition government. Bennett comments on his increasing disillusionment with the Coalition government which precipitated his crossing of the floor of the House in 1951. The 1948 Yale by-election. Bennett recollects his first attempt to enter politics in 1937. The origins of the single transferable ballot. Socialism and Social Credit. CALL NUMBER: T1675:0016 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): W.A.C. Bennett recalls the political battles of 1952 and 1975 PERIOD COVERED: 1952-1975 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1976-12-13 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: W.A.C. Bennett recalls his response to the criticisms which were levelled at him after joining the Social Credit party. Attitudes towards the press. Comments on Tilly Rolston and the importance of her defection from the ranks of the Coalition government and decision to join Social Credit. The relationship between the Alberta Social Credit party and the fledgling Socred movement in B.C. Events surrounding Bennett's decision to join Social Credit. TRACK 2: Comments on the Social Credit convention of December 1951 and Bennett's decision not to run for the campaign leadership of the party. The meeting after the 1952 election at the Hotel Vancouver at which W.A.C. Bennett was chosen as leader of the Social Credit party. The 1952 election campaign. The importance of hospital insurance as an issue in the campaign. Anecdote about a campaign meeting at Golden where Bennett was confronted by Liberal hecklers led by Tom King. Religion and its importance in Social Credit election victories. Grace McCarthy, Dan Campbell and the rebuilding of the Social Credit party after the 1972 election defeat. CALL NUMBER: T1675:0017 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): W.A.C. Bennett and Social Credit's rise to power in B.C., 1952 PERIOD COVERED: 1952-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1976-12-13 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: W.A.C. Bennett recalls further aspects of the 1952 election campaign. Albertan Socreds in the election campaign. Political organization in the 1952 campaign. Waiting to be called upon to form a government. The role of leadership in politics. Lieutenant-Governor Clarence Wallace and the constitutional problem posed by the outcome of the election. Bennett assembles his prospective ministers in Victoria and prepares to assume office. Meeting with Clarence Wallace. Swearing in the new government. Tom Uphill's mistake. TRACK 2: Comments on the problem within Socred ranks after forming government. Social Credit was one coalition replacing another. Government and patronage. The importance of Bennett in the Socred victory. The role of the single transferable ballot. The Socreds were a "people's government". Economic development in British Columbia since 1952: the Columbia River Treaty, the two-rivers policy, the genesis of the homeowners' grant and parity bonds. CALL NUMBER: T1675:0018 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): W.A.C. Bennett and the consolidation of power, 1952 PERIOD COVERED: 1950-1952 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-01-15 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: W.A.C. Bennett discusses the decline of the Coalition government in B.C. Reform elements within the Coalition. The Esquimalt by-election of 1951. Commander A.C. Wurtele and his reluctance to ;run as an independent candidate. The Esquimalt by-election campaign. The importance of the by-election. TRACK 2: W.A.C. Bennett discusses joining the Social Credit party. The influence of Eric Martin. The financial state of British Columbia's government at the time he assumed office, August 1952. Advice given to cabinet colleagues. Problems associated with acquiring legislative seats for Robert Bonner and Einar Gunderson. Relations with the provincial civil service after forming the government. CALL NUMBER: T1675:0019 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): W.A.C. Bennett and the Socreds' first session in the B.C. Legislature, 1953 PERIOD COVERED: 1952-1953 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-01-15 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: W.A.C. Bennett discusses problems he encountered after forming B.C.'s first Social Credit government, August, 1952. Problems within the Social Credit party. Relations with opposition parties in the House. The appeal of Social Credit. Einar Gunderson and his role in government. Robert Sommers and the Doukhobor issue. Meeting with Premier Manning in Edmonton, December 1952. Comments on the first session of the B.C. legislature presided over by a Socred administration, 1953. TRACK 2: Choosing a Speaker of the Legislative Assembly. Coordination of House strategy with the Socred caucus. Initiation of pay-as-you-go policies for government expenditures. Harold Winch as Leader of the Opposition. The defeat of the Socred government in the House on the Rolston Formula. Preparation for defeat. Events following the defeat of the government in the House. CALL NUMBER: T1675:0020 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): W.A.C. Bennett and the 1953 provincial election PERIOD COVERED: 1952-1953 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-01-15 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: W.A.C. Bennett discusses the effect of not being called upon to form a government on Harold Winch. The provincial election campaign, 1953. The effect of the transferable ballot. Relations with the federal Social Credit party. Support of Real Caouette for the leadership of the federal party. Reasons for success in the 1953 election. Preference for use of the title "Prime Minister". Effects of becoming Premier on personal life. [TRACK 2: blank.]

John Diefenbaker interview : [Mitchell, 1978]

SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Recollections of W.A.C. Bennett and B.C. politics PERIOD COVERED: 1948-1963 RECORDED: Ottawa (Ont.), 1978-03-09 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: In an interview with David Mitchell, former Prime Minister John Diefenbaker recalls coming to British Columbia in 1948 to help W.A.C. Bennett's campaign in the Yale by-election; general impressions of W.A.C. Bennett as Premier of British Columbia. Diefenbaker discusses the fact that he regarded Bennett and the Socreds as essentially conservatives. He also discusses the Columbia River Treaty, Davie Fulton and his 1963 challenge to W.A.C. Bennett, the opening of the Trans-Canada highway and federal-provincial relations. [TRACK 2: blank; end of interview.];

Maitland and the British Columbia Conservative Party: the struggle for political identity and survival / John Gordon Terpenning

The item is a typescript copy of a thesis by John Gordon Terpenning titled "Maitland and the British Columbia Conservative Party: the struggle for political identity and survival." xiii, 260 pages: ill., figs., tables. Thesis (M.A.), University of Victoria, 1988. Vita. Bibliography: pages 247-258.

[Vic Stephens]

News item. Mr. Stephens will run for the leadership of the BC Conservative Party. His main goal will be to unify the party. "In order to have unity in this party," he says, "the provincial wing must be free and totally independent" from the federal Conservative party. Too many people view the Conservatives as a party for boardroom executives, says Stephens, when in fact it is "a workers' party." The image of the party must be changed.

Herbert Anscomb fonds

  • PR-2329
  • Fonds
  • [ca. 1911-1993; predominant 1924-1972]

The fonds consists of the records of Herbert Anscomb, who had one of the longest and most important political careers in the history of British Columbia. They document his activities as Reeve of Oak Bay, B.C., Mayor of Victoria, opposition member in the B.C. legislative assembly, cabinet minister in the B.C. government in numerous portfolios, leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of British Columbia, and member of the federal Royal Commission on Transportation from 1959 to 1962. Predominantly, the records relate to his political career which began with his election to Oak Bay council in 1924 and ended with his defeat in the provincial election of 1952. The fonds also consists of a relatively small number of records concerning his personal life, family, and his involvement in the wine and brewing industry.

The documentary forms most significant in number include correspondence, photographs, and speeches (in public, in the legislature, and for radio broadcast). In smaller numbers the documentary forms include handwritten notes which were passed from MLAs to Anscomb during sittings in the legislature, magazine articles, and political campaign literature such as brochures, posters and pamphlets. The fonds also includes collected editorial cartoons, caricature drawings and other art work, certificates, reports, guest and visitors books, and ephemera.

The records reflect a wide range of subjects; these include: government, politics and economic policy during the depression and World War II, the province’s coalition government, infrastructure building, political competition against the Co-operative Commonwealth Federation (CCF party), the single transferable vote electoral system, the process of appointment to government jobs, hospital insurance, and the history of the Conservative Party in B.C. and its relationship with the federal party.

The fonds consists of six series, as follows:
• Provincial political records
• Municipal political records
• Personal records
• Royal Commission on Transportation records
• Photograph album
• Newspaper clippings scrapbooks

Records of particular note include detailed diaries which Anscomb kept as Minister of Mines, Minister of Trade and Industry, Minister of Public Works, and Minister of Municipal Affairs in the early to mid-1940s. The fonds also consists of a rich collection of photographs which document in particular his career as mayor of Victoria and as a B.C. government cabinet minister.

The fonds also consists of a series of 12 volumes of newspaper clippings dating from 1924 to 1978. These scrapbooks cover Anscomb’s entire political career; subjects include all aspects of government and politics in Oak Bay, Victoria and the province of B.C., and not just articles pertaining to Anscomb himself. The fonds includes a manuscript of an unpublished autobiography Anscomb began in 1953.

Where possible the archivist has arranged records chronologically. Where files clearly had been used together as a group by their creator, that order was maintained.

Anscomb, Herbert, 1892-1972

Derril T. Warren 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.

Howard C. Green interview : [Mitchell, 1979]

SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Recollections of Conservative politics in British Columbia, 1941-1952 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1979-11-01 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Howard Green discusses: his family background; first interest in politics; World War I military service; education and legal training at Osgoode Hall; beginning law practice in Vancouver, 1920s; interest in Conservative politics; decision to run as a federal Conservative candidate, 1935; comments on the history of the provincial Conservative Party; relationship between the federal and provincial Conservative parties during the Coalition years; reasons for formation of the Coalition government, which Green was in favour of; differences between Pat Maitland and Herbert Anscomb as leaders of the provincial Conservative Party; why Green did not stand for the leadership of the provincial party; federal Tories supported W.A.C. Bennett when he challenged Anscomb for the provincial leadership; general recollection of Bennett; comments on provincial Conservative politics. TRACK 2: Background to the 1946 federal by-election in the riding of Yale, why Bennett was asked to run, and recollections of the campaign; possibility that the Conservatives and Liberals agreed not to oppose each other in various by-elections that year; reasons for Bennett's defeat in the by-election; factors in the break-up of the Coalition government; the effect of Bennett's defection from the government ranks; personal reaction to Bennett joining Social Credit and becoming Premier in 1952; comments on later relations with the Bennett government while Green served in the federal Diefenbaker administration; the Columbia River Treaty and the issue of downstream benefits; general comments on Bennett's stewardship of the B.C. government.

Leon Ladner interview : [Bowers, 1973]

CALL NUMBER: T0176:0001 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Leon Johnson Ladner : the Ladners of Ladner, B.C. PERIOD COVERED: 1858-1900 RECORDED: Vancouver (B.C.), 1973-03-21 SUMMARY: Leon Johnson Ladner was born in 1884 and discusses his family's early history in BC beginning with 1858 and the arrival of the family in BC. The establishment of Ladner, BC and the role of his family in the salmon canning industry. He also tells of many of the early people in BC history, such as Judge Begbie, and Bishop Edward Cridge. He mentions some of the early Premiers of BC including John Oliver and Richard McBride. CALL NUMBER: T0176:0002 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Leon Johnson Ladner and his political career PERIOD COVERED: 1900-1940 RECORDED: Vancouver (B.C.), 1973-04-01 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Leon Ladner describes his childhood and education; interest in law; travel to Europe; marriage; ran for Parliament in 1921 and won. TRACK 2: Ladner's involvement with politics. Remembers Arthur Meighen. Ladner's interest in politics was in banking, and the need for a federal reserve bank. He relates a number of stories about famous people he came into contact with. In 1926 Mr. Ladner ran for the leadership of the Provincial Conservative party. He helped to secure it for Tolmie when there was a deadlock. Running for election against MacInnes and being defeated. His evaluation of R.B. Bennett. CALL NUMBER: T0176:0003 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Leon Johnson Ladner and his political career PERIOD COVERED: 1910-1970 RECORDED: Vancouver (B.C.), 1973-04-26 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Leon Ladner describes his attempt to bring H.H. Stevens and R.B. Bennett together. He relates some of his meetings with John Diefenbaker. His interest in women's suffrage. TRACK 2: Leon Ladner discusses his role during World War I and more on his interest in federal reserve banks. Establishing the Bank of Canada. Meeting with Sir Charles Tupper. CALL NUMBER: T0176:0004 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Leon Johnson Ladner discusses his career as a lawyer and businessman PERIOD COVERED: 1910-1960 RECORDED: Vancouver (B.C.), 1973-05-01 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Leon Ladner describes his years as a lawyer and some of his cases. His attempt to get freight rates lowered for the west. TRACK 2: Leon Ladner's business dealings over the years. Peat business. His involvement with making steel, Western Canada Steel.

Dave Barrett : [press conferences, speeches, interviews, etc., August 1977 - April 1978]

CALL NUMBER: T1704:0117 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Dave Barrett: On the Alcan pipeline and the end of the legislative session RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-08-09 & 1977-09-27 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: NDP leader Dave Barrett says that BC should insist on three conditions being met before approving the Alcan pipeline route: (1) ninety percent of the workers involved should be from BC, and ninety percent of secondary goods and services should be purchased through small business in the province; (2) seven percent of the total capital cost should be set aside in a permanent economic development fund; and (3) there should be a written agreement that the first use of any Canadian arctic gas flowing through the pipeline should be for British Columbians and/or Canadians. 9 August 1977. TRACK 2: NDP leader Dave Barrett comments on the 1977 legislative session. He disagrees with Premier Bennett, who said that the session was very productive. Barrett says very little was accomplished, considering the amount of time spent. Specific legislation is mentioned and commented upon. 27 September 1977. CALL NUMBER: T1704:0118 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Dave Barrett : Submission to the BCR Royal Commission ; Reaction to interim report RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-12-05 & 1978-04-12 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: NDP leader Dave Barrett comments on his submission to the Royal Commission inquiring into the BC Railway. Barrett challenges the Commission to subpoena him, former Premier W.A.C. Bennett, current Premier W.R. Bennett, and other political figures. 5 December 1977. TRACK 2: Barrett responds to the release of the interim report of the Royal Commission on the BC Railway. Barrett criticizes the government for "sitting on the report" for 90 days; he also criticizes the report, saying that the recommendation to close the Fort Nelson extension is "terrible" and would, if followed through, be; "totally damaging" to "the rational development of the northeast sector" of the province. Barrett says that the Minister of Economic Development should either give a statement that the extension will; be kept open, or he and the government should resign. 12 April 1978. CALL NUMBER: T1704:0119 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Dave Barrett : On state of the province; Barrett, Wallace and Stephens on 1978 Oak Bay by-election RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-01 & 03 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: The track begins with an interview with Kathleen Ruff, Director of Human Rights, who discusses discrimination against women in hiring practices in BC, and recommends that municipal governments undertake an affirmative action program. The majority of the track is given over to Dave Barrett, who reacts to the Premier's "state of the province" speech. Barrett's comments are wide-ranging, but deal most extensively with the state of the provincial economy and unemployment. 25 January 1978. TRACK 2: The track begins with a [poorly recorded] interview with former Conservative leader Dr. Scott Wallace, after the polls had closed in the Oak Bay by-election. Wallace believes the early returns clearly show that his successor, Vic Stephens, will win the by-election. Vic Stephens is then interviewed regarding his plans as MLA and as Conservative leader. Stephens then talks to the crowd at his victory party. The next interview is with NDP leader Dave Barrett the following morning. Barrett says that the big loser in the election was Social Credit. He then speculates on the future of BC politics, and compliments Liberal leader Gordon Gibson, saying that he would like to see Gibson stay in provincial politics. March 20 and 21, 1978.

[Wallace resigns]

News item. MLA Scott Wallace says that his main reasons for resigning are: (1) "Lack of success in getting the Conservative party moving"; and (2) "Failure of my leadership to capitalize on the fact the we've got polarized parties in British Columbia -- two main political groups. Yet many of the voters are looking for something in the middle, and I was trying to fill that void." Farewell speech follows, with regrets voiced by NDP House Leader Dave Barrett, who says: "He is the kind of person that we would all like to see come into public life, regardless of party." Wallace will continue as MLA.

Correspondence and other material

Series consists of records that reflect the public life of Scott Wallace during his tenure as leader of the Progressive Conservative party in British Columbia, 1973-1977. The records deal primarily with the public issues with which Wallace was involved and contain very limited references to party administration and activities.

Wallace, George Scott, 1929-2011

Vic Stephens fonds

  • PR-2419
  • Fonds
  • 1974 - 1979

Contains records created between 1975 and 1979 created by Vic Stephens and the British Columbia Progressive Conservative Party. Records were created by Vic Stephens between 1978 and 1979 in his capacity as a member of the legislative assembly in British Columbia, representing Oak Bay, and serving as the leader of the British Columbia Progressive Conservative Party. Fonds also includes records from the Office of the British Columbia Progressive Conservative Party and its records of its previous leader, Doctor George Scott Wallace.

Records were received in ten labelled boxes containing file folders with labels corresponding to their contents arranged alphabetically. Files contain records related to contemporary issues and events; local, provincial, and federal. Record types include correspondence, newspaper clippings, pamphlets, publications, editorials, reports, briefs, memoranda, and notes.

Records are arranged into series that roughly correspond to box labels. Files within series are arranged in the order in which they were found. In some cases, files were condensed or created to house similar records. Series include:
MS-3552 Gasoline marketing: oil companies and gas station operators 1978
MS-3554 Legislative files
MS-3555 Legislative Library
MS-3556 General files
MS-3557 Additional files A-S

Stephens, Victor

Victor Stephens : [press conferences, 1977]

SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Vic Stephens : Wallace's resignation and Stephens' candidacy RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-10 & 12 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Vic Stephens and Scott Wallace announce Wallace's decision to resign his Oak Bay seat; Stephens says he is not certain if he will contest the seat; Wallace says it has not been decided when he will resign. October 26, 1988. TRACK 2: Stephens and Wallace announce that Stephens will seek the Conservative nomination in the Oak Bay by-election. December 22, 1977.

Scott Wallace : [press conferences, etc., 1977]

CALL NUMBER: T0979:0001 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Dr. G. Scott Wallace: Announcement of a Progressive Conservative fundraising event RECORDED: Victoria (B.C.), 1977-02-01 SUMMARY: Announcement of a Progressive Conservative fund-raising dinner with guest speaker William F. Buckley. CALL NUMBER: T0979:0002 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Dr. G. Scott Wallace: Comments on the appointment of a royal commission into BC Railway RECORDED: Victoria (B.C.), 1977-02-08 SUMMARY: BC Conservative leader Scott Wallace comments on the appointment of a Royal Commission to investigate the operation of the BC Railway. CALL NUMBER: T0979:0003 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Dr. G. Scott Wallace: Press conferences RECORDED: Victoria (B.C.), 1977-02-16 & 03-16 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: BC Conservative leader Scott Wallace comments about allegations of unsafe arsenic levels in chickens, 16-Feb-1977. Wallace tells how he was approached about the possibility of his being appointed chairman of the Workers Compensation Board, 16-Feb-1977. Wallace's allegations that legal aid lawyers are demanding under-the-table payments, 14-Mar-1977. TRACK 2: Tory leader Scott Wallace comments on hiring techniques of the government with respect to the PREP program, 16-Mar-1977. CALL NUMBER: T0979:0004 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Dr. G. Scott Wallace: Press conferences RECORDED: Victoria (B.C.), 1977-04-01 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Conservative leader Scott Wallace discusses the new membership policies of the federal Conservative Party, 01-Apr-1977. Also discussion of Western separatism. TRACK 2: Scott Wallace complains about being left off the Agriculture Committee assigned to investigate the BC food industry. Also similar complaints from Liberal leader Gordon Gibson. Agriculture minister Jim Hewitt explains why the minority leaders were left of the committee. Premier W.R. Bennett and Provincial Secretary Grace McCarthy also comment on the committee, 01-Apr-1977. CALL NUMBER: T0979:0005 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Dr. G. Scott Wallace: On Pharmacare and the federal Conservative party RECORDED: Victoria (B.C.), 197704-21 & 05 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Progressive Conservative leader Scott Wallace comments on changes in Pharmacare regulations and on the defection of federal MP Jack Horner to the Liberal Party, 21-Apr-1977. TRACK 2: Conservative leader Scott Wallace criticizes the federal Conservatives for their criticism of federal leader Joe Clark after five Quebec by-election defeats, May-1977. CALL NUMBER: T0979:0006 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Dr. G. Scott Wallace: On meeting with Joe Clark and question period RECORDED: Victoria (B.C.), 1977-06-02 & 07-08 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: BC Conservative leader Scott Wallace reports on his "blunt" meeting with federal Tory leader Joe Clark on matters including federal and provincial membership requirements, 02-Jun-1977. TRACK; 2: Wallace wants question period extended, 08-Jul-1977. CALL NUMBER: T0979:0007 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Dr. G. Scott Wallace: On reasons for quitting and guidance in schools RECORDED: Victoria (B.C.), 1977-07-14 & 20 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Progressive Conservative leader Scott Wallace announces his retirement as Conservative Leader, 14-Jul-1977. TRACK 2: Wallace voices his concerns about Guidance classes in BC schools, 20-Jul-1977. CALL NUMBER: T0979:0008 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Dr. G. Scott Wallace: On heroin addiction and constitution act RECORDED: Victoria (B.C.), 1977 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Progressive Conservative leader Scott Wallace discusses the Minister of Health's newly announced program for the treatment of heroin addicts. Also, the criticisms of NDP MLA Norm Levi, 03-Aug-1977. TRACK 2: Scott Wallace announces that he may have contravened the Constitution Act and will have this tested in court. Also the comments of Premier W.R. Bennett, 03-Aug-1977.

Maitland family papers

The Royal Lethington "Pat" Maitland family papers are composed of Maitland's personal correspondence, speeches and addresses, Logs of the House (Legislative Assembly of British Columbia), scrapbooks, etc. Also includes correspondence, notes, etc. of Maitland's wife, Ruth Hildred Mills, as well as correspondence of their children Robert Reid, Elizabeth Ruth, William John and Norah Kathleen.

Roderick Charles MacDonald interview

SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): R.C. MacDonald RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-03-26 SUMMARY: NOTE: Roderick Charles MacDonald came to Canada in 1907 and was first employed by the provincial government at New Westminster. From 1922 to 1941, he served on the municipal council of Coquitlam, serving as Reeve for eighteen of those twenty years. In 1941, he was elected to represent Dewdney as a [Conservative] Coalition candidate, and remained in the provincial legislature until the dissolution of the Coalition Government in 1952. During his tenure as MLA he served, 1946-1952, as Minister of Mines and Minister of Municipal Affairs. [No content summaries or documentation available for this interview.]

Leslie Eyres interview : [Reimer, 1978]

CALL NUMBER: T2887:0002 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Leslie Eyres : Coalition cabinet minister, 1946-1952 (part 1) PERIOD COVERED: 1892-1952 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Born in 1892 in Manitoba. Family background. Homesteaded in Manitoba in 1911. Joined cavalry at the outset of WW I. Transferred to Royal Flying Corps, 1917. Was an observer photographer. Story of being shot down and crash landing in Germany, 1918. Captured after crash. Story of prison camps and Eyres' escape and recapture. A prisoner of war at the end of WW I. TRACK 2: The end of WW I. Eyres established in tire business in Chilliwack, ca. 1920. Had business until 1952. Was an alderman in Chilliwack during 1930s Depression. Municipal relief during 1930s. How Eyres was nominated as Conservative candidate in 1937 provincial election. Financial setbacks due to being an MLA. 1937 election campaign. Anecdote about Frank Calder, MLA. Comments on Premier T.D. Pattullo. The 1941 election. Eyres' goals in politics. Eyres particularly proud of "The Regional Industrial Index". CALL NUMBER: T2887:0003 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Leslie Eyres : Coalition cabinet minister, 1946-1952 (part 2) PERIOD COVERED: 1941-1952 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: The 1941 election. Few recollections of the formation of the Coalition, 1941. The breakup of the Coalition, 1952. The disagreement between Herbert Anscomb and Byron Johnson. Anscomb fired. Eyres and other Conservatives resign from government, January 1952. Eyres speculates that Johnson's serious auto accident contributed to the Coalition breakup. The 1952 election. Eyres defeated in Chilliwack constituency by Socred Ken Kiernan. Eyres gives glowing account of Herbert Anscomb, Conservative leader. Eyres supported Anscomb, rather than W.A.C. Bennett, in leadership contests, 1946, 1950. Eyres joins cabinet, 1946. Few memories of 1945 or 1949 elections. Eyres offered but turns down various bribes. Brief anecdote about Gordon Wismer, Attorney-General. Story about Tom Uphill, Independent MLA from Fernie, drinking in the Legislature. TRACK 2: Most cabinet ministers took ministerial papers with them. Press relations with local Chilliwack press always good. Favourable comments on Ernest and Harold Winch.

Robert Browne-Clayton interview

SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Robert Browne-Clayton's brief career in politics, 1948-49 PERIOD COVERED: 1917-1952 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1979-11-12 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: Robert Browne-Clayton discusses his personal and family background. Life and upbringing in the Okanagan Valley during the 1930s. Military service overseas in World War II. Return from the war; and marriage to his wife, Pat. Response to reports that he was missing in action in a battle in Italy. Recollection of his father-in-law, Paddy Acland. Attempt to establish a fruit farm at Okanagan Mission after the war. Comments on floods and inclement weather in the Okanagan region, spring 1949. Background to his decision to run as the Conservative candidate in the 1948 by-election in the provincial riding of South Okanagan. Impressions of the Coalition government. Recollection of W.A.C. Bennett. Bennett did not assist in the by-election campaign. Recollections of the campaign. Reaction to the election victory. TRACK 2: No formal orientation procedures existed for new MLAs at the time. The Coalition caucus system. First impressions of legislative proceedings. Uneasiness in the ranks of the Coalition government. Discipline within the ranks of government members. Evaluation of the personalities of Premier Johnson, Herbert Anscomb and Gordon Wismer. Being an MLA was not a full-time job. Service in the constituency. Comments on the different factions within the Conservative Party in B.C. Conflict between party members from the interior regions of the province and the metropolitan centres of Vancouver and Victoria. The break-up of the Coalition. Reasons why Browne-Clayton decided not to run again in the 1949 general election. Reaction to his decision not to run. General comments on W.A.C. Bennett and his later political career. Summary of Browne-Clayton's service as an MLA.

W.A.C. Bennett interview : [Mitchell, 1976-1978 : part 4]

CALL NUMBER: T1675:0039 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Social Credit and the 1972 election in British Columbia PERIOD COVERED: 1969-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-03-18 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: W.A.C. Bennett discusses government use of special warrants for special expenditure of public funds. The use of orders-in-council. Response to criticisms that his was a "government by order-in-council". The 1969 provincial election. The possibility of resigning as Premier prior to 1972. The influence of public opinion polls on Bennett's decision to remain in office. Succession to the Social Credit party leadership. John de Wolf and the 1969 election. The Conservative party under the stewardship of Derril Warren. The defection of Scott Wallace from the Social Credit party and its effect upon Socred fortunes. Factors contributing to the defeat of the Social Credit government, 1972. TRACK 2: Further discussion of factors contributing to Social Credit's defeat: the ban on liquor and tobacco advertising, limitation of public employee pay increases to 6.5 %. Bennett has no personal regrets, but is sorry about the defeat of several of his cabinet ministers and members. Response to the idea that 1972 was simply "time for change". Events following the defeat of his government. Personal feelings about the election loss. CALL NUMBER: T1675:0040 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Early years, Conservative battles, political opponents and the Socred cabinet PERIOD COVERED: 1900-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-03-28 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: W.A.C. Bennett discusses aspects of his childhood and early years in New Brunswick. Recollections of school days. Memories of mother and father. Religious training. Recollections of Bennett's; attempts to gain the leadership of the Conservative party of B.C. Problems of the Conservative party in coalition with the Liberals. Pat Maitland and the stewardship of the Conservatives during the early Coalition era. TRACK 2: Anscomb's ascension to the leadership of the Conservative party after Maitland's death. Attempt to draft Howard Green from the federal party to replace Maitland. Evaluation of the various Leaders of the Opposition Bennett faced in the B.C. legislature: Winch, Webster, Strachan, Berger and Barrett. Reasons for Bennett's great admiration for Winch. Travelling cabinets. The operation of Social Credit cabinet under the leadership of W.A.C. Bennett. CALL NUMBER: T1675:0041 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Electoral reform in British Columbia, 1952-1972 PERIOD COVERED: 1952-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978-03-28 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: W.A.C. Bennett discusses the operation of the cabinet during the years he served as Premier. The reasons why a full Hansard service was never instituted while Bennett was Premier. The Press Gallery and Hansard. Hansard and parliamentary tradition. Electoral reform in British Columbia during the years Bennett served as Premier. Bennett's theories of democratic representation: the example of the Peace River constituencies. The issue of over-representation of rural areas in the B.C. legislature. The redistribution of 1955. The issue of dual-member ridings. The Angus Commission on electoral reform, 1965. Reasons for appointing Dr. Angus. TRACK 2: Comments on the recommendations of the Angus Commission. Dissatisfaction with the commission's report by Socred backbenchers. The operation of the Socred caucus. Redistribution of 1966 and the increase in seats in the legislature from 52 to 55. Reasons why Bennett believes in special representation for rural areas of the province. All provincial ridings should be dual-member constituencies and tied to the same boundaries as the federal ridings. Bennett intended a further redistribution after the 1972 election. Comments on the Eckhardt Commission on electoral reform, 1978. Comments on an incident during the early years of the Socred government when Bennett attempted to persuade Charles Parker, MLA from Peace River, to resign in favour of Einar Gunderson. CALL NUMBER: T1675:0042 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): The attainment of power, 1952, and a day in the life of the Premier PERIOD COVERED: 1930-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: W.A.C. Bennett discusses Conservative politics in B.C. in the 1930s and 1940s and his attempt to get elected as a federal representative in the 1948 Yale by-election. The story of Cyril Shelford and how he was persuaded to join Social Credit, 1951. Events following Bennett's assumption of the office of the Premier. Finding living accommodations in Victoria with Mrs. Bennett. For the first six months as Premier, Bennett had a perpetual headache. TRACK 2: The problem of securing legislative seats for Robert Bonner and Einar Gunderson. Recollection of the first legislative session presided over by Bennett as Premier. The appointment of Tom Irwin as Speaker of the House. Recollection of a demonstration by unemployed workers at the opening of the legislature in 1971. Bennett recounts a day in his life as Premier of B.C. Relations with the press. The role and function of his office staff. Relaxation in the evenings. CALL NUMBER: T1675:0043 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Reaction to the defeat of Social Credit, 1972 PERIOD COVERED: 1972-1973 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: W.A.C. Bennett discusses the defeat of his government in 1972. His personal reaction to the defeat and the decision to go on a world cruise with his wife. Receiving a cablegram from his son while on his trip and returning home to help rebuild the party. Soliciting the help of Dan Campbell and Grace McCarthy to rebuild the Social Credit party. Appealing to British Columbians to reject socialism and defeat the NDP government. TRACK 2: Helping elect Grace McCarthy as the president of the Social Credit party. The timing of W.A.C. Bennett's retirement from public life, 1973. CALL NUMBER: T1675:0044 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Life in Edmonton, 1918-1930 PERIOD COVERED: 1918-1960 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: W.A.C. Bennett discusses leaving New Brunswick after the First World War and travelling to Peace River country. Moving to Edmonton and working in the hardware business with Marshall Wells' stores. Anecdote about MacKenzie King and politics in Edmonton. Playing and scheduling hockey games in Edmonton. Bennett's penchant for blue serge suits. Recollection of his girlfriend, Ellen Mulholland. The story of Clarence Budd, who served as best man at Bennett's wedding and later served as executive assistant to Bennett as Premier of B.C. [TRACK 2: blank.] CALL NUMBER: T1675:0045 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Aspects of government in British Columbia, 1952-1972 RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: W.A.C. Bennett discusses addressing a Social Credit meeting in Winnipeg in the late 1950s. The value of Aberhart's prosperity certificates. Comments on the severance between the federal and provincial wings of the Social Credit party. Social Credit monetary theory. Definition of a genuine Social Crediter. The origin of the "B.C. Government News". Bennett's attitude towards the youth of British Columbia. TRACK 2: Organization of the Young Socreds. Bennett was opposed to the idea of a Minister of Youth in the government. Reform of legislative proceedings. Hansard and question periods in the Legislative Assembly. Attitude towards parliamentary institutions. All-night sittings of the legislature. The role of the parliamentary Opposition. The role and duties of an MLA. CALL NUMBER: T1675:0046 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Early years, origin of the B.C. Ferries and the Columbia River Treaty RECORDED: [location unknown], 1978 SUMMARY: TRACK 1: W.A.C. Bennett discusses the possibility of his United Empire Loyalist origins. Recollections of his mother and early years in New Brunswick. Comments on the creation of the B.C. Ferry system. The role of Captain Peabody of the Black Ball line. The CPR's reluctance to expand ferry transportation on British Columbia's coast. The effect of labour problems on the creation of the B.C. Ferries. The Columbia River Treaty and hydro-electric power development in British Columbia. TRACK 2: Recollection of meeting U.S. President Kennedy at a banquet in Seattle in 1961 and the topics they discussed. The legal battles which followed the British Columbia government's takeover of the B.C. Electric Company. Compensation for shareholders in the B.C. Electric Company. Further comments on the Columbia River Treaty. The issue of downstream benefits to the Americans. (End of interview)

Bill Bennett : [press conferences, interviews, speeches, etc., September-December 1977 & June 1979]

CALL NUMBER: T1707:0119 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Bill Bennett: Cabinet meeting RECORDED: Vernon (B.C.), 1977-09-29 SUMMARY: At a news conference in Vernon, 29 September 1977, Premier Bill Bennett discusses the reasons for holding cabinet meetings in various regions of the province. Also discussed are health care in BC, economic conditions, and labour problems. NOTE: TRANSCRIPT ONLY. CALL NUMBER: T1707:0120 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Bill Bennett: News conference RECORDED: Victoria (B.C.), 1977-11-22 SUMMARY: At a news conference in Victoria, Premier Bill Bennett discusses: proposed ferry rate increases, municipal politics, the electoral reform commission, the announced resignation of Conservative leader Scott Wallace, reports that the RCMP had placed a secret agent in Victoria for surveillance of the Barrett administration, BC Hydro labour problems, and the upcoming Social Credit Party convention. 22 ;November 1977. NOTE: TRANSCRIPT ONLY. CALL NUMBER: T1707:0121 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Bill Bennett: News conference RECORDED: Langley (B.C.), 1977-11-24 SUMMARY: At a news conference in Langley, Premier Bill Bennett discusses changes in cabinet responsibilities and various aspects of transportation in BC, 24 November 1977. NOTE: TRANSCRIPT ONLY. CALL NUMBER: T1707:0122 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Bill Bennett: Review of two years in office RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-12-08 SUMMARY: In an interview with Joe Easingwood of radio station CJVI Victoria, Premier Bill Bennett reflects upon his first two years in office, 8 December 1977. NOTE: TRANSCRIPT ONLY. CALL NUMBER: T1707:0123 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Bill Bennett: Christmas message RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-12-14 SUMMARY: Premier Bill Bennett delivers his Christmas message to BC, 14 December 1977. NOTE: TRANSCRIPT ONLY. This item duplicates the transcript for T1707:0069; a recording is also accessioned under that number. CALL NUMBER: T1707:0124 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Bill Bennett: Interview with Allan White RECORDED: [location unknown], 1977-12-16 SUMMARY: In an interview in Victoria with Allan White of the Vancouver Province on 16 December 1979, Premier Bill Bennett discusses various aspects of his tenure as Premier of BC since December 1975. NOTE: TRANSCRIPT ONLY. CALL NUMBER: T1707:0125 SUPPLIED TITLE OF TAPE(S): Bill Bennett: News conference on BCRIC RECORDED: Victoria (B.C.), 1979-06 SUMMARY: At a press conference in Victoria in June 1979, Premier Bill Bennett comments on BCRIC and free share distribution. NOTE: TRANSCRIPT ONLY.

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