1973 Legislative Session: 2nd Session, 30th Parliament

HANSARD

The following electronic version is for informational purposes

only.

The printed version remains the official version.

Official Report of

DEBATES OF THE LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY

(Hansard)

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 1973

Afternoon Sitting

[ Page 351 ]

The House met at 3 p.m.

Prayers.

MR. SPEAKER: The Hon. Attorney General.

HON. A.B. MACDONALD (Attorney General): Mr. Speaker, I'd

like to welcome to this House the Hon. Al Mackling, who is the

Attorney General of Manitoba.

Introduction of bills.

Mr. McGeer moves introduction and first reading of Bill No.

81 intituled The Election Expenses Act, 1973 .

Motion approved.

Bill No. 81 read a first time and ordered to be placed on

orders of the day for second reading at the next sitting after

today.

PREVENTION OF RESTRAINT OF

PROFESSIONAL PRACTICES ACT

Mr. McGeer moves introduction and first reading of Bill No.

82 intituled Prevention of Restraint of Professional

Practices Act .

Motion approved.

Bill No. 82 read a first time and ordered to be placed on

orders of the day for second reading at the next sitting after

today.

THE OMBUDSMAN ACT

Mr. Gardom moves introduction and first reading of Bill No.

8 3 intituled The Ombudsman Act .

Motion approved.

Bill No. 83 read a first time and ordered to be placed on

orders of the day for second reading at the next sitting after

today.

Orders of the day.

MR. SPEAKER: The Hon. Premier.

HON. D. BARRETT (Premier): Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by

the Hon. Attorney General, that the public accounts for the

fiscal year 1971-72 be

referred to the Select Standing Committee on Public

Accounts.

Motion approved.

Presenting reports.

Hon. Mr. Barrett presents the Report of the Comptroller

General pursuant to the provisions of the Audit Act ,

Chapter 22, 1960, of the Revised Statutes.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present

a message from His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor.

ESTIMATES OF SUMS REQUIRED FOR THE

SERVICE OF THE PROVINCE

MR. SPEAKER: His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor herewith

transmits a bill intituled Estimates of Sums Required for

the Service of the Province for the fiscal year ending

March 31, 1974, and recommends the same to the Legislative

Assembly, dated at Government House, February 9, 1973.

Hon. Mr. Barrett moves that the said message and the

estimates accompanying the same be referred to a Committee of

the Whole House forthwith.

Motion approved.

House in committee; Mr. Dent in the chair.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Chairman, I move that the committee

rise recommending the introduction of the bill.

Motion approved.

The House resumed; Mr. Speaker in the chair.

MR. CHAIRMAN: Mr. Speaker, the committee reports

recommending that the estimates be referred to the committee of

supply.

HON. MR. BARRETT: I move that the report be adopted.

Motion approved.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Speaker, I move that the said message

and estimates accompanying the same be referred to a committee

of supply. Seconded by the Hon. Attorney General.

Motion approved.

BUDGET ADDRESS

[ Page 352 ]

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Speaker, under our Canadian system of

government the motion I now move, "That Mr. Speaker do now

leave the chair for the House to go into the committee of

supply," in order to consider the Government's

expenditure proposals for the ensuing fiscal year, is

paramount. It allows for the free and open debate and question

of the Government's financial programme, both within this

chamber and throughout the communities of this province. It is

a particular. honour for me to present this first budget of the

new Government of the Province of British Columbia.

The budget is a vital document for it reflects Government

policies and allows citizens an opportunity to judge the

success or failure of the Government in carrying through the

programmes upon which it was elected.

This budget heralds a new era for the people of our

province, an era where the rights of the individual are

supreme. We are committed to make this a just and open era in

the governing of this province.

Your Government has been in office less than five months,

yet the new direction has already been initiated through the

special session convened in October last year, when important

policies of this Government were enacted.

These included the guaranteed $200 a month income for our

citizens who are 65 or over, or handicapped, and the increase

in the provincial minimum wage equalized for both men and

women. The first provincial government guaranteed income

cheques were mailed in December to about 110,000 persons for an

average payment of just over $42. We hope this additional

monthly income will help in providing these persons with a

basic living income in their golden years. As of December 4

last, a minimum wage of $2 per hour became effective. Further

changes reflecting our position on a number of matters of

concern will be evident in my budget proposals.

This may be an appropriate point to offer further comment

upon the general philosophy of the new Government of British

Columbia., It might be said that we desire to turn attention

around from gauging the province's progress quantitatively to a

qualitative measurement. I have said before that the economy

should serve the people, not people the economy. This approach

calls for a new perspective, both in government and in private

sectors. We do not desire more growth for growth's sake, but

rather growth on terms suitable to this province.

British Columbia is endowed with an abundance of resources,

not only for production needs, but also for the enjoyment of

people. We are suggesting a reevaluation of the contribution

that our natural resources make to provincial development. An

abundance of resources does not make it any less important for

government or private business to

[ Page 353 ]

maximize the value received for those resources,

particularly resources of the nonrenewable nature. Unless their

utilization can bestow social as well as economic benefits upon

the province, then it is possible their development may best be

left to a later date. One has but to look at the current and

forecast rates of world consumption of resources of a type

abounding in British Columbia to realize they will be no less

valuable in the future and are realistically likely to be much

higher.

Mr. Speaker, that is a major philosophical point that

separates this group from the Opposition over there. We're not

ashamed that perhaps we may be the only jurisdiction in this

country to say that we wish to protect those resources for the

best interests of the people, not just for political expediency

through development.

Life has to be more meaningful for people. We believe it can

be made so for all people in the province through participation

along with the provincial government and private industry in

business endeavours. We favour partnership arrangements between

industry, government, and employees, rather than subsidies or

loans to industry. We see a policy promoting British Columbia

secondary industry utilizing our varied natural resources as a

means of maximizing our economic and social rewards. Certainly,

secondary industries afford us an opportunity to create the

many jobs required for our rapidly growing labour force — the

most rapidly growing labour force in all of Canada. Your

Government is presently engaged in negotiations with industry

on a major project within this economic and social

framework.

The Government's fiscal policies are reflective of the

province's wealth in natural resources. Our budgets will be

prudent, will be tailored to meet changing times, and will be

balanced whenever possible and when in the public interest. We

believe in maintaining cash reserves whenever possible as a

safeguard against short-term developments outside the

province's control.

Mr. Speaker, I said at my Press conference this morning that

we are being cautious. We are being cautious in estimating our

revenues due to the nature of our economy. It would be fair to

estimate that a growth figure of 13.5 per cent would be

adequate for this province. However, we are deliberately

estimating the rate at 10 to 11 per cent as a growth figure to

be on caution's side because of the nature of our economy. It

dictates this approach.

If we are able to move into a surplus revenue position — and

I expect we will be — that information will be disclosed as

soon as it is available. We will not perpetuate the surprise

surplus positions that were used politically in the past.

It is our belief, Mr. Speaker, that our natural resources have not been returning

the people of the province a fair measure of their value in both dollars and

jobs. We intend to give this factor immediate attention. Since taking office,

the Government has been studying the whole question of provincial government

revenues from business and industry generally and resource utilization particularly.

More will be said on this matter later, but it is sufficient to say here that

what we desire to achieve is a fair and equitable return to all persons and

parties involved. This approach to natural resource utilization typifies our

approach to government generally. This Government, Mr. Speaker, will not be

stampeded into doing things, but we will perform in a business-like manner In

context of the national scene, the challenge in the Canadian federation today

is for the national government and the member provincial governments to conjointly

work toward the common goal of building a greater Canada and provide a more

meaningful life for all Canadians. Mr. Speaker, we want all regions of this

country to share in the prosperity from the nation's riches. We will not be

initiating any frivolous non-court cases against equalization payments.

MR. G.B. GARDOM (Vancouver Point-Grey): What about the ones

that are going on now?

HON. MR. BARRETT: I think they'll be abandoned.

MR. GARDOM: Wipe them out?

HON. MR. BARRETT: We'll wipe them out.

provinces have different responsibilities assigned them under

the Canadian constitution, the complexities of our society and

the world economics make the division, which seemed so

appropriate and clear-cut 106 years ago, subject to conflict

and misunderstanding today. The representative national

government, which at our founding was assigned matters of

national and international concern, finds an apparent

difficulty in confining itself to these areas alone. For the

provincial governments on the other hand, major economic

linkages have developed in the last two decades between certain

provinces and foreign states. This makes it extremely difficult

for provincial governments not to concern themselves about

intergovernmental discussions at other levels on matters which

from our beginning have been a provincial responsibility.

There is a danger in a Confederation in as large and

sparsely populated a country as Canada, complicated by a gross

imbalance in population leverage — leverage for policies of the

national government not truly in the best interests of the

regions.

Each region has distinct characteristics from other regions.

Therefore, although the national government may have the best interests of the country in mind when

establishing a national policy, unless the decision is based on

a recognition of the individualities of each region, then the

aspirations and goals of the people of all regions will not be

met nor will a solid federal presence be maintained.

Mr. Speaker, let me say that the Government of the Province

of British Columbia has great faith in every province of this

country in its desire to stay in Confederation, and I want to

especially extend a hand to the Province of Quebec.

In the years since the end of World War II, the Government

of Canada has introduced a number of national programmes in

areas that are essentially the concern and responsibility of

the provincial government, It is necessary for the federal

government to set minimum national standards for government

services to the people of Canada. However, whether the

which these standards may be achieved is subject to question

when it is impossible to design a programme that is appropriate

to meet the needs of each region.

I said at the opening of the Conference of Provincial

Welfare Ministers in Victoria last fall that Canada will not

survive as a nation unless the federal government learns to

understand the needs of the provinces. In the area of social

services I suggest that, while it was acceptable for the

federal government to set minimum national standards, a

province should be able to develop the programmes appropriate

to its needs to achieve the national standards and, therefore,

should have more control over total government social

assistance funds without endangering national standards. Social

service programmes in Canada have been developed in response to

problems as they occurred, rather than on a planned basis. The

programmes have forced persons on social assistance to adapt to

the system, rather than the system meeting the needs of the

individuals. I suggest that the present programmes are

essentially wasteful and handled in a paternalistic way. We

have indicated the direction in which government should move in

this regard through our guaranteed monthly income programme.

There will be more specific proposals on this in the

future.

My Government desires to bring a new direction for British

Columbia inside the Canadian Confederation. We are partners in

this country and, while we may have different points of view,

we must come to an agreement on the middle ground — that's what

politics is all about. This calls for an awareness on the part

of the national government of the distinctly different needs of

each province, and on the part of the provinces on the unity of

purpose necessary to preserve our unique Confederation.

We will hold to the spirit of Confederation and use all

available means, including proper representation

[ Page 354 ]

for British Columbia at all federal-provincial conferences,

to improve the federal government's understanding of our

problems.

It is also the policy of this Government to foster an

understanding of neighbouring territorial jurisdictions. To

this end we have initiated discussions of matters of mutual

concern with officials of the Yukon and the States of

Washington and Alaska. There will be no more posturing in this

province as to the takeover of the Yukon or the Alaska

panhandle, Mr. Speaker. It is our proposal to strengthen these

relationships.

I have commented earlier upon how provincial economies today

have become enmeshed with other economies. I am thinking

particularly of our oil and natural gas resources. Because

these resources are integrated with a system that crosses

provincial and national boundaries, they come under national

control once outside British Columbia. However, because the

resources belong to the people of British Columbia, we believe

that the provincial government cannot stand idly by while

questions concerning these resources are being decided

elsewhere, We will continue to concern ourselves over issues

affecting our natural resources. We completely reject, Mr.

Speaker, any continental resource policy.

I wish to report to the Hon. Members that I have asked the

Prime Minister of Canada to consider initiating proceedings

under the Canada-British Columbia agreement on the Columbia

River to reopen the Columbia River Treaty with the United

States. The purpose in doing so is to seek reimbursement for

the province for the exceedingly higher costs brought about by

an excessive North American inflation experienced over an

eight-year construction period of the storage projects, plus

the fact that the previous administration didn't take inflation

into account.

Interjection by an Hon. Member.

HON. MR. BARRETT: I have sent a letter to the Prime Minister

just this week and I will make copies of it available to

you.

The higher construction costs increased the value of the

downstream power benefits which, in our view, justifies

discussions with the Americans. The Prime Minister has agreed

to consider establishing a federal provincial liaison committee

within the terms of the Canada-British Columbia agreement on

the Columbia River to consider our case.

In regard to Hydro, Mr. Speaker, I would like to say that

the usual short report on B.C. Hydro is not in this year's

budget. Instead, in keeping with our policy of opening all

books, I will file in the House today complete financial

information on Hydro as to December 31, 1972. The documents I

will file will be the annual report for the year ending March 31, 1972, the nine months financial report to December

31, 1972, and comparative financial information to March 31,

I think, Mr. Speaker, that the people of British Columbia

and the Members of this House are entitled all the

information.

It is encouraging, Mr. Speaker, to note the undertaking of

the Prime Minister of Canada to meet with the four western

provinces on matters affecting our economies.

For too long, governments of most of the major industrial

countries have been obsessed with economic development, in our

opinion falsely equating a high rate of economic growth with

rapid social improvement. The most dramatic example, Mr.

Speaker, of this particular problem is the country of Japan and

we must reflect on the problems of that country if we are to

learn any lessons here in British Columbia.

Now many of the uncounted costs are being realized as cities

disintegrate and the environment erodes — a result of

inadequate social and ecological safeguards. To preserve an

optimum quality of life in British Columbia for ourselves and

for the future generations, we must protect and improve our

natural heritage wherever possible. There is little point, in

my view, in striving to achieve one of the highest incomes per

capita in North America if our physical surroundings are

rendered intolerable in the process.

It is the avowed intention of this Government to strike hard

at pollution problems, wherever they occur. Unchecked

development of our physical resources can only end in waste and

disorder. Rational development based on hard scientific facts

and development in harmony with what already exists, Mr.

Speaker, is our goal.

The British Columbia government already provides various

incentives to industry and local governments to encourage

pollution control programmes. There is also specific

legislation designed to keep environmental deterioration to a

minimum. Polluters, whether they be industries, businesses or

individuals, must expect to pay the social costs of pollution

they cause. A study has commenced to determine the feasibility

of levying appropriate financial charges against any group that

initiates waste problems.

Moreover, programmes such as recycling of waste products are

being investigated and later on in the budget a specific budget

proposal will be made to encourage this particular type of

activity. It is quite apparent from many successful

waste-conversion products that useless materials can often be

turned into profitable by-products. One of the most obvious, of

course, is methane gas. Those of the Members who are left who

served with me on the agriculture committee know the product

that produces most methane gas.

The Pollution Control Board and other govern-

[ Page 355 ]

ment agencies have been directed to apply the most advanced

scientific programmes and techniques to preserve our natural

heritage. An inquiry by the Pollution Control Board presently

underway on industrial and municipal pollution problems will

provide valuable information in establishing a sound

provincial-wide pollution control code.

Mr. Speaker, I would hope provincial government action to

promote pollution abatement at business and local government

levels will induce each member of our society to participate in

perpetuating the greatest resource we have, nature itself.

Turning now to the province's finances and the economy, it

is the intention of this administration to disclose the

financial condition of the Government and its Crown

corporations in a prompt and more complete manner to allow

interested citizens of British Columbia to scrutinize

provincial government operations.

The abridged public accounts of British Columbia for the

last fiscal year, and summaries in the "Financial and Economic

Review" have already been released to the public by the

previous administration I submitted the detailed public

accounts for the fiscal year ending March 31, 1972, to the

Legislature on the opening day of this session and will now

review the highlights of this report.

The total provincial assets as of March 31, 1972 rose 12 per

cent or by $291,739,388 over the previous fiscal year to a

total of $2,726,289,233. This is the wealth produced by British

Columbians, not wealth produced by Social Credit, Liberal,

Conservative or NDP parties. It is the wealth produced by the

people of this province. Of the total assets, the fixed assets

portion, which includes provincial highways, bridges, ferries

and buildings, went from $1,326,000,000 to $1,424,000,000, an

increase of $98 million. The excess of assets over liabilities

climbed $120 million during the year to a total of

$1,777,000,000 — to the nearest figure.

The provincial debt, Mr. Speaker, not brought in by the NDP,

not all blamed on Social Credit, not all a Liberal nightmare,

not all the Conservative estimations — just the provincial debt

that we have always had all these years — as of March 31, 1972

was $47,752,571, fully covered by sinking fund investments. At

the same date the contingent liability debt inherited from the

previous administration guaranteed as to payment of principal

and interest by the province was $2,998,184,383, offsetting

sinking fund investments $257,618,439, leaving a net contingent

liability debt of $2,740,565,944. That we all owe, Mr. Speaker,

we all owe and we'll all pay.

Yes, the assets are there, but the assets and the debt

belong to the people of British Columbia. And you don't have

assets belonging to one political party and the debts belonging

to the people. (Laughter).

An examination of provincial government revenues and expenditures for the period

reveals total revenues, not including the $25,601,080 accelerated payment from

the federal government on the phase-out of the Technical and Vocational Capital

Assistance Programme, were $1,437,115,000 — a 14.2 per cent gain over the prior

fiscal year, Expenditures, including all capital outlays totaled $1,419,223,000

— up 14.3 per cent. We'd like to see the same performance next year. But we

are cautious in our estimates and, as I said earlier, we will make the information

available as soon as it is available to us.

While the excess of revenue over revenue for the fiscal year

was $17,892,000 and accelerated receipts previously mentioned

totaled $25 million, the appropriation of $55 million for

perpetual and special fund programmes on March 31, 1972 reduced

the budgetary cash reserve of $110 million to $98 million at

March 31, 1972.

The British Columbia economy performed strongly in 1972 with

all sectors contributing to the advance, particularly consumer

spending, housing construction, manufacturing, agriculture,

mining and the fishing sectors. Favourable market conditions in

Canada and the United States, and a more promising economic

situation in Japan and Western Europe, improved the export

position.

Mr. Speaker, may I say that at the invitation of a number of

western European industrialists and politicians, I expect in

May to make a very brief trip to Europe to broaden our trade

base — not only into the east but, I think, more into the west — especially Western Europe and especially now with Great

Britain going into the Common Market, I intend to aggressively

pursue those markets on behalf of the people of British

Columbia.

The gross provincial product increased an estimated

$1,220,000,000 or 11.5 per cent over 1971 to $11,870,000,000.

Mineral production increased 20 per cent to a record high $631

million, with copper, natural gas and coal contributing

significantly to the increase. An extremely favourable lumber

market in Canada and the United States and greatly improved

wood product prices augmented forest product shipment values.

The value of shipments of manufactured products reached a

record of $4,470,000,000 — a gain of 11.4 per cent over 1971.

And almost 100 per cent of those shipments went out in foreign

ships manned by foreign crews. I think that's a mistake, Mr.

Speaker.

The foods, wood products, beverages, transportation

equipment, paper and allied products were dominant. The travel

industry registered a further gain in 1972.

The continued movement of new residents to the province

increased British Columbia population by 2.9 per cent on the

latest federal estimate of 2,269,000 persons at October 1, 1972 — substantially higher than the 1.1 per cent increase in the

total

[ Page 356 ]

Canadian population from the same date a year ago. The 3.6,

per cent increase in the number of employed persons and an 8.9

per cent rise in the average income, led to a record of

$4,140,000,000 in retail sales — up 14 per cent in the year.

Sales of automobiles, home appliances and furniture made

especially strong gains.

Capital investment in the province continued near the 1971

record level and was $3,732,000,000. Gains were made in all

sectors except manufacturing and primary industries, which were

moderately lower. Housing capital expenditure was 7 per cent

higher than in 1971.

Export shipments increased 11 per cent to a record

$3,075,000,000 as a result of greatly improved sales of wood

products, metals and ores, concentrates, crude petroleum, coal,

and natural gas — particularly to the United States and

Japanese. markets. While these figures sound impressive, Mr. Speaker, I'd like to point out to all Members of the House,

that these figures continue to be a reflection of a basic

position of this province — of being hewers of wood and drawers

of water. While it is good for now — 25, 30 or 50 years from

now it's not good enough. This Government will be directing

basic policies to turn away into a more meaningful export of

our products.

The problem of unemployment continues to nag the whole

country as well as British Columbia. This province, with the

highest rate of addition to the labour force in Canada, has a

challenge for the private sector and all levels of government

to provide work opportunities for all who seek employment.

Certainly the provincial government will do all in its power to

alleviate the present situation. The federal government,

however, must assist us in this regard.

We look forward with hope to the forthcoming federal

conference called with western provinces to deal with our

special needs. We will never attend these conferences with the

threat to the federal government that, because of their tenuous

balance of power, we would somehow pull the strings of our

political colleagues in Ottawa unless they did our bidding. We

are opposed to that kind of threat, Mr. Speaker, and I want to

make that very clear. We will place our, position openly and in

a frank manner to the federal government of the day. That

doesn't mean we're not interested in our federal fortunes, but

those must be confined to the election campaigns

themselves.

The optimistic economic outlooks for our major trading

nations promise further growth in all sectors of the British

Columbia economy in 1973. The international monetary system,

the movement of the Canadian dollar, the uncertain effects of

Britain's entry into the European Economic Community and the

continued threat of inflation are factors which could affect

our performance — and will be watched carefully.

In reviewing the financial affairs of the province in the

current year, the Audit Act requires the Comptroller General to

prepare for the House a statement of the province's revenues

and expenditures for the first nine months of the current

fiscal year. This is done on a accrual basis. I will table this

statement at the close of my address.

The present provincial economic buoyancy is mirrored by the

healthy growth in revenue accruals for the nine-month period

April 1 to December 31, as they totaled $1,185,205,000 — up

13.5 per cent. Expenditure accruals, including all current and

capital outlays, reached, $1,134,000,000 — up 12.5 per cent.

The excess of revenue over expenditure for this period, on an

accrual basis, was $51 million.

The growth in revenue in the first three quarters of the

fiscal year 1972-73 over the same period in 1971-72 was $141

million. Major revenue gains were experienced in the following

categories: Incomes taxes, $38 million; timber sales, $27

million; social service tax, $18 million; Canada's share of

joint service programmes, $16 million — the federal government

does give some money to British Columbia, Mr. Speaker. That has

not been acknowledged in the past and we acknowledge it today.

Liquor profits were up $12 million.

The $125 million increase in disbursements to escalate the

provision of services to people were located mainly in the

following sectors: Highways, $43 million — an election year;

hospital and medical care, $29 million; education, $29 million.

Because of the low forest fire hazard experienced last summer,

fire suppression costs in the forest service are lower by

$8,418,000.

Mr. Speaker, I will table today separate reports on the

operation of B.C. Hydro and Power Authority and British

Columbia Railway.

The province's Crown corporations provide the means for

public ownership of those business endeavours where, because of

either their unique position in the economy or the need to

provide adequate level of public service, it is in the best

public interest to have such ownership vested with the people.

The British Columbia Hydro and Power Authority, which supplies

electricity to areas of the province with over 90 per cent of

the population, and the British Columbia Railway Company, which

operates a vital transportation service to central and northern

British Columbia, typify appropriate provincial Crown

corporations.

This Government proposes making these operations more

relevant and more meaningful to the needs of the people of the

province. Time will tell. The British Columbia School Districts

Capital Financing Authority and the British Columbia Regional

Hospital Districts Financing Authority are also provincial

Crown corporations.

[ Page 357 ]

The capital investment needs of the provincial Crown

corporations during 1972 were provided by the Minister of

Finance as their fiscal agent at market rates from internal

investment funds available to the province. These comprised

receipts from Canada Pension Fund aggregating $138 million with

the provincial trusteed funds totaling $124 million.

In the short time this Government has been in office, Mr.

Speaker, it has found areas of neglect concerning various

segments of our population. I've previously mentioned that the

Government moved very quickly in one of these areas, that of

aid to our senior citizens. The funds to carry out this

programme, together with extra funds for other urgent

people-oriented programmes, will be found in this budget. In

addition, extra funds are provided to create jobs and

strengthen the administration of our valuable resources

throughout this province. Mr. Speaker, this expenditure budget,

in an effort to catch up on some of the shortfalls of the past,

will be by far the largest budget in the province's history,

with the largest single year increase of any previous

administration, I propose to add $266,946,000 alone to the current year's

budget and, in addition, to take $85 million from cash

surpluses mainly to stimulate employment and the economy of

British Columbia. And, Mr. Speaker, I want to assure this House

these massive cash infusions are being made without any danger

to the financial structure of the province. They will come from

current or surplus cash. They will not deplete the province's

surplus cash position as of March, 1972 to any extent and will

not involve any provincial borrowing. I wish to emphasize that

next year's expenditure budget will be fully balanced from

current revenues.

While the proposed addition to budget expenditures is the

largest single year increase ever for the province, it is made

so because of past deficiencies and the need to restore the

level of provincial government services. The increased

expenditure is meant, in part, to bring social and economic

stability — as a major portion is for the Government's

guaranteed income programme. The total British Columbia 1973-74

expenditure estimate is $1,718,909,000 — $266,946,000 or well

over a quarter of a billion dollars more than the current year,

Mr. Speaker.

The largest single provincial expenditure commitment is

again in the Department of Education, where a one-year increase

of $45 million causes a total of $486 million for this one

function of Government. Education, Mr. Speaker, is costly. But

this Government is committed to provide our young people, our

middle-aged people and our elderly people with the skills and

the tools that they desire and need to face the challenges of a

modern world. And we're not ashamed to spend the money.

Of the increase, $20 million is allocated for grants to

school districts. Somebody mentioned salaries for teachers.

Salaries for teachers reflect the quality of the teachers. If

we are going to get the best for our children, we must pay the

best, I don't apologize for that one single bit. In addition to

this, a further $12 million is provided in a separate vote as

one year catch-up on the provincial government's sharing of

school district budgets.

Also, it is proposed to increase the basic homeowner grant

from $185 to $200 and the grant to homeowners aged 65 and over

from $235 to $250. Mr. Speaker, this once and for all must put

an end to the false argument the previous administration had

that no other Opposition party would carry on this programme. I

hope we end that now, These grants will require an estimated

$89 million next year, or $8,330,000 more than in the current

year.

These increases in provincial government appropriation for

public schools education, totaling more than $40 million in a

single year, will assist the middle-income homeowner who works

hard to help himself and his family, but has difficulty in

maintaining a home with the present level of local government

property tax. A method of removal of the school tax from the

homeowner is currently under review.

Operating grants to universities are increased by $6.5

million and to community colleges and technical and vocational

schools, $7 million. It is an anachronism to us, Mr. Speaker,

that at a time of high unemployment many jobs go begging

because there aren't skilled people to fill those jobs. We

intend to fill that vacuum with these funds. We all know the

history of being short in terms of the past vocational training

in this province.

Interjection by an Hon. Member.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Well I'm certainly glad it's not

grapefruit juice. (Laughter). I'm sure it's a B.C. product.

A new item of $750,000 is provided for educational research

and $500,000 more must be provided by the province for

teachers' unemployment insurance.

The foremost one-year increase takes place in the Department

of Rehabilitation and Social Improvement, where the annual

increase is $90 million. I've already referred to the fact that

these funds, in part, will provide for the senior citizens'

guaranteed monthly income. These funds are largely recovered by

the economy, as the spending potential of our senior citizens

has been made more realistic. The letters that we have received

from people throughout this whole province who are benefiting

under this programme are heartwarming. Every Member of the

House should take credit for passing that programme

[ Page 358 ]

last October.

The Department of the Attorney General was increased by $8

million for the administration of justice. The Department of

Finance — a new item of $3.5 million is provided for the

elderly citizens' renters grant, as it is the Government's

intention to carry on this programme.

Also, this Government promised its employees bargaining

rights. This promise will be kept as soon as possible.

Implementation and discussion will require a measure of time.

In the meantime, $8.5 million for salary adjustments has been

provided in this department.

The Department of Health Services and Hospital Insurance

estimates of expenditure increased by $53 million. Hon. Members

will note the Overall Medical Services Plan administration has

been transferred to this department from the Provincial

Secretary and increased $5 million to a total, of $90

million.

The public health expenditures are increased by $8,967,000,

inclusive of the over-all medical services plan. The

$40,165,000 more allocated to the hospital insurance service

increases the hospital insurance cost to the province to a

total of $272 million. Mental health expenditures are increased

by $4,782,000 to provide expanded care throughout the province.

A greater programme of home services to the chronically ill

will be initiated this year.

In order to maintain a high level of employment and building

and construction work around the province, the highways and

public works departments are increased by $33,543,000 and $4,781,000 respectively. To enable the forest service to administer

our valuable forest services, $5,537,000 more is provided — the

blacktop where it is needed, not on political terms. The

Department of Recreation and Conservation receives an

additional $3.1 million. There are comparative estimates of

expenditures by departments in your printed budget speech.

In the Department of Municipal Affairs it is proposed to

increase the per capita grant to municipalities by $2 per

capita, at the estimated cost of $4 million, as an aid to

municipalities to keep local property taxes down. There will be

no restrictions on the municipalities. They will be free, as

democratic institutions on their own, to decide properly and

rightly how they wish to spend those funds.

It is proposed to transfer responsibility for British

Columbia House and the Agent-General's office in London,

England from the Department of Industrial Development, Trade

and, Commerce to the Department of the Provincial

Secretary.

The Hon. Members will note that the Water Resources Service and the Department

of Mines and Petroleum Resources indicate decreased appropriations. The Water

Resources Service reduction results from the removal of an appropriation for

the Libby Reservoir preparation which in the current year amounts to $4,887,000.

In the Mines Department, with the near completion of the Stewart-Cassiar Road,

that vote has been reduced by $2,550,000.

The financial structure of the Province of British Columbia

contains $85 million in perpetual funds. These funds are for

specific purposes and invested in long-term securities of the

British Columbia Regional Hospital Districts Financing

Authority and the British Columbia School Districts Capital

Financing Authority. Annual interest earnings of these funds

may be used in perpetuity for the special purpose of each fund.

In addition, numerous special funds have been created from

which the capital of each fund may be used for the specific

purpose of the fund. As of December 31, 1972, the total capital

available in these funds was $136 million.

Mr. Speaker, this Government has not had time since taking

office in September to assess properly the desirability of

maintaining all of these funds in their present forms. It has,

however, taken steps to ensure appropriate administration and

control of the funds through the Provincial Treasury Board. We

recognize the very useful purposes involved in some of the

funds and, therefore, wish to augment some of them. Also, as

long as the fund system is an integral part of our accounting

procedures, we will wish to create new ones. I am therefore

recommending to the House appropriations of $85 million to

funds as follows:

Accelerated Park Development: The main purpose of this fund

is to create jobs, and I am recommending $5 million be added

from current or surplus revenues to continue this

programme.

Accelerated Reforestation Fund: Again, this is a

job-creating programme, and I am recommending $5 million to be

added from current or surplus revenues.

Provincial Land Acquisition Fund: The Government desires to

acquire land for housing projects for the people of this

province, Mr. Speaker, while it is still available. This land

will form a bank for future housing sites to help ensure our

citizens have an opportunity, for adequate housing, and I am

recommending $10 million be placed in this fund from current or

surplus revenues.

Community Recreational Facilities Fund: The province desires

to assist local communities to construct recreational

facilities in their communities. I am therefore recommending $

10 million be placed in a fund from current or surplus revenues

to be used as the province's share of jointly financed

community construction projects. The province will share one

third of the cost of the first $1 million in any project.

Mr. Speaker, I said when I originally announced this

programme that these grants would be open to religious and

ethnic groups as well. The only condition being that the

services and the facilities of such institutions must be open

to every single member of the community. Canada, has never

bought the

[ Page 359 ]

melting-pot concept for its population. One of the strengths

of the Canadian nation is that there is an identity of

religious and ethnic groups in this country. Ethnic groups and

religious groups do bring a certain stability of their own in a

rapidly growing country and those who argue the melting-pot

concept as the only way to develop North America must look at

the tragic example of the breakdown of family life in American

cities, because of the loss of cultural and religious values. I

have no hesitation, as a socialist government, in saying that

we will grant money to religious and ethnic organizations to

build community facilities as long as they are open to all

people in the community.

Now, Mr. Speaker, the Provincial Research and Economic

Studies Fund: It is apparent to this Government that the

province needs an independent and ready source of research on

specified projects as required. This would be supplied from the

private or educational sector. I am therefore recommending the

setting-up of a perpetual fund of $5 million from current or

surplus revenues. The annual interest earnings are to be used

for research as required by the Province.

We will not hesitate, Mr. Speaker, to seek out advice,

assistance and counsel from any location anywhere in the world.

We will not define a person's political philosophy or his

national origin as a limiting factor to giving good advice. We

are prepared to learn from anybody and this instrument will be

the avenue under the University of Victoria to get that advice

and help as we need it for the people of British Columbia.

Provincial Home Acquisition Fund: While the Government may

not agree with all the details of the Home Acquisition

Programme and has it under extensive review, we certainly agree

with the principle of aiding our citizens to obtain funds by

providing them with financial assistance. We therefore intend

to maintain the Provincial Home Acquisition Fund and I am

recommending an additional $50 million be placed in the fund

from current or surplus revenues This $50 million must not be locked in isolation but must be

tied in to the previously announced $10 million for land

acquisition. If you read our policy during the election

campaign you will see that we are not tied to one method of

getting people into their own homes, My friend the Minister

without Portfolio (Hon. Mr. Calder) will be bringing in his

report and I am sure that will probably be one of the

recommendations. I am saying that this must not be looked upon

as an isolated thing. We are looking for an integrated

programme to get people into their own homes in this province

and that is a major priority with this Government.

The promising 1973 economic outlook for the province offers encouragement for

resulting buoyant revenues to entirely support the greatly enlarged provincial

budget for the fiscal year 1973/74 without the need to borrow or resort to the

use of surplus funds.

The Government is studying the entire revenue structure of

the province, with particular attention to the natural resource

sector. We wish to secure for the people of the province an

appropriate return for the use of their resources. In our

review of provincial revenues, several tax concessions to

industry are noted under existing legislation, which grant

certain businesses advantages not enjoyed by others. Under the

provincial sales tax, for example, manufacturing labour is not

taxed, while it is taxed in all other provinces levying a sales

tax.

Also under this taxing legislation equipment used for

exploration purposes in the oil and mining industries receives

a 50 per cent refund of the tax paid. Logging and ore trucks,

and motor vehicles hauling drilling equipment enjoy the

advantage of a greatly reduced gasoline tax rate for

off-highway use of vehicles. It is also noted that there are

very generous allowances under the Mining Tax Act and

the Logging Tax Act for processing costs.

It is not this Government's intention to cancel these

industrial tax incentives at this time. However, some minor

adjustments in tax procedures are recommended for the

consideration of this House.

We believe our primary agriculture and fishing industries,

developed by the small farmer and the small fisherman, are in

need of incentives also. Therefore it is proposed to exempt

completely from gasoline tax, motor fuels used off-highway by

family farmers and fishermen and fuel used in the family farm

truck on the highway.

To encourage, Mr. Speaker, a reduction in pollution caused

by motor-vehicles, it is recommended to decrease the tax rate

applicable to liquefied petroleum gas, a nearly pollutant-free

motor fuel, from 17 cents a gallon to 10 cents a gallon, Mr.

Speaker. A different approach to the taxation of natural gas

used in the internal-combustion engine is also proposed.

An increase will be made in rural property tax mill rate

which in our opinion has remained much too low in relation to

the municipal general property tax levy.

An exemption will be proposed under the Gift Tax Act for

transfers to joint tenancy of family homes between spouses.

That wasn't recommended by my wife, by the way. (Laughter).

Mr. Speaker, I am recommending that the corporation income

tax be raised from 10 per cent to 12 per cent of taxable

corporation profits, effective January 1, 1973. A tax on

capital utilized by companies at a rate of one-tenth of 1 per

cent, similar to that applied in the Provinces of Ontario and

Quebec, will also be proposed. These two measures will increase

the provincial revenues by about $25 million.

Mr. Speaker, it is clearly evident that the province is not

receiving adequate revenues for petroleum and

[ Page 360 ]

natural gas resources. The Government proposes to increase

the petroleum royalty, which will yield additional revenue of

about $9 million a year. The federal government's involvement

over our natural gas marketed outside British Columbia

complicates the problem of establishing an adequate return from

this resource. However, this matter is currently under

extensive study.

The estimate of provincial revenue for the next fiscal year

is $1,722,000,000, which is $268,779,000 more than the estimate

for the current fiscal year. It is a cautious estimate. Because

we wish to be cautious and to balance the budget. But I repeat

again that if surpluses become evident, they will be made known

as quickly as possible to the public. We do not wish to

perpetuate the old game. This revenue will completely provide

for our expenditure programmes, including all capital

expenditures of the provincial government. This revenue will be

provided without a single penny increase in general provincial

taxes to the people of British Columbia.

For the information of the Honourable Members, a table of

comparative provincial government tax rates is provided. The

table illustrates the ability of the Province of British

Columbia to support a record budget of expenditures fully

balanced from revenues based on rates amongst the lowest — still amongst the lowest — in Canada.

Mr. Speaker, a brief analysis of the provincial budget on an

expenditure function basis at this point is helpful to reveal

the true benefit and impact of the budget for the people of

British Columbia.

In the coming fiscal year, $1,195,199,000 or 69 per cent of

the total provincial revenues will be devoted to the social

improvement of our people. This record expenditure, Which, Mr.

Speaker, is more than the total province revenue as late as

1970, is for education, health, and social service, which

reflects the Government's philosophy of people-oriented

policies.

We need a well-planned educational system which is capable

of anticipating long-run changes in the required academic and

technical qualifications of our labour force. A proper

education will equip the individual to earn not only a living

but also to enjoy life more fully, a significant point today as

workers gain more and more in leisure time. To determine the

best educational system for the province, a complete

examination will be carried out by two commissions appointed by

the Government — one to study post-secondary education and the

other public schools expenditure.

Next year, $495,544,000 will be appropriated for educational

services, compared with $322 million in 1970.

Even though over-all public school enrolment is expected to fall for the next

few years, costs are still climbing as the secondary school component of total

enrolment is rising, and provision of facilities in this sector takes more money

than the lower grades. Enrolment in post-secondary institutions continues to

grow, with the major increases experienced by the community colleges. We are

particularly pleased to see the increased use of community colleges as an avenue

to higher and continuing education to all our citizens.

In the field of health and social services the creation of a

comprehensive first-rate health service system and the

provision of a progressive social services programme are of

major importance and a high priority to this Government. To

this end we have initiated a thorough study of British

Columbia's health services and are experimenting with

alternative solutions to the social needs of provincial

residents.

Total expenditures on the broad range of provincial

government health and social service programmes in the next

fiscal year will be $699,655,000.

The $275 million appropriated for hospital care allows for

addition of 246 acute and 705 extended care beds placed in

service in the current fiscal year. The development of

out-patient services to ease the demand for hospital beds is

proceeding, and a system of nonprofit chronic-care facilities

with a high priority of service, and operative under the

provincial hospital scheme, is planned now.

The greatly increased social services provided by the

provincial government will cost $257 million in the next fiscal

year.

The $90 million provided for medical care is to meet the

needs of the 99.7 per cent of our population voluntarily

registered in the low-cost comprehensive provincial medical

plan.

The expenditure next year on mental health services totals

$50 million and provides for expanded regional services in

addition to institution services. Public health programmes of

the provincial government require $26 million in the next

year.

The economic policy of this Government is to promote

development which most benefits the people of the province.

This entails the encouragement of a higher degree of processing

our natural resources in British Columbia. Not only is improved

management of our resources necessary, but also the Government

proposes using this sector to stimulate employment at this

time. This next year $326 million is to be appropriated for

highways and resource management expenditures.

The extensive provincial highways and ferries system will

receive $221 million. Management of our forests is allocated

$46 million. The appropriation for recreational facilities and

conservation programmes will be $13 million. The important

water resources and pollution control programmes will receive

$13 million.

This Government is alert to the financial problems of local

Governments and the tax burden upon property-owners. I have

already made reference to

[ Page 361 ]

the removal of the reduced provincial government sharing of

school district budgets, the increase in the municipal per

capita grant, and the increases in the annual homeowner grant.

It will be recommended that the provincial government's annual

per capita grant payments to municipalities be on an

unconditional basis in the future to suit the priorities of

each individual municipality.

In the coming fiscal year a total of $1,014,691,000 will be

devoted to helping local governments deliver services to

people. Provincial per capita was $285 in 1970 and it will be

$438 in 1973/74.

Mr. Speaker, in concluding this rather brief budget speech,

I want to take this opportunity to say a few personal words,

because I didn't have the opportunity to speak in the last

debate. I want to thank my colleagues in this House. I want to

thank my colleagues in the cabinet. I want to give a public

expression of my appreciation of the many, many hours that this

group has put in in their new tasks as the cabinet of the

Province of British Columbia. I have been rather harsh and

cruel at times with the cabinet. I have given them agendas,

projects and goals that would tax any person. Not once has any

single cabinet Minister come to me complaining that his work

load is too heavy. I want to thank them for carrying that work

all these months.

I want to thank the Government backbenchers, who are not a

silent group, who have very strong opinions, and who I've

publicly encouraged to express those opinions, both in caucus

and in public, at every possible opportunity.

I want to thank the official Opposition, the Liberal Party

and the Conservatives for keeping two confidences. They were

extended the opportunity of having the throne speech the day

that it was delivered, early in the morning, and they did not

break that confidence. They were extended the opportunity of

having the budget speech early today and they did not break

that confidence. I welcome that new level of cooperation and

understanding.

Mr. Speaker, I want to emphasize this Government is

committed to implement policies to solve our many problems and

has received a mandate from the electors to do so, We proposed

a new deal for people, and the people of British Columbia

accepted this proposal. We own a wealthy province and we

deserve a greater return on our natural resources.

It is, therefore, not beyond our capabilities to make the

changes that are required. Upon the completion of studies

presently under way on the realignment of provincial government

operations, other policies will be introduced in a

business-like manner. We are capable of doing much more than

has been done in the past and our new deal for people, Mr.

Speaker, we hope will make a better life for all in British

Columbia.

Mr. Morrison moves adjournment of the debate.

Motion approved.

MR. SPEAKER: Now Hon. Members, I would ask for a short

recess while books relating to the budget speech are delivered.

Keep your places.

The House resumed; Mr. Speaker in the chair.

Presenting reports.

Hon. Mr. Barrett files the 10th annual report of the British

Columbia Power Authority; the British Columbia Hydro and Power

Authority comparative financial information as of March 31,

1972; the British Columbia Hydro and Power Authority financial

statements for nine months ended 31 December, 1972; the British

Columbia Railway Company's statement of accounts as of 31

December, 1972; the British Columbia Railway annual report for

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present

a message from His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor.

AN ACT TO AMEND THE INCOME TAX ACT, 1962

MR. SPEAKER: His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor transmits

herewith a bill intituled

An Act to Amend the Income Tax

Act, 1962 and recommends the same to the Legislative

Assembly.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Speaker, I move the said message and

bill accompanying the same be referred to a Committee of the

Whole House forthwith.

Motion approved.

House in committee on Bill No. 62; Mr. Dent in the chair,

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Chairman, I move that the committee rise recommending

the introduction of the bill.

Motion approved.

The House resumed; Mr. Speaker in the chair.

Bill No. 62 introduced, read a first time and ordered to be

placed on orders of the day for second reading at the next

sitting of the House after today.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present

a message from His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor.

[ Page 362 ]

AN ACT TO AMEND THE COLOURED

GASOLINE TAX ACT

MR. SPEAKER: His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor transmits

herewith a bill intituled

An Act to Amend the Coloured

Gasoline Tax Act and recommends the same to the Legislative

Assembly.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Speaker, I move that the said message

and the bill accompanying the same be referred to a Committee

of the Whole House forthwith.

Motion approved.

House in committee on Bill No. 65; Mr. Dent in the

chair.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Chairman, I move that the committee

rise recommending the introduction of the bill.

Motion approved.

The House resumed; Mr. Speaker in the chair.

Bill No. 65 introduced, read a first time and ordered to be

placed on orders of the day for second reading at the next

sitting of the House after today.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present

a message from His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor.

AN ACT TO AMEND THE GASOLINE

TAX ACT, 1948

MR. SPEAKER: His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor transmits

herewith a bill intituled

An Act to Amend the Gasoline Tax

Act, 1948 and recommends the same to the Legislative

Assembly.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Speaker, I move that the said message

and the bill accompanying the same be referred to the Committee

of the Whole House forthwith.

Motion approved.

House in committee on Bill No. 66; Mr. Dent in the

chair.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Chairman, I move that the committee

rise recommending the introduction of the bill.

Motion approved.

The House resumed; Mr. Speaker in the chair.

Bill No. 66 introduced, read a first time and ordered to be

placed on orders of the day for second reading at the next

sitting of the House after today.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present

a message from His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor.

AN ACT TO AMEND THE GASOLINE

TAX ACT, 1958

MR. SPEAKER: His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor herewith

transmits a bill intituled

An Act to Amend the Gasoline Tax

Act, 1958 and recommends the same to the Legislative

Assembly, Government House, February 9, 1973.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Speaker, I move the said message and

the bill accompanying the same be referred to the Committee of

the Whole House forthwith.

Motion approved.

House in committee on Bill No. 67; Mr. Dent in the

chair.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Chairman, I move the committee rise

recommending the introduction of the bill.

Motion approved.

The House resumed; Mr. Speaker in the chair.

Bill No. 67 introduced, read a first time and ordered to be

placed on orders of the day for second reading at the next

sitting of the House after today.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present

a message from His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor.

AN ACT TO AMEND THE

MOTIVE FUEL USE TAX ACT

MR. SPEAKER: His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor herewith

transmits a bill intituled

An Act to Amend the Motive-fuel

Use Tax Act and recommends the same to the Legislative

Assembly, Government House, February 9, 1973.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Speaker, I move the said message and

the bill accompanying the same be referred to the Committee of

the Whole House

[ Page 363 ]

forthwith.

Motion approved.

House in committee on Bill No. 68; Mr. Dent in the

chair.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Chairman, I move the committee rise

recommending the introduction of the bill.

Motion approved.

The House resumed; Mr. Speaker in the chair.

Bill No. 68 introduced, read a first time and ordered to be

placed on orders of the day for second reading at the next

sitting of the House after today.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present

a message from His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor.

AN ACT TO AMEND THE

SOCIAL SERVICES TAX ACT

MR. SPEAKER: His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor transmits

herewith a bill intituled

An Act to Amend the Social

Services Tax Act and recommends the same to the Legislative

Assembly, Government House, February 9, 1973.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Speaker, I move the said message and

the bill accompanying the same be referred to the Committee of

the Whole House forthwith.

Motion approved.

House in committee on Bill No. 69; Mr. Dent in the

chair.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Chairman, I move the committee rise

recommending the introduction of the bill.

Motion approved.

The House resumed; Mr. Speaker in the chair.

Bill No. 69 introduced, read a first time and ordered to be

placed on orders of the day for second reading at the next

sitting of the House after today.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present

a message from His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor.

AN ACT TO AMEND THE GIFT TAX ACT

MR. SPEAKER: His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor transmits

herewith a bill intituled

An Act to Amend the Gift Tax

Act and recommends the same to the Legislative Assembly,

Government House, February 9,1973.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Speaker, I move the said message and

the bill accompanying the same be referred to the Committee of

the Whole House forthwith.

Motion approved.

House in committee on Bill No. 70; Mr. Dent in the

chair.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Chairman, I move the committee rise

recommending the introduction of the bill.

Motion approved.

The House resumed; Mr. Speaker in the chair.

Bill No. 70 introduced, read a first time and ordered to be

placed on orders of the day for second reading at the next

sitting of the House after today.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present

a message from His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor.

AN ACT TO AMEND THE

ASSESSMENT EQUALIZATION ACT

MR. SPEAKER: His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor transmits

herewith a bill intituled

An Act to Amend the Assessment

Equalization Act and recommends the same to the Legislative

Assembly, Government House, February 9, 1973.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Speaker, I move the said message and

the bill accompanying the same be referred to the Committee of

the Whole House forthwith.

Motion approved.

House in committee on Bill No. 71; Mr. Dent in the

chair.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Chairman, I move the committee rise

recommending the introduction of the bill.

[ Page 364 ]

Motion approved.

The House resumed; Mr. Speaker in the chair.

Bill No. 71 introduced, read a first time and ordered to be

placed on orders of the day for second reading at the next

sitting of the House after today.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present

a message from His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor.

AN ACT TO AMEND THE

PROVINCIAL HOME-OWNER GRANT ACT

MR. SPEAKER: His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor transmits

herewith a bill intituled

An Act to Amend the Provincial

Home-owner Grant Act and recommends the same to the

Legislative Assembly, Government House, February 9, 1973.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Speaker, I move the said message and

the bill accompanying the same be referred to the Committee of

the Whole House forthwith.

Motion approved.

House in committee on Bill No. 72; Mr. Dent in the

chair.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Chairman, I move the committee rise

recommending the introduction of the bill.

Motion approved.

The House resumed; Mr. Speaker in the chair.

Bill No. 72 introduced, read a first time and ordered to be

placed on orders of the day for second reading at the next

sitting of the House after today.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present

a message from His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor.

AN ACT TO AMEND THE

MUNICIPALITIES AID ACT

MR. SPEAKER: His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor herewith

transmits a bill intituled A n Act to Amend the

Municipalities Aid Act and recommends the same to the

Legislative Assembly, Government House, February 9, 1973.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Speaker, I move the said message and the bill

accompanying the same be referred to the Committee of the Whole House forthwith.

Motion approved.

House in committee on Bill No. 73; Mr. Dent in the

chair.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Chairman, I move the committee rise

recommending the introduction of the bill.

Motion approved.

The House resumed; Mr. Speaker in the chair.

Bill No. 73 introduced, read a first time and ordered to be

placed on orders of the day for second reading at the next

sitting of the House after today.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present

a message from His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor.

AN ACT TO AMEND THE REVENUE ACT

MR. SPEAKER: His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor transmits

herewith a bill intituled

An Act to Amend the Revenue

Act and recommends the same to the Legislative Assembly,

Government House, February 9, 1973.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Speaker, I move the said message and

the bill accompanying the same be referred to the Committee of

the Whole House forthwith.

Motion approved.

House in committee on Bill No. 74; Mr. Dent in the

chair.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Chairman, I move the committee rise

recommending the introduction of the bill.

Motion approved.

The House resumed; Mr. Speaker in the chair.

Bill No. 74; introduced, read a first time and ordered to be

placed on orders of the day for second reading at the next

sitting of the House after today.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present

a message from His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor.

[ Page 365 ]

HOUSING INCENTIVE FUND ACT

MR. SPEAKER: His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor herewith transmits a bill intituled Housing

Incentive Fund Act and recommends the same to the Legislative Assembly.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Speaker, I move the said message and

the bill accompanying the same be referred to the Committee of

the Whole House forthwith.

Motion approved.

House in committee on Bill No. 75; Mr. Dent in the

chair.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Chairman, I move the committee rise

recommending the introduction of the bill.

Motion approved.

The House resumed; Mr. Speaker in the chair.

Bill No. 75 introduced, read a first time and ordered to be

placed on orders of the day for second reading at the next

sitting of the House after today.

HON. MR. BARRETT : Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present

a message from His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor.

COMMUNITY RECREATIONAL

FACILITIES FUND ACT

MR. SPEAKER: His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor herewith

transmits a bill intituled Community Recreational Facilities

Fund Act and recommends the same to the Legislative

Assembly.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Speaker, I move the said message and

the bill accompanying the same be referred to a Committee of

the Whole House forthwith.

Motion approved.

House in committee on Bill No. 76; Mr. Dent in the

chair.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Chairman, I move the committee rise

recommending the introduction of the bill.

Motion approved.

The House resumed; Mr. Speaker in the chair.

Bill No. 76 introduced, read a first time and ordered to be

placed on orders of the day for second reading at the next

sitting of the House after today.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present

a message from His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor.

SPECIAL FUNDS

APPROPRIATION ACT, 1973

MR. SPEAKER: His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor herewith

transmits a bill intituled Special Funds Appropriation Act,

1973 and recommends the same to the Legislative

Assembly.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Speaker, I move the said message and

the bill accompanying the same be referred to the Committee of

the Whole House forthwith.

Motion approved.

House in committee on Bill No. 77; Mr. Dent in the

chair.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Chairman, I move the committee rise

recommending the introduction of the bill.

Motion approved.

The House resumed; Mr. Speaker in the chair.

Bill No. 77 introduced, read a first time and ordered to be

placed on orders of the day for second reading at the next

sitting of the House after today.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present

a message from His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor.

BRITISH COLUMBIA ECONOMIC

RESEARCH FUND ACT

MR. SPEAKER: His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor herewith

transmits a bill intituled British Columbia Economic

Research Fund Act and recommends the same to the

Legislative Assembly.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Speaker, I move the said message and

the bill accompanying the same be referred to the Committee of

the Whole House forthwith.

Motion approved.

[ Page 366 ]

House in committee on Bill No. 78; Mr. Dent in the

chair.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Chairman, I move the committee rise

recommending the introduction of the bill.

Motion approved.

Bill No, 78 introduced, read a first time and ordered to be

placed on orders of the day for second reading at the next

sitting of the House after today.

HON. L.T. NIMSICK (Minister of Mines and Petroleum Resources): Mr. Speaker,

I have the honour to present a message from His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor.

IRON BOUNTY ACT REPEAL ACT

MR. SPEAKER: His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor herewith

transmits a bill intituled Iron Bounty Act Repeal Act

and recommends the same to the Legislative Assembly.

HON. MR. NIMSICK: Mr. Speaker, I move the said message and

the bill accompanying the same be referred to the Committee of

the Whole House forthwith.

Motion approved.

House in committee on Bill No. 19; Mr. Dent in the

chair.

HON. MR. NIMSICK: Mr. Chairman, I move the committee rise

recommending the introduction of the bill.

Motion approved.

The House resumed; Mr. Speaker in the chair.

Bill No. 19 introduced, read a first time and ordered to be

placed on orders of the day for second reading at the next

sitting of the House after today.

HON. MR. NIMSICK: Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present

a message from His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor.

COPPER BOUNTY ACT

REPEAL ACT

MR. SPEAKER: His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor herewith

transmits a bill intituled Copper

[ Page 367 ]

Bounty Act Repeal Act and recommends the same to the

Legislative Assembly.

HON. MR. NIMSICK: Mr. Speaker, I move the said message and

the bill accompanying the same be referred to the Committee of

the Whole House.

Motion approved.

House in committee on Bill No. 20; Mr. Dent in the

chair.

HON. MR. NIMSICK: Mr. Chairman, I move the committee rise

recommending the introduction of the bill.

Motion approved.

The House resumed; Mr. Speaker in the chair.

Bill No. 20 introduced, read a first time and ordered to be

placed on orders of the day for second reading at the next

sitting of the House after today.

HON. MR. NIMSICK: Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present

a message from His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor.

AN ACT TO AMEND THE

PETROLEUM AND NATURAL GAS ACT, 1965

MR. SPEAKER: His Honour the Lieutenant-Governor herewith

transmits a bill intituled

An Act to Amend the Petroleum and

Natural Gas Act, 1965 and recommends the same to the

Legislative Assembly.

HON. MR. NIMSICK: Mr. Speaker, I move the said message and the bill

accompanying the same be referred to the Committee of the Whole House forthwith.

Motion approved.

House in Committee on Bill No. 31; Mr. Dent in the

chair.

HON. MR. NIMSICK: Mr. Chairman, I move the committee rise

recommending the introduction of the bill.

Motion approved.

The House resumed; Mr. Speaker in the chair.

Bill No. 31 introduced, read a third time and ordered to be

placed on orders of the day for second reading at the next sitting of the House after today.

HON. MR. MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, I ask leave of the House

that the rules be suspended to permit the moving without notice

of a motion relating to Mr. Speaker's first interim report

presented pursuant to

section 7 of the Legislative Procedure

and Practice Enquiry Act.

Leave granted.

HON. MR. MACDONALD: Mr. Speaker, I move, seconded by the

Hon. Provincial Secretary, that the recommendations of Mr.

Speaker other than No. 8, contained in his report to this

Assembly dated February 9, 1973, be referred to the Select

Standing Committee on Standing Orders and Private Bills to

consider — and that their separate recommendations on each of

his proposals then be reported to the House from time to time

as they are able so to do.

Motion approved.

MR. SPEAKER: The Hon. Member for North Peace River.

MR. D.E. SMITH (North Peace River): Mr. Speaker, I rise on a point of

order. Now that the first report of the Legislative Procedures Committee has

been filed with the House, I would ask that the Votes and Proceedings No. 4

of January 30, page 2, dealing with an amendment which was moved by the Hon.

Member for Columbia River (Mr. Chabot) and seconded by myself, be corrected

so that the record will show names of both the mover and the seconder.

MR. SPEAKER: Well, Hon. Members, in my report which most of

you have probably not read, I acknowledge my thanks to the Hon.

Member for North Peace River in pointing out to me by letter

that, although the rules in Britain which we are usually guided

by have been changed, owing to Standing Order 50 we still will

require, even for motions of amendment on motions dealing with

adjournment or time, a seconder signing the motion. I have

mentioned that in my report and recommended that that be

dispensed with in the future if the committee so sees fit. In

the meantime, I ask your leave to indicate in the reports as

the Hon, Member has pointed out. Is that agreed? Thank you. And

I must say I apologize to the Hon. Member.

HON. MR. BARRETT: Mr. Speaker, before I move adjournment I

want to assure the House that the introduction of all that

legislation, I hope, will not curtail debate. The introduction

must be done because they are fiscal bills, essentially — for

the public information. But I would hope that it would not

curtail debate in the House.

Hon. Mr. Barrett moves adjournment of the House.

Motion approved.

The House adjourned at 5:03 p.m.

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