§ 42. Mr. Lyonsasked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether he can make any statement on the present financial position and indebtedness of Alberta; what is the present position of British stockholders; whether any financial assistance has been rendered by the Canadian Government; and whether any special financial benefits have been generally issued by the present provincial administration?
Mr. M. MacDonaldAs regards the first part of the question, the latest information which I have received goes to show that, while there is a small surplus of ordinary revenue over ordinary expenditure during the present financial year, the cost of unemployment and other relief measures have increased the total funded and unfunded debt of the Province to approximately $160,000,000. As regards the second part of the question, the Provincial legislation affecting the interests of the United Kingdom bondholders has been declared ultra vires by the Supreme Court of Alberta. It is understood that the Government of Alberta intend to appeal against this decision. As regards the third part of the question, I understand that the Alberta Government have received from the Dominion Government their share of grants-in-aid to Provinces and other contributions in respect of relief and public works. I am not aware that any special financial benefits have been generally issued by the Provincial Administration.
Mr. MacDonaldThere is no new issue of any kind. Certain notes have been issued some months ago, but, as far as I am aware, there has been no new issue.
§ Mr. BellengerIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Alberta Government is experimenting with a system known as social debit?