Source:

War Measures Act, 1970

 Ref.:

As published in the Revised Statutes of Canada (RSC) 1970, volume VII

Ottawa, Queen’s Printer for Canada, 1970

Library and Archives Canada

 Author:

Proclaimed and Published under the authority of Her Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate and House of Commons of Canada

 Subject:

War Measures Act (WMA) invoked by the Canadian government during the October Crisis, as described in the Revised Statutes of Canada of 1970. To come into force, the WMA, under section 6, requires a formal proclamation by the Governor in Council (cabinet). The WMA, enacted in August 1914, allowed the federal government special powers in times of war, invasion or insurrection. It was replaced by the Emergencies Act in 1988.

Questions:

1. What type of document is this?

2. Who is the document written for?

3. What limitations on government power are there in the Act?

4. What impact could a government with these powers have on Canadian democracy?