Document Information

Date: 1980-07-12
By: Canada (Parliament)
Citation: Canada, House of Commons Debates, 32nd Parl, 1st Sess, 1980 at 2499.
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COMMONS DEBATES — July 2, 1980

[Page 2499]

THE CONSTITUTION

DISCUSSIONS IN GREAT BRITAIN ON PATRIATION

Hon. Jake Epp (Provencher): Madam Speaker, I wish to direct my question to the Prime Minister. In his discussions with Prime Minister Thatcher of Britain, as well as with the leaders of the other political parties in Britain, and in view of those discussions with the three leaders in Britain, did he receive assurances from all of them that there would be quick passage of patriation of the Canadian Constitution once all steps were completed in Canada?

Right Hon. P. E. Trudeau (Prime Minister): What were the last three words—once what?

Mr. Epp: Once all steps were completed in Canada.

Mr. Trudeau: Yes, Madam Speaker, I received general assurances along those lines.

Mr. Epp: Those are general assurances. I am really asking the Prime Minister whether in those discussions there were any specifics raised as to the timetable. There have been some press stories. Were timetables discussed with the three leaders? Were any timetables agreed to between the Prime Minister and those three leaders?

Mr. Trudeau: No, Madam Speaker. The only way in which the problem of timing arose was when I indicated to Prime Minister Thatcher, and perhaps one or two of the other leaders, that we had a commitment in Canada to ensure renewal of the federation in all due haste. When I say we, I mean the Parliament of Canada and every provincial premier.