On Jan. 25, 1934, Governor General Vere Ponsonby’s (pictured) throne speech opened the fifth session of Canada’s 17th Parliament under the leadership of Prime Minister Richard Bennett.
At the time, Canadian farmers experienced low commodity prices and the government told its members to be prepared to provide necessary assistance.
“The prices of agricultural products, which have fallen in recent years to the lowest level in history, have shown substantial improvement in the last few months,” Ponsonby said. “My Government realizes, however, that further increases in price levels are necessary to ensure success to those engaged in agriculture. You will be invited to consider legislation designed to facilitate the efficient and profitable marketing of livestock and agricultural products.”