1. Government
Colonial ‘Canada’

2. Following the Conquest
In 1763 administration of New France changed from French to British rule
British Governors (forerunner of Canada’s Governors-General)
Population consisted of a small number of British subjects and a large (larger) number of Roman Catholic, mainly French-speaking peoples

3. British Institutions 1763-1774
Because of the population make-up, there would be no elected assembly (now the normal practice in a British colony)
Governor Murray acted through the power of his office assisted by a council of 8 appointed people
Controlled the colony, acted as military chief and handled diplomatic relations
In England and, therefore in Canada, Roman Catholics were prohibited from holding any public office.

4. British Institutions 1774-1791
The Quebec Act, 1774 changed the government in the colony
Roman Catholics were now able to participate in the administration of the colony’s government
The previous council was separated into an Executive Council and a Legislative Council – number increased to 23
The Governor presided, and controlled, judicial, executive and legislative power
The provisions in the Quebec Act regarding RCs angered the Americans as did the lack of an elected Assembly

5. British Institutions 1791-1849 The Constitutional Act, 1791
The influx of Loyalists added pressure to the movement for change in government practices – particularly for an elected Assembly
The Constitutional Act, 1791 divided the colony into Upper and Lower Canada
The Constitutional Act, 1791
Established Legislative Assemblies (elected Assemblies)
Could vote for legislation (Gov. had to approve it and could veto it)
Could be convened or dismissed at will by the Gov.

6. British Institutions 1791-1849 1849
The Governor was the only authority in Canada
He chose members of the Legislative and Executive Councils
The Gov. had control over legislation
He had control over civil and military powers and over revenue from Crown lands
1849
This year marked the beginning of Responsible Government in UC and LC with the passage of the Rebellion Losses Bill