In the summer of 1880, the Macdonald government was looking for just such a group.

Even though direct relief might be cheaper, the Macdonald government preferred to hire the unemployed for public works projects such as paving roads.

The Macdonald government took practical steps to promote tourism as a way of bringing money into the province.

Before the Macdonald government could introduce the bill in the legislature, the Conservatives presented a similar one of their own.

Fortunately for the Macdonald government, economic conditions improved during the 1930s.

Archibald was by this time a Liberal-Conservative, and continued to support the Macdonald government in parliament (though he was not re-appointed to cabinet).

The 1875 Act built upon the proposals introduced by the Macdonald government, and passed with bipartisan support.

He was acclaimed in a by-election, but in 1873 the Macdonald government fell due to the Pacific Scandal.

Aikins's support for temperance was an embarrassment for the Macdonald government, which received considerable financial support from liquor interests.