In the spring of 1946, J. Allison Glen announced a public inquiry into Canada's federal administration of Indian Affairs and the Indian Act. In Parliament on 13 May 1946 this minister of Mines and Resources responsible for Indian Affairs moved "That a joint committee of the senate and house of commons be appointed to examine and consider the Indian Act ... with authority to investigate and report upon Indian administration in general" including treaty rights, band membership, enfranchisement of Indians, Indian schools, and "any other matter or thing pertaining to the social and economic status of Indians and their advancement."! This much-awaited announcement led numerous members of Parliament to rise to their feet and congratulate the minister on his motion that day. Following lengthy discussions, both sides of the House enthusiastically endorsed the proposal. For once, concern with Indian peoples seemed deep and widespread in Canada.