During this period it was recognized by many that numerous social welfare areas need addressing with legislation. Much of it stalled as it hinged on a complete overhaul of fiscal arrangements between the federal government and the provinces. Several important provisions were passed in this period:

Workmans' Compensation Act, 1914
Mothers' Allowances, Manitoba: 1919; Ontario: 1920
Old Age Pensions, 1927
Unemployment Insurance Act, 1940

Special Committee of the House of Commons discussing the Unemployment Insurance Act, Aug. 1940, National Archives Neg. no. PA188953.