FIRST IN HISTORY

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXVI, Issue 20039, 11 September 1939, Page 4

FIRST IN HISTORY

PROCLAMATION MADE EFFECTIVE FROM SUNDAY STATEMENTS IN COMMONS PLANS FOR PARTICIPATION (Elec. Tel. .Copyright— United Tress Assn.) (Ilecd. Sept. 11, 11.30 a.m.) OTTAWA, Sept. 10. Canada has declared war. The proclamation v/as cabled to London for the King's signature, and after word had been received that Ilis Majesty had signed, the proclamation was published in the official gazette. The declaration became effective on Sunday, September 10, and the Prime Minister, Mr. W. L. Mackenzie King, is expected to make a state-

ment in the House of Commons on Monday regarding detailed arrangements for Canada’s participation in the hostilities.

This is the first time that Canada has declared war, because in 1014 she merely gazetted the British declaration. Canada is also the first American nation to enter the present conflict.

Advice of Privy -Council

The text of the declaration of war reads: “Whereas by and with the advice of our Privy Council, we have signified our approval of issuing a proclamation in the Canada Gazette, declaring that a state of war with the German Reich exists and has existed in the Dominion ol’ Canada as from September 10, now therefore we hereby declare and proclaim that a state of war with the German Reich exists, and has existed, in the Dominion as from September 10. Issued under the seal of Tweedsmuir, in the name of His Majesty.” On Saturday the Prime Minister told the House of Commons that if the Address-in-Reply to the Speech from the Throne were adopted, the Government immediately would prepare to declare war. The Senate unanimously adopted the Address-in-Reply, as did also the House oi Commons.

A special British mission has arrived in Canada to study the munitions situation.