This portfolio was not specifically created by statute, but was recognized by the Salaries Act (Statute 31 Victoria, c. 33) assented to May 22, 1868. By Order in Council dated December 8, 1869, pursuant to section 40 of Statute 31 Victoria, c. 42, assented to May 22, 1868, the duties and powers of the Superintendent-General of Indian Affairs, previously held by the Secretary of State of Canada, were transferred to the Secretary of State for the Provinces and were exercised by him until June 30, 1873.
The offices of Secretary of State of Canada, Registrar General of Canada and Superintendent-General of Indian Affairs were created by Statute 31 Victoria, c. 42, assented to May 22, 1868. By this Act the Secretary of State of Canada was to hold these latter two offices ex officio. By Order in Council dated December 8, 1869, pursuant to section 40 of the aforesaid Act, the duties and powers of the Superintendent-General of Indian Affairs were transferred to the Secretary of State for the Provinces.