These files consist of some correspondence (between ministers), memos from ministers' aides and ministers themselves, briefing papers and occasional press clipping.
It is important to note that Marchand was made head of the Metric Commission, and responsible for the implementation of metric conversion. Much of the material here reflects how Marchand helped manage the conversion to metric, particularly with small businessmen and farmers. Amongst such issues - the costs of new scales for weighing, as well as many other devices (tint-paint machinery, tile- and carpet-cutting cutting machines, fabric cutters, etc). There were questions about new metric odometers, and how to bring it into sports activities. There were fears that the conversion might negatively affect tourism. In short, procedures, dislocation and costs of the transition were of primary concern to small business owners, farmers and various service providers. (Perhaps the chief concern for small business owners was financing the conversion, but there was no relief in that respect).
These files demonstrate how Marchand's office managed complaints and concerns about the transition, and what it did to ease it (sent out literature and information, set up information bureaus in major urban centres and other such undertakings). They detail Marchand's contribution to the transition to metric in Canada, what measures his ministry suggested or undertook to resolve problems which business and agriculture faced during the changeover.
