[1] The general assembly sat from April 25, 1985 to March 29, 1989.

The Progressive Conservative Party led by Brian Peckford formed the government.

Tom Rideout succeeded Peckford as party leader and Premier in March 1989.

[3] There were four sessions of the 40th General Assembly:[4] William Anthony Paddon served as lieutenant governor of Newfoundland until 1986.

[5] James McGrath succeeded Paddon as lieutenant governor.