The MDM was formed in 1949 by businessman George Hastings and independent Progressive Conservative legislator John McDowell.
Hastings and McDowell were both on the right wing of the PC Party, and feared that the CCF would be able to form government if it remained the primary opposition.
According to historian David McCormick, its objectives were "economy in provincial administration, close scrutiny of new spending proposals and a reduction in the size of the Legislature and Cabinet to save money.
"[1] Under pressure from the MDM and others, Progressive Conservative leader Errick Willis resigned from the coalition ministry in mid-1950.
The MDM had accomplished its main aim, however, and most of its members accepted Willis's continued leadership of the party.