That was our hope, and subsequent observation (sample of one).

But it does matter, in that most (EDIT: many?) AC switches are only single-pole single-throw. So in the UK one would normally ensure that those are wired to cut off the "hot" wire. Such is the case with the UK outlet we purchased, and quite likely also with the internal switch of the kettle itself.

But here in Canada, that UK switched outlet only switches off one leg, and the other pin still has 120V potential on it (w.r.t. earth ground). Definitely not code over here, but nothing I'll be worrying about either. Ditto for the kettle.

Our initial unknown concern, was whether such "wet" appliances might have built-in GFCI style functionality, which would prevent them from working at all here in Canada.

Cheers