Hello Ray,

> I remember reading a passage in the Tipitaka -- in the PTS English
> translation-- where the Buddha states that were one to maintain that
> effects in this life are due to causes or kamma in a previous life,
> this view is false. But I cannot remember where that passage is;
> would any of you know?

Probably you mean MN 101
http://www.accesstoinsight.org/canon/sutta/majjhima/mn-101-tb0.html

Best wishes,
Dmytro