Conservative political stunts

More signs of an early election??

Tories' move to restrict political loans called a 'stunt' Ploy meant to draw attention to MPs' debt problems, critics charge


From Wednesday's Globe and Mail

April 29, 2009
OTTAWA — The Conservative government delivered a not-so-subtle jab at their political rivals yesterday as Liberal MPs prepare to leave Ottawa this week for a party convention in Vancouver.

The government re-introduced a bill yesterday that would dramatically restrict the type of loans politicians can receive, indirectly drawing attention to the debt problems facing several prominent Liberal MPs.

"It's a stunt on the eve of the convention in Vancouver to change the channel from the worrisome economic news," said Liberal MP Dominic LeBlanc after the government bill was introduced in the Senate. The Liberal justice critic said his party will give the bill a second look, even though Liberals voted against the legislation when it was introduced in the last Parliament.

The bill passed through the House of Commons last year with the support of the New Democrats, but died in the Senate when the fall election was called. By introducing the bill in the Senate this time, where the Liberals have a majority, the legislation can only pass and return to the House for final approval if the Liberals change position.

"It's a typical bill that they introduce in the Senate and probably have no intention of actually calling for debate and a vote," Mr. LeBlanc said.