Thursday, December 04, 2008

Canada's supreme political principle is Responsible Government

Let's try to keep this in mind. Canada is not Switzerland; democracy is not the supreme principle governing this country. Rather, Canada is based on the principle of responsible government, as established at the conclusion of the Rebellions of 1837. It was in that moment that Canada truly became Canada, when it was established that the government of the land is responsible to the elected legislature. What this means is clear and unambiguous: the Government of Canada must enjoy the confidence of the House of Commons. As it is clear that this confidence is now lacking, it is incumbent upon the Governor General to attempt to create a situation in which the Government of Canada does enjoy the confidence of the House of Commons. And, in my humble opinion, this means refusing Harper's request for prorogation and inviting the Coalition to form a government.

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1 Comments:

At 12/04/2008 9:29 a.m., Blogger wilson said...

The GG must also make her decision based on a government chosen by the people.

The coalition government must also have the confidence of the people who sent them into office.

Latest polls show that is not happening.
Perhaps instead of an election, we could have a much lower cost referendum.

 

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