Layton lays down the minority rules (Canada)

[Minstrel Boy]

Layton lays down the minority rules
Demands referendum on proportional representation

CHARLOTTETOWN - Holding a national referendum within a year on changing the way Canadians vote for their MPs will be a key condition of New Democratic support if a minority government is elected on Monday.

Visiting the cradle of Confederation in Charlottetown, NDP Leader Jack Layton laid another bargaining chip on the table today, saying his party will "use all of available influence" to push for a vote on proportional representation.

"It's time for a rebirth of our democracy," he said, standing beside a photograph of the fathers of Confederation. "Our voting system is broken. When arrogant Liberal majorities can break promises with absolute impunity and give our tax dollars to their friends, it's time for a new voting system."

As momentum builds to the June 28 vote and with polls suggesting the NDP could hold the balance of power, Layton has been under increasing pressure to outline what his conditions of support might be.


NDP leader Jack Layton, accompanied by daughter Sarah, talks to reporters during a campaign stop in Charlottetown, P.E.I. June 23, 2004.

http://www.thestar.com/NASApp/cs/ContentServer?pagename=thestar/Layout/Article_Type1&c=Article&cid=1087987247221&call_pageid=968332188774&col=968350116467

Today's SES-CPAC tracking poll:

Lib 34%
Con 31%
NDP 21%
BQ 12%
Oth 3%

http://www.sesresearch.com/election/SES%20CPAC%20June%2023E.pdf

[democracy eh]

1. fingers crossed for an NDP/Liberal coalition

it would be great on so many levels.

[oblivious]

2. Yeah, I like that.