Wednesday, April 05, 2006

Gag Law on Last Legs?

One interesting promise in yesterday’s Throne Speech was the bit about “electoral reform.”

“This government,” declared Governor-General Michaelle Jean “will seek to involve parliamentarians and citizens in examining the challenges facing Canada’s electoral system and democratic institutions.”

Media pundits seem to think this is about studying things like rep by pop.

But I hope it’s more than that.

I hope Prime Minister Stephen Harper is also thinking about scrapping the notorious election gag law, which denies all Canadians the right to free speech during elections.

Certainly, Harper opposed gag laws when he was president of the National Citizens Coalition.

As I noted a few postings ago, Canadians want better government.

And restoring free speech is the best thing a government can do.

Media Alert:

I am scheduled to be a guest on CHQR's Dave Rutherford Show at 11:30 Alberta time to discuss the Throne Speech.

2 comments:

Monkey Loves to Fight said...

I think until the Conservatives get a majority government and if, which is a big if, the Gag law will stay in place. The reality is Harper cannot really adopt any Conservative policies until he gets a majority so he will stick to his five priorities and hope that is enough to give him a majority next time around.

Gerry Nicholls said...

Miles, my friend, welcome back!

We missed you.