When you finally hear from an expert…
When you finally hear from an expert, it allows you to see the ignorance of the pundits who pontificate that serve to muddy the waters of knowledge.
Listening to the Canadian media, report on the plans of the “coalition-of-losers” made all of think their subterfuge was assured.
But listening to a Constitutional expert from a law firm I know to be the best (long story and not important in this discussion) talk about the the Constitution, Convention and Practice specifically to the role of Governor General – it’s clear that we in Canada elect a king.
And a time like this, it’s not a bad thing.
The Prime Minister is the chief and only adviser to the Crown. Once a Prime Minister is chosen, it is only the wishes of the PM the GG can grant. Only an election can change a PM. A resignation from a PM is effective when the next one is sworn in. There is no gap in power where the Crown assumes control from the people.
It has to be this way. War is declared by the Queen’s representative. The GG can’t be surveying the losers of the election to see if they agree with the opinion of the PM.
The Prime Minister is the chief adviser to the Governor General. For the GG to refuse advice is for a constitutional crisis to erupt.
So why did it take Harper so long to talk with the GG? What was with all the drama this morning? My guess… Jack Layton was scheduled to address the large crowd of union workers, totaling almost 200 (oooh) at 12:00 CDT. That’s about the time Harper was in the middle of his consistory remarks at Rideau Hall.
Just a guess, but that’s what I would do. I’d also get a budget together the parties would have to support. I’d give them enough concessions that wouldn’t screw up the economy. After they pass it, I’d make the elimination of the subsidies for political parties a confidence motion.
With all the ridiculousness of this lust for power, it’s an issue I’d run on in an instant.
Good thing I’m not PM.
