The defeat of Paul Martin's government became less likely Tuesday with the stunning defection of a high-profile Tory MP to the Liberal cabinet.
Martin sat beside a smiling Belinda Stronach at a surprise news conference and introduced the rookie parliamentarian as his new human resources minister. Stronach's departure is a blow to the Tories on several levels - starting with a confidence vote set for Thursday in the House of Commons.
Two Independent MPs haven't said how they will vote and the Liberals now could survive with support from just one of them.
"She's buried herself," Conservative Leader Stephen Harper said curtly as he entered a Tory caucus meeting Tuesday evening.
Martin prompted cynical laughter at an earlier news conference when he said the move wasn't about guaranteeing him victory in Thursday's votes on the budget.
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Letter to the EditorI've recently moved to Manitoba from West Lincoln. My father-in-law, Don Mackenzie (of Stoney Creek), described your editorial page cartoon to me.
As a concerned farmer, I really think your cartoon depiction was an insult to pigs. Gene Holowchak, Ashern, Man.
