As most of you will already be aware, the Premier stepped down yesterday. Below is the statement that was released by the Premier's office, for your information. Following the Premier's statement is a press release from the BC Chamber of Commerce, again, for your information.
VANCOUVER – Premier Gordon Campbell issued the following statement today (November 3):
“After considerable soul searching and discussion with my family I have decided to ask the BC Liberal Party executive to hold a leadership convention at the earliest possible date to select a new leader for our party.
“Over the last few weeks, our government has continued to move forward with initiatives that will create jobs, build a stronger economy and support families across British Columbia. We made the second-largest reduction in personal income taxes in B.C. history. We launched new initiatives that will tailor our education system so that children get the best possible opportunity to succeed.
“Yet it is clear to me that those initiatives are being overshadowed. When public debate becomes focused on one person, instead of what is in the best interest of British Columbians, we have lost sight about what is important. When that happens, it’s time for a change.
“This decision is what I believe is in the best interest of British Columbia, our government, our party and the people of our province. At a time like this, everyone’s attention should be focused on helping our economy rebound from the global recession and moving forward with an agenda that families can see is in their long-term interest.
“It’s time for a new person to lead. I am asking the party to move as quickly as possible to organize a leadership convention. I intend to ensure a smooth and orderly transition. My goal is to return public attention to what is important to British Columbians – their jobs, their families and how government can best support them.
“That is what the decision on the HST was all about. I hope that my announcement today will allow British Columbians to move forward and fully consider the HST and the alternative on their merits between now and September, 2011.
“It's not always popular to do what you believe in your heart is right. But whether it was restoring B.C.’s economic leadership, leading the way on climate action, building a new relationship with First Nations, getting our fiscal house in order, opening up our Pacific Gateway or making our taxation system one of the most competitive in North America, it was always worth the effort and I am proud of what we’ve accomplished together.
“I want to thank all of those who have supported me and my government through one of the most exciting yet challenging times in our province's history. I want to thank my colleagues and those who stood for election. I want to thank the dedicated workers in the public service who have led B.C. in so many ways. I want to thank the people of British Columbia for the opportunity to serve.
“And finally, if you will allow me a personal note, I want to thank all my family, especially my wife Nancy. They all paid a price for my 26 years in public service. Politics can be a very nasty business and at times that spilled over, through no fault of their own, to all of my family. I am sorry for that and I want to thank them all for their support and love.
“I have always felt public life is important. It is what defines us as British Columbians and as Canadians. I feel very blessed to have had the opportunity to serve in this position longer than most of my predecessors and to have been a part of this incredible time in B.C. history.
“It’s been quite a run and more fun than not. I have always been motivated by what is best for this great province and this great country. Thank you. It’s been a privilege.”
FOR CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE ACROSS BC Vancouver, November 3, 2010 - Hon. Gordon Campbell has announced today that he will be stepping down as the Premier of BC, and has called for a leadership convention at the earliest possible date.
* As motivation for his resignation Premier Campbell stated that the current debate in BC became too focused on one person, and has lost sight of what is in the best interest of British Columbians.
* No time frame was given for the nomination of a new leader of the Liberal Party and Premier of BC, though Premier Campbell has called for a smooth and orderly transition.
* During this period of transition, business in BC and the Provincial Government will go forward.
* The BC Chamber will continue to focus on issues of importance to businesses in BC and the wider economy as the leadership contest gets underway. We hope for speedy resolution to the leadership question and for continued focus on the short and long term growth of our provincial economy.
Since 2001, BC has undergone a profound transformation as a province and as an economy. Perhaps the most important impact of his time in office is how the Premier has transformed the economic discussion in BC. He has shifted it to the extent that competitive taxation, reduced regulation and balanced budgets are now considered as foundations of a strong provincial economy.
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