Scheer resignation takes Kamloops MP McLeod, Conservative colleagues by surprise

“I think it was a bit of a surprise because he had given every indication previously that he had wanted to continue,” McLeod told CFJC Today. “He certainly spoke of the importance of a united Conservative Party, the importance of us staying together, doing what was best for the party and also doing what was best for his family.”

McLeod says the silver lining to Scheer’s resignation is that the party is well-positioned in a minority parliament.

“Our party is strong. We have a lot of seats in the House, so we’re certainly going to be focused on the job we have to do,” said McLeod. “I think if we are heading into a leadership race, it is better for the party to head into it now in a minority government than for it to be something that’s delayed many months down the road.”

Global BC has reported Scheer’s resignation comes amid revelations he used party funds to pay for private schooling for his children. McLeod told CFJC Today she was not aware of the allegations and couldn’t comment on them.

Leaders of all parties in the House of Commons paid tribute to Scheer after his resignation announcement today, and McLeod says the cutthroat world of politics can show warmth and appreciation from time to time.

“Politics is a very interesting business. There are times when the House shows great compassion and honour and respect,” said McLeod. “I look at the tributes yesterday to (former MP) Deepak Obhrai, who had passed away. I look at the tributes with the leader’s decision today.”

“I think there is a shared journey that we’re on in the House, and certainly I can appreciate that the prime minister also has young children, also understands who difficult at times the job can be.”

As for who could step forward as leadership candidates, McLeod would only confirm she would not be one of them.

“Je ne parle pas français (I don’t speak French),” she said, chuckling.

“Certainly, I’m not even going to speculate about (leadership candidates),” she added. “Today is our chance to honour the contribution Andrew Scheer has made to the party and to respect him in terms of what he’s doing and where he’s going.”

by James Peters

Scheer resignation takes Kamloops MP McLeod, Conservative colleagues by surprise

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