B.C. Conservative Leader Findlay says recording doesn’t show criminal offence

It is illegal under the Criminal Code to negotiate a reward or benefit related to resignation from political office, but Findlay said the comments in the recording, published by an anonymous account known as “The Findlay Files”, were “normal political discussions” that did not constitute a criminal offence.

Findlay said in a statement on social media Thursday that it appeared the “unverified” recording was made at a July caucus meeting, calling it a “political smear job.”

“Any fair-minded person listening to the recording will immediately realize that this is not a good faith allegation of wrongdoing,” she wrote.

Findlay is set to host a press conference on Monday with the B.C. Conservative caucus, which has suffered a wave of defections.

Six legislators have resigned from the party in the past two weeks. Bruce Banman was the latest, quitting on Thursday and urging other Conservatives to follow regardless of their political affiliations.

Banman said many have told him Findlay is “unelectable.”

In addition to the Criminal Code bribery prohibition, which is subject to up to five years’ prison, BC Legislature standing orders ban the offer of money or other advantages to members for promoting any matter “depending or to be transacted” in the house.

The B.C. RCMP said it was aware of the social media post.

“However, generally speaking, the RCMP does not confirm or deny any investigation, or the identity of any person who may be subject to an investigation, until such time as charges have been laid,” it said in an email Friday.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Aug. 28, 2026.

Marissa Birnie, The Canadian Press

by The Canadian Press

B.C. Conservative Leader Findlay says recording doesn’t show criminal offence

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