Les to introduce act to elect senators in B.C.

Chilliwack MLA John Les says he will introduce a Senate Election Act today (Tuesday) in the legislature.



Chilliwack MLA John Les says he will introduce a Senate Election Act today in the legislature.

Last year, Les brought forward a private member’s bill that set out the mechanics of a process for electing senators in B.C.

Senators are currently appointed for life, but in October, the federal government introduced legislation that would limit senators to a one nine-year, non-renewable term, and create a framework for provinces that want to elect senators.

Les said in an earlier interview that his bill is “an attempt to democratize the senate,” which plays a role in shaping the laws of the nation.

Premier Christy Clark and NDP Leader Adrian Dix are both on record supporting the election of senators, but would rather see the senate abolished altogether.

Chilliwack Progress