Editor:
In Canada, as in the U.K., the military and entities like the RCMP are required to take an oath of fealty or allegiance to the Crown.
This is to distinguish between the sovereign head of state, the Queen, and the political head of government, and is to keep them apart from political questions or potential abuse.
“The Harper Government,” Conservative Party, wants to be represented whenever an MP or senator asks for a meeting with the RCMP, according to Sen. Colin Kenny in news reports.
How is this not interference with the independence of the RCMP, violation of parliamentary privilege and the ability of members of Parliament to fulfil their responsibilities in Parliament – in short, a further instance of contempt of Parliament – and a violation of the principle of the rule of law?
Members of the RCMP take an Oath of Allegiance to the Crown, not to the government of the day.
Is not this “communications strategy” a direct violation of the Oath of Allegiance with its declaration of fealty to the Canadian monarch, H.M. Queen Elizabeth II?
Brian Marlatt, White Rock
