After NDP leader Adrian Dix introduced a bill that would end the practice of governments using taxpayer dollars to fund partisan ads, Cariboo North’s candidates are speaking out.
“It’s the right thing to do,” Independent MLA Bob Simpson said.
“But the critical point is if they will implement it if they form government.”
Under the Government Advertising Act, the Auditor General would review all government advertising—television, radio, print, online, indoor and outdoor—against clear criteria designed to protect the public interest against the narrow political interests of the governing party. If the advertising fails to meet the criteria, it would not be allowed to run.
In addition, no non-essential government advertising will be allowed in the four months prior to the fixed election date.
Liberal candidate Coralee Oakes said she’s concerned the bill will take away the ability for MLA’s to communicate.
“There’s a cost to communicate,” she said.
“It may change the ability to do that.”
NDP candidate Duncan Barnett said the spending of “millions of dollars on partisan ads” by current government is the reason British Columbians are “ready to change government.”
“The legislation that Adrian Dix has introduced would ensure that taxpayer dollars aren’t spent to promote any political party,” he said.
“That’s just plain wrong. The legislation applies to government advertising, not things like columns that MLAs write to communicate with constituents. It’s an example of the practical approach we’re putting
forward and that’s why I would like to be part of an NDP government that can deliver results for the Cariboo.”
