Harper: Opposition Didn’t Read Budget

The prime minister says there’s still time to work together and avoid an election.

Addressing the media for the first time since the opposition parties rejected the federal budget Tuesday, Stephen Harper said this morning he was disappointed that the other federal leaders appeared to have made up their mind before even reading it. There was speculation that he would announce plans to dissolve the government and call an election, but instead he took the time to defend his government's financial plans. Echoing the theme that many believe will be the Conservatives’ key message during the next election, the prime minister said the global economic outlook is uncertain, Canada’s recovery is fragile, and the Conservatives have a solid plan to ensure the prosperity of the country. He called on the opposition parties to reconsider their position on the budget and support it in a vote next week.