Layton says Paul Martin wrong on missile defence, should say no (Ottawa)

[Khephra]

OTTAWA (CP) - It would be "unspeakable arrogance" for Prime Minister Paul Martin to join the American missile defence system without a parliamentary vote, says NDP Leader Jack Layton.

In notes for a speech Tuesday at Carleton University, Layton said Martin supports the system because he wants to curry favour with U.S. President George W. Bush. Layton condemned the suggestion that the federal cabinet can approve or reject the proposal without parliamentary backing.

"Parliament must vote on whether to join Star Wars missile defence," he said. "Parliament will vote on whether to join Star Wars missile defence."

He echoed comments made earlier in the day by Conservative Leader Stephen Harper, who also said the House should vote on the question.

http://canadaeast.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20040928/CPN/49860026

[Maple]

1. We don't need

Parliamentary permission.

And we do need to be at the table.

Layton and Harper are grandstanding

[TrogL]

2. If Dubya wants to throw Star Wars money around, let's get in on it

Martin's a businessman first. He'll want Canadian contracts to build the infrastructure.

[canuckforpeace]

4. We may need to kick in our own money...

See the link to the Canada forum I posted below

[canuckforpeace]

3. Union of Concerned Scientists says it won't work

http://www.commondreams.org/headlines04/0513-02.htm

There is also a thread on this in the Canada forum

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=190x1162