NDP platform promises an immediate end to B.C.'s carbon tax
Vancouver Sun
By Jonathan Fowlie
April 9, 2009

…. "Really what we've done in putting a platform together is to provide support for British Columbians during these difficult times - both business and individuals - by getting rid of the gas tax," NDP leader Carole James said in an interview, not long before this morning's release of her party's platform for the May 12 election.

Overall, the plan will add about $3.7 billion in new spending or foregone revenue over three years….

"We are living in unprecedented times, compared to other years in British Columbia and across the globe, and I think that calls for new approaches," said James.

… In addition to cutting the carbon tax, James proposes close to $1 billion over three years in spending for childcare, education, rural development and for a temporary small business tax holiday….

James' plan also includes promises for a variety of areas, including:

• Raising the minimum wage to $10 per hour;…
• Freeze tuition rates;…
• Repeal the policy that requires public infrastructure projects over $50 million to be considered as public-private partnerships;
• Provide a $50 million capital fund for investments in arts, culture and heritage;…
• Establish a Ministry of Women's Equality.

To offset the cost of her new spending, James projects she can find $1.2 billion in savings over three years through reductions to travel, consulting contacts and by rolling back pay raises given to public sector executives in 2008.

James predicts she will be able to raise $412 million over three years by implementing a flaring royalty for the oil and gas sector….