Liberals cry foul; NDP talk reform

VICTORIA — British Columbians are invited to help shape a referendum planned for next fall that could reform the voting system in time for a 2021 election.

Attorney General David Eby said Thursday the government has launched its How We Vote website, asking for public input on questions that may be on a referendum ballot.

The New Democrats promised electoral reform during last spring’s election campaign and last month introduced legislation calling for a mail-in vote that requires a 50 per cent, plus one, margin to succeed.

The government also wants suggestions about possible voting systems, Eby said at a news conference.

“We want to hear from all British Columbians so the people of our province can help shape the key elements of the referendum.”

But the proposed electoral reform law is getting a rough ride in the legislature from the Opposition BC Liberals who say the NDP hatched a plan to bring in undemocratic reforms and reward Green party members, who are backing the minority New Democrats with three seats.

“The small Green tail continues to wag the bloated orange dog,” said backbench Liberal Doug Clovechok in the legislature.

“Can you say, tyranny of the majority? That’s exactly what proportional representation under Bill 6 represents.”

Clovechok said moving to proportional representation will put more power in urban ridings at the expense of rural voters.

Premier John Horgan has said B.C.’s electoral system is not fair. He said in the past five B.C. elections, only one political party formed government after receiving more than 50 per cent of the votes.