MLA says he’s staying after fuss over comments

A Progressive Conservative member of the Manitoba legislature says he has no intention of stepping down after reportedly making inappropriate comments to a woman who works for the party’s caucus. Cliff Graydon would not comment in detail on reports he suggested the woman sit on his lap during a luncheon where there was a shortage of chairs. He said the issue was dealt with to everyone’s satisfaction. The Winnipeg Free Press reports the issue was resolved within a matter of hours to the woman’s satisfaction, but the newspaper says the Tory caucus will vote on whether to sanction Graydon — including possible expulsion — when the legislature resumes later this month. Graydon indicated he considers the matter closed and rejected requests to confirm or deny details of the accusation. Graydon, in his early 70s, has not ruled out running for re-election in 2020.