canadian government survives confidence vote(s)

The Canadian government just came perilously close to losing a confidence vote - not once, but twice in two days. On Monday, the Bloq Québécois proposed an amendment to increase the funding for Kyoto protocol-related programs; that motion was defeated 209 to 71. On Tuesday, the House of Commons voted 205 to 85 against a Conservative amendment calling for less funding for Kyoto and the gun control registry.

Martin grinned in relief, realizing quickly that he would not have to call another election this year.

"It's an important vote ... I think everyone understands that if this amendment passes, the Parliament is dissolved," [government House leader Tony] Valeri said earlier Tuesday.

So, the Liberals survived assaults from the right and the left to remain firmly in the middle. There's nothing like being stuck in the middle of the road, eh?

Link to CBC article.