Quote:
Originally posted by Sammie@Apr 11 2005, 12:38 AM
Let's let Stockwell Day speak for himself on this subject:
http://www.conservativeforum.org/EssaysForm.asp?ID=6295
We often hear that "moral" questions have no place in modern politics. But political discourse itself is essentially a series of moral questions. Aristotle defined politics as "the art of free men deliberating together the question: how ought we to order our lives together." That ought is the basic moral question. Ought we to tax our citizens more or less? What penalties ought we to impose on what crimes? Ought we to protect human life, and if so at what stage?
I believe that on such matters politicians have a responsibility to state their convictions clearly, but I also believe that these debates should be conducted with respect for the democratic rights of all citizens, even those who may disagree with us on these subjects. I will always state my beliefs clearly, but I will always seek to conduct debate in an open and democratic manner. As Prime Minister I would not - and could not - "impose" my will on my party or the country. No Member of Parliament has the right to do that.
To take but one example, it is well known that I am pro-life. I believe that the scientific evidence is overwhelming that human life begins at the moment of conception, and I believe that all human beings possess an inalienable right to life. I do not support abortion or euthanasia, and I would personally favour measures to protect human life in Canadian law.
But I would not seek to impose my views on the Canadian people. I would want issues such as these to be determined freely and democratically by the people, either through a referendum initiated by Canadians or a free vote of their representatives in the House of Commons. Debates like this need to be conducted with the greatest possible respect for democracy and the views of others, without the angry and harsh rhetoric that too often prevents serious democratic debate on moral questions.
What's to be feared here? What's so scary? Where does his religious beliefs interfere with carrying out his political duties?
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It's a lot easier to say that when you have no hope in hell of ever becoming Prime Minister.
Free votes? Great idea. Definitely a step in the right direction towards fixing some of the monopolistic power the Canadian executive wields. Of course once you are PM you realize how crippling a free vote is to your goals and policy.