Monday, January 24, 2005

Victoria – Today in Victoria, Stephen Harper, Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada and the Official Opposition in the House of Commons, announced that Jay Hill, MP for Prince George - Peace River, BC, would assume the position of Official Opposition House Leader, effective immediately.

Hill, the Conservative Party Whip since July 2004, replaces outgoing House Leader and fellow
British Columbia MP, John Reynolds who had held the position since the Spring of 2001. Mr. Reynolds has made the difficult decision not to seek re-election in the next federal election and therefore volunteered to step aside in order to facilitate a smooth transition for future caucus officers. He will continue to be actively involved with the Conservative Party of Canada in the next federal election however as National Chair for the Conservative campaign.

Hill stated, "It is a terrific honour to have Stephen place such trust in me, and a tremendous privilege to be given the opportunity to assist in providing leadership to such a strong, talented and diverse group of MPs in the House of Commons."

Having served three times as Whip and twice as Director of Question Period, Hill said his extensive experience and knowledge of the daily workings and procedures of Parliament would prove invaluable in the role of House Leader. Rob Nicholson, MP for Niagara Falls, will replace Hill as Chief Opposition Whip.

"I'm looking forward to the challenge of serving in this capacity, especially during the present minority government situation when daily negotiations and honest communication between the parties is central to the survival of this Parliament", Hill concluded.

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For more information, please contact:
Jay Hill, M.P. (613) 947-4524 or (250) 787-119