B.C. NDP threatens to test Liberal majority as budget debates approach

VICTORIA – The New Democrats are threatening to test the slim Liberal majority in the B.C. legislature by outnumbering the government during next week’s budget debates, which could prompt an even earlier departure from the scheduled five-week session.

NDP House Leader John Horgan says he’s been keeping an eye on the numbers of politicians currently attending the legislature.

The current standings in the legislature are 45 Liberals, 36 New Democrats and four Independents.

On Wednesday, the Liberals had a two-seat majority in the legislature, with three of their members absent.

Only one New Democrat, Vancouver Island’s Bill Routley, isaway from the legislature after suffering a heart attack.

Liberal House Leader Mike de Jong says the government is aware of its numbers issue but is certain there will be enough members in the legislature to ensure the government survives any votes.