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In lead-up to PM’s speech, Tories wrestle with party rules and policy

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A delegate leans on a sign as people gather at the Conservative convention in Calgary, Oct. 31, 2013.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh

CALGARY – Conservative party members are wrestling once again with the burning question of how they will select their next leader.

Closed-door discussions on party rules and policies will unfold throughout the day before Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s supper-hour keynote speech.

The leadership issue has come up at every convention: some Tories, including Employment Minister Jason Kenney, would like the party to move closer towards a one-member, one-vote system.

Currently, each riding association in the country has an equally weighted say in electing the leader.

Figures such as Justice Minister Peter MacKay say the existing system ensures a leader has national support, and prevents regions with large numbers of members from swamping the race.

Delegates at the convention are also debating policy proposals, including several that touch on labour groups, firearms and one on sex-selective abortions.

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The Canadian Press

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