The sudden departure of Conservative Party leader Erin O'Toole – MP for Durham, a neighbouring riding to Philip Lawrence's Northumberland-Peterborough South seat – was triggered this week under a relatively new piece of legislation that provides a new mechanism for the process.
It might potentially be the first time sitting caucus members were able to trigger the action, Lawrence said in an interview Wednesday. But no matter how it came, “these leaders make a tremendous sacrifice and, unfortunately, part of that is that parties, from time to time, change their leaders.
“My first reaction is that Erin is a fine man. I know Rebecca, I know Molly, I know Jack, I know the type of sacrifices he has made, not only in politics, but also in the military,” Lawrence said.
“He has spent a lifetime serving is country, and he will continue to do so, no doubt. I want to honour him and thank him for his leadership”
The change comes at a time of significant challenges, a deeply divided country and significant economic issues such as high rates of inflation. The task ahead, Lawrence said, is to present a strong and sensible alternative to the Trudeau government.
For now, the Conservatives look to Manitoba MP Candice Bergen for interim leadership. Beyond that, he said, the party's national council, working within the parameters of its constitution, will decide when to hold a proper leadership convention.
“My expectation is, it would be sooner rather than later, perhaps as early as September,” Lawrence predicted.
At that time, his hope would be to see Carleton MP Pierre Poilievre take the leadership – even though at this point Poilievre hasn't thrown his hat into the ring.
“I don't want to speculate, but certainly he has my full support. I think he would be magnificent at uniting not only the party but our country.”
Asked about the other news out of Ottawa, the continuing protest by truckers – nominally taking a stand against restrictions imposed to limit the spread of COVID-19 – Lawrence reminds everyone he has issued a statement on his website.
“I am complete appalled and disgusted by any expression of hate and inappropriate behaviour, but I think it's a symptom of the challenges and frustrations the Trudeau government has created in Canada,” he said.
Lawrence cited a recent poll that showed that 30% of Canadians relate to these frustrations – which, to him, points out the need for unity.
“I firmly believe, when we work together, we can accomplish anything,” he stated.
“I would like to remind all our readers that, despite the challenges in the party and the national issues we are facing, my focus is 110% on our riding and helping the people of Northumberland-Peterborough South.”