B.C. mining industry gives Grit leader warm welcome

Members of the Mining Association of British Columbia gave the province’s Liberal leader, Gordon Campbell, a warm welcome at their 95th annual general meeting.

In his keynote address to the group, Campbell lamented over the governing New Democratic Party’s fiscal record, pointing out that, during their four years in office, the provincial debt increased by $10 billion.

He went on to promise a streamlining of government, which he said would reduce the provincial debt, reduce taxes and cut down on red tape.

Specifically, Campbell pledged to eliminate British Columbia’s capital tax on non-banks.

The Liberal leader said he recognizes the important role mining has played in the province’s past and that it will be no less important in the future.

He also stressed that the industry cannot buy into the view that development and environmental responsibility are mutually exclusive.