Living Down to Expectations

Stephen Harper has failed to surprise by disappointing us again, proroguing Parliament for political advantage.

Just over a year ago, if I had been Governor-General, I would have exacted a price for assenting to that prorogation, allowing it only if accompanied by Harper's resignation as party leader and (thereby) Prime Minister. This would discourage future would-be dictators from seeking to close down parliament to avoid a vote of confidence.

By now, it's all standard procedure, and the precedent has been set. Prime Ministers can avoid facing parliament on any pretext.