CHRETIEN'S TOUGH STAND ON QUEBEC POPULAR IN THE WEST AND LEGALLY CORRECT

Prime Minister Jean Chrétien's declaration that "50 per cent plus one" isn't sufficient to take Québec out of Confederation is supported by last year's landmark decision by the Supreme Court of Canada, says political scientist Dr. James Tully. "The decision stated that Québec needed a 'clear majority,' which is more than 50 per cent plus one; that's considered a 'simple majority.' But the sovereignists argue that two referenda have already been held with the 50 per cent plus one proviso and federalists have participated on those terms." In addition, he adds, they insist that it is up to Québecers to decide this issue for themselves.

Tully, who has written extensively on Québec-Canada relations, says he understands the PM's renewed vigour against separation. "He was stung by accusations of sitting on his hands during the last referendum. Moreover, this has to be the most important issue for him. He grew up with it. His anti-sovereignty stance may not play well in Québec, and it may seem imprudent to members of his own party, but it appears to make him popular in the West. The question remains--is it unnecessarily reviving the issue?" [PP]

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