Victoria -- Premier Gordon Campbell today refused to commit to a fall session of the Legislature. NDP Leader Carole James said the Premier’s refusal suggests that, once again, Gordon Campbell intends to shut down the Legislature and avoid questions from the Opposition.

“Gordon Campbell is breaking his promise to be open and accountable,” said James. “He doesn’t like to answer questions. He doesn’t like criticism. And he’s willing to abuse his power to ensure the democratic debate is kept to a minimum.”

During legislative debate earlier today on the budget for the Premier’s Office, NDP Leader Carole James asked whether the Premier intended to keep his commitment to a fall session. The Premier refused to answer.

"After he cancelled last fall’s legislative session, I had thought the Premier would want to make it clear that he wouldn’t try the same trick again,” said James. “Frankly, I am surprised at his stubbornness.”

James said the Premier may have little respect for the Legislature, but the public expects all MLAs to come to Victoria and represent their interests.

“Gordon Campbell and the B.C. Liberals may not care about the public’s business, but New Democrats do,” said James. “New Democrats have put bills forward to protect BC consumers from rising gas prices, to tighten up conflict of interest rules and to strengthen oversight of lobbyists that should be debated and passed into law.

“The Premier’s refusal to commit to a fall session shows how little respect he has for British Columbians’ right to democratic debate and a government that is open and accountable.”