18 February 2011
Ottawa, Ontario
Prime Minister Harper met with Mr. Layton earlier today. They had a positive sharing of views about initiatives that matter to Canadians. The Prime Minister has been consulting with Canadian workers and families across Canada on the next phase of Canada's Economic Action Plan. The Prime Minister was pleased to hear Mr. Layton's views. As the Prime Minister has stated publicly, this is not the time for an opportunistic election. The Prime Minister indicated that our Government will continue to focus on what really matters to Canadians – jobs and economic growth.
The Prime Minister is always willing to listen to what other opposition leaders propose: specific ideas. The next phase of Canada's Economic Action Plan will not raise taxes on hardworking Canadian families, nor will it have extravagant and irresponsible spending. While the global economy remains fragile, Canada's economy is recovering.