By Canadian Press

Former B.C. Liberal MLA John Rustad joins provincial Conservatives

Feb 16, 2023 | 12:37 PM

VICTORIA — A former British Columbia Liberal cabinet minister sitting as an Independent has now become the legislature’s only provincial Conservative member. 

John Rustad, who represents the northern B.C. riding of Nechako Lakes, says the B.C. Conservatives now best represent his political views.

Rustad was dumped from the Liberal caucus last August by leader Kevin Falcon for his views suggesting climate change is not caused by carbon dioxide emissions.

First elected in 2005, Rustad has held cabinet posts in former Liberal governments, including forests and Indigenous relations.

Conservative Party of B.C. Leader Trevor Bolin says in a statement that he gladly welcomes Rustad and looks forward to working with him. 

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This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 16, 2023.

The Canadian Press