*** “He is the one to challenge Paul Martin” ***

[. . . . ] “Stephen Harper has clearly demonstrated that he is the best choice to lead this party into the next election, and take on the Paul Martin Liberals. His performance in the House of Commons, and his ability to lead and unite conservatives were key factors in my decision to back him. He is the one to challenge Paul Martin.”

“He is also the only leader, from any party, committed to building a strong policy plan for Atlantic Canada. Working with our Atlantic MPs in the Conservative caucus, we will create a strong plan for our region, one that will include provisions for direct funding to municipal infrastructure, one that will end the revenue claw-back, one that will grant tax-relief and put an end to corporate subsidies, and one that allows greater provincial control over the management of resources,” said Thompson, who serves as the Conservative critic for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency.

“Stephen is committed to renewing and strengthening the Atlantic provinces’ relationship with the federal government, and to give Atlantic Canada the powers it needs to manage its own resources and bolster the economy. That’s the leadership and vision I want to see. That’s what we have with Stephen Harper.”