Clark says Martin better choice as PM

Canadian Press

(Ottawa)  Former Progressive Conservative leader Joe Clark says Paul Martin
is a less dangerous choice to lead the country than Stephen Harper.

In an interview Sunday on CTV Question Period, Mr. Clark said he see no
evidence the new Conservative party under Mr. Harper can provide the kind
of leadership needed on issues like health care, the role of women, gay
rights, the environment and foreign affairs. On the contrary, said Mr.
Clark, the old hard-liners of the Canadian Alliance dominate the new party,
while most Red Tories from the former PCs have been relegated to the
sidelines.

Mr. Clark said he doesn't like Mr. Martin either, or the scandals that have
plagued the Liberal government."There is a good question which one is
more dangerous for the country," he said of the two leaders who will
face off in the next federal election."I would be extremely worried
about Mr. Harper. I personally would prefer to go with the devil we
know."

Mr. Clark, who is not seeking re-election, insisted he wasn't endorsing the
Liberal party. He said he's working for the Conservative candidate in his
own riding in Calgary. But he's also supporting former Tory John Herron,
who has jumped to the Liberals, in his riding in New Brunswick.

Mr. Clark is advising others to do the same - pick the best candidate in
the local race, rather than vote any party line.

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