MARIJUANA, WHISTLE-BLOWER BILLS TO DIE IF ELECTION CALLED

OTTAWA - The Martin Liberals are leaving some unfinished business as they
prepare for an expected election, including proposed laws that would
protect federal whistle-blowers and children.

A change to the Criminal Code that would decriminalize the possession of
small amounts of marijuana is also among the bills that would die on the
order paper if Prime Minister Paul Martin calls an election widely expected
to be held on June 28.

However, critics say it is the lack of important legislation on the House
of Commons docket that marked the latest session of Parliament, which they
describe as an indication of a Liberal government that has been in limbo
for months.

"You'd think that after somebody had been preparing to be prime minister
for so long, that they'd take advantage of the fact that they have a
majority in the House of Commons and bring forward some changes," New
Democratic Party leader Jack Layton said.

Peter MacKay, Conservative party deputy leader said it has been a
lacklustre session. "Outside of the marijuana bill, it's hard [for
Canadians] to remember which bills are there."

MPs left Ottawa on Friday for what was scheduled as a one-week break.
However, it is believed they will not return until fall, as Mr. Martin is
widely expected to begin a five-week election campaign on May 23.