Harper drifts further from Liberals

Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced further reductions in Canada's commitment to the Kyoto Protocol. This time, the cuts were aimed at international programs to assist developing countries in lowering emissions. Previously, under Paul Martin, Canada's contribution to the Clean Development Mechanism was among the highest of any developed nation. Harper's move not only helps to distant himself from popular Liberal support for the Kyoto Protocols and environmentalism, but also serves to alienate supporters of increased foreign and developmental aid. The move will increase support for Harper in his Western stronghold. Some elements of the mainstream media are now actively suggesting that Canada is working on behalf of the United States to undermine the Kyoto Protocol from within.