News Release - June 17, 2008 

KELOWNA - New Democrat leader Carole James today launched a campaign to "Axe the Gas Tax" and called on Gordon Campbell to recall the legislature to implement real climate change solutions.

"At a time when average families are struggling with record high gas prices Gordon Campbell is hitting consumers with a gas tax that is unfair and won't work," said James.  "New Democrats are joining British Columbians to fight back, visiting communities across B.C, to call on the Campbell government to axe the tax." 

An online petition is posted at http://axethegastax.ca/.

"Campbell's gas tax hits ordinary consumers but lets big polluters off the hook," said James.  "If Campbell was serious about climate change he would implement a cap-and-trade system that reduces emissions at source, roll back transit fares, and provide families with more options to reduce their emissions.  

"Instead, Campbell is increasing gas prices at a time when families' budgets are stretched and oil companies are making record profits.  Even Campbell's own advisors admit that the gas tax might not work, and if it does, the impact will be minimal."

James said that high gas prices are already hurting important public services.  In Victoria, Meals on Wheels has announced that it will be ending its service because of high gas costs.  And municipalities, school boards and health authorities will be forced to pass through the extra costs with cuts to services and programs.

"Gordon Campbell pushed through his gas tax without listening to British Columbians," said James.  "And now with gas prices hitting record highs he is refusing to recognize the added pressure it will put on the family budget."

"It's time for Gordon Campbell to get serious about climate change with a real plan that goes after big polluters.  It's time for Gordon Campbell to listen to the concerns of ordinary people.  It's time for Gordon Campbell to axe the tax."

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