Re Bruce Strachan column "The days after the HST", Thursday July 22.
Like an old piano, Bruce Strachan has become "out of tune". His political "songs" do not reflect public opinion and appear to be written for family and friends who are somewhat obliged to respond with applause. As I recall, he was silent on the HST issue during the election campaign even though he claims it was a necessity. Nice to see that he has it all figured out now.
In his attempt to make light of the anti-HST movement Mr. Strachan relies on his research at one coffee shop. He's trying to convince us that coffee consumption, a habit that's hard to break, is somehow a relevant indicator of the HST success. He's obviously decided not to mention the near-empty retail shops in town. They will tell a different story in the months ahead.
I suspect that if Mr. Strachan were a pollster his results would always fall within the "margin of error". He'd probably seek opinions on gun control from the Rod and Gun club, opinions on school closures from seniors, opinions on pensions and health care from young people, and opinions on crime prevention from inmates. Worst of all, he might even talk to politicians if seeking the truth on issues.
Professional pollsters have shown that approximately 75 per cent of B.C. residents and consumers are opposed to the HST and approximately 700,000 registered voters have signed the anti-HST petitions. Mr. Strachan has conveniently omitted these facts from his column. He believes "the battle will be long forgotten" in the next election.
Could be wishful thinking. I believe the petition signers will ensure that the issue does not go away and that the HST will remain a major issue in the 2013 election. The Provincial Conservatives will promise to axe the HST and will enjoy the support of the 700,000 and others who have been waiting for a serious third party option. The Liberals will have to cope with declining traditional support as they try desperately to convince voters that the HST is good for them.
In the meantime I suppose we can look forward to some entertainment value in Bruce Strachan's "songs".
William Pynn
Prince George
