February 23, 2004

Abstract: (CPOD) Feb. 23, 2004 - Former Canadian Alliance leader Stephen Harper is the first choice for Tory supporters in Canada, according to a poll by Ipsos-Reid released by CTV and the Globe and Mail. 46 per cent of respondents say they want Harper to become the leader of the Conservative Party.

(CPOD) Feb. 23, 2004 - Former Canadian Alliance leader Stephen Harper is the first choice for Tory supporters in Canada, according to a poll by Ipsos-Reid released by CTV and the Globe and Mail. 46 per cent of respondents say they want Harper to become the leader of the Conservative Party.

CEO of Magna International Belinda Stronach was second with 26 per cent, followed by former Ontario health minister Tony Clement with 17 per cent. The Conservative Party --formed after the union of the Progressive Conservatives and the Canadian Alliance-- will choose its federal leader on Mar. 20.

Liberal Party leader Paul Martin took over as Canada's prime minister on Dec. 12, 2003. Although Martin does not have to hold a federal vote until November 2005, there is growing speculation about an election call in the following weeks.

The Progressive Conservatives last formed the Canadian government from 1984 to 1993 under prime ministers Brian Mulroney and Kim Campbell.

Polling Data

As you may know, the new Conservative Party of Canada is currently involved in choosing a new leader for their party who will face Paul Martin and the Liberal Party in the next Federal Election campaign. Of the following three Conservative Party leadership candidates, which one do you want to be leader?

Stephen Harper	46%
Belinda Stronach	26%
Tony Clement	17%
Don't know	11%

Source: Ipsos-Reid / CTV / The Globe and Mail
Methodology: Telephone interviews to 967 self-identified Conservative supporters in Canada, conducted from Feb. 3 to Feb. 19, 2004. Margin of error is 3.15 per cent.