How will BC Conservatives govern? ... that's a good question.

So ... when the next general election rolls around in May 2013, and we end up with a BC Conservative government, what is going to happen.  Well just the other day some one did ask me, what is the first thing that a BC Conservative government will do when they take power?

Those are both good questions (first thing they'll do / how govern), and I wish that I had the answers to them. Before they can be answered, there are a couple of very important things that will have to happen first, within the next couple of months.

Both will be happening at pretty much the same time – which will be good for the membership of the BC Conservatives. First will be the election of a party leader – second will be the approval of party policy.

Although not officially announced yet, rumours are out there that the first person, who will be declaring their intentions they wish to lead the party, will be John Cummins. Mr. Cummins has been an MP in Ottawa for over 15 years now, and a week ago announced to the Prime Minister that he will not be seeking re-election.

For some time now he has also been the lone federal Conservative championing the BC Conservative Party – and has also been a member of the Tactical Advisory Group (led by Reform / Canadian Alliance / Conservative MP Randy White).

Apparently there are rumours of a few other people who are considering an announcement of their intentions to run as well, however names are being kept under wraps so time will tell.

As well, the BC Conservative Party is in the process of updating policy – which has included input from hundreds and hundreds of members. Just from the Kamloops / Thompson / Fraser / Nicola region there were some great policy ideas presented for consideration and for development to take to the people of the province. Members will be having the opportunity to review these policy ideas, and to vote on them as well very soon.

So regardless of all that, where do the BC Conservatives stand on how they will govern? That's a good question, however I believe one that is not that hard to come to some conclusion on. I believe they will govern based on the principles, beliefs, and values they have stood for.

Now posted on the BC Conservative Party website, are a set of Guiding Principles, which are as follows:

1. A British Columbia Conservative Government will clearly define public policies and  programs that are affordable, effective and accountable to the people.

2. A BC Conservative Government will be open and honest with the people, operating at all times with the highest standards of integrity. British Columbians are entitled to full knowledge of services delivered.

3. The BC Conservative Party holds paramount the rights and responsibilities of all British Columbians. Governments at all levels are in place to serve and respect all individuals and their families. This respect includes freedom from unnecessary laws and regulations.

4. Members of the BC Conservative Party who are elected to the Legislative Assembly will be free to debate and to vote according to the wishes of their constituents.

5. A BC Conservative Government will restructure the taxation system to maximize benefits for the greatest number of BC citizens.

6. A BC Conservative Government will enact legislation to promote health and prosperity for all citizens, based on:

• A competitive Free Enterprise system as the basis for this province’s growth and prosperity.

• Protection and management of our Environment and Natural Resources to optimize benefits for the people of BC, now and for future generations.

• A rigorous system of Law and Order that focuses on the rights of victims.

• Patient-centered Health Care

• Student-focused education.

7. The BC Conservative Party stands for the principle of equality for all British Columbians, with special privileges for none. This principle includes the protection of Private Property Rights, the freedom of the individual, and freedoms of speech, worship and lawful assembly.

These principles, along with the "Draft Contract with British Columbians", are available to review, so take a few minutes and read them through.

These are the things that will direct a BC Conservative government through the initial first days --- and these are things that I believe British Columbians will have no difficulty approving of.

I'm Alan Forseth in Kamloops, and these are the thoughts of one conservative.