February 01, 2006
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Paul Martin today issued the following statement regarding the selection of the Hon. Bill Graham as Leader of the Opposition:

“It is my sincere pleasure to congratulate the Hon. Bill Graham on his selection by the Liberal Caucus as the Leader of the Opposition in the next Parliament.

“Bill will make an outstanding leader. As a distinguished Member of Parliament for Toronto-Centre since 1993, Bill has served his constituents while advancing the interests of all Canadians at the highest levels of government.

“As Minister of Foreign Affairs, he brought Canada’s interests to the attention of the world; as Minister of National Defence, he has overseen the largest increase in spending on the Canadian Forces in two decades.

“Bill is admired and deeply respected – across Canada and around the world – for his steady and principled leadership. He will lead a vigorous opposition in the House of Commons, fighting for the values of the Liberal Party and to improve the lives of all Canadians.”