BC Liberal MLA Ian Paton to form new party with Peter Milobar

British Columbia Liberal MLA Ian Paton is leaving the provincial Conservative Party to form a new political entity with Peter Milobar, who also recently departed the Conservatives. Paton cited a divergence of beliefs with the party's new direction under leader Kerry-Lynne Findlay as the reason for his departure.

“

give a home to those who feel politically homeless

Paton and Milobar announced their intention to register the new party with Elections BC before the fall legislative session. Milobar indicated that while they may start as a party of two, other Conservative caucus members might join them. He suggested that many voters are unhappy with the governing New Democrats but do not see a viable alternative in the Conservatives under Findlay's leadership.

“

some may still come, some may not

This move marks the latest significant change within the BC Conservative Party since Findlay was elected leader in May. Several key party officials, including the executive director, president, and vice president, have resigned in recent weeks. Additionally, Abbotsford-Mission MLA Reann Gasper resigned her seat to allow Findlay to run in a byelection.

“

do not see a path forward