Surrey MLA Linda Hepner latest to leave B.C. Conservative caucus

MLA Linda Hepner said Kerry-Lynne Findlay’s ouster this week of three “seasoned” B.C. politicians was the last straw, leading her to resign from the B.C. Conservative caucus.

In a statement, the representative for the Surrey-Serpentine River riding said she will remain in the legislature and continue to focus on the interests of her constituents.

“I didn’t decide to do this lightly,” said Hepner in a letter to the embattled Conservative leader, which she shared with media on Sunday. “After decades in public life, I remain committed to the conservative principles, to responsible government, and to representing British Columbians with common sense and integrity.

“I have, however, lost confidence in that happening, and with the leadership’s willingness to listen, to seek experienced advice, and to consider perspectives beyond its immediate circle.

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“The decision to remove three seasoned politicians from caucus has brought that concern to a head. To me, it is beyond the pale of common sense to remove experienced voices rather than find a way to listen to them.”

On Friday, Findlay announced that John Rustad and Trevor Halford — the former leader and interim leader of the Conservative party in the B.C. legislature, respectively — and Claire Rattée, had been booted from caucus . It came after a tense meeting on Wednesday where it is believed Rustad and Rattée were among 10 MLAs who signed a letter asking Findlay to step down.

“I am particularly troubled by the contradiction in the recent appeal to the grassroots,” Hepner said. “John Rustad built this party from a single elected member. Whatever differences leadership perceives exists, he unquestionably represents a deep connection to the grassroots of this party.”

Hepner praised Rustad for bringing the party to its highest standing in the polls and being “one of the strongest voices we had for mental health and addiction issues.”

Hepner said she is concerned at the shrinking party base under Findlay’s disruptive leadership, which has seen a rash of resignations on top of the removal of caucus members and senior party officials.