Vote of non-confidence sends federal parties on the campaign trail
The opposition parties have passed a vote of non-confidence in the House of Commons on Friday, defeating the Conservative government led by Stephen Harper with a vote of 156 to 145 and paving the way for the 41st General Election in Canada. It is the sixth vote of non-confidence in Canadian history, and the first one against a government that was found in contempt of Parliament. Prime Minister Harper will ask Governor General David Johnston on Saturday to formally dissolve Parliament and issue a writ of election, kicking off an election campaign. The election is expected to be held on May 2.