B.C.’s Doerkson sees no quick end to U.S. trade war

British Columbia’s incoming premier says he does not expect a quick end to the trade war with the United States, even after Republicans lost control of both houses of Congress in Tuesday’s midterm elections.

Premier-designate Lorne Doerkson made the comments Wednesday in Victoria, according to The Canadian Press. He said his focus is now on preparing to take office on Nov. 20.

Doerkson said his government’s goal is to protect local industries from American tariffs and to strengthen B.C.’s partnerships with anyone who wants to keep doing business with the province.

He said American liquor will stay off the shelves of B.C. liquor stores until the trade war is resolved.

U.S. President Donald Trump congratulated Doerkson on winning the Oct. 24 election, in which the Conservatives defeated David Eby’s NDP. Doerkson said he does not give any thought to what Trump says.

The B.C. Conservatives won a majority on Oct. 24, as we reported at the time, and their platform covered taxes, housing, LNG and DRIPA. Our earlier look at the U.S. House result and what it means for Canada sets out the wider national picture.

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