Pubdate: Wed, 20 Aug 2003 Source: Globe and Mail (Canada) Section: Pg A14 Copyright: 2003, The Globe and Mail Company Contact: http://www.globeandmail.ca/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/168 Author: Ian Gardner MEMO TO LIBERAL MPS Mississauga, Ont. -- There seems to be a misunderstanding regarding the procedure to follow when in personal conflict with government positions (MP Group Sought U.S. Help To Derail Pot Bill -- Aug. 19). First and foremost, talk it out within the party. If you're not satisfied after this stage, talk over your position with your constituents to see whether you have majority support in your riding. If not, swallow your pride; if so, go public as a disaffected party MP. There's nothing the media loves as much as the image of an MP taking a principled position against his or her own party. If things still aren't going your way, resign your party membership and sit as an independent. You won't get much media attention once the issue blows over, but you will have made a principled stand, your pride will be salved and, if your constituents still believe in you, you'll be re-elected. What you do not do is arrange meetings with foreign governments to encourage their interference in Canadian internal matters. In different times, that could very easily be construed as treason. Any other questions, please feel free to call. - --- MAP posted-by: Beth Wehrman