Bill Vander Zalm applauds B.C. First Party’s “totally different approach”

How about electing a premier at large for a change? Or having a system that provides for free votes in the legislative assembly? Another idea is an easier process for initiatives, referenda, and recall so the government becomes more accountable to the people.

B.C. First launched a revamped and better-looking website this summer, and its most prominent cheerer yet is Bill Vander Zalm.

The former Social Credit premier emphasized, however, that he’s not returning to politics. “I’ve been there. I’ve done it all,” Vander Zalm said in a phone interview with the Straight.

But he’s been aiding causes on the side. Like opponents of B.C. Hydro’s smart meters.

Vander Zalm also helped the Sal Vetro-led B.C. First with some of their policies but he said that’s the extent of it. However, he encourages people to take a serious look at B.C. First.

“They have a totally different approach to politics than what it is we’ve seen in the past, which is probably a very good thing,” Vander Zalm said.

According to Vander Zalm, B.C. First is the only party that proposes “real change”.

“Changing parties is not the answer anymore,” he said. “I think what needs to happen is that the system needs to be changed. I don’t know if B.C. First has all the answers but it goes a long way towards it. We need to change the system. Changing parties is like changing musical chairs.”

Isn’t B.C. First a party too? It’s more of a movement, a coalition of independents, Vander Zalm said.