Conservatives make move to delay PST hike

Manitobas Conservative party has made a move to delay the governments 2013 budget bill for weeks.

The Progressive Conservative Party of Manitoba used a rare procedure known as a "reasoned amendment" to delay debate on the bill for weeks.

The budget bill includes provisions for an increase to provincial sales tax from seven per cent to eight per cent.

It also included amendments to existing legislation that would require the province to hold a referendum before increasing PST.

Opposition house leader Kelvin Goertzen said he hopes the delay will give time for the public to put pressure on the NDP government to reverse the decision.

"Obviously we want to see this government change its mind on this decision and give people the opportunity to help change the governments mind," said Goertzen.

Under the procedure, each member of the legislative assembly will be able to speak on the bill for 30 minutes.

Manitobas Tories have been extremely vocal in their opposition to the hike since it was announced.

The governments house leader, Jennifer Howard, said the stunt is wasting time.

"You dont announce a tax increase and then have the ability of an opposition party to hold that up forever," said Howard. "No government could function."

Government officials said regardless of the delay, the PST will increase effective July 1.