MacKay leads after first ballot, fends off challenge from Milton

Last Updated Sat, 31 May 2003 13:00

TORONTO - Nova Scotia MP Peter MacKay has captured about 41 per cent of the votes in the first ballot at the Progressive Conservative leadership convention.

He won 1,080 votes, leaving him 235 shy of victory. There were 2,630 votes cast, with one spoiled.

In a surprise turnout, Air Canada president Robert Milton attracted enough support to come second on the ballot. The fact that Mr. Milton decided to run just today was seen as surprise, but the head of beleagured Air Canada stated that he was looking to the future.

"I may need a new job stating tomorrow morning," he said, "and where else can someone get a job that has such a direct and immediate effect on the lives of ordinary Canadians? I would like to do for the party what I have been able to do for Canada."

It was not immediately known waht party Mr. Milton was referring to in his comments.

"It adds to the dispair, for me and the party," a stoic MacKay told reporters. Asked if he would still support Air Canada, he said his organizers would be reaching Ottawa by canoe soon to avoid future air travel.

All four and a half candidates have indicated they're staying for the second round.

Delegates were required to vote for their riding association's choices in the first round of balloting. Now, they are free to go home.