Originally Posted by
RangerNS
I can't imagine the GoC paying the party leader rate until that person is actually an MP. Its an _additional_ benefit. Until he is elected there is no relationship with the Government at all.
The GoC doesn't decide this. It is governed by a set of rules previously approved by the House, i.e. a vote by MPs on the compensation. The money has not been declined. Therefore one can only conclude that if not declined, it is collected by the designated leader of the party in the House, Mr. Caron. He either retains the money or turns it over to his party for disbursement. This arrangement has not been made public. When is the last time a senior politician in Canada turned down income? The party also has access to discounted airfares on Air Canada and other airlines and the benefit of aeroplan miles where applicable. Also, to correct myself, the current base salary for an MP is $172,700. Cabinet ministers and leaders of political party in the House start at approx. $255,300.