Bill C-12: An Act to amend the Constitution Act, 1867 (Democratic representation)
1 April 2010 | Electoral Boundaries
Bill C-12 was introduced in the House of Commons by the Minister of State for Democratic Reform and received first reading on 1 April 2010.
Under section 44 of The Constitution Act, 1982 (Canada), Parliament has the exclusive power to make laws amending the Constitution of Canada in relation to the House of Commons. As long as the laws do not affect the principle of proportionate representation of the provinces in the House of Commons prescribed by the Constitution of Canada, provincial approval is not required.
The effect of this bill would be to increase the size of the House of Commons from 308 members to 338. 18 seats would be added in Ontario, 7 in British Columbia and 5 in Alberta. The population in these three provinces has been growing the fastest, and they are currently underrepresented in the House based on their population. The increase in seats from these provinces brings Canada closer to the principle that the representation from each province should be based on its population.