MP Proposes Allowing Oath of Office Instead of Allegiance to King
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Liberal MP has introduced a private member's bill that would allow MPs and senators to take an "oath of office" instead of swearing allegiance to the King. This centuries-old tradition has existed since Canada's founding.
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The bill is seen by monarchists as an attempt to subtly undermine the monarchy's standing in Canada without the need for a big constitutional battle with provinces to abolish it.
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Republicans welcome the bill as a first step toward removing the monarchy, which they see as an outdated institution.
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There are doubts whether the oath could be changed through simple legislation alone, with some experts saying it may require unanimous consent of Parliament and provinces.
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Polls suggest Canadians are split on whether it's time to cut ties with the monarchy. Supporters and opponents of the bill don't have strong public backing.