PM (Chrétien) introduces bill to allow cheaper drugs for poor nations

[Ediacara]

PM introduces bill to allow cheaper drugs for poor nations

By ALLISON DUNFIELD
Globe and Mail Update

Prime Minister Jean Chrétien introduced legislation Thursday to help poor countries get cheaper drugs to treat diseases such as AIDS.

The Prime Minister introduced the bill in what may be one of his final acts in the House of Commons before he leaves office. Paul Martin will take over as Liberal leader next week.

Mr. Chrétien's initiative allows for continued speculation that he is considering taking a position as an adviser on Africa at the United Nations.

The new bill, which most likely will not be passed and will have to be reintroduced once Mr. Martin becomes prime minister, will allow Canada to change patent laws so cheaper, generic versions of AIDS and other drugs could be shipped abroad.

More at the Globe and Mail

[Screaming Lord Byron]

1. At this point in a politician's career, they go for a legacy.

At least this is a lot more do-able than Trudeau's peace initiative.

[Maple]

2. He already has

a legacy. This is to help his forthcoming Africa initiative.

[Screaming Lord Byron]

3. No criticism intended. It's an honourable plan.

[Maple]

4. Yup. Just hope

it passes before everything shuts down!