RCMP ask to meet ex-B.C. Conservative who says he was offered job to quit as MLA

British Columbia legislator Ian Paton has been invited to meet with the RCMP on Wednesday, according to reports. Paton, who recently quit the Conservative caucus, claims he was offered a job to step down as MLA for Delta South. Findlay, the Conservative leader, allegedly approached Paton in July, stating he would receive a staff position with the same salary if he resigned.

Paton, however, refused the offer and was unaware that such an agreement could be considered illegal under the Criminal Code. Negotiating a reward or benefit related to resignation from political office is against the law. Paton is one of seven MLAs who have left the Conservative ranks this month, citing ideological differences with Findlay.

The party's leader denies offering jobs in exchange for resignations, calling the allegations "preposterous." Findlay, who will run in a byelection in Abbotsford-Mission, maintains that the recording circulating online is merely "normal political discussions." The RCMP has confirmed awareness of the recording but has not confirmed or denied any investigation.