In new memoir, Harper says he offered Carney a job — but not finance minister

Former Prime Minister Stephen Harper reveals in his new memoir that he extended an employment offer to Mark Carney, then the Governor of the Bank of Canada, in 2012, but not as Finance Minister. Harper explains that at the time, the finance position was occupied, yet he conveyed that Carney would be the primary contender should the role become vacant.

However, Carney later mentioned in an interview that he felt it inappropriate to transition directly from his position at the Bank of Canada to political roles. Harper's statement that Carney was "highly effective" as Governor of the Bank of Canada contrasts with the concern of then-Finance Minister Jim Flaherty who was worried about Carney's potential interest in the Liberal party leadership, a topic widely speculated at the time.

Harper suggests this concern led to the job offer, aiming to secure Carney’s services or deter him from running for the Liberal party leadership. The offer was ultimately declined, and Carney subsequently took on the role at the Bank of England. Harper's memoir, "Here for Canada: Memoirs of the 22nd Prime Minister," provides a comprehensive account of his tenure in Canadian politics, covering his leadership, political decisions, and personal experiences during his time in office.