Critics, such as Farris, Vaughan, Wills and Murphy LLP wine lawyer Shea Coulson, have long urged Victoria to privatize the British Columbia Liquor Distribution Branch because, they argue, privatization will produce higher tax revenues, a superior liquor distribution system, better selection, better prices, better service and a better wine culture.
Liberal leadership candidate Kevin Falcon, however, sidestepped the issue when Business in Vancouver asked him if whether the Crown corporation should be made private.
“I can tell you that we have one of the best ministers responsible right now for the liquor regulations in Rich Coleman,” said Falcon of Coleman, who is supporting Falcon’s leadership bid.
“If people can present a business case to Rich Coleman that demonstrates that there are real benefits that can be realized by looking at [privatizing the BCLDB], then they ought to do so.”
Falcon is widely viewed as being both to the right of the BC Liberal Party and a fan of privatization. But, he stressed to BIV, he does not approach issues in an ideological way.
“My ideological bent is toward results,” Falcon said. “Where involving the private sector makes sense, I absolutely do it. I’m a big supporter of public-private partnerships not because it’s an ideological thing but because it’s an evidence-based decision.”