MONTREAL, March 8 (UPI) -- Quebec Liberal Party members gave their leader, Premier Jean Charest, a warm welcome Saturday and an overwhelming vote of confidence.
The 97.2 percent vote of confidence was the highest ever for a party leader in the province, Canwest News Service reported. The vote was the first since Charest became head of a minority government last year.
"You have shown me your support and your affection," Charest told the 2,500 delegates to the policy convention. "Today, it's my turn to tell you I love you very much."
Charest's popularity with Quebec voters has risen dramatically in the past six months. Saturday's vote gives him another boost.
"His leadership was not in trouble, even then, but there were more questions. Now, I am not hearing any more questions," said John Parisella, an adviser to Charest who served as chief of staff to two former Quebec premiers.
