Tanker

Conservativehome marks the 5th anniversary of Stephen Harper's election as Canadian Prime Minister (a person that probably only I and Burke's Corner seem to take an interest in). It concludes his rule has seen a series of small changes rather than a revolution.  Harper sums it up well himself:

"He's described his government as conservative rather than libertarian and has introduced modest measures to support the traditional family and limit subsidy of anti-religious arts. He has built more prisons, punishing violent offenders more severely. He has been resistant to the global consensus on global warming while supporting action to protect the local environment. He has supported the war in Afghanistan and been a very faithful friend to Israel."

Considering the Liberal dominance of Canadian politics it was always going to be thus, like trying to get an oil tanker to change course.  This was even more likely considering throughout these five years Harper has led a minority administration.  Despite this limitations he has managed to fulfil the significant majority of election pledges (something majority governments can't always claim).

The one question mark over his rule is the goal of a Conservatives majority government seems as far off as when he was first elected.  The political landscape of Canada seems crystallised in a half world - distrustful of giving the Conservatives a majority but equally so of a return to Liberal rule.