Admitting it would cost money, Steve Ashton is promising to hold a referendum for the sales tax hike, if he is chosen as leader of the NDP.

Ashton says with a provincial election happening in early 2016, he is hoping that costs from a referendum, could alleviate the costs of the provincial elections but he’s not sure yet. Ashton also hopes to make sure all parts of Manitoba, including Northern Manitoba, participate in everything we do as a province if he becomes Premier.

Steve Ashton is running against Theresa Oswald and Greg Selinger in the NDP leadership contest being held March 8.