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VICTORIA — The B.C. Liberals turned ride-hailing into an election issue Tuesday, promising that if they win at the polls then British Columbians will be able to hire an Uber driver by Christmas.

Opposition New Democrats immediately fired back, announcing that if they win the election, the Liberal plan will never become a reality.

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Transportation Minister Todd Stone unveiled the most significant overhaul of B.C.’s taxi industry in decades, effectively ending the industry’s monopoly on service if the Liberals are re-elected on May 9.

B.C. would green light ride-hailing companies like Uber and Lyft, while at the same time offering cash support and a relaxation of the rules to existing taxi companies to try to prevent their business from being devastated by the competition, he said.

“We think we are striking a balance between what the vast majority of British Columbians want … all the while doing so in a very thoughtful manner where we take our time, respect the industry that’s been there for so many generations and get this right to protect the jobs that already exist,” Stone said.