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Analysis

Frustrations inside the Harper government at the recent string of losses at the Supreme Court are in danger of boiling over.

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One minister said he had been advised not to get into a public “firefight,” but senior Conservatives are privately incensed and feel the court has blocked Parliament’s ability to make laws.

Rumours about Beverley McLachlin, the Chief Justice, are being shared with journalists, alleging she lobbied against the appointment of Marc Nadon to the court (an appointment later overturned as unconstitutional). It is also being suggested she has told people the Harper government has caused more damage to the court as an institution than any government in Canadian history.

The chatter suggests there is a clear strain between the offices of the Prime Minister and the Chief Justice.

Ms. McLachlin hit back in a statement released by her executive legal officer, Owen Rees. He said she did not lobby against the appointment but was consulted by a parliamentary committee on the government’s short list and the needs of the court.