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VICTORIA — Abbotsford MLA Darryl Plecas survived a day of chaotic debate over his future as speaker of the legislature Thursday, retaining his job despite allegations he’s bullying staff, seizing computer data he’s not entitled to and personally disparaging the “stupid” investigation conducted by former chief justice Beverley McLachlin.

The Opposition Liberals attempted to replace Plecas by offering Premier John Horgan one of their MLAs as Speaker — a move that would have given the minority NDP government an even stronger grip on power in the house.

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“We’ve offered up a B.C. Liberal member to act as a speaker on a temporary basis so it does not disturb the minority government,” said Liberal leader Andrew Wilkinson.

“We respect the will of the voters and the structure of our parliament and the majority government should carry on for the meantime. But we have to clear the air.”

The overture was immediately rejected by Premier John Horgan — though he stopped short of actually expressing confidence in Plecas.