I am somewhat confused about just exactly how much power Harper has vis-a-vis the Governor General because I've heard conflicting things. So I'm starting this thread to try to get some clarity. Hopefully this will sort things out for me. Here are the questions in my mind:
1. Does the Governor General function merely as a figurehead and a rubber stamp of approval to whowever the Prime Minister of the day is? My guess would be clearly no.
2. Does the Governor General have to prorogue parliament on the advice of Harper or do her reserve powers enable her to deny this request. To me, I could see her telling Harper to demonstrate that he has the confidence of the house and then she would prorogue. I can't imagine her acquiescing to the demands of a government merely intent on saving it's own political stature. That said, if she is required by law, to do whatever the P.M. wants vis-a-vis prorogation, I guess that's it then. But is she? I can see the opposition asking to meet with her or sending her a letter that Harper doesn't have the confidence of the house and doesn't have the authority to prorogue. I can see how that could quickly add to the atmosphere of crisis.
3. Do we have any indications of how her excellency views politics? Is she likely to have a sympathetic ear to any one side while, of course, she remains objective.
Basically, to dumb down my post and point: Does Harper have the power to prorogue parliament by merely advising the GG to do so? If so, the coalition has a lot less chance of becoming reality. This has to happen now.