I am in the Press Gallery in the House of Commons.
You can watch tonight’s debate on Afghanistan on TV. I’m sure we’re covering some of it but CPAC ought to be taking most of it live.
Here are some notes that describe what the TV cameras don't show.
Defence Minister Gordon O'Connor led off at 618 pm. PM Harper will not attend debate. Sparsely attended House for this debate. Michael Ignatieff and Stephane Dion are only two Lib leadership hopefuls here.
There are, at the beginning of the debate: 58 Cons 21 Libs 2 BQ 8 NDP MPs present in House.
Bill Graham is the only party leader in the House as O'Connor speaks although he is not scheduled to speak. He speaks only in reply to O'Connor's remarks. Duceppe is not here. Layton is to arrive later. Harper has decided to pass. Tory ministers present include Josee Verner, Michael Chong, Carol Skelton, and Rob Nicholson.