Queen Elizabeth II smiles during a walk-about in Iqaluit, Nunavut, on Friday. The Queen began a 12-day Canadian visit this week on the final leg of her Golden Jubilee tour. Photo: Andre Forget/AFP Related Stories  •  Manley dismisses monarchy as Queen begins 12-day trip  •  Nunavut gives Queen a warm welcome

Ottawa — Tory leader Joe Clark had harsh words Saturday for Deputy Prime Minister John Manley, who made anti-monarchy comments just as the Queen started her Golden Jubilee tour of Canada.

Mr. Manley, an outspoken critic of the monarchy, said Friday in Montreal that he would prefer an "entirely Canadian institution" once the Queen's reign ended.

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Mr. Manley said it could be something "as simple as continuing with just the Governor General as the head of state in Canada. But I don't think it's necessary for Canada to continue with the monarchy."

Following a national council meeting of the Conservative party on Saturday, Clark said, "I thought [Manley's comment] represented, first of all, simple rudeness, and secondly, the worst possible political judgment. I was astounded.

"It should be made abundantly clear to Her Majesty that he does not speak for the people of the country when he says that on the day she arrives in Canada."

Mr. Clark called for Prime Minister Jean Chrétien to reconsider Mr. Manley's duties to play host to the Queen during her visit to Ottawa this week.