Definition: In Canada, an Independent member of parliament is a member of parliament who is not a member of a recognized federal political party. A candidate can run as an Independent and choose to be listed on the election ballot as an Independent, or may be a member of parliament who has chosen to leave a party or been expelled from a party while parliament is sitting.
Independent (member of parliament)
By Susan Munroe, About.com Guide
Members of Parliament in Canada
Related Glossary Terms
Explore Canada Online
Must Reads
About.com Special Features
Holiday Central
What to eat, where to go, fun things to do and how to save money on the perfect gifts. More >
Weird Breaking News
A daily look at some of the oddest (and dumbest) crimes around. More >
©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.
All rights reserved.