BC Liberal Leader Kevin Falcon has removed John Rustad, MLA for Nechako Lakes, from Caucus.

Falcon said in a statement on Thursday: “Following a pattern of behaviour that was not supportive of our caucus team and the principles of mutual respect and trust, I have removed MLA John Rustad from the BC Liberal Caucus effective immediately.”

Rustad had suggested that climate change was not being caused by CO2 emissions.

Falcon responded on Wednesday in a tweet: “Let me be clear, climate change is one of the most critical threats facing our future. The BC Liberals are strongly committed to substantive climate action and restoring BC’s place as a world leader in climate policy. John Rustad does not speak on behalf of caucus on this issue.”

Falcon said on Thursday: “Politics is a team sport and British Columbians expect their elected officials to work cooperatively on the important issues facing our province.

“Like any team, our caucus operates on a foundation of mutual respect and trust. While a diversity of perspectives are encouraged and a source of strength, they cannot exist without that important foundation in place.”