Canada's Prime Minister Stephen Harper pauses while speaking as sleet falls at Rideau Hall in Ottawa December 4, 2008 following his meeting with Governor General Michaelle Jean. Harper, battling to stay in power, persuaded the country's acting head of state on Thursday to suspend Parliament so he could avoid being ousted by opposition parties next week. Reuters Pictures logo Reuters Pictures 38 months ago

Canada's Prime Minister Stephen Harper pauses while speaking as sleet falls at Rideau Hall in Ottawa December 4, 2008 following his meeting with Governor General Michaelle Jean. Harper, battling to stay in power, persuaded the country's acting head of state on Thursday to suspend Parliament so he could avoid being ousted by opposition parties next week.