Prime Minister Stephen Harper, at the National Press Theatre yesterday, responds to our report that the Chief of the Defence Staff, Rick Hillier, may see his turn at the top end next year.

Roger Smith, CTV : Prime Minister, welcome to the National Press Theatre. I want to ask you about Rick Hillier. There are reports that the government will not extend his term beyond early next year. Already soldiers are putting angry responses on the Internet. Some are organizing petitions to try and keep him on. Have you ruled out extending general Hillier’s term as chief, as chief of staff and if so, why?

Harper: First of all, the only thing true in these stories that I have seen today is that the Prime Minister does in fact appoint and designate the person who will be the chief of defence staff. That much is true.

But that said, the chief of defence staff is not appointed for a fixed term of office, not appointed for three years as some reports have said. There has been no discussion in my office or with me, with any senior officials about the possibility of changing the chief of defence staff and as a matter of fact, I think I just approved a pretty good rating for the chief of the defence staff.

I think he is an outstanding soldier who is bringing strong leadership to the Canadian Forces.