Chrystia Freeland to be named new Canada finance minister: reports

Image copyright Getty Images Image caption Chrystia Freeland is one of PM Justin Trudeau’s most trusted ministers

Canada’s deputy prime minister Chrystia Freeland will be taking over the role of finance minister, Canadian media report.

Bill Morneau stepped down on Monday from the top finance job amid pressure from opposition parties, after five years in the role.

Ms Freeland, 52, will become the first woman to hold the powerful portfolio in Canada.

She is one of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s most trusted ministers.

Canada is going through its worst economic crisis since the Second World War due to the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

She has previously held several high-level cabinet positions, including the international trade portfolio.

As foreign minister she helped renegotiate the North American Free Trade Agreement – or Nafta – with the US and Mexico.

The former journalist was first elected as a member of parliament (MP) in 2013.

On Monday, Mr Morneau said he was resigning from his position in the Liberal party cabinet and his role as MP for his Ontario riding, Toronto Centre.

He is facing conflict-of-interest allegations amid a charity ethics scandal, and there were reports of a rift between him and the prime minister over how to handle the economic recovery.

Mr Morneau said the WE Charity affair did not prompt his decision to resign, adding he will seek to be the next secretary general for the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

He said his successor should have a “longer term perspective” as Canada navigates the struggling economy.

Ms Freeland is expected to be sworn in during a cabinet shuffle on Tuesday afternoon, according to reports.