ELECTION WATCH: Liberal Prime Minister.......>

CANADA: ELECTION WATCH: Liberal Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's chance of

re-election with majority government Oct. 21 is 42%, up from 39% yesterday,

according to CBC poll tracker. Liberals and Conservatives led by Andrew Scheer

tied at 34% popular support.

-Trudeau this morning said his fiscal plan is to lower Canada's debt-to-GDP

ratio, declined to commit in press conference to eliminating deficits.

-Finance Department yesterday said deficit in fiscal year that ended March 31

was C$14b, down from C$19b in prior year. Debt: GDP ratio fell to 30.9% from

31.3%.

-Trudeau today offered increased seniors benefits; yesterday Scheer offered

increased tax breaks on contributions to children's education savings accounts.

-A party must win majority of 338 seats in House of Commons to pass budgets and

legislation without opposition support. 

-See Sept. 16 story on MNI wire for fiscal outlook: MNI INTERVIEW: Canada Must

Cut Deficit In Good Times: Manley