The International Energy Agency released an analysis that government fossil fuel subsidies rose to USD 557 billion in 2008, and that "[p]hasing out such subsidies would send a price signal to create incentive for more efficient use". The Pembina Institute's Mike Kennedy comments on Canada's lack of action in reducing fossil fuel subsidies.
Just as President Obama is doing far more than Prime Minister Harper to support clean energy, he is also leading the way in phasing out fossil fuel subsidies. It would seem that Prime Minister Harper is only interested in following the Americans' lead on energy and climate policy if it means delaying action.