Canada FM John Baird steps down

Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird, who carved out a more assertive role for Canada on major international issues, announced Tuesday he is stepping down and will not stand in upcoming elections. The surprise departure of one of Prime Minister Stephen Harper's most trusted lieutenants is a major loss as the conservative leader seeks a fourth mandate to govern in October elections. The 45-year-old Baird gave no reason for his decision to step down.