Cities do not normally figure prominently in speeches from the throne, and [Paul Martin]'s advisers say "new deal" will not be the only phrase that will mark this speech as proof of a new era in Ottawa.

The first speech of the Martin government is intended to lay down markers for the direction Canada will take rather than stating legislative priorities, since the throne speech will only cover this Parliament, expected to be dissolved for an election in the spring.

The throne speech and Martin's address are likely to reflect the government's view that its cash crunch is not as severe as had been feared only last week.