A key former ally of Justin Trudeau’s said he would vote to topple the government, a move that would likely plunge the country into an election early next year unless the prime minister seeks a temporary suspension of parliament.

The shift comes as Jagmeet Singh, leader of the New Democratic Party (NDP) and a crucial Trudeau ally, has announced plans to withdraw support in the Parliament. Singh revealed plans to introduce a no-confidence motion in the House of Commons on 27 January, after the winter recess.