New Brunswick Premier Bernard Lord still hasn't decided whether to run for the leadership of the new Conservative Party of Canada, but admits he's interested in the job.

Despite a lengthy and impressive list of suitors, the youthful premier says he wants to use the Christmas holidays to consider a leap to federal politics.

He's facing intense pressure to run, but his advisers deny that an announcement is imminent.

Lord, 38, met reporters in Fredericton on Monday to discuss the recently concluded session of the provincial legislature. He also spoke about his future and his latest endorsement, this one from long-time Alberta Premier Ralph Klein.

"Bernard's a good man ... bright, young ... perfectly bilingual," Klein said Sunday. "I would support Bernard."

Klein said he hasn't spoken to Lord in recent days, but he has spoken to others about him.

"I have spoken to other Atlantic Canada premiers," Klein said, "and I have spoken to other supporters of the Conservative movement across Canada, and they are very enthusiastic about Bernard Lord.

"He really has the time to devote to a party that most likely will be in opposition, but has the youth and the energy to stay with the party and see it through to a party that could form the government."

A social moderate and native of Quebec, Lord said he wants to talk with former Tory leader Peter MacKay before making any decision.

"I want to take time to hear what he has to say and I'd be happy to share with him some of my thoughts," he said.

Last October, Lord ruled out a run at the leadership of the Progressive Conservative Party, saying the most important title he needed was his children calling him "papa."

Lord said his family is still the most important consideration, but he knows they'll support whatever decision he makes.

Lord also said his decision will be influenced by how he feels he can best serve New Brunswick and Canada.

Only two candidates have declared for the leadership race - former Canadian Alliance leader Stephen Harper and former Progressive Conservative leadership candidate Jim Prentice, a Calgary lawyer.

The new party will choose its first leader at a convention on March 21, 2004.