OTTAWA: Prime Minister Stephen Harper's minority government on Friday survived its first test of the new legislative session, passing a motion to roll out more of Canada's stimulus package.

The main opposition Liberals withdrew their crucial support for the Conservatives, but two minor parties -- the New Democrats and the Bloc Quebecois -- stepped in to prop up the government.

The "ways and means" motion was passed by a vote of 224 to 74.

New Democrat leader Jack Layton said the passing of the bill, due in part to his party's decision to now support the Conservatives, would benefit thousands of Canadians in need of government aid during a recession.

"In the midst of this economic crisis, people who have lost their jobs need that help now," he said. "Our supporters prefer that we work for them rather than having an election that no one wants."

"We feel it's very important that that money be received by those who are really struggling right now," he said.

The respite, however, may be short-lived.

The Liberals are expected to present a no-confidence motion in the coming weeks to try to oust Harper.

In order to continue governing, the Conservatives would again need the support of the Bloc Quebecois or the New Democrats -- which is not assured.

After Friday's vote, Liberal leader Michael Ignatieff lamented a record high budget deficit, high unemployment and too little support for key sectors.

"The question is, is this government good enough, yes or no?" he said. "I've said 'no,' and now my job is to present Canadians with a clear alternative."

An election now would be Canada's fourth in five years.