Discussion · Government Orders
Ruby Sahota Liberal
“The Conservatives say they are tough on crime, but they oppose this bill. This bill increases prison time for hate crimes. For example, prison time for hate-based assault would double from five to 10 years. I want to know if the Conservatives still care about being tough on crime.”
“Madam Speaker, throughout the debate, I have heard the Conservatives make reference to, “Why do we need this bill at all? We already have existing laws.” It is really surprising to me, hearing that come from the Conservatives, considering they claim to be tough on crime and want longer sentences. In this bill, a simple assault committed due to hate would go from five years to 10 years in prison. Sexual assault with a weapon causing bodily harm would go from 14 years to life in prison. This bill would provide for longer, appropriate sentences and appropriate punishment for those who commit crimes involving hate. I want to know what the parliamentary secretary thinks about that. Are the Conservatives even tough on crime anymore?”
Madam Speaker, throughout the debate, I have heard the Conservatives make reference to, “Why do we need this bill at all? We already have existing laws.” It is really surprising to me, hearing that come from the Conservatives, considering they claim to be tough on crime and want longer sentences. In this bill, a simple assault committed due to hate would go from five years to 10 years in prison. Sexual assault with a weapon causing bodily harm would go from 14 years to life in prison. This bill would provide for longer, appropriate sentences and appropriate punishment for those who commit crimes involving hate. I want to know what the parliamentary secretary thinks about that. Are the Conservatives even tough on crime anymore?