What they said. What they meant.

Plain-language translations from the House of Commons.

Recent debates

8 latest topics

Oral Questions

Finance

A debate on federal finances and spending. The Conservatives criticized the Liberals for running high deficits and increasing the national debt, arguing that this has driven up inflation and made life less affordable for Canadians. The Liberals countered that their spending is targeted at helping Canadians and that Canada has the strongest economy and fiscal position in the G7. Both sides traded partisan jabs but focused on substance, disputing the merits of federal spending and its economic impact rather than getting sidetracked on other topics.

Official Hansard ↗

Hon. Adam van Koeverden

Liberal
“The Conservatives don't get it. Spending on this stuff is good. We should totally do more of it. It helps people, man.”
Our translation 81% shorter

Hon. Evan Solomon

Liberal
“I want you to think the other guys bad. Look bad! Everything we do is good and helps everyone. The bad guys don't help anyone. We good! Them bad!”
Our translation 71% shorter

Hon. Wayne Long

Liberal
“Our Prime Minister spends a lot of money. We tax a bit less and spend a bit more. Spending always helps the economy. We pause some taxes sometimes. Our Prime Minister makes deals with other countries. Those deals are good. They bring in lots of money and create lots of jobs. That's how you build a strong economy.”
Our translation 42% shorter

Hon. Maninder Sidhu

Liberal
“Mr. Speaker, I don't want to talk about our inflation or debt. Look, a shiny new thing! We spent a lot of money on a port, and on nuclear and natural gas. We created some jobs. It's good for the economy. Paycheques and cranes! That's all you need to know.”
Our translation 30% shorter

Hon. Tim Hodgson

Liberal
“I want to brag about Canada's economy and debt rating. Conservatives don't know how to balance a budget.”
Our translation 51% shorter

Hon. Tim Hodgson

Liberal
“I'm going to list many projects to make us look productive. I hope this distracts from the actual question.”
Our translation 73% shorter

Hon. Buckley Belanger

Liberal
“I'm filling time. Liberals have done some things I like. Those other guys didn't do enough for my region.”
Our translation 70% shorter

Hon. Stephanie McLean

Liberal
“I'm filling time by accusing you of not caring about Canadians. I say we're spending money on Canadians because they want us to. The Conservatives just don't understand how finances work.”
Our translation 74% shorter

Hon. Kody Blois

Liberal
“The IMF says Canada's finances are strong. We're growing the economy. Our budget review is saving money. We spent a lot on our military. I thought Conservatives liked that. We'll keep supporting our troops.”
Our translation 70% shorter