“Government promised to spend less. But now they max out the taxpayer credit card. Last guy left a $31 billion deficit. This guy can't even stay close to that! Maybe he could cut spending or cap the deficit at the already reckless $31 billion.”
What they said. What they meant.
Plain-language translations from the House of Commons.
Recent debates
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Oral Questions
Finance
A debate on government spending and finances. The Conservatives criticized the Liberal government for running large deficits and increasing spending, while the Liberals defended their economic record and promised good news in an upcoming fiscal update. Much of the discussion consisted of partisan talking points and sniping back and forth rather than substantive debate of fiscal policy details.
“Good news is coming in an hour. We're spending a lot to build big things and claim it will help the economy. Don't listen to that negative picture.”
“Canadians are struggling with high costs and debt after years of Liberal spending. Liberal ministers got rich while Canadians paid the bill. The government can't keep borrowing and spending. When will they learn to live within their means?”
“We're happy the opposition keeps repeating the same old attacks. But soon our finance minister will share good economic news. Their talking points won't be relevant anymore. They should celebrate how great Canada's economy is doing.”
“The Prime Minister spends too much. He said he'd spend less, but he doubled the deficit and added $90 billion. Canadians have to pay higher bills. The government should spend less so Canadians can afford to live.”
“I know Canadians are worried about the cost of living. But our government will keep supporting Canadians. We care about the cost of groceries and fuel. We are doing important things to help.”
“I expect more deficits in the announcement. Deficits lead to inflation and higher taxes later. The cost of government is making things expensive for people. Food inflation is really high here. The government spending should be capped before it gets even worse.”
“I'm trying to put you on the spot and dodge the question at the same time. Where's your list of cuts? I don't have to defend our spending if I can make this about you.”
“The government says one thing but does another. Spend less, but they doubled the deficit. Cut the public service, but they increased it by 7%. And our seniors are suffering for it. I want the Prime Minister to keep his word and rein in his spending, so seniors can finally breathe a little easier.”
“I want to convince you our economy is strong even though we are spending less. I'm going to list some things we're doing that I think are good, like lowering grocery and gas prices. I want you to think we are competent.”
“I want to blame the Liberals for making a mess and spending too much. I don't believe they can clean it up. I want to make you look bad for abandoning seniors. Will you promise not to spend more than $31 billion?”
“I want you to wait for the good-news budget in two hours. I don't want to rebut your numbers or answer your point directly. I'm just filling time by accusing you of talking nonsense.”