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.

Official Hansard ↗

Hon. Dominic LeBlanc

Liberal
“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.”
Our translation 65% shorter

Hon. Dominic LeBlanc

Liberal
“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.”
Our translation 62% shorter

Hon. Dominic LeBlanc

Liberal
“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.”
Our translation 66% shorter

Hon. Steven MacKinnon

Liberal
“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.”
Our translation 64% shorter

Hon. Mélanie Joly

Liberal
“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.”
Our translation 60% shorter

Hon. Dominic LeBlanc

Liberal
“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.”
Our translation 65% shorter