“Families are struggling. Parents skip meals. The government spends and borrows too much. I want them to cut that back. Look at all the debt -- how much more proof do you need?”
What they said. What they meant.
Plain-language translations from the House of Commons.
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Oral Questions
Finance
The debate was about government spending and the economy. The Conservatives criticized the Liberals for high deficits and accused them of being out of touch with the struggles of ordinary Canadians. The Liberals defended their spending as necessary investments in families, young people and seniors. Both sides traded barbs but didn't delve into much policy detail.
“You're looking at the bad news. Look at the good news. Sports are very important. We're spending $750 million on them. It's the biggest investment in 20 years. This helps your community. We're making the country strong!”
“You're the negative ones. You have twice the debt of Justin Trudeau. I'm asking about hungry families. You brag about more spending. That spending will increase inflation. I don't oppose sports. But Canadians need food to be healthy. Why don't you want Canadians to eat?”
“A large benefit will go to many people in my riding. It will help with the cost of living. The Conservatives opposed a national school food program. That program is essential in my riding. I want my party to get credit for these programs.”
“The Liberals spend too much. Liberal policies mean higher taxes and more debt. They are not fixing the economy. The Prime Minister must stop pursuing bad policies just like his predecessor. I want the Prime Minister to admit his policies are hurting the country.”
“I want to look good by saying I spend money to help people. More spending is always good. Big promises are nice. I'm just like every other politician. Spending money makes us strong!”
“Liberals are out of touch. What you said about investing and being strong was all nice words, but families still can't afford food and homes. And old people can't afford to retire. The government spends too much. When will you admit nothing has changed?”
“I want the government to spend more. I don't want to admit the government already spends too much.”
“The other party is spending and borrowing too much. That program wasted a lot of money. I want you to tell me your limit.”
“I want you to know the other party is against jobs and security. I'm not going to give a straight answer about spending or debt.”
“I'm giving a laundry list of job numbers to make spending sound good. The long list makes it look like I'm doing a lot.”