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.

Official Hansard ↗

Luc Berthold

Conservative
“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?”
Our translation 64% shorter

Luc Berthold

Conservative
“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?”
Our translation 62% shorter

Bernard Généreux

Conservative
“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.”
Our translation 57% shorter

Bernard Généreux

Conservative
“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?”
Our translation 60% shorter

Eric Lefebvre

Conservative
“The other party is spending and borrowing too much. That program wasted a lot of money. I want you to tell me your limit.”
Our translation 77% shorter