What they said. What they meant.

Plain-language translations from the House of Commons.

Recent debates

8 latest topics

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 ↗

Madeleine Chenette

Liberal
“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!”
Our translation 58% shorter

Marie-Gabrielle Ménard

Liberal
“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.”
Our translation 35% shorter

Hon. Nathalie Provost

Liberal
“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!”
Our translation 62% shorter

Claude Guay

Liberal
“I want the government to spend more. I don't want to admit the government already spends too much.”
Our translation 76% shorter

Hon. David McGuinty

Liberal
“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.”
Our translation 29% shorter

Hon. David McGuinty

Liberal
“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.”
Our translation 55% shorter