What they said. What they meant.

Plain-language translations from the House of Commons.

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Oral Questions

Taxation

In a debate on taxation, the Conservatives criticized the Liberal government for high fuel prices and rising costs of living. The Liberals defended their record, pointing to a 10 cent per liter reduction in fuel prices and programs to help families with grocery and school food costs. Much of the exchange consisted of partisan talking points and finger-pointing rather than substantive discussion of tax policy.

Official Hansard ↗

Bob Zimmer

Conservative
“I want the government to stop taxing fuel. I want them to admit higher fuel taxes make basic goods cost more.”
Our translation 80% shorter

Hon. Jill McKnight

Liberal
“The government is already doing a lot of things. I want to remind you of them. We are spending money on a groceries benefit. We are lowering the price of fuel by 10 cents. We are also spending money on other programs. I think people in British Columbia want us to do all these things.”
Our translation 23% shorter

Bob Zimmer

Conservative
“I want the Liberals to stop talking and do something real. I want them to end all gas taxes right away. Prices are too high right now. It wasn't like this under our Conservative government. The current government should do what we did.”
Our translation 55% shorter

Hon. Jill McKnight

Liberal
“We already cut gas taxes. That should be enough. We are also giving away money for groceries and school food. We're doing a lot. I want people to be happy with what we've done.”
Our translation 47% shorter