“I want the government to spend more to pay workers' wages in my preferred way.”
What they said. What they meant.
Plain-language translations from the House of Commons.
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Oral Questions
The Economy
In a debate about the economy, the Bloc leader asked the Prime Minister why the government's business support measures won't save jobs or help companies at greatest risk in the short term. The PM responded by touting $1.5 billion in new programs for the steel, aluminum and copper industries. The Bloc leader retorted that these measures will have no immediate impact and that the head of the Aluminum Association hardly represents small businesses. The PM replied that the Aluminum Association president cares about small businesses and the Manufacturers and Exporters association welcomes the government's measures. In short, the Bloc pressed the Liberals on their economic plans while the Liberals defended their industry subsidies and cited praise from business groups.
“I want to talk about the money the government is already spending instead of answering your question.”
“The Prime Minister didn't answer my question. I will ask again. The help he talks about is too slow. Businesses need help now, during his U.S. talks. Is the Prime Minister saying he does not believe he can get a deal with the U.S.? Because he will not subsidize wages.”
“That's not true. I already said lots of money will go to big businesses. Also to small and medium ones. The Aluminum Association guy likes it.”
“Someone said businesses like the funding. That's not true. Businesses can't take on more debt. The Prime Minister should make taxpayers pay wages directly.”
“I don't want to listen to what that other guy said about businesses needing more help. I'll just talk about how someone else likes our measures instead.”