“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.
Recent debates
8 latest topics
Spring Economic Update 2026 Implementation Act
57 statements
Spring Economic Update 2026 Implementation Act
19 statements
Arab Heritage Month Act
5 statements
The Economy
15 statements
Government Priorities
2 statements
Government Priorities
2 statements
Housing
12 statements
The Environment
2 statements
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.
“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.”
“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.”