“Liberals are signing a big trade deal. I will ignore the part about standards and risks the other guy mentioned. We talk to some farmer groups. So it's fine.”
What they said. What they meant.
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Oral Questions
International Trade
The Conservatives criticized the Liberals for rushing into trade agreements that could harm Canadian farmers, particularly beef and pork producers. The Liberals insisted they are focused on creating more export opportunities for Canadian businesses, including farmers. Much of the debate consisted of the two sides talking past each other, with the Conservatives raising specific concerns from farmers and the Liberals making vague assurances about the benefits of trade.
“I say we are helping farmers by getting them exports. Farmers want what we are doing. We will not hurt farmers.”
“I'm filling time with nice ideas about trade and farmers, but didn't answer the pointed question about whether I'll protect cattle ranchers from a specific deal's cheaper imports.”