What they said. What they meant.

Plain-language translations from the House of Commons.

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Oral Questions

Aerospace Industry

A debate on a $200 million taxpayer-funded contract for access to a spaceport. The Conservatives criticized the high cost and accused the government of backdating the contract to benefit a company on the brink of bankruptcy. The Liberals defended the contract, saying it would drive investments and create jobs.

Official Hansard ↗

Greg McLean

Conservative
“I want the minister to explain this suspicious-looking contract. Why are taxpayers paying so much more than the company does? Why backdate it for a year when there wasn't even a lease being discussed? A Liberal insider seeming to cash out after implies corruption. It looks like a scam that helps friends of the government while leaving taxpayers holding the bag.”
Our translation 37% shorter

Hon. David McGuinty

Liberal
“I don't like that question. It makes me look bad. I want Canadian taxpayers to spend so that I can claim it will create jobs. Government should spend billions of your dollars and that will be worth it. I want a space industry and taxpayers must pay for it regardless of any details you asked about.”
Our translation 39% shorter

Greg McLean

Conservative
“The company you gave $20 million to is shady and has Liberal friends. I think this looks bad. I want you to admit this was wrong. I want you to be held responsible for the money you spent.”
Our translation 60% shorter

Hon. David McGuinty

Liberal
“I don't want to talk about the shady company. You don't support the military. You are bad.”
Our translation 79% shorter