What they said. What they meant.

Plain-language translations from the House of Commons.

Recent debates

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Oral Questions

The Economy

In a debate on the economy, the Conservatives repeatedly hammered the Liberals for excessive spending on the Prime Minister's travel, arguing it was tone-deaf while Canada is the only G20 country in a recession. The Liberals defended their economic record and touted various infrastructure investments, while sniping back at the Conservatives over the Opposition Leader's past expenses.

Official Hansard ↗

Hon. Steven MacKinnon

Liberal
“I won't answer the question about a recession. Instead I'll talk about how traveling is good. I want the Prime Minister to travel more so we can spend more of your money on infrastructure.”
Our translation 67% shorter
“I want Canadians to be optimistic and ignore what the Conservatives are saying. Canada is great! We build things and have resources. Our economy is growing. Don't listen to them talking it down.”
Our translation 67% shorter

Hon. Steven MacKinnon

Liberal
“You Conservatives spend a lot of money too. The Leader of the Opposition spent way more money than the Prime Minister did in 2024, and he doesn't even have to make any decisions. Maybe the Conservatives should explain their own high spending before attacking us.”
Our translation 49% shorter

Hon. Wayne Long

Liberal
“I want to change the subject. Let's talk about what the other party spends instead. I want to say we are serious about the economy. I will list many things we spend money on. Maybe the list makes us sound good.”
Our translation 58% shorter

Jennifer McKelvie

Liberal
“We want to spend a lot of money in Ontario. That will magically create jobs for everyone. Don't worry about the cost. Trust us, it's important.”
Our translation 73% shorter

Jennifer McKelvie

Liberal
“I want you to know that I'm focused on building. The government is giving millions to build housing and Internet. The Surrey SkyTrain is under construction too. The government is working hard and spending your money from coast to coast. Conservatives just want to tear it all down.”
Our translation 52% shorter

Hon. John Zerucelli

Liberal
“The Conservatives spent a lot of money too. Never mind what my party spends. We have a fight with other countries. We are building big projects. We spent a lot of money on this and that. Look at the big numbers. Look at all the jobs. I want the Conservatives to look bad.”
Our translation 49% shorter