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 about the state of Canada's economy, the Conservatives pointed out Canada is the only G20 country in a recession and criticized the poor economic growth, declining investment, and affordability challenges facing Canadians. The Liberals responded by accusing the Conservatives of being too pessimistic and negative, arguing that focusing on bad economic news doesn't help Canadians. The Liberals highlighted recent job growth numbers instead. Much of the debate consisted of partisan sniping and talking points rather than substantive discussion of economic policy or solutions.

Official Hansard ↗

Sandra Cobena

Conservative
“I want to blame the governing party for a recession. I want the government to be more fiscally responsible.”
Our translation 79% shorter

Sandra Cobena

Conservative
“The economy is terrible. Canadians are losing jobs and businesses. I want the Prime Minister to admit this recession is real, not just numbers on paper.”
Our translation 72% shorter

Jeff Kibble

Conservative
“The economy is bad under the current government. People are having trouble affording food. The Prime Minister laughed at Canadians who are struggling. Does the Prime Minister care enough to help Canadians put food on the table?”
Our translation 64% shorter

Amarjeet Gill

Conservative
“The economy is bad under the Liberals. Canada is the only G20 country in a recession. Businesses and families are struggling. Young people can't get jobs or housing. I want the Prime Minister to admit we're in a recession. I'll mock him if he says Canadians are 'technically' struggling.”
Our translation 46% shorter

Amanpreet Gill

Conservative
“Canada's economy is doing badly under the Liberals. Banks say growth is slow. The Prime Minister should admit it. He should stop acting like people aren't suffering.”
Our translation 71% shorter