What they said. What they meant.

Plain-language translations from the House of Commons.

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National Defence

A debate on military funding under the Liberals. The Conservatives accused the Liberals of not delivering promised raises and cutting housing benefits for troops. The Liberal minister defended their record, citing increases in applications and recruitment, and accused the Conservatives of doing less for the military when they were in power.

Official Hansard ↗

Hon. David McGuinty

Liberal
“I say the Conservatives are making things up. Look at all the great investments and improvements we're making! Applications are up, salaries are up, and training times are down. Everything is going great under the Liberals!”
Our translation 62% shorter

Hon. David McGuinty

Liberal
“I'm going to ignore your criticism and talk about how great we are instead. A year ago we promised to spend more on defence. We're building new housing units for the military. Some are already being built. We're making progress bit by bit. That's what our troops really need.”
Our translation 58% shorter

Hon. David McGuinty

Liberal
“We're doing a lot for the military. We're buying weapons and building homes. Things are getting better, but it's hard when the other party left us with such a mess.”
Our translation 70% shorter