QUESTION PERIOD — Public Safety
Canada-China Relations
November 19, 2020
Honourable senators, my question is for the government leader in the Senate. Government leader, yesterday in the House of Commons, an important vote took place. A motion was tabled by the Foreign Affairs critic, Mr. Michael Chong. That was unanimously supported by all opposition parties and passed. It essentially calls on the Trudeau government to take a firm stance against China, which is increasingly posing a national security threat to this country. It also calls on the government to, within 30 days, take a firm and final decision in dealing with Huawei and their implication in our 5G. It also calls on and compels the government, within a short period of time, to take a stance in standing up against this Chinese regime’s intimidation and threats to Canadian citizens.
My question, government leader, is very simple: When will Prime Minister Trudeau and his government stop admiring and kowtowing to the Chinese totalitarian regime and start respecting the wishes of the democratically elected Parliament in this country?
Honourable senators, if I might, I will answer the important part of the question without necessarily agreeing with it.
Again, we have to find some way to agree on some of your characterizations. Regrettably, honourable colleague, kowtowing is not a word that I would at all ascribe to our government’s stance with regard to China, especially given the seriousness and complexity that defines our relationship with that government.
It is unacceptable for China to interfere in our affairs, whether it’s in our electoral affairs or domestic affairs. Any intimidation of Canadians, including those of Chinese origin, is absolutely unacceptable. The government also recognizes the importance of protecting our infrastructure and making sure that it’s secure.
With regard to the motion, however, the government needs the time and will take the time to review its security issues and the economic and humanitarian issues that are at stake in our relationships, guided by the expertise of Canadian officials and elites, and will not be driven by motions or by the official opposition. The government will take action when it’s appropriate, guided by its proper considerations.
Honourable senators, the time for Question Period has expired.
