Scheer Accuses Liberals of Backroom Deals Amid Floor-Crossing Rumours
Conservative House Leader Andrew Scheer criticized the Liberal government, claiming they are using “backroom deals and pressure tactics” to persuade opposition members to cross the floor and secure a majority without calling an election.
Speaking to reporters outside the House on Friday, Scheer accused the government of trying to “distract” from what he called a “terrible budget that is being almost universally panned.”
Questions Around MP Matt Jeneroux's Meeting
Scheer avoided confirming whether Conservative MP Matt Jeneroux had met with Prime Minister Mark Carney and other Liberals earlier in the week, before Jeneroux announced his intention to resign from the House of Commons, likely next spring.
“I take Matt Jeneroux at his word. I do not take unnamed Liberal sources. I do not respond to rumours.”
Budget Vote and Parliamentary Strategy
The Conservatives joined the Liberals to defeat a Bloc Quebecois amendment to the budget motion that sought climate change action and more support for Quebeckers. Had the amendment passed, it could have triggered another election, as Government House Leader Steve MacKinnon stated all budget-related votes were confidence matters.
Additionally, a Conservative subamendment demanding the removal of the industrial carbon tax and clean fuel regulations was defeated on Thursday.
Author’s Summary
Andrew Scheer highlights the Liberal government's tactics amid a widely criticized budget, while parliamentary maneuvers reveal fragile alliances and key resignations shaping the political landscape.