Privilege / Freedom of Speech

Freedom of speech

Debates p. 3025

Background

On March 12, 1985, Ms. Copps (Hamilton East) rose on a question of privilege, claiming that a remark made by Mr. McLean (Secretary of State) and reported in the press threatened her freedom of speech. It was alleged that Mr. McLean had linked Ms. Copps' outspoken criticism of the Government with the decision not to reappoint her mother citizenship judge. The Speaker reserved his decision.

Issue

Did the comments made by the Secretary of State, as reported in the press, constitute a breach of privilege?

Decision

No. There is no prima facie question of privilege.

Reasons given by the Speaker

The Minister stated that he had not threatened the Member's freedom of speech and that his words had been placed in a new context by the press report. The Speaker concluded that when there is a contradiction between an article appearing in the press and a Member's statement, the Chair must always rely on the Member's word.

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References

Debates, March 12, 1985, pp. 2936-8.