House of Commons.

• Author: Hall, Nancy
• Position: Legislative Reports

Highlights of the Winter sitting of the House of Commons included tabling of the Budget, a series of debates on the war in Iraq, the SARS epidemic and closure of the cod fishery in Atlantic Canada, introduction of the Government's legislative package related to the appointment of an Ethics Commissioner and continued controversy over the administration of the Firearms Act and the Senate's decision to divide Bill C-10 (An Act to amend the Criminal Code (cruelty to animals and firearms) and the Firearms Act). In addition, there has been a great deal of acrimony during consideration by the Standing Committee on Aboriginal Affairs of Bill C-7 (An Act respecting leadership selection, administration and accountability of Indian bands, and to make related amendments to other acts), which has met with stiff opposition from both aboriginal organizations and Members of opposition parties in the House. Finally, the long awaited rule changes relating to Private Members' Business were adopted on a provisional basis, ending months of discussion and debate that contributed to slowdowns in Government-led initiatives in the House.

Budget

The Budget, tabled in the House on February 18th, 2003 by Finance Minister John Manley, contained an 11.5 per cent increase in spending this year and 20 per cent over three years for everything from health care to defence. It also announced a surplus for the past fiscal year and projected balanced budgets for both 2003-04 and 2004-05. The Budget commits the Government to greater accountability through the presentation of its financial statements on a full accrual basis of accounting and improved reporting to Parliament for the arm's length foundations created by the Government. The Finance Minister also announced an ongoing review of all non-statutory programs over a five-year cycle in an effort to ensure continued relevance, efficacy and affordability.

The Minister's Budget statement was widely greeted by opposition parties as the "Chretien legacy budget". Official Opposition leader, Stephen Harper criticized the government for continuing to "gouge" hard-working Canadians rather than rewarding them by reducing the GST and income tax. The Government did however receive some praise for funding the health accord, introducing tax changes that would benefit small business and reducing by 40 per cent the air security charge for Canadian travellers.

Legislation

The controversy over the Senate's decision to divide Bill C-10...