Andrew Scheer (federal Conservative leader) played fast and loose with the truth in his one-on-one interviews with local media recently, particularly when asked what the Conservatives must do in order to win back Penticton, which is part of the South Okanagan-West Kootenay riding.
He ascertained that the NDP member of Parliament, Richard Cannings, is voting to raise taxes on small businesses — that’s the fast and loose bit.
What Andrew Scheer should have said is that the NDP Caucus, including Richard Cannings, voted against a Conservative motion to make changes to the Liberal government’s small business tax legislation. Voting against a Conservative motion is not the same as voting for the Liberal government’s legislation. Why did the NDP Caucus vote against the Conservative motion? Because the Conservatives chose not to include closing stock option loopholes and going after tax cheats in offshore tax havens in their motion.
Richard Cannings is very supportive of small businesses. He understands the long hours of work, the dedication to the business and the difficulties that can come from complying with all the regulations. He knows that small businesses are the creators of employment for many Canadians, and are vital to the economic vitality of the country.
Andrew Scheer is travelling the country promoting the Conservative Party in preparation for the 2019 election. However, playing fast and loose with the truth will not earn Andrew Scheer respect from the voters.
Andrina Iliffe
Constituency assistant, Richard Cannings, MP
Penticton