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Johnston tells MPS he will continue investigation into foreign interference

OTTAWA — Former governor general David Johnston defended his decision to stay in place as Special Rapporteur despite a House of Commons motion calling on him to resign

Johnston is testifying in front of the House of Commons committee on Procedure and House Affairs. Last week, all opposition MPS voted calling on him to resign and for a public inquiry.

“I have deep respect for the House of Commons, and for its right to express an opinion on my work,” he said. ”I have heard clearly the disagreement with my recommendations not to call a public inquiry, as well as allegations about my integrity and my independence, these allegations are, put simply, false.”

Johnston said there are major issues of foreign interference in Canada and he intends to continue to look into them through hearings and further study this summer.

“Foreign governments, including the People’s Republic of China, are working in hostile and clandestine ways to undermine our democracy,” he said. “I have identified significant shortcomings and the government’s ability to detect, deter and combat this threat.”

NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh came to the committee personally, replacing the member of his party who usually asks questions. Singh said he wanted to appear to make it clear that Johnston should step down.

CANADA

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2023-06-07T07:00:00.0000000Z

2023-06-07T07:00:00.0000000Z

https://saltwire.pressreader.com/article/281646784535072

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