Conservative MPs devoted every one of their allotted questions to the subject during question period in the House of Commons Wednesday, a sign they are keen to turn up the political heat on the Liberal government over the criminal trial of Norman, who was the second-highest officer in Canada’s military when he was suspended from duty in January 2017.
The RCMP charged Norman with one count of breach of trust in March 2018, alleging he leaked classified information with the goal of scuttling a Liberal government plan to halt a project to acquire a naval supply ship from Quebec-based Davie Shipbuilding.
Norman’s lawyers contend the government has not disclosed documents essential to their ability to defend their client. In a court filing on Oct. 12, Norman’s defence lawyers Marie Henein and Christine Mainville said the government has “cherry-picked” its disclosure so far, and made 52 requests for additional government documents, some of which may be considered cabinet confidences. A pre-trial hearing over the issue has been scheduled for December.
“They know what my answer is going to be on that particular question and I am happy to continue to give it,” Trudeau said at one point, suggesting the Conservatives ask about something else, such as climate change or the economy.
“Mr. Speaker, he can try and hide behind the same bogus answer,” said Conservative leader Andrew Scheer. “This is not about commenting on the case. This is about his decision not to release documents that Vice-Admiral Norman needs to have a fair trial. If he believes that accused individuals in this country have that right, will he release those documents?”
