‘Serious’ allegations on Han Dong, 2 Michaels renew inquiry calls from opposition
Global News
Global News reported that Ontario MP Han Dong privately advised a senior Chinese diplomat in February 2021 that Beijing should hold off freeing Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor.
Canada’s opposition leaders say new “serious” allegations against a Liberal MP at the centre of Chinese influence allegations underscore the need for a public inquiry into foreign interference, with one calling for the embattled MP’s removal.
Global News reported Wednesday that Ontario MP Han Dong privately advised a senior Chinese diplomat in February 2021 that Beijing should hold off freeing Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor, according to two separate national security sources.
“These are serious reports of actions that threaten the core of our Canadian democracy,” Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre said on Twitter.
“No more hiding. No more cover up. Open, public, independent inquiry now.”
NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh, who renewed his own calls for an inquiry, went even further and said Dong should be removed from the Liberal caucus.
“These are extremely serious allegations,” Singh said on Twitter. “If true, the safety of Canadians was put at risk for political gain.
“Prime Minister Trudeau must remove Han Dong from Caucus and these allegations must be thoroughly investigated. There must be a public inquiry.”