Opposition MPs and rights advocates panned Freeland's update on Canada's proposed legislation to join the United Nations Arms Trade Treaty, which she provided during long-awaited testimony at the House of Commons foreign affairs committee. They argue the bill contains no assurances the weapons could not then be transferred to countries that abuse human rights, including Saudi Arabia. "It's very well to say Canada is going to accede to the Arms Trade Treaty, but the Arms Trade Treaty is very specific that if there is new evidence that comes up, you need to suspend your exports," said Helene Laverdiere, the NDP's foreign affairs critic. (Bill Graveland/Canadian Press)Freeland said her department, after conducting a "rigorous" examination, "found no conclusive evidence that Canadian-made vehicles were used in human rights violations." "Honouring contracts is no defence to or justification for action that may lead to serious human rights violations," said Neve.

Source: CBC News February 09, 2018 00:33 UTC