Former Conservative Leader Erin O’Toole testified before the Foreign Interference Commission on September 18, revealing that he had considered removing a senator from his party’s caucus due to concerns of potential foreign influence. O’Toole explained that a local mayor had informed one of his MPs that a Conservative senator was advocating for a Chinese company in Ontario. This raised “serious concerns” for O’Toole, especially considering the senator’s extensive sponsored travel to China.
O’Toole emphasized that it was inappropriate for a member of the Senate to advocate for a foreign entity in Canada. He expressed his worries about this issue, particularly given the ongoing discussions regarding China-Canada relations, the situation with the two detained Canadians (known as the Michaels), and human rights issues in Hong Kong and Xinjiang.
Although O’Toole contemplated removing this senator from caucus, he lacked support from intelligence services to substantiate the allegations. He faced a dilemma as some caucus members cautioned him against making hasty decisions out of fear of being accused of racism or denying someone their right to respond.
During cross-examination at the commission hearing, Neil Chantler, counsel for Chinese Canadian Concern Group, highlighted how pro-Beijing groups often use accusations of racism as counterattacks against efforts to combat foreign interference.
Chantler stressed that parties should be aware if there is manipulation or interference before individuals take their oath and seats in Parliament. O’Toole echoed these concerns and directed attention towards the Liberal Party’s membership process which does not require any fees or verification beyond an email address.
O’Toole further raised concerns about non-citizens or visiting students being coerced into voting by individuals who possess their email addresses. He cited intelligence reports stating that international students with falsified documents were transported to nomination meetings and faced veiled threats from the Chinese Consulate regarding their student visa status if they did not support Han Dong’s candidacy. Dong later won as a Liberal candidate in 2019 but resigned from caucus following allegations related to his interactions with the Chinese Consulate.
Dong has denied any wrongdoing and has filed a lawsuit against Global News; however, he did not respond when The Epoch Times reached out for comment on these matters.
