Legislation to deal with trade consequences of China’s membership in
the World Trade Organization has won House of Commons approval in
principle, but without the support of the New Democratic Party.
The legislation allows Canada to restrict import of cheap Chinese goods
if they undermine Canadian sectors. It will be studied at a
parliamentary committee this spring.
In the Commons, Saskatchewan New Democrat Dick Proctor said the NDP
opposes the WTO because it is secretive, undemocratic and tolerant of
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domestic human rights abuses.
In China’s case, WTO membership will legitimize an economy based on a
lack of environmental standards and labour rights, he said.
“The New Democratic Party does not oppose international trade,” Proctor
said.
“We strongly support fair trade, but if Canada imports Chinese products
manufactured by workers receiving paltry and substandard wages,
subjected to unsafe working conditions and denied the right to organize
and bargain collectively, then such trade cannot be considered in any
way fair trade.”
Canadian Alliance and Progressive Conservative party speakers supported
the legislation.
“I believe very strongly that given the proper guidance, the proper
opportunities and the proper abilities, the People’s Republic of China
too will become a very good partner in this world of global trade,”
said Manitoba PC Rick Borotsik.
Alliance MP Ken Epp noted China has for 40 years been a significant
customer for prairie farm products.
Other Alliance MPs could not pass up the chance of a trade debate to
raise the Canadian Wheat Board issue.
Manitoba MP and agriculture critic Howard Hilstrom said only one
eastern European country, China and Canada force farmers to market
through a government monopoly.
He wondered if Canada really has anything to teach China about
democracy and economic freedom.
