Opposition MPs pass motion calling for foreign interference inquiry

There is mounting pressure for the Trudeau government to call a public inquiry into foreign election interference.

Opposition MPs in the House of Commons passed a motion Thursday urging the government to launch a probe.

But the NDP motion is non-binding, meaning the federal government is not required to take action.

Ahead of the vote, NDP leader Jagmeet Singh said he will not trigger an election over the issue.

“It has become very clear now, with allegations coming out on a daily basis that are continuing to erode people’s confidence in our democracy, that we need a public inquiry,” Singh told reporters.

The vote came one day after Ontario MP Han Dong resigned from the Liberal caucus to sit as an independent.

It followed a Global News report which, citing two unnamed national security sources, alleged Dong told Chinese diplomats that releasing two Canadians being held captive would help the Conservatives.

Dong said the report containing “unverified and anonymous sources” have attacked his reputation and called into question his loyalty to Canada.

“Let me be clear, what has been reported is false and I will defend myself against these absolutely untrue claims,” he said.

Former governor general David Johnston was recently appointed as a special rapporteur to investigate possible election interference. He has until late May to decide whether a public inquiry is needed.