Conservative MP Roman Baber is demanding that the Liberal government release a full, unredacted copy of a briefing note that recommends legal action against Canadians who publish what the government deems 'disinformation' on social media. In a letter sent Thursday to Industry Minister Mélanie Joly, Baber, the Conservative Civil Liberties Critic, urged the minister to reject the litigation strategy outlined in the document.
Baber calls for transparency on ISED memo
The 35-page briefing note from Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) recommends that the government take legal action against individuals who spread false or misleading information online. According to excerpts published by Blacklock's Reporter, the March 31 document states that ISED would be responsible for determining whether social media posts are 'factually incorrect, misleading or out of context.'
'This will enable the department to proactively address false and misleading information,' the memo reads. Baber argues that this approach could have a chilling effect on free speech, even if legal action is not ultimately taken.
Liberal assault on free speech continues, says Baber
Baber accused the Carney Liberals of continuing an assault on free expression that began under the Justin Trudeau government. He pointed to several pieces of legislation—Bills C-9, C-22, and C-34—that he says dilute legal definitions and weaponize government scrutiny against ideological opponents.
'It's clear the Carney Liberals are hell-bent on continuing their agenda to regulate or abridge free speech,' Baber told the Toronto Sun. 'It's typically the people that push censorship that are on the wrong side of history.'
Baber demands Joly reject litigation strategy
In his letter, Baber specifically asked that Joly publicly reject the strategy proposed in the memo. 'Canadians should not be placed in legal jeopardy for exercising free speech,' he wrote on social media. 'The threat of legal action, even if not used, may create a chill on free speech.'
Baber emphasized that Canadians deserve to know what legal strategies the Liberal government may implement against them. He called for confirmation that law-abiding Canadians should not fear speaking online or elsewhere.
