‘Confidential Matters’: Liberal MPs Oppose Release of Subsidized EV Battery Plant Contract Details

One Liberal MP says it’s important to maintain confidentiality in order to continue to attract foreign direct investment.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau makes an announcement at the Stellantis Windsor (Chrysler) Assembly plant in Windsor, Ont., Jan. 17, 2023. The Canadian Press/Nicole Osborne

Conservative MPs want more information on federal contracts with electric vehicle battery manufacturers, including whether Canadian taxpayers are subsidizing foreign workers, but Liberal MPs on a House of Commons committee have opposed public disclosure of the contracts.

“It is important we maintain the confidentiality of these contracts in enabling us to continue to attract these investments,” said Liberal MP Charles Sousa on Nov. 27. “I am a little shocked actually. We have an opportunity here to continue to enable foreign direct investment. These are confidential matters.”