A bill to implement Canada’s updated free trade agreement with Ukraine passed the Senate on Wednesday, without the support of a single Conservative senator.
Similarly, it previously passed through the House of Commons without a single vote from a Conservative MP.
“In order for this trade deal to be implemented, Ukraine must agree to promote a carbon tax. That is not something we can support,” said Conservative House Leader Andrew Sheer following its ascent from the House.
“Should Ukrainians ever decide to make a different choice, it would be in violation of a trade deal,” said Scheer.
The reason for the Conservatives disapproval of the bill is tied to the fact that the trade deal promotes not only the current carbon pricing scheme in place, but allows for future carbon pricing.
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has vowed to scrap the carbon tax if elected, meaning his government would then have to renegotiate the deal to remove any references to carbon pricing.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has used the Conservatives disapproval of the bill as an accusation of their lack of support for helping to defend Ukraine from its ongoing invasion by Russia.
“He is choosing to not stand with Ukraine, not stand with Ukrainians, and not stand with Ukrainian Canadians,” said Trudeau last month, referring to Poilievre.
Trudeau likened the Conservatives stance on the bill to that of the U.S. Republicans who have previously advocated for an end to U.S. aid to Ukraine.
The updated agreement is designed to help Ukraine rebuild its infrastructure after the war, according to Trade Minister Mary Ng.
