Parliament Returns
Parliament Returns: A First Look at the 45th Parliament of Canada
June 2025 | London Chamber of Commerce
After nearly a year of prorogation, the 45th Parliament of Canada under a newly elected government convened on May 26 and is set to rise for the summer before the end of June. In that short window, we’ve seen major speeches, high-stakes votes, and the tabling of five new pieces of legislation by the new government.
At the London Chamber of Commerce, we are a nonpartisan organization. We applaud the government when it deserves applause and offer respectful criticism when warranted. Our goal is to support public policy that strengthens the business environment, economic growth, and quality of life for Londoners. This month offered reasons for both optimism and concern — and we’ll share our perspective on both.
London is well represented in the new Parliament. We saw the re-election of Peter Fragiskatos (London North Centre) and Arielle Kayabaga (London West), both members of the Liberal government. We also welcomed two new Conservative MPs: Kurt Holman (London—Fanshawe) and Andrew Lawton (Elgin—St. Thomas—London South). Additionally, Lianne Rood, who previously served as MP for Lambton-Kent-Middlesex, is now representing parts of London due to riding redistribution.
We look forward to working with all of London’s MPs, regardless of party, to ensure the needs of our business community are heard in Ottawa.
Delivered by King Charles, the Throne Speech sent a clear message to international partners: Canada is not for sale and will never be the 51st state. While symbolically strong, the speech immediately faced political headwinds. The Conservatives criticized it for failing to promise a federal budget, while the NDP expressed concern that it lacked any mention of health care.
Ironically, it was the Bloc Québécois, Canada’s separatist party, that cast the deciding support — helping the government narrowly survive its first confidence test.
Five government bills were tabled this session. Here’s what we think so far:
Bill C-1: An Act Respecting the Administration of Oaths of Office
A procedural formality. No objections.
Bill C-2: The Strong Borders Act
While we recognize the government’s intent to curb fentanyl trafficking and money laundering — objectives we support — this bill raises serious concerns about civil liberties and judicial oversight.
- Immigration powers without hearings could result in vulnerable individuals being removed from Canada without due process.
- Warrantless access to personal internet and postal data risks undermining Canadians' privacy.
- Criminalizing cash transactions over $10,000 could hurt small businesses and ordinary Canadians.
Bill C-3: An Act to Amend the Citizenship Act (2025)
This bill addresses an earlier court ruling and reintroduces legislation from the previous Parliament. We see it as a necessary legal correction.
Bill C-4: Making Life More Affordable for Canadians Act
There are positives here:
- A reduction in the lowest income tax bracket
- A temporary GST exemption on new homes for first-time buyers
- The repeal of the consumer carbon tax
- The temporary nature of the GST exemption possibly triggering short-term price spikes
- A missed opportunity to support seniors wishing to downsize
- The inclusion of Election Act amendments in a tax bill, which raises procedural and ethical questions, particularly when it appears to contradict PIPEDA (the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act).
Bill C-5: One Canadian Economy Act
We support this bill (which is not to be confused with the Ontario bill 5). It offers a long-overdue framework to reduce internal trade barriers and fast-track nation-building infrastructure. It recognizes that the Canadian Free Trade Agreement (CFTA) has fallen short and proposes common-sense reforms.
We urge all parties to set aside partisanship and move this bill forward swiftly. The business community is ready to act — and Canadians want results by July 1, as promised.
No Federal Budget — Yet
The government’s initial decision not to table a formal budget was met with broad concern. A Fall Economic Statement is helpful but doesn’t provide the same accountability or transparency.
We were encouraged to see the House adopt a non-binding amendment urging the government to table a budget before the summer — and while the government has not complied immediately, they have now committed to a full budget this fall. That’s a step in the right direction.
Commitment to Defense Spending
Prime Minister Carney’s announcement that Canada will reach NATO’s 2% defence spending target this year—five years ahead of schedule—is especially welcome news for London.
General Dynamics Land Systems-Canada (GDLS) plays a critical role in London’s economy, supporting over 1,800 jobs directly and over 200 local businesses indirectly. Strong investment in national defence not only boosts national security but also ensures stability and growth in London’s business community.
High-Speed Rail Commitment
Another encouraging announcement: the government’s commitment to a high-speed rail corridor from Windsor to Quebec City — with London included in the route.
Reliable, frequent rail service will reduce travel times, ease congestion on highways, and open new economic corridors between London, Toronto, and beyond. For local businesses, this means:
- Faster commute times
- More accessible talent pools
- Increased regional trade and investment
Some areas remain under-addressed so far:
- Energy policy remains vague — and the country needs clarity on affordability and reliability.
- National unity is being tested by competing regional interests. More work is needed to find cooperative solutions, especially as major economic initiatives roll out.
- The Auditor General’s recent report highlighted governance gaps in several federal programs. We echo the need for accountability and efficient program delivery — taxpayers and businesses alike expect better.
The first month of the 45th Parliament has been lively, complex, and at times contentious. Still, there are signs of progress. From strong support for internal trade to defence commitments and renewed infrastructure promises, this Parliament has taken some positive first steps.
At the London Chamber of Commerce, we will continue to monitor legislation, meet with policymakers, and advocate for policies that help businesses thrive. Our lens will remain focused on what matters most: creating a competitive, inclusive, and prosperous future for all Londoners — no matter which party is in power.
Stay tuned for more updates as the legislative session resumes this fall.
