PECKFORD -- A Dastardly Letter, Unbecoming of Canada -- Shocked and Dismayed -- I could use harsher words

Former Newfoundland and Labrador
Premier Brian Peckford

I have just read a news item that reports that several prominent Canadians have penned a letter requesting the Government of Canada cancel the present extradition process that is underway with the USA concerning a Huawei executive.

In other words, cave to the bullying of a Communistic, Totalitarian State and betray our friend, neighbour, largest trading partner, and democratic state.

First, I could not believe what I was reading. Then it sunk in.

Some prominent Canadians are willing to throw in the towel to a legitimate lawful process already underway to have a leading Chinese Corporate Executive go scot-free.

 

They have bowed to the bullying of a country whose government breaks international law (South China Sea), have citizens with whom they disagree disappear (critics of the Wuhan virus outbreak) without due process, imprison minorities (Uyghurs) without due process, violate an undertaking regarding Hong Kong, and conduct a surveillance state with one party rule.

Second, I thought Canada believed in the rule of law. Canada is presently following it, with even a Canadian Court ruling on the legitimacy of the process.

Third, the USA is our neighbour, largest trading partner. Do you think such actions will be deemed appropriate by any US Government, Democratic or Republican? This could and likely will be viewed by the US as a very hostile act by Canada.

 

Those who penned the letter have the gall to associate this with Canada’s position on the Iraq War. Need I remind them that there was no treaty involved or violating an existing legal process concerning Canada’s position on the Iraq War. Additionally, one hopes this is not a former Prime Minister Jean Chretien inspired effort, especially if he has commercial interests in China.

Fourth, to think we have prominent Canadians who are prepared to abuse the rule of law, succumb to the bully tactics of a communist state, and abuse our neighbour, a democratic state, and our largest trading partner marks the nadir of democracy in Canada.

As one Canadian who has politically served this country, I reject the contents of this letter and call on the Government of Canada, and Canadians from coast to coast, to coast to reject it as well.

I will send this to the Prime Minister and leaders of the federal parties in the House of Commons and various media.

 

Brian Peckford was elected in 1972, as a Progressive Conservative, to the Newfoundland Labrador House of Assembly. He became Premier at the age of 36, and held the leadership of his party and government from 1979 to 1989.

Since leaving politics, Peckford has conducted public inquires for the governments of British Columbia and Canada, has served on numerous Boards including the CBC, and has been active in public affairs.  

In 1993, he and his wife Carol moved to British Columbia and they now live in Parksville, on Vancouver Island. 

Mr. Peckford blogs at Peckford 42.