MPs want to hear from witnesses on the government’s assault-style gun definition

Dec 8, 2022 | 11:28 AM

OTTAWA — Seven members of a parliamentary committee studying the Liberal gun bill have requested two special meetings to hear from witnesses on the government’s proposed definition of an assault-style firearm.

The definition, put forward by the government as an amendment, has prompted confusion and controversy as MPs go over the bill clause by clause.

The seven Liberal, Bloc and New Democrat MPs want clarity on the amendment amid concerns the measure would outlaw many firearms commonly used by hunters.

In a letter to the committee chairman, the members say they were not able to question witnesses about the amendment because groups and experts had already completed their testimony.