moved for leave to introduce Bill C-359, an act to amend the Criminal Code (personal identity theft).
Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to introduce this bill entitled an act to amend the Criminal Code (personal identity theft).
Personal identity theft is a serious problem throughout Canada, with thousands of victims each year. This bill seeks to clearly define identity theft in the Canadian Criminal Code. It would make it illegal for one to possess or transfer another person's identifying information without lawful excuse. The bill would also make it an offence to possess or transfer documentation of another person, such as a driver's licence or credit card, without lawful excuse.
In the high tech era in which we live, identity theft is quickly becoming a major problem. This law is designed to close the loophole being used by identity thieves. I hope the bill will earn support from all sides of the House.
(Motions deemed adopted, bill read the first time and printed)