As the honourable member points out, the public interest test is one that is known in our Canadian jurisprudence. General interest is a somewhat less common expression. In terms of statutory interpretation, I think we would attach its plain and ordinary meaning. It was felt that this expression was to be construed as least as broadly as public interest, if not more broadly. If one were to introduce the notion, for instance, of the DPP having his or her own private interest.... The intent of the section was to craft a broad and general duty to inform, and that's the reason the choice was made.
On June 13th, 2006. See this statement in context.