Thank you, Mr. Chair.
Thank you, witnesses.
Mr. Chair, I'd like to make a quick comment on Mr. Spratt's commentary, because he mentioned provocation.
Of course we all know, as you know, Mr. Chair, that provocation is a legal defence in Canada. But at the same time, the defence we are talking about in the context of honour killing was raised at least three times in Canada and the alleged provoking conduct in these cases was real or perceived marital infidelity and the other conduct with the victim the offender perceived as disrespectful or defiant toward them or their families or their family culture.
These particular claims failed—Mr. Spratt will know this as well—due to the inadequacy of the supporting evidence. Of course the proposed amendment in this bill we are talking about would modernize the defence so that it only applies where the alleged provoking conduct was objectively serious, namely where it would amount to a criminal offence with a maximum sentence of five years. Of course the reform would limit the defence so it no longer excuses murder where the provoking conduct of the victim was lawful.
Much has been made of the fact that the defence has failed where it has been raised in the context of honour killing here in Canada. While this is true to date, there is nothing preventing a court from accepting it in the future. It may be true in common law, but in this society now a man's wife is not his personal property. These are the times we are dealing with. Of course I also heard the comment that a peace bond already exists. I also heard that maybe we don't need this bill because this is not required. But when we talk about potential immigration—forced marriages, or underage marriages for the purposes of bringing someone for immigration—I believe it comes under the Immigration Act.
Ms. Dhillon, I'm coming back to you because I have very limited time.
I believe this bill sends a very clear message to individuals coming to this country that harmful and violent cultural practices are unacceptable in Canada. These particular practices are incompatible with Canadian values and will not be tolerated here. As you heard from other witnesses also, some critics say that the bill is not required, and it seems as if they are saying that the government is creating a problem that does not exist. I don't agree with them.
What are your thoughts on this, and do you believe this bill is not needed?