OTTAWA - A series of proposed business-friendly amendments to a consumer protection bill have been rejected in the Senate, meaning the government legislation will come into force as written.
Bill C-6 gives federal inspectors new powers to search for, seize and recall dangerous consumer products ranging from toys to baby cribs and food items.
While the Conservative legislation received all-party support in the House of Commons, a Liberal-dominated Senate committee proposed changes last week that Health Minister Leona Aglukkaq said would have weakened the new law.
Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff said he didn't like the proposed amendments either, but said it is up to the chamber of "sober second thought" to pass or change legislation as it sees fit.
Although Liberal appointees have the majority in the Senate, the amendments were defeated 44-42 when it came to a full vote of the upper chamber Wednesday afternoon.
The original bill is now poised to pass third and final reading in the Senate.
