Democratic Reform Minister Maryam Monsef now admits she has made up her mind on an opposition proposal to penalize parties that don't run equal numbers of male and female candidates.
Monsef had said that she would assess the private member's bill on its merits as it makes its way through the House. But a document obtained by CTV News, dated last week, recommended the Liberals oppose the bill.
Asked on Wednesday about the briefing note, Monsef told CTV Power Play host Don Martin: "All private members' bills, including the one that Mr. Stewart has put forward, will be reviewed based on their merit and I'm looking forward to that debate."
Pressed on whether she'd made a decision, Monsef said, "there is compelling evidence on both sides."
Kennedy Stewart, the New Democrat MP who wrote C-237, asked Monsef in question period today why she wasn't up front about her position when he asked her about it earlier this week.
"Will the minister explain to Canadians why she didn't give them a straight answer ... and why she is forcing Liberal MPs to oppose a bill aimed at bringing gender equality to the House of Commons?"
Monsef said she approached the process with an open mind, but admitted she has already decided how to vote.
"This specific initiative is not the best way forward. As we look to evolve our democratic institutions, we will seek ways to encourage the inclusion of women, persons of other genders and all individuals who are currently under-represented in politics. This will be a free vote," Monsef said.
