The Conservative Party of Canada is demanding a parliamentary investigation into the shocking arrest of journalist David Menzies. 

The party is pressing for a standing committee emergency meeting to investigate the arrest.

The Heritage Committee is responsible for overseeing Canadian broadcasting and can subpoena individuals to testify in public. 

“I am seeking to recall the Canadian Heritage Committee immediately to demand transparency and accountability. Conservatives will ensure that this assault on the freedom of the press will never be repeated,” said Marilyn Gladu, Conservative Shadow Minister for Civil Liberties.

Gladu also noted that Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland, who Menzies was attempting to ask a question to during his sham arrest, previously stated that “Canada condemns anyone who in any way intimidates and harasses journalists working in defence of the truth, and we will seize every opportunity to speak up and defend press freedom.” 

Gladu added: “If the Liberals on the committee agree with their own Deputy PM, they too will agree to committee hearings.”

David Menzies, a journalist with Rebel News, was arrested after questioning Liberal Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland. The incident, caught on camera, shows Menzies being detained by RCMP bodyguards. Critics have labeled the arrest as suppression of media freedom.

Pierre Poilievre speaks out against the arrest of reporter David Menzies

The Conservative Party’s response signifies a major political shift towards the defense of independent journalism.

It is currently unclear if the NDP or Bloc will support the call for an investigation. At least two parties on the committee must agree before action is taken.