Question Period Note: FAMILY TIES WITH LOCKHEED MARTIN

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About

Reference number:
DND-2021-QP-00010
Date received:
Jun 14, 2021
Organization:
National Defence
Name of Minister:
Sajjan, Harjit S. (Hon.)
Title of Minister:
Minister of National Defence

Issue/Question:

Why did National Defence issue a contract to a company, for which a member of the Deputy Minister's family works?

Suggested Response:

  • National Defence follows a rigorous and systematic process for all its procurement projects ensuring they are fair, open, and transparent.
  • The Deputy Minister takes the Conflict of Interest Act seriously.
  • All necessary disclosures of her private affairs were completed, submitted, and accepted by the Office of the Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner.
  • The Commissioner has confirmed that Deputy Minister Thomas followed all necessary procedures.
  • National Defence will continue to work with integrity on behalf of Canadians in procuring equipment for the Canadian Armed Forces.

If pressed on the procurement process for the Canadian Surface Combatants:
* Public Services and Procurement Canada is the entity responsible for all aspects of bid evaluation for procurement projects.
* In all procurement processes, winning bidders are selected based on project criteria while offering the best value to Canadians.

Additional Information:

Responsible Principals: Assistant Deputy Minister (Public Affairs), Assistant Deputy Minister (Materiel)