Liberal MP wants universal basic income in spite of Canada's tattered economy

A Liberal MP has suggested that Canada's temporary pandemic relief programs should be converted into a permanent universal basic income, according to Blacklock's Reporter.

Nathaniel Erskine-Smith, who represents the riding of Beaches-East York in Toronto, is universal basic income's greatest advocate in parliament, wishing to see Canada's $60 billion emergency fund expand for all Canadians indefinitely.

"Our all-party anti-poverty caucus will meet to discuss how the Canada Emergency Response Benefit should be extended, including on a negative income tax mode," said Erskine-Smith.

Canada's economy is in dire shape as a result of the pandemic, leaving millions of Canadians unemployed while government spending accelerates dramatically. Universial basic income could easily force the government into spending many more billions each year.

Indeed, Trudeau's spending has been so colossal that economists expect Canada to reach a remarkable $1 trillion in debt.

"The Emergency Response Benefit is not a basic income model advocates have called for, but there is a real opportunity here," continued Erskine-Smith.

"Can we across party lines expand the CERB with a more intelligent design? That’s the question," he concluded.

Erskine-Smith has often stood out for his loopy policy ideas in parliament. Earlier this year, the Toronto MP introduced a bill that aimed to decriminalize heroin, crack cocaine and meth.