Arguing she had no choice, Green Party Leader Elizabeth May presented the House of Commons Wednesday with a petition alleging a U.S. government conspiracy perpetrated the 9/11 attacks. "As I understand the rules, I had to," May explained in a series of follow-up Twitter posts. "It is a duty of an MP to present petitions and does not connote support."
In a Thursday statement, the MP for the B.C. riding of Saanich-Gulf Islands, also made clear she does not subscribe to any 9/11 "Truther" conspiracy theories.
According to Canadian parliamentary rules, however, there is nothing forcing MPs to put forward fringe petitions if asked.
"Members are not bound to present petitions and cannot be compelled to do so," reads the guidebook of the House of Commons Procedure and Practice.
It adds, "nevertheless, it is evident that many Members consider it a duty to present to the House petitions brought forward by citizens."
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Green Party files 9/11 conspiracy theory petition