Oxford's MP Returns to Ottawa

Monday, 15 September 2025 at 05:42

Arpan Khanna is getting ready to introduce the Jail Not Bail Act in the House of Commons.

OTTAWA - Canada's MPs are back in Ottawa for a new session of Parliament.

Oxford MP Arpan Khanna has been tasked with introducing his own private members bill in the House of Commons before September 19th.

After speaking with people in Oxford County and across the rest of the country, he's ready to introduce the Jail Not Bail Act in the House of Commons.

"People are saying that they're seeing a lot of repeat violent offenders released back in our communities whether its the police, the mayors, the premiers, the victim advocacy groups, or the social workers. It's the need of the hour, so my bill is going to be a comprehensive bill to look at bail reform and to make changes that will end the catch and release laws we see today."

He spoke with local police officers while making this bill.

"When I talked to Woodstock Police, they know who these people are. They see them, catch them in the morning, risk their lives and do all of the right things and next thing you know, they're back on the streets. It's this revolving door that has to end and my bill will look to end that."

Khanna officially announced the bill with Conservative Leader Pierre Poilivere during a press conference in Vaughn last week. Woodstock Mayor Jerry Acchione was there, alongside Woodstock Police Chief Rod Wilkinson and Deputy Chief Nick Novacich.

Khanna also talked about the upcoming fall session of Parliament during an interview with Heart FM on September 5th. He was asked what he thought of Mark Carney, who became our Prime Minister earlier this year.

"I judge people based on their actions, not their words. It's easy to go around and talk about the stuff that you're going to do, but you are now in charge. Prime Minister Carney told everyone that he's the best man and he's the man with a plan, so let's see it! Let's see those results."

Khanna said the fall session will allow him to evaluate where this government stands. However, he did note that past behaviour can predict future behaviour and this government has the same ministers and Liberal MPs as the Trudeau government.