Bill Morneau explains tax evasion measure in budget

CAPTION: The finance minister was asked Thursday about legislation in the budget that would give foreign authorities some access to Canadians’ confidential information.

Bill Morneau says the measure is aimed at cracking down on tax evasion. (March 1, 2018) 1.

SOUNDBITE: Bill Morneau, finance minister PLACELINE: Toronto CREDIT: The Canadian Press STORYLINE: Finance Minister Bill Morneau says people accused of crimes are the target of legislation the government is considering that would give foreign authorities some access to Canadians' confidential information.

Speaking in Toronto at the Canadian Club this morning, he stressed that it is aimed at cracking down on tax evasion, money laundering and terrorism financing.

Morneau did not detail how the government will ensure the privacy of Canadians is not infringed on, but said it is committed to making sure it is respectful of all Canadians' freedoms and rights.

The government snuck mention of the legislation into a supplementary document attached to the budget released this week