Diefenbaker response to Norman’s death

Canada, House of Commons, Debates

4 April 1957, 3059

Mr. J. G. Diefenbaker (Leader of the Opposition): Mr. Speaker, may I be permitted to say a word. Wholly desirable as is the objective of preserving freedom, that freedom will not be preserved by adopting the techniques and instruments of communism.

Some hon. Members: Hear, hear.

Mr. Diefenbaker: I think all of us in this house cannot but feel a sense of deep sorrow that this man’s good name was filched from him by indiscriminately branding him as an enemy, trying him by suspicion and, in the public mind to a great extent, convicting him by innuendo. I think every member of this house will agree that the terrible results in the lives of those subjected to such indiscriminate attacks as were made on this man cannot but lead each of us to determine that we shall not ourselves engage in words which can only destroy the heart and soul of those attacked.

This man was a devoted public servant; he is a victim of witch-hunting proclivities; and while it may be unusual to suggest this, and I doubt that it has ever been done before, I suggest through you, sir, to the Minister of Public Works that parliament show its feelings by having the flag on this building flown at half-mast for one who served well and died in the service of his country.

Mr. Stewart (Winnipeg North): Mr. Speaker, may I have the indulgence of this house to say something on this matter. It is obvious that murder has spoken with most miraculous tongue. I believe Mr. Norman was murdered by slander. I believe he was killed as surely as if somebody had put a knife into his back; and those who are responsible unhappily are above the law.