Canadian linked to Russian influence campaign refuses to answer MPs' questions

The House of Commons is being asked to consider whether Lauren Chen — a Canadian influencer accused of aiding a Russian propaganda campaign — should be found in contempt of Parliament after she refused to answer MPs' questions during a parliamentary committee hearing Tuesday.

Chen was summoned to appear before the House of Commons public safety and national security committee in the wake of explosive allegations in the U.S. linking her and her husband to a foreign influence operation.

In September, the U.S. Justice Department unsealed an indictment against two Russian nationals, accusing them of setting up a conservative media outlet as a front for pro-Kremlin propaganda.

The media outlet was not named in the indictment but it was clear from its details that the charges referred to Tenet Media, founded in 2023 by Chen and her husband, Liam Donovan.

Chen, who had a lawyer off-screen during Tuesday's hearing, used her opening statement to signal that as the target of criminal investigation in the U.S., she would not be answering questions.

"Both Canada and the United States strongly value the right to be free from self-incrimination," she said.

Over the 45 minutes that followed, Chen repeated the same nine words: "For the reasons already given, I have no comment."

She repeated that line even when she was being asked to confirm her name and citizenship, frustrating MPs of all stripes.

"Ms. Chen, unfortunately I feel, is making a farce of this committee," said Conservative MP Raquel Dancho. 

Liberal MP Pam Damoff said she was "deeply, deeply disturbed."

The MPs agreed unanimously that Chen's refusal to answer their questions could constitute a breach of privilege and voted to send the matter to the House of Commons. 

According to House of Commons rules of procedure and practice, a breach of privilege covers "any disregard of or attack on the rights, powers and immunities of the House."

If the House agrees, Chen could be ordered to appear "before the bar" of the House of Commons to receive a public rebuke from the Speaker.

The U.S. indictment alleges two Russians — both employees of state broadcaster RT — illegally funnelled nearly $10 million into a company widely reported to be Tenet as part of a disinformation campaign.