Liberal Member of Parliament Shaun Chen faced accusations of violating House rules by participating in House of Commons votes while he was in China earlier this year after announcing his resignation. The claims, primarily spread by right-wing influencers and some current and former Conservative MPs, stemmed from videos posted on WeChat showing Chen in China on the same date he electronically voted in the House of Commons.

One post from independent journalist Andy Lee highlighted the discrepancy, mentioning a video of Chen enjoying ice cream in China on March 25 while voting electronically in the Canadian Parliament. Concerns were raised about potential national security breaches if Chen voted from China, accessing parliamentary systems from CCP-controlled networks.

Conservative MP John Barlow also raised questions about Chen’s travel, pointing out the House of Commons standing orders that prohibit MPs from voting while outside Canada. Many online posts alleged that Chen participated in voting on Bill C-9, the government’s hate crime legislation, while in China.

While there were speculations that the videos might have been edited and posted after Chen’s trip, the facts remain clear. House rules dictate that MPs cannot vote from outside the country, with electronic votes permitted only within Canada. The standing orders require visual confirmation of an MP’s identity through facial recognition technology when casting votes.

In response to the allegations, a spokesperson for House Speaker Francis Scarpaleggia emphasized the existence of technical controls and validation processes to ensure MPs are physically present in Canada during votes. Chen’s office confirmed his presence in China from March 14 to March 22, with his return to Canada for the House of Commons session on March 23 after the spring recess.

Evidence provided by Chen’s office included his boarding pass showing his flight back to Toronto from Taipei on March 22 and visa stamps in his passport indicating his travel dates to and from China. Chen’s office reiterated that he did not vote from outside Canada and attributed his resignation to ongoing health issues following a vehicle accident last fall.

Critics, including Lee, questioned Chen’s ability to travel to China while citing health concerns preventing regular trips to Ottawa. Chen’s trip to China was part of official parliamentary business with the Canada-China Legislative Association and sponsored by the Hakka Canadian Association, chaired by Markham Coun. Joe Li.

Additionally, emails between Chen and House of Commons IT staff regarding cybersecurity measures during his trip were shared, highlighting the perceived risks associated with his travel. The Office of Canada’s Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner disclosed details of Chen’s trip on its website, including the invitation from the Hakka Canadian Association for the March 14 to 22 visit with accommodation provided for seven nights.