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“It’s the right thing to do to build this country in a forward, positive, constructive way,” he said.

Scott’s four-page bill has spawned debate over an explosive question: Should Quebec separatists be permitted to kickstart negotiations to break up Canada if they win a bare majority — 50 per cent plus one — in a fairly fought referendum based on a clear question? The NDP thinks they should.

Scott’s bill, C-470,was co-drafted with NDP leader Tom Mulcair and was debated within caucus before being unveiled. It doesn’t stand a chance of being passed by the current Parliament, but Scott said it would be the basis for legislation tabled by the NDP if it formed a government in future.

His bill would repeal the 2000 Clarity Act — Jean Chretien’s cherished legislation which said the federal government would only negotiate Quebec sovereignty if separatists won a “clear majority” in a referendum with a clear question.

However, that law does not specify a percentage for what would constitute a clear majority victory.

[np_storybar title=”Key elements of Scott’s bill” link=””]

The referendum question must be clear, and the wording for two potential options are provided: “Should Quebec become a sovereign country?” or “Should Quebec separate from Canada and become a sovereign country?”

If Quebec asks a question the federal government doesn’t like, the matter must be sent to the Quebec Court of Appeal for a ruling on its clarity.