Ford digs in his heels

Also: Housing bill hits the table, Fife's out, MPPs class photo

ABOVE THE FOLD

Premier DOUG FORD is digging in his heels to avoid testifying at the federal Emergencies Act inquiry. Meanwhile, the hotly anticipated housing legislation has hit the Clerk’s table.

CONVOY CONTROVERSY — Ford has filed his legal challenge to the inquiry summons that would force him to testify about Ontario’s handling of the so-called Freedom Convoy.

Lawyers for the Premier filed a notice of application in federal court Tuesday, arguing that “parliamentary privilege” protects Ford and his Solicitor General from appearing.

“The summonses were issued without jurisdiction, pursuant to an error of law, and must be quashed,” the application reads. They want the motion heard next Tuesday, but a court date has yet to be set.

The lawyers claim that parliamentary privilege prevents MPPs from “being compelled to testify in any proceeding while the Legislature is in session and for 40 days before and after each session. This includes periods where the House is adjourned.”

MIA — Ford …