Amid tariff threats, local governments should prioritize buying local, London mayor says [Video]

With the threat of punishing U.S. tariffs on Canadian imports continuing to loom large, London’s mayor says there are things municipalities can do to shore up their own economies better.

Among them, they buy local and Canadian wherever possible.

“The way we spend, invest and procure goods and services has a direct impact on jobs, local industries and the long-term resilience of our communities,” Josh Morgan said Thursday, flanked by other big city mayors, during a news conference at Ottawa’s Château Laurier hotel.

“In London and across Canada, we must seize the moment to rethink our procurement strategies, ensuring that they serve the best interests of residents, businesses and workers.”

Morgan is chair of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) Big City Mayors’ Caucus, which met Thursday to discuss, among other things, the upcoming federal election and the impact a trade war with the United States would have on their communities. 

Caucus members also met with Prime Minister Justin …