Freeland doesn’t commit to meeting her own deficit target in fall economic statement [Video]

Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland is not committing to meeting the $40.1-billion deficit target she set for the government last year.

Freeland said Tuesday she expects the fall economic statement, which she will present on Dec. 16, will show a declining debt-to-GDP ratio.

“In next week’s fall economic statement, you will see that the government is maintaining its fiscal anchor. Specifically, reducing the federal debt as a share of the economy over the medium term,” Freeland told reporters in a news conference.

When asked if she would also meet her deficit target, Freeland wouldn’t answer.

“I chose my words with care, because it is important to be clear with Canadians. It is important to be clear with capital markets,” she said.

WATCH | Freeland will unveil an economic statement next week. What will it say about the deficit?CBC’s Janyce McGregor explains what is expected in next week’s fall economic statement …