No, Chretien was not right.  It is not up to the PM, no matter what political stripe to be both judge and jury on what is ethical. Many provinces have ethical commissioners and don't have this type of controversy.

The issue is not the Ethics Commissioner. She gave advice and within the legislation it is not mandatory for Bill Morneau to put his assets in a blind trust. However, the court of public opinion and the opposition believe that is the only acceptable approach.  The Ethics Commissioner has recommended this change in the past.  One presumes the legislation will now change.