Today's essential political reads:

1) Did Canada commit a war crime in Afghanistan? The Opposition wants an inquiry but the government says Colvin's version of events has 'incredible holes.'. The whistleblower is under attack; 'his career is toast.' Canada's top soldier at the time denies there's a smoking gun. The Prime Minister's upcoming trip to China has been undermined. No matter what Canadian news source you prefer, it's following this story today. Some of the many columns: Martin, Riley, Dentandt, Hébert. A couple of editorials here and here. The Globe and Mail reporter who's been tracking this for years also weighs in on video.

2) The Public Safety Minister says Canadians who go abroad and join terrorist organizations could be prosecuted in Canada.

3) The Nisga'a First Nation will now allow its citizens to own their own property. The National Post's editorial board is pleased.

4) Should Italian-Canadians receive an apology or be compensated for what happend to them during World War Two? One Bloc MP is now arguing: What's the difference between that and the experiences of Quebeckers caught up in the FLQ crisis?

5) B.C. begins to follow Ontario's lead on HST exemptions.

6) Simpson calls the idea of a nuclear deal with India a dog that didn't bark. Meanwhile, Canada's raising the liability limit for nuclear accidents.