Mr. Chair, it's interesting that the government members all of a sudden have an interest in independent members and in helping them. It might have to do with the fact that we've been seeing a lot more Conservatives sitting as independents in recent memory. I guess at some point in the future they may see themselves as independent members and they'd like to make sure they have a role in Parliament as independents.
We support giving independent members more of a voice at committees and more of a voice in Parliament, because they truly represent their constituents as an elected member. Some independent members are elected as independents. Crossing the floor and sitting as an independent is different from actually running as an independent and getting elected. During my short time here in Parliament, in 2008 and 2011, some members were elected as independents.
I'd like to propose a little amendment to the government's motion. I have a copy I'll give the clerk to pass around to the other members. It's in paragraph (c), so I will read the amendment as we have it here:
(c) during the clause-by-clause consideration of a Bill,
—and we insert an amendment here—
which is to be scheduled so as to ensure that no two clause-by-clause considerations of Bills by a Standing Committee are scheduled concurrently,
—and then we go back to the original motion—
the Chair shall allow a Member who filed suggested amendments, pursuant to paragraph (a), an opportunity to:
—and we insert an amendment here—
participate fully in clause-by-clause consideration of the Bill, subject to SO 76(5); make representations in support of the amendments commensurate to speaking privileges enjoyed by full members of the Committee; and participate in any in camera meetings.
I move that amendment.