Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the member for Durham for his continuing interest in the issue of capital formation with respect to small and medium sized businesses, especially in the new economy areas which he knows require both investment in technology as well as in skills development.
It is a key issue. In keeping with the approach that the government announced in the orange book of assistance to business, our objective is to create a framework in which business will succeed. We are looking to the private sector for the kinds of linkages and sources of funds that are important. In addition we have a tax system in place that encourages innovation and investment in R and D.
The R and D tax credit, the creation of the Canada community investment plan as well as Industry Canada are pursuance of our macroeconomic agenda. It will ensure that we understand the needs of small business and that we make the appropriate linkages and partnerships that are available. They are the keys to solving these problems.