I quite like what the honourable member Mr. Housefather just said. In other words, it may be possible to adopt the practice every now and again, but applying it as a general rule would be problematic, especially on this committee.
Mr. Julian said that the health committee had adopted a similar motion. Perhaps it works well for a committee like the Standing Committee on Health, but the Standing Committee on Canadian Heritage sometimes deals with issues that have a much greater impact on Quebec or the French-speaking community. Members from Quebec, especially those from the Bloc Québécois, could have a greater interest in certain issues. As Mr. Bittle pointed out, a rule whereby each party invites one witness per two-hour witness panel could create an imbalance in regard to certain issues.
I have concerns, especially if we have to vote on this today. For that reason, I cannot support this motion now. I am not opposed to the idea of discussing it later or on a case-by-case basis, but at this time, I don't think this motion is well-suited to the heritage committee's needs.