I just want to say that as an MP, I've benefited a great deal from lobbyists coming and teaching me about issues. I feel it's my obligation as an MP to get both sides of the argument, however. But often lobbyists are very fine teachers on very complex issues. We recognize that there is self-interest, but I don't think lobbying is a dirty business--necessarily.
On September 18th, 2006. See this statement in context.