I share the concern too. There has to be a line drawn between evidence and testimony that should be given if the committee decides to proceed with the motion before us, amended or unamended. But with regard to dealing with whether or not the amendment right now--we're debating the amendment...should the committee find similar practices that would broaden the scope.
I'm just going to suggest to you, Mr. Poilievre, that we have to differentiate between what would be given as evidence and testimony of examples. The point that there were other parties that may or may not have engaged in practices that were the same or similar that haven't had the same treatment, or that there are some ethical implications, is a valid point. But to deal with each case as if someone were on the witness stand.... I just want to encourage you to try to focus your comments on the intent of the amendment, which is to consider broadening the scope. We understand there are other persons, other parties, who have had certain transactions that have similar characteristics, but it's not for us to judge whether those are legal or whatever. That's the decision or the determination of the body dealing with that, which is Elections Canada. Our interests are the ethical implications. I just raise that with you.
As to the matter of relevance, it's hard to impose, but let's be cognizant that Mr. Van Kesteren has brought forward a motion, which I'm sure was discussed with his colleagues, that there is a sincere interest that the motion be considered, and that it should be supported in a way that says it makes some sense.
If that's it, then I'd like to move to put that question on the amendment so that you can get the affirmation that the committee agrees with you.
I'll leave it at that. I would turn the floor to you, but again, if you want the amendment, I think it would be helpful to make sure that any further points you have are on why the members would want to vote for this and why it is relevant, as opposed to the evidence that might support that argument.