Mr. Chairman, as I understand it, this witness has been served with a summons. And then he was served with a Speaker's warrant. I believe that he's had all the time in the world to prepare for this thing.
I cannot believe that his counsel hasn't been to see him when these documents were served on him. I cannot believe that.
We want to proceed with this matter. This committee has given him notice. This committee said to be here today to proceed, and he's saying, “Well, sorry, I'm not ready. I'm not ready to proceed today. I need more time. I need to get some papers from Switzerland, Toronto, and Ottawa.”
I find that unacceptable. I am prepared to proceed now. However, I understand why.... I'm prepared to support the motion and not delay it until next week, which is what the opposition is suggesting, but start right today. And I understand if he needs some time this afternoon, considering the time he's already had. He's already had time to consult with his counsel, at least two counsel. He has a counsel here and he has Mr. Greenspan he's been talking to. He's been having all kinds of consultations. So he's ready.
And I propose that we meet tonight, as the motion says.