I call this meeting to order, the 56th meeting of the Standing Committee on Finance.
Colleagues, we are continuing our discussions today pursuant to Standing Order 108(2), our study of tax evasion and offshore bank accounts.
We have the pleasure this morning of having as a witness the Honourable Donald Johnston, Privy Councillor and former cabinet minister.
Mr. Johnston, thank you so much for being with us here this morning.
We did hear from someone from the OECD on Tuesday, Mr. Owens, as well as two other witnesses, academics, regarding this study. This study will continue for some time, but we are very much interested in hearing your perspective on this issue, and then we will have questions from all members.
I understand you have some introductory remarks you'd like to make to the committee prior to questions.