That is precisely what we are concerned about, Mr. Chair. The document we are studying today is based on the motion we had introduced, the purpose of which is to analyze the Government of Canada's economic and financial outlook. That is part of the PBO's mandate.
If, unfortunately, we have to provide our questions in advance or, worse still, we are told we cannot ask questions on certain topics, this would undermine parliamentarians' freedom of expression, Mr. Chair. As a member of Parliament, I cannot accept that.
It will ultimately be for the public to judge whether we have done a good job. It is not up to some speaker to judge. Unfortunately, that is what Bill C-44 is designed to do by giving the Speaker of the House of Commons and the Speaker of the Senate the power to approve or reject the PBO's work plan. Yet this is the very essence of our role as parliamentarians, and of the PBO's role. The position of PBO was created to be protected from any kind of political pressure.
I very proudly recall that it was our political party that created this position. I am also very proud to recall that, as a member of a provincial legislative assembly, the National Assembly, I suggested that it establish this kind of position. I am especially proud to see that our parliamentary committee has the privilege of welcoming the PBO, and I will certainly not stop myself from asking questions when the PBO is before us.