First, I think it's important to express our utmost respect for the role and the difficult job that the PMPRB has as an independent quasi-judicial body within the federal government.
The federal Minister of Health is responsible for the patented medicine pricing provisions of the Patent Act, and this role must be taken seriously as set out in the Patent Act under subsection 96(5). That section says that the PMPRB must consult with various parties, including the Minister of Health, before the issuance of any guidelines.
That's why that letter was sent, in support of and in compliance with the obligation that the act imposes on the federal health ministry.