Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
It is not my intention to repeat what was mentioned at the in camera meeting of the committee of House leaders and whips. However, there appears to be a misunderstanding over the consent that was given. I acknowledge that Mr. Hill suggested solving the issue through discussions, that is holding a meeting of our staff in order to determine how Standing Orders are applied.
We do not feel, for our part, that we are not keeping our word. I know that under our parliamentary rules, of British origin, several issues are dealt with through hand shakes, agreements, or by what is commonly called gentlemen agreements. I would simply like to reassure my colleague, Mr. Hill, and tell him that it is not our intention to go back on our word. Nevertheless—and I checked this with the Bloc Quebecois parliamentary leader, who also attended the meeting—we do not feel that there was agreement on how to proceed.
I would therefore suggest that we immediately proceed with adopting these Standing Orders. Of course, if the government would like us to undertake a review of all the Standing Orders...But I do not think that it is its intention. If there are some problems, if minor changes need to be made, the parties can agree on this among themselves. We can do anything in this House as long as it is not contrary to tradition. Accordingly, if minor changes are required, then the leaders or the whips can discuss this; we will find the appropriate forum.
I do, however, wish to indicate that we, the Bloc Quebecois, will vote in favour of Ms. Redman's motion so that these Standing Orders be adopted. I did not bring the notes that I had prepared on Tuesday but if my memory serves me well, I believe that these provisional Standing Orders have been in effect for 22 months. It is true , Parliament adjourned at the end of 2005 and the beginning of 2006, and that we did not come back immediately, but the fact remains that these provisional Standing Orders have been in effect since 2005, that is, for several months. According to normal practice, we can therefore put these Standing Orders into effect permanently.
Thank you.