As I was saying 10 minutes ago in response to another question, a referendum campaign period is similar to that of an election campaign. From a legal standpoint, we need a system in place to control expenditures and participation. The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms must also apply. It is possible to combine rules to allow a free and equal general election, but controls must be in place as far as participation is concerned.
If candidates and parties must adhere to certain rules during this specific period, how can a third party be allowed to enter the same arena without being subject to the same rules? The same is true in the case of a referendum. There must be clear rules in place governing this process, because an even bigger process is underway in the country. The effectiveness of the process must be safeguarded.