I have considered that question. In my view, the loan agreements weren't problematic. But Canada's response is emblematic of the way in which it seems to approach negotiations with the United States, which is to cry uncle even before the fight really gets under way.
We have leverage in our relationships with the United States on trade, particularly with respect to oil and gas exports, but we won't use it. The United States knows that, and this is a game of hardball. They're not going to go easy on us because they know we won't fight back. Canada's position on those loan agreements is simply reflective of the fact that our federal officials do a terribly poor job in standing up for Canadian interests in negotiations with the United States. I think a lot of the dynamics of this procurement agreement have to do with the federal government trying to persuade Canadians that they will get tough with their U.S. counterparts.
It's why the work of this committee is so important. You need to blow the whistle on what is a capitulation to U.S. interests, not a negotiation to protect Canadian interests.