First, Minister, I would appreciate brief answers. I do not want to know the story of your life or hear a long-winded sermon. I have six questions and I want brief answers. I will not hesitate to interrupt you. It is my time, not yours.
The logical point of departure is 1996 when legislation was passed that already provided four minimum penalties for four types of offence involving firearms. Going by your reasoning, you seem to be saying that the crime rate for offences involving firearms has increased.
I would like to know what that rate is. How is it that in 1995, minimum penalties did not work? Why would they work now?
I want a short answer because I have five other questions to put to you.
I am talking about the crime rate for offences involving firearms. What is it that was not working in 1995, when we already had minimum penalties? And why would they work now?