Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
Welcome to the committee, minister.
The problem that you have this morning is that when we speak with all of the other ministers, they always end up blaming you. That means that the puck stops here. We will see if your answers make sense.
Your presentation was very wordy, but I don't recall hearing very much about investments.
There are, of course, a number of points that I would like to raise with you. My colleague Scott Brison, who is our industry critic, can deal with the industrial aspects. And my colleague Mr. McGuire may wish to discuss regional implications. In the meantime, there are a number of questions that I would like to ask you.
Would it be wrong to assume, minister, that the Prime Minister's Office must be advised when you travel abroad on official business, in order to get the go ahead for your trip?
There is no need to take notes. You may respond.
Are you required to have the Prime Minister's permission before you travel? And must you provide him with the exact purpose of your travels?