Mr. Speaker, to have a good idea of what the Department of National Defence spends in Quebec, you must look at all the facts.
In 1993-94, 22.1 per cent of total military spending was in Quebec. This is an increase from 19.5 per cent in 1992-93.
In fact, Quebec received 33 per cent of military capital spending in 1993-94.
Of course, no single measure can provide an answer for such a complex subject as defence; the Canadian Forces do not exist primarily to ensure regional balance but to meet the defence needs of the country from coast to coast.
The military presence in Quebec is quite significant: the headquarters of the land forces command is in Saint-Hubert, one of the three brigades is based in Valcartier and one of the two main bases of operation for the CF-18 fighters is in Bagotville.
Six of 24 naval reserve divisions are still in Quebec. And a Naval Reserve school is presently under construction in Quebec.
As the Minister of National Defence told this House yesterday, the government will carefully consider the special joint committee's report, including those recommendations made by Bloc Quebecois members. All recommendations will be considered in the development of a new defence policy for Canada. Once that is done, the minister will take any necessary action.