Mr. Speaker, I thank the leader of the Bloc Quebecois for his speech.
There is no question the Ginn Publishing scandal leaves many unanswered questions. It is proper to pursue it to find out exactly what transpired in the sale of Ginn Publishing.
To me that is not the largest issue. The largest issue is whether or not we should be erecting barriers to protect Canadian culture. I personally believe the Canadian publishing industry can stand on its own two feet. All aspects of Canadian culture and the people behind it-the creators, the singers, the writers and the performers-are more than capable of standing up and competing with culture from around the world.
I have a question for the Leader of the Opposition, a person who would have his own country if he could and presumably would be part of a free trade agreement. Why would he want to return to a Baie Comeau type policy if he believes strongly that his own people can compete in the world?