Mr. Speaker, my question is for the minister of agriculture.
U.S. agriculture secretary Espy is quoted as saying he will take unilateral action if an agreement cannot be reached the next time he meets with his Canadian counterpart. Secretary Espy wants a cap on wheat exports to the U.S. and zero tariffs on poultry, dairy products and eggs.
What assurances do we have that the minister of agriculture will stand up for the rights of Canadian farmers in dealing with the United States?