Mr. Speaker, I thank the member not only for his question but also for raising this issue in the House of Commons at this time.
It is a very important concern not just of our department and of the Bureau of Competition Policy but it should be a matter of concern for all Canadians.
As he mentions senior citizens particularly have been victimized by fraudulent telemarketing activities. For that reason the Bureau of Competition Policy which is responsible for enforcing laws respecting misleading advertising has included a flyer with the old age security cheques. This notice warns senior citizens of the danger of telephone fraud and of making the appropriate inquiries when telephone calls are received.
Also the Bureau of Competition Policy in co-operation with the RCMP and provincial police forces will be increasing enforcement activities to see that the laws on the books are appropriately enforced.