Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs.
The secret document prepared for Operation Unity shows that the federal government is set to spend $5.6 billion on the potential acquisition of defence equipment, including armoured vehicles, submarines and helicopters. According to the document, these equipment acquisition contracts could have a profound impact on Quebec businesses. The document identifies eight Quebec businesses likely to benefit economically and outlines the political views of their top executives.
How should we describe the federal government's behaviour in dangling in front of some businesses generous contracts in return for their support for the No side? Is this not pure blackmail?