My colleagues, I have heard both sides and I think your Speaker has to accept some responsibility here, of course. As I recall and if I might just explain, I believe the hon. whip of the Reform Party asked me for a clarification. Upon hearing the whip of the Reform Party I asked the whip of the government party for a clarification. When he gave me the clarification, I looked over at the Reform whip. That cannot be seen in Hansard but can be seen on the video. The whip nodded to me, yes he was in agreement, so we went on.
The point that the Reform whip makes is, of course, very valid. The rules should be adhered to. I believe that by and large we have adhered to the rules in this particular circumstance.
Would members permit their Speaker to perhaps make an observation? I have been here for decades and it seems to me that the system the whips of the three parties have worked out, with the independents as well, makes the House work much better in terms of time and understanding. Usually these things are all ironed out before these votes take place.
From my perspective as a long time member of Parliament and also as the Speaker, I think it is good for the institution that we can work together in this way.
If by some oversight your Speaker has failed to ensure this was in Hansard I assure the House now that should something like this occur again, I will take it upon myself to see that exactly what is in accordance with the rules is done. I encourage my colleagues to persevere in a system which is new but which does work.
I salute the whips from all parties for what they have done for this institution to make these votes proceed a little more quickly but fairly, which is the important thing here.
I thank you for your comments. I agree with the Reform whip that of course the rules will be adhered to. As your Speaker, I assure you this will be done.
A message from His Excellency the Governor General of Canada transmitting supplementary estimates (A) for the financial year ending March 31, 1996 was presented by the President of the Treasury Board and read by the Speaker to the House.