Mr. Speaker, the Minister of Finance tabled the government's budget yesterday. This budget, along with the one tabled in 1994, established the challenge and goal of the government: to bring the deficit and debt under control.
Canadians have requested and supported a combination of cuts in government spending and the continuation of our agenda of jobs and growth: growth that has led the G-7 countries over the past year and growth that will continue as a result of this strong budget.
The measures taken in the budget ensure we will reach our deficit target of 3 per cent of gross domestic product that was outlined last year.
The minister has produced a fair and equitable budget to provide social programs for Canadians' needs and the spending reductions they require.
Congratulations to the Minister of Finance for his dedication to controlling the deficit and debt and building the confidence of all Canadians.