Mr. Speaker, the second designation policy which we announced is not limited to Air Canada and Hong Kong. The predetermined passenger volume levels setting off the process also apply to Germany, for instance.
All these decisions were made after a long period of reflection and extensive negotiations, and we feel that it is in everyone's interest to ensure total openness in granting landing rights.
I must say to the hon. Leader of the Opposition that I really appreciate the way Air Canada President Hollis Harris reacted by saying that he appreciated the work done by the Government of Canada with regard not only to the Hong Kong matter but also to the bilateral agreement with the U.S., and especially to Air Canada being given access to the Japanese market. That is something he had been seeking for many years.