Mr. Speaker, I listened with interest to the remarks of the hon. member for Kindersley-Lloydminster.
First of all, I would like to remind him that during the last election campaign and in our red book we undertook to reduce the deficit, and we believe that by introducing this new $2 coin we will realize some extremely interesting profits on the order of $250 million.
I am a little confused because, since their arrival in the House, the members of the Reform Party have repeatedly told us that we must make cuts in every way possible and now what do I hear but this member and the member for Elk Island telling us "yes, but". The member for Elk Island actually said that the Reform Party would go so far as to vote against the bill. I can hardly believe my ears, and I would like some further explanation from my colleague.
As for vending machines, it should be pointed out that operators will not be obliged to conform immediately to the new legislation and adjust to the new coinage.
It should also be said that vending machine operators will undoubtedly take the opportunity to increase their profits, since this $2 coin will make it possible to offer complete meals, that is meals that will cost a bit more. With the new technology, it will be possible to have hot meals, just as it will be possible to have larger refrigerated meals.
I ask my colleague, in all fairness to the Canadian men and women listening to us, to comment on what I have just said.
I would also like to say that during the survey done with respect to this $2 coin, Canadians were split almost equally in their response to the first question concerning their wish to have such a coin. In response to the second question, which pointed out that there would be savings of $250 million over twenty years, the percentage in favour rose sharply to 79 per cent. I would like my colleague's comments on this matter.