Colleagues, this is a very serious matter and I take it as such.
The case was put to the House in a very succinct manner and I thank the hon. member for Saint John. I also thank the hon. member for Kingston and the Islands.
A minister of the crown is involved. With the permission of the House, I would like to have the minister enlighten us as to what happened. Perhaps it can be settled in that way, always keeping in mind that the hon. member's point of privilege will be dealt with in the House. However I would like the time to hear from the hon. minister when she returns, if that is agreeable.