Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Prime Minister.
Even when he is reminded of the very high level of unemployment, the Prime Minister does not seem to want to budge on the unemployment issue. When he is reminded that the unemployment rate in Canada has remained above 9 per cent for 71 consecutive months, the longest stretch since the 1930s, he does not seem to be moved to action either. A report released by the Conference Board this week shows that the real unemployment rate among young Canadians exceeds 25 per cent.
I would like to give the Prime Minister another chance to tell this House he welcomes this opportunity to announce a reduction to Canadians in their unemployment insurance overcontributions-an extra $10 billion that will be taken out of the pockets of small business workers.
Will he not reconsider, cut unemployment insurance premiums-this tax on employment-and restore hope to those who, at present-