Mr. Speaker, I am certainly prepared to make available to the hon. member the studies that will show what happens when one reduces the cost to business.
Jim Moore of the Canadian Exporters Association, one of the experts in the field, said: "Obviously it could [create jobs] when you are competing at a level where a 1 per cent difference on a product can make the difference between a sale and a non-sale". He is basically saying it will increase our exports.
The Canadian Federation of Independent Business and the Canadian Manufacturers Association say harmonization will enhance competitiveness for manufacturers and exporters as well as create a simpler and more efficient tax system.
The bottom line from the CMA is: "The net result of these changes will be more jobs and an overall increase in investment and business activity".