Mr. Speaker, we expressed our commitment clearly in the speech from the throne, indeed in language very close to that used by the hon. member.
We said that if there is to be another referendum, that the process must be democratic, that we would ensure that the question is clear, that all the facts are on the table, that the consequences are well understood and that all Canadians would have a say in the future of their country.
The step we took today is intended to address the most fundamental legal question, namely, do we operate within the rule of law or outside it? I am confident that the court will see that the Constitution and the rule of law must prevail.
As to the hon. member's question specifically, I can say that we shall take whatever steps are necessary in the months ahead to comply with the commitment we gave in the speech from the throne.