Mr. Speaker, it is my understanding that the purpose of the motion moved by the hon. member for Beauharnois—Salaberry is to promote a substantive debate, and it is already clear from the somewhat short remarks we have heard how committed all the parties are, and the government in particular. The minister himself would like to know what would come out of an in-depth review by the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade.
I am wary and reluctant because, if the question is put and the amendment is negatived, then I do not think the government will repeat the offer contained in this amendment so that the issue can be looked at by the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade, whose agenda is already pretty full. But if the matter is of such importance that we would like it to be debated by the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade, I would ask for the consent of the House to withdraw this amendment and allow the committee to consider the matter in keeping with the commitment made by the minister himself.