Mr. Speaker, we introduced a bill that was supported by the official opposition party.
I could point out a number of the members' concerns. I could say that the whole purpose of this bill is to protect the health of young people. I believe that the age at which people take up smoking is lower in Quebec than elsewhere.
We are not banning all forms of advertising. We are proposing regulations making it possible to operate under stricter rules, so as to mitigate the effects. The minister's bill is being considered by the House of Commons. We have made a few concessions to accommodate people. The government's concern, however, is to ensure that the health of Canadians and of Quebecers is properly protected.
In this connection, I quote Quebec's health minister, Mr. Rochon, who said: "It is a step in the right direction". He told the press: "Sponsorship is subliminal advertising. It is a very powerful way of encouraging consumption of the product, particularly by young people".
With this in mind, we must focus on people's health, and try to work out an arrangement in so far as possible. There were restrictions with respect to sports events throughout the world.