Mr. Speaker, yesterday in his press conference the chief of defence staff was asked this question: “Is it possible to increase our contribution to the peace force in the Balkans without cutting elsewhere and do we have the appropriate type of equipment?” His answer was as follows: “The answer is yes to both of your questions”.
I think the hon. member misunderstood what the chief of defence staff actually said.
Obviously we have made no decisions as yet on expanding our participation in the peace implementation force. If we want to make such a decision we will obviously have to take into account the financial resources required and the advice of General Baril as to the most appropriate use of the men and women in our Canadian armed forces.