Madam Speaker, I just want to let the hon. members opposite know that my speaking here is just as democratic as their speaking over there. I have been listening to the debate and so far have not intervened. I am pleased to do so now.
This debate is on a motion for concurrence in a report of the procedure and house affairs committee which was tabled in the House just a few weeks ago. That report dealt with the matter of privilege that was referred to the committee from the House through the Speaker. The report, known as the 14th report, was adopted unanimously at the procedure and house affairs committee so there should be no doubt here in the House that there is cross party support for the report as tabled.
Members will also be aware that it is if not routine at least customary for the government to respond to reports of committees. I can advise the House that it is the government's intention to respond. In fact, response to that unanimous report has been prepared and will be introduced into the House on Thursday. In some respects it is regrettable that the debate now put forward—