Mr. Speaker, let me say first of all that it is not for me to interpret Mr. Romanow's report. Mr. Romanow does that eloquently. He has been doing that and I am sure he will continue to do that.
Let me say on behalf of the Government of Canada that we have always acknowledged the fact that, as it relates to the delivery of health care within a publicly financed system, we have enjoyed a blend of delivery modes. I see no reason why we will not continue to see innovation and experimentation on the part of the provinces and the territories around how we deliver health care to Canadians within a publicly financed system.
I have made it plain that my concern as the Minister of Health for the Government of Canada is in relation to the observance of, respect for and enforcement of the five principles of the Canada Health Act, but in terms of a choice, or blend, to use the hon. member's words, of delivery mechanisms, that is up to the provinces.