Mr. Speaker, as I have already said, next year's rate is based upon the expected costs of the program and not to generate any additional revenue. The process that we will adopt following broadly based consultations is one that will ensure that the program going forward has premiums that reflect the actual costs of the program.
The hon. member talks about a surplus. Yes, it has been used because it was included in the consolidated revenue fund of the government. It has reduced our debt and increased our spending on health care. It has increased our spending on important programs to benefit Canadians.