I must say I am surprised to hear the citation from the hon. member for Edmonton—Sherwood Park because I was unaware of any writing that said it could only be done during routine proceedings.
My clear understanding since my arrival here 16 years ago was that a minister could table a document at any time in the House simply by standing in his place and tabling the document. The minister did that and I took no objection at the time because I believed it was entirely proper and in accordance with practice, unusual to do it in question period, I admit. The hon. member for Edmonton—Sherwood Park is diligent in that respect, but I was unaware of any citation and I am surprised to read it.
What I will do is look at Beauchesne's on this point, because my recollection was this could be done at any time. Indeed I had seen it done at other times in the House by various other ministers.
I will look into it and get back to the House on the point.
I should inform the House that because of the deferred recorded divisions, government orders will be extended by 55 minutes.