Mr. Speaker, it is somewhat amazing and ironic to see the Conservative government fail to act on this issue; after all, this is the government which sings the praises of free markets at all cost. Recently, the minister of Industry was even heard refusing to provide assistance to the bicycle industry, arguing that competition always serves consumers best.
In that context, it is rather ironic that the government would not support a Bloc Québécois proposal to increase competition between oil companies. It is hardly surprising, mind you, when we hear the comments of the industry minister on gasoline prices. As we know, this minister once blamed high gasoline prices on the environmentalists. In my economics classes, however, I learned that reducing demand generally brings prices down.
Today, the Prime Minister told us that the Bloc Québécois was too keen on defending the interests of Quebec. It is true that the Bloc Québécois is the only party defending the interests of Quebec in this House.
I would like to ask my hon. colleague what alternative Quebeckers have, given that none of the federalist parties are defending their interests.