Mr. Speaker, yesterday, the CRTC refused to authorize Bell's purchase of Astral Media. The organization based its decision in part on the Bloc Québécois's arguments that such a transaction would not be good for consumers, creators or the diversity of voices needed to promote Quebec's cultural vitality. The takeover would also have meant the loss of a large Quebec company to a Toronto telecommunications giant.
Despite this legitimate refusal, Bell directors have indicated that they disagree with the decision and that they are going to appeal to the minister.
We want a clear answer. Can the Minister of Canadian Heritage assure us here in this House that he will not intervene to overturn the CRTC's decision?