Mr. Speaker, I was watching the members opposite and I just wanted to say that if he noticed someone laughing, and I am not saying he did not, but I certainly did not. I felt it was important to say that the members opposite in the Liberal benches appear to be taking this matter as seriously as we do. Although I deeply disagree with the tack they are taking, I do not see laughter.
To my hon. friend for Cariboo—Prince George, does he agree with me? I think the former attorney general answered my question clearly at committee that she did not think that the Criminal Code had been transgressed. However, until we get to the bottom of this, I think it is an open question, so I do not allege criminality in this matter. However, I think it remains a possibility and I would like to see the RCMP take over an investigation.
I disagree with my friend, the parliamentary secretary. The Ethics Commissioner has a very narrow mandate and it certainly does not allow the Ethics Commissioner to look into things, other than a member of Parliament's personal conduct for personal reward. These are public policy issues and the Constitution and they require, I believe, an independent investigation by the RCMP.