Before we proceed to oral questions, I want to make a statement on what I have observed in recent days.
As members know, question period is an opportunity to hold the government accountable for its administrative policies and for the conduct of ministers in their official capacities.
I have listened carefully and patiently, perhaps too patiently, to questions put forward this week, some of which clearly fell outside the scope of permissible questions, since they had little to do with the administrative responsibility of the government. In addition, some of these questions were couched in language that amounted to a personal attack. This is also not permitted. I would caution members now, before we begin, that to maintain the dignity of this House, I will not allow such questions or such personal attacks. I will interrupt any member who asks a question that raises a matter that does not properly deal with public policy.