Madam Speaker, this is the first time I have had today to rise to speak to the Standing Orders. If I can, before asking a question of the hon. member for Lanark—Frontenac, I want to associate myself with some of the comments made by the member for Calgary Crowfoot.
I strongly agree with his argument that five standing members should be able to ensure a recorded vote and that passing bills on division gives an extreme level of power and authority to a small group of parties in this place, only the recognized parties. It reduces the rights of not just me as the member of Parliament for Saanich—Gulf Islands, but of my constituents, who do not necessarily know where we stand on the issues when we move so quickly. I thought the member for Calgary Crowfoot made very cogent arguments, and I also appreciated his suggestion that we look at the U.K. Parliament and the idea that an MP who is speaking can yield the floor to another MP of their own party.
I want to associate myself very strongly with the comments just now from the member for Lanark—Frontenac and support his concerns. For anyone watching this who does not know the member for Lanark—Frontenac, they will not find a finer person of greater integrity. What he went through with the Tay Valley Township council is appalling, and I want to thank him for always being upright, honest and so well informed.