Foreign Affairs committee  The main consequence would be that Canada would finally be compliant with the convention itself and its obligations. The second result would be that we would be consistent with the position that has been taken by 110 other states parties to the convention. It would be extremely positive.

Foreign Affairs committee  Yes. We're actually trying to have it both ways. On one hand, we claim that our country is a state party in good standing, fully compliant with the convention, yet we continue to have in the act a list of exceptions. As I say, it goes beyond aiding and abetting. There is a section of that wider section that actually enables the Canadian commander of the multinational force to order, authorize or direct the use of cluster munitions by non-party state forces—not by Canadians but by others.

Foreign Affairs committee  I was able to watch a videotape of previous discussions this committee had on that very issue. I have to say that I agree completely that intent is germane to the actions that are taken indirectly. In my view, I am sure my former colleagues at the Department of Justice can provide language in any amendment that would make it very clear that if Canadians, through no fault of their own and through no willful negligence in this case, indirectly invest in cluster munitions, they will not be held accountable, while at the same time holding those institutions and individuals accountable who are very much aware of their actions.

Foreign Affairs committee  Thank you, Mr. Chair. Mr. Chair, ladies and gentlemen, I'll restrict my comments to the only area of Bill C-281 on which I am competent to speak, and that is regarding cluster munitions. First I'd like to congratulate Mr. Lawrence and the parliamentary colleagues who worked with him to develop these proposed amendments.