“Conservatives are spreading false information about our military. Recruitment is at a 30-year high. Defence spending went up from one percent to two percent of our economy. Creating this Crown corporation will make things more open and accountable.”

“Mr. Speaker, it is truly amazing, the amount of misinformation we get. We had one member who said recruitment is down. The reality is that recruitment, people wanting to join the military, is at a 30-year high. The member said our actual spending is going down. What a ridiculous statement that is. Under Stephen Harper, it was 1% of the GDP. Today, it is at 2% of the GDP. Do some simple math and you will find that it has gone up. We then listen to the arguments as to why the Conservatives do not support a Crown corporation. My God, you need to do more research. Transparency and accountability will improve under a Crown corporation. I know. I was in opposition for 20 years, and they can improve—”

“A well-run Crown corporation can be open, accountable, and good for our military and businesses. Good management is important. What changes does the member want to make this Crown corporation better?”

“Mr. Speaker, I agree wholeheartedly with the member when she says that governance matters. I am an advocate for a Crown corporation because in my years both in opposition and government, I have seen the benefits of a well-run Crown corporation, both at the provincial level and at the federal level. It can provide a high sense of transparency and accountability. When we take a look at the potential mandate for this particular one for military procurement, we see that it is it good not only for Canada’s defence but also for our industry as a whole, if done properly. I would agree with the member’s comments that governance is important. Are there changes the member would like to see that could enhance a Crown corporation?”