Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Once again the Northern News Services has got an issue wrong. I think the matter of Mr. Patterson's resignation in this House is not a result of weeks of attacks or, for that matter, rumours. The note which was sent is a matter of very serious consideration of this House.

I want to read a section regarding a matter of privilege: Beauchesne's citation 93, "it is generally accepted that any threat or attempt to influence the vote or actions of a Member is a breach of privilege." The note which was sent could be considered a serious breach of privilege. Most Members know that such a matter is of serious consequence.

Even more importantly, the honourable Member passed that note as a Minister, one who is responsible for and acts on behalf of all Members. His actions are seen as being responsible to and for Members.

I wanted to make that point because I do not want to hear the suggestion that Mr. Patterson is on this side of the House as a result of some rumour or a tax from the ordinary Members of this House. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.