Mr. Speaker, Return to Written Question 9-12(7), asked by Mrs. Marie-Jewell to the Premier concerning the accountability of Cabinet Ministers when negotiating contracts.

Cabinet direction, including decisions to negotiate government contracts, is provided to applicable Ministers in the form of a record of decision which provides authority and direction to a Minister to implement a particular course of action. Ministers are guided in the implementation process by Cabinet's intent and the availability of funding. Appropriate legislation, regulations, policies and procedures provide further guidance.

On any particular contract, approval of the submission and the record of decision provides specific written direction as to the financial limits and requirements for northern and local content.