Mr. Ed Holder (London West, CPC): Mr. Speaker, today the Minister of International Trade tabled both the Canada-Jordan economic growth and prosperity act, as well as the Canada-Panama economic growth and prosperity act. These pieces of legislation are a key part of our government's ambitious pro-trade plan that is opening new markets for Canadian products and services. More importantly, it would create opportunities for Canadian businesses and create jobs for Canadian workers. Quick passage of this legislation means more jobs in London, Ontario and more jobs across Canada.

    Would the minister please explain to the House why these pieces of legislation are critical to create economic growth and prosperity in Canada?

    Hon. Ed Fast (Minister of International Trade and Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway, CPC): Mr. Speaker, I do want to thank the member. He works very hard for the businesses--

    Some hon. members: Oh, oh.

    Hon. Ed Fast: Mr. Speaker, free trade agreements with Jordan and Panama are a key part of our job-creating, pro-trade plan. I was proud to table this important legislation this morning.

    Despite the NDP's ideological opposition to trade, our government will continue to pursue our pro-trade plan because open markets create new opportunities for our farmers and small businesses--

    The Speaker: I am afraid all that applause ate up quite a bit of the minister's time.

    The hon. member for Nanaimo—Cowichan