Ted Menzies supports Throne Speech and Advantage Canada

October 23, 2007

CBC Radio’s - ``Nation`s Business``

Thank you

I very much appreciate this opportunity to add my remarks in support of the Speech from the Throne.

Let me say first how honoured I am to be recently appointed as the new Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance.

This is an honour that I also share with all of my constituents in the riding of MacLeod.

When we took office, we promised Canadians that Canada’s Government would provide a long-term vision towards a strong future for Canada.

And we promised to do it in a manner that was committed, focused, and fiscally responsible.

That’s exactly what we did and will continue doing.

We have a solid foundation firmly in place.

The Speech from the Throne lays out the plan for the future that will build on that foundation.

The Government said in the Speech from the Throne that it will bring forward a long-term plan of broad-based tax relief for individuals, businesses and families.

This follows through on our commitment to ensure economic security for Canadians as we look towards the future.

Now, we need to work together as Canadians.

By supporting the initiatives contained in the Speech from the Throne, we can make this happen.

The upcoming Fall Economic and Fiscal Update will detail progress on our plan, which is built on a foundation of sound fiscal management, as was described in Last Falls successful economic blueprint, Advantage Canada
Advantage Canada provides Canada with five key advantages so that we can compete effectively in the global economy and attract new growth and investment.

First, Advantage Canada provides a Tax Advantage.

We have reduced taxes significantly for individuals, families and businesses.

A total tax reduction of close to $41 billion over three years.

Second, Advantage Canada will create a Fiscal Advantage by eliminating Canada’s total government net debt in less than a generation.

The third part of our long-term plan is to create an Entrepreneurial Advantage for Canada by reducing unnecessary regulation and red tape and increasing competition in the Canadian marketplace.

Fourth, Advantage Canada will provide a Knowledge Advantage.

Advantage Canada will create the best-educated, most-skilled and most flexible workforce so that Canada is ready to take on the world.

And finally, Advantage Canada will create an Infrastructure Advantage.

This initiative will result in the building of modern bridges, roads and gateways necessary to link our nation and make our workers and businesses more efficient.

And it will continue to enhance our total trade capacity to help grow Canada’s economy.

Together, we are building a country that is prosperous and safe.

Now, with strong leadership and a solid plan, we can build an even stronger Canada and offer an even better future for our children.

Thank you.