National Defence  Madam Speaker, Canada is determined to keep greater peace and security in the world and remains a strong partner in the fight against Daesh. We are committed to meeting our obligations under international and domestic law. Our government takes allegations like these very seriously.

Business of Supply  Madam Chair, in 40 seconds, could the parliamentary secretary talk about how we are ensuring a green economic recovery in our international trade?

Business of Supply  Madam Chair, I would like to thank my hon. colleague for mentioning women entrepreneurs and Black entrepreneurs, including that very important announcement today, which will make a significant difference. Changing tracks a bit, I would like to ask another question about the benefits of trade.

Business of Supply  Madam Chair, I would like to take the time this evening to highlight some of the important work that has been done by this government, especially by my colleagues on the Standing Committee on International Trade, over the last year. COVID-19 has presented serious challenges for Canadian businesses looking to export and for the global trading system as a whole.

Questions on the Order Paper  Mr. Speaker, National Defence is committed to recognizing the service and sacrifice of the brave women and men of the Canadian Armed Forces who participated in, and civilians who supported, Canada’s military operations in Afghanistan. The Canadian honours system recognizes their service and sacrifice by awarding service and campaign medals.

Sex-Selective Abortion Act  Madam Speaker, I am here today to speak to private member's bill, Bill C-233, an act to amend the Criminal Code, sex-selective abortion, at second reading. I really wish I did not have to do this. I am, quite frankly, disappointed that I have to spend time in the year 2021 on the abortion debate in Canada, when a woman's right to choose has been law for over 30 years.

Bills of Exchange Act  Mr. Speaker, I rise on a point of order. I believe if you seek it, you will find unanimous consent to not see the clock at 1:30 p.m.

Ethiopia  Madam Speaker, I rise today to bring to the attention of the House the escalating violence in the Tigray region of Ethiopia. Ethiopian and Eritrean soldiers are reportedly committing widespread human rights abuses, including targeted killing of civilians and brutal sexual violence.

National Defence  Madam Speaker, the members of the Canadian Armed Forces are well trained and prepared to take on their roles and responsibilities, including those relating to armed conflict as part of Operation Impact. We take these troubling allegations very seriously because we know any concern that is raised by Canadian Armed Forces members should be heard and given the attention that Canadians expect.

National Defence  Madam Speaker, the women and men of the Canadian Armed Forces support our government's approach to Operation Impact. Our contribution has been essential to fighting Daesh and bringing security and stability to the region. Members of our armed forces have worked tirelessly with our allies and partners on that non-combat mission.

Human Rights  Madam Speaker, it is with great concern that I rise today to report that Ms. Cristina Palabay of the Philippines, who last week appeared before the Subcommittee on International Human Rights as a witness, is now experiencing harassment and threats because of her testimony. Ms.

National Defence  Mr. Speaker, we are determined to listen and learn from those who have been affected by sexual misconduct. That is why Madam Arbour's review will be based on the views, accounts and experiences of current and former members of the defence team. We invite those who feel ready to share their experiences to come forward.

National Defence  Mr. Speaker, before I begin, I would like to remind my hon. colleague that the hon. member for Kanata—Carleton served 31 years, was the first female squadron commander in the Canadian Air Force and has an incredibly honourable career serving Canadians. I appreciate the opportunity to share more details about the independent external comprehensive review of our military.

National Defence  Mr. Speaker, as the minister said in committee, he did not know the nature or specifics of the allegations. Mr. Walbourne mentioned misconduct issues involving the former chief of the defence staff. He did not provide the minister with any details. The minister has always ensured that all allegations brought to his attention are reported to the appropriate authorities for investigation.

National Defence  Mr. Speaker, Canadian Armed Forces members make enormous sacrifices to protect Canadians, and they have an undeniable right to serve with safety. It is clear that we have not lived up to our responsibilities to protect members from misconduct. That is why we announced that Louise Arbour will lead an independent external comprehensive review into harassment and sexual misconduct.