The Standing Committee on Agriculture and Agri-Food met at 3:35 p.m. this day, in Room 269, West Block, for the purpose of electing a Chair, pursuant to Standing Order 106(1).

On motion of Marlene Jennings, it was agreed, — That Paul Steckle be elected Chair of the Committee.

The Clerk of the Committee presided over the election of the Vice-Chairs.

On motion of James Bezan, it was agreed, — That Gerry Ritz be elected first Vice-Chair of the Committee.

On motion of Réal Lapierre, it was agreed, — That André Bellavance be elected as second Vice-Chair of the Committee.

Paul Steckle took the Chair.

Wayne Easter moved, — That the Committee proceed to sit in camera to study dairy terms labelling.

The question was put on the motion and it was negatived, by a show of hands: YEAS: 3; NAYS: 8.

On motion of David L. Anderson, it was agreed, — That the Committee hear the witnesses present on dairy terms labelling.

Kristine Stolarik made a statement and, with the other witnesses, answered questions.

On motion of Gerry Ritz, it was agreed, — That the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food be called before the Committee before December 1, 2005; that the meeting be televised; and that the Minister appear to explain the government’s position on issues to arise at the World Trade Organization meetings scheduled for December 2005 in Hong Kong.

At 5:18 p.m., the Committee adjourned to the call of the Chair.