Chong is chairman of industry committee

Wellington-Halton Hills MP Michael Chong, was elected chairman of the House of Commons stand­ing committee on indus­try, science and technology last week.

Chong was nominated by Brian Masse, of the New Dem­ocratic Party, and his nomina­tion received the unanimous consent of the other members of the committee.

“Committees are the work horses of parliament. It's an honour to be entrusted as the chair of this important body,” said Chong. “I'm looking for­ward to working with all mem­bers and parties to ensure the proper functioning of a produc­tive committee.”

After passing the routine motions that will govern the committee, the committee agreed to resume the study on Canadian Science and Tech­nology that was undertaken, but not completed, in the last parliament.

Chong said, “By complet­ing this study we can start the work of the committee imme­diately and ensure that valuable witness testimony, heard in the last session, will not be wast­ed.”

The committee provides oversight over the activities and spending of Industry Can­ada. As well, the committee studies and reports on matters related to Canadian industry and technology capability, scientific research and development, telecommu­nica­tions policy, investment and trade policy, and the rules and services that support the effective operation of the mar­ketplace.