The Globe and Mail reports in its Friday, April 3, edition that newly minted federal NDP Leader Avi Lewis is trying to sell the idea that there really is such a thing as a free lunch. The Globe's Gus Carlson writes that Mr. Lewis has come up with a fatuous solution to affordability issues in urban areas -- government-run grocery stores. Mr. Lewis's delusion is national in scope. He sees a countrywide network of government-owned and operated food stores, offering heavily discounted prices. In announcing his plan, Mr. Lewis said he would opt for "a high-volume, warehouse-style model with subsidized rent and utilities." His promise: Cutting prices by 30 to 40 per cent. Mr. Lewis already has the support of Toronto City Council, which recently voted 21-3 in favour of a pilot, starting a one-year window for an implementation report. Like so many ideas on the left, this one comes from the heart, not the head. To be sure, it is well-meaning and compassionate to the plight of those who are struggling to make ends meet in an environment of rising prices. The problem is this: No matter how heartfelt, its chances of success are slim without someone else paying for it. As in taxpayers. And even then, it is by no means viable.