OTTAWA — A Liberal-dominated parliamentary committee is calling on the federal government to explore the concept of guaranteeing people a minimum income.

The finance committee has tabled a pre-budget report that recommends a study and pilot project on basic income — which is seen as a way to lift people out of poverty.

The committee also urges the Liberals to examine the feasibility of a universal, national, prescription drug program and provide targeted support for regional economies hit particularly hard by the weak dollar and low commodity prices.

They are among 56 recommendations in a document that calls on the federal government to act on a broad range of subjects — from aboriginal issues to labour mobility to a national transit strategy.

The House of Commons finance committee says it heard pre-budget suggestions from 92 witnesses last month and received another 175 written submissions from individuals and groups.

Finance Minister Bill Morneau will present the Liberals' maiden budget on March 22.