Well, first it would be good to see some actual figures. However, it seems they aren't available at present.
But even if it is a difference of, say, two orders of magnitude, that is probably about the difference in size between Canonical, Canonical's relevant dev teams, and Canonical's revenues in comparison to Red Hat and Novell's corresponding figures.
Once Canonical is profitable (which Red Hat and Novell already are), I will be very critical if it doesn't step up collaboration. Until then, I would encourage it but I won't be critical regarding that matter.