5.3 Some rules relating to motions
A Member who has given notice of or moved a motion may withdraw it by leave of the majority of the House. A motion that has been withdrawn may be moved again in the same session. A notice is also withdrawn from the Notice Paper if the Member who gave notice fails to move the motion when it is called on. Motions must be seconded and a motion not seconded lapses, unless it relates to an Order of the Day, or is made in Committee of the Whole House.
The following rules apply to the subject matter and debate of motions:
- Matters awaiting the adjudication of a court of law should not be discussed during debate (sub judice rule).
- A motion should not be the same in substance as a motion passed during the current session or negatived during the current session. However, a matter previously discussed in the current session but not determined may be the subject of a motion.
- A motion should not anticipate another matter on the Notice Paper.
- A motion should not contain unbecoming expressions or the Speaker may order that it shall not be printed, or it can be expunged from the Notice Paper by order of the House.
Last reviewed: 17 July, 2009
Last updated: 22 July, 2009
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