Rules of Debate / Unparliamentary Language

Unparliamentary language

Debates pp. 536-7

Background

When debate resumed on the Address in Reply to the Speech from the Throne, Mr. MacInnis (Cape Breton-East Richmond) claimed that during the Nova Scotia election campaign Mr. MacEachen (President of the Privy Council) had promised certain old age security measures which had not subsequently been met. He suggested that Mr. MacEachen come into the House to "deny he lied to the people of Cape Breton", not only about this matter, but also "with respect to the ... coal division of Devco". The Speaker then intervened and called the Member to order.

Issue

Is it permissible in the House to accuse a Member of lying?

Decision

No. It is contrary to long-established practice.

Reasons given by the Speaker

This case is somewhat different in that the events or circumstances in question did not take place in the House. Nonetheless, the language used by the Member is contrary to the customs, traditions and usages of the House of Commons.

References

Debates, October 23, 1970, pp. 535-7.