Routine Proceedings / Introduction of Bills

Private Members' bills

Journals pp. 181-2

Debates p. 1790

Background

When Mr. Baldwin (Peace River) sought leave to introduce a bill respecting the Auditor General of Canada, the Speaker stated that he had serious reservations respecting its financial provisions. Mr. Baldwin argued that the provisions of his bill were covered by the Royal Recommendation previously attached to a government bill that had been withdrawn. As the recommendation still existed, a private Member could therefore introduce a bill based on that Royal Recommendation. After hearing argument, the Speaker gave his ruling.

Issue

Can a private Member introduce a bill that uses the Royal Recommendation of a government bill that has been withdrawn?

Decision

No. The bill cannot be introduced and given first reading.

Reasons given by the Speaker

No Member, including a member of the Cabinet, can introduce a public bill that implies the expenditure of public funds without a Royal Recommendation. His Excellency recommended a government bill which contained different provisions. The government bill has since been withdrawn; its recommendation is not available to be attached somewhat artificially to other bills.

References

Debates, December 7, 1970, pp. 1787-90.