Precedence and Sequence / Miscellaneous

Adjournment proceedings; Address in Reply

Journals pp. 32-3

Debates pp. 111-2

Background

During the second day of resumed debate on the Address in Reply to the Speech from the Throne, Mr. Douglas (Bumaby-Coquitlam) moved a subamendment to the amendment moved by Mr. Diefenbaker (Leader of the Opposition) on the previous day. Shortly before the interruption of the sitting at the dinner hour, the Deputy Speaker reminded the House that the subamendment had to be disposed of before the House adjourned its sitting later that evening. In view of this, the Deputy Speaker advised Members that the regular half-hour adjournment proceedings, which normally begin at 10:00 p.m., would be suspended.

Issue

When certain business must be disposed of at the ordinary time of adjournment, can the Speaker suspend the adjournment proceedings for that sitting?

Decision

Yes. This action is in order.

Reasons given by the Speaker

The Speaker has the authority to suspend the adjournment proceedings in accordance with the Standing Orders. When the rules require that the consideration of the subamendment must be disposed of and concluded by the end of the sitting, the customary adjournment proceedings shall be suspended for that sitting.

Sources cited

Standing Orders 6(5)(b) and 38(3).

References

Debates, May 11, 1967, pp. 69-70.