Questions Related to Content of Bills / Estimates

Form

Journals pp. 1533-4

Debates p. 14015

Background

On March 14, Mr. Lambert (Edmonton West) raised a question of privilege concerning an alleged irregularity in the National Defence spending Estimates. He argued that the presentation of the Estimates based on a unification of the armed forces contravened the Financial Administration Act and National Defence Act which specify, in part, three separate armed services. He subsequently moved that the Estimates be withdrawn and resubmitted in conformity with existing law. The Speaker heard procedural arguments from several Members and ruled the next day.

Issue

Does conflict over an alleged irregularity in the Estimates constitute a prima facie question of privilege?

Decision

No. There is no question of privilege.

Reasons given by the Speaker

While the irregularity in the Estimates may be a matter of dispute, the role of the Chair is limited to determining if the issue should be given priority over other business byway of a question of privilege. Since the matter constitutes an argument that may be brought forward by way of an objection to the adoption of the Estimates, and is a relevant point of debate when a supply motion is before the House, it does not meet the requirements of a prima facie question of privilege. The legality of the form of the Estimates is not at issue as the Chair does not rule on a question of law.

References

Debates, March 14, 1967, pp. 13951-60.

National Defence Act, R.S.C. 1952, c. 184, s. 15.

Financial Administration Act, R.S.C. 1952, c. 116, ss. 24-26.