Adjournment Motions for Emergency Debates / Application Accepted

June 13, 1986

Debates p. 14381

On June 13, 1986, Mr. Axworthy (Winnipeg—Fort Garry) sought leave to move the adjournment of the House under the provisions of Standing Order 29 to discuss the deteriorating situation in South Africa and the urgent need for an effective Canadian response. The Speaker reserved his decision, where upon Mr. Hnatyshyn (President of the Privy Council) rose on a point of order. He referred to a provision in Beauchesne for consultation between the Chair and House Leaders on the timing of emergency debates. He suggested that should the Speaker grant the request, the debate could take place at the conclusion of the day's proceedings, and requested an early decision so that Members could plan their weekends accordingly. The Speaker reminded Mr. Hnatyshyn that he had first to decide whether the application met the terms of the Standing Orders before any consultations on the timing of the debate could take place. The Speaker promised to return to the House as quickly as possible, and ruled one hour later.

Issue

Did the application meet the requirements of Standing Order 29?

Decision

Yes. The application was accepted.

Reasons given by the Speaker

The Chair examined both the precedents and the modifications that have been made to the rule, as well as the comments that have been made about it, and concluded that the application met the terms of the Standing Orders.

(After the vote the Chair scheduled the debate for three o'clock that day, a Friday.)