Adjournment Motion Proposed Under Standing Order 26 / Application Accepted

Debate urgent; no other opportunity for debate

Debates pp. 6812-3

Background

Mr. Douglas (Nanaimo-Cowichan-The Islands) sought leave to move the adjournment of the House, under the provisions of Standing Order 26, in order to discuss "the urgent situation revealed by the United States defense department that the United States is now seeking Canadian approval to fire anti-ballistic missiles with large thermonuclear warheads over Canadian territory". Mr. Douglas went on to explain that, in view of the planned meeting between the Prime Minister and the President of the United States, "it is extremely important and vitally urgent that there be a full and comprehensive discussion in the House of Commons prior to the visit in order to evaluate Canada's position in this matter".

Issue

Does the application meet the requirements of Standing Order 26?

Decision

Yes. The application is accepted.

Reasons given by the Speaker

The issue is of undoubted national interest and the announced business of the House for the rest of the week provides no other opportunity for debate. This is the "type of situation where the Standing Order should operate, so as to permit debate on a national issue in advance of anticipated events".

References

Journals, March 19, 1969, pp. 813-4.

Debates, March 19, 1969, p. 6812.