Precedence and Sequence / Superseding Motion

Superseding motion (adjournment)

Journals p. 276

Debates p. 2529

Background

During the course of the evening sitting, while Members were speaking to three related questions of privilege in connection with the Munsinger case and related points of order, Mr. Grafftey (Brome-Missisquoi) sought to move "That the House do now adjourn". A similar motion had been proposed earlier by Mr. Knowles (Winnipeg North Centre) and had been defeated in a recorded division. The Speaker immediately ruled.

Issue

Is the motion to adjourn the House acceptable in this instance?

Decision

No, the motion to adjourn the House cannot be accepted.

Reasons given by the Speaker

In order to be acceptable, an intermediate proceeding must take place before a second motion to adjourn the House can be proposed. Because there has been no such intervening procedure since the last motion was put, it cannot be accepted.

Sources cited

Standing Order 25.