Precedence and Sequence / Miscellaneous

Late distribution of documents

Journals p. 1700

Debates p. 14427

Background

After the order had been read that the House resolve itself into Committee of the  Whole to consider Bill C-243, an Act to amend the  National Defence Act ... , Mr. Lambert (Edmonton West) rose on a point of order to argue that the House should not proceed with consideration of the bill in Committee of the Whole until copies of the complete evidence given before the standing committee and of amendments proposed at that time became available. After listening to Members' comments, the Speaker ruled.

Issue

Is late distribution of a reprinted bill and committee minutes a reason for delaying consideration of the bill in Committee of the Whole? Is it the role of the Chair to intervene and ask the House to alter the Government Orders?

Decision

No. Late distribution is not sufficient grounds in this case. Furthermore, it is not for the Chair to decide whether one hour, one day or one week is sufficient time for Members to familiarize themselves with the evidence.

Reasons given by the Speaker

The amendments are now before the House in two forms: the report which was tabled and which is now officially before the House, and the amended bill which has been distributed. Distribution might have been late, causing some problems, but is not really a point of order; it is a question of convenience.

Sources cited

Beauchesne, 4th ed., p. 248, c. 318(1).

References

Debates, April 3, 1967, pp. 14423-7.