The Daily Program / Routine Proceedings

Presenting Petitions: use of an electronic format not allowed

Debates, pp. 7152-3

Context

On May 29, 2000, at the end of Routine Proceedings, Pierre Brien (Témiscamingue) rose on a point of order to ask the Speaker whether Standing Order 36 could be interpreted to allow the presentation of petitions electronically. After hearing Mr. Brien’s remarks, the Deputy Speaker (Peter Milliken) ruled immediately.

Resolution

The Deputy Speaker pointed out that Standing Order 36(2)(f) clearly states that petitions must contain only original signatures and addresses written directly onto the petition and not pasted or otherwise transferred to it. He suggested that Mr. Brien could bring the matter to the attention of the Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs, which could recommend changes to the Standing Orders.

Decision of the Chair

The Deputy Speaker: As the honourable member for Témiscamingue pointed out, the Standing Orders are fairly clear on this point. I refer to Standing Order 36(2)(f), which states:

36. (2) In order to be certified, pursuant to section (1) of this Standing Order, every petition shall:…
(f) contain only original signatures and addresses written directly onto the petition and not pasted thereon or otherwise transferred to it;…

Under these circumstances, it is difficult for the Chair to do other than insist that petitions be presented in the form required under the Standing Orders of the House of Commons.

However, if the honourable member himself, or through his colleagues who are members of the Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs, wishes to raise the matter with the committee, perhaps it can recommend changes to the Standing Orders which can be passed by the House, thus helping the honourable member with the problem he has so ably described.

I urge the honourable member for Témiscamingue to find a way to raise this issue with the committee I have mentioned. I am sure that the committee Chair, who is now in the House, has listened carefully to the point raised and to the Speaker’s ruling under the circumstances.

P0307-e

36-2

2000-05-29