RULES OF DEBATE.

Franklin Times, Volume XX, Issue 81, 16 July 1930, Page 5

RULES OF DEBATE.

TO BE ADHERED TO. "EVERY LATITUDE GIVEN." •'1 think you will all admit that from the chairman down members have not. been scrupulous in their attention to the rules of debate."' In these words Cr. J. Henry addressed the Franklin County Council meeting on Monday afternoon when moving a motion dealing with the rules of debate.

In accordance with notice previously given. Cr. Henry moved, "that in future all discussion be carried out according to the rules of debate governing the council's deliberations; and that councillors may make themselves familiar with such rules, a copy of the same be supplied free to each councillor."

Taking up a rule book from the table, Cr. Henry said he noted that each member had been supplied with a copy since last meeting. "If the rules are not -adhered to the chairman cannot rule a councillor out of order al the request of another councillor," he said.

••The reason why I have moved this motion is that I was called to order at the last meeting by the chairman, when he had not had the rules of debate adhered to," Or. Henry added. The chairman. Mr J. N. Massey; M.P.. .smiting): Well. Cr. Henry, I have very much pleasure in, seconding. Since I have been in the chair 1 have given every latitude in debate. I must thank members for the courtesy extended. I only hope [ will give latitude, where latitude is due... -

On being perraited by the chairman, Cr. Henry spoke again, saying that where no rules were applicable, the rules governing parliamentary debate would have to be depended on. "We look to vou. Mr Chairman^, for a,lead" • flrj Henry added by wam>f ar&%ftefe|-' 'thoughts VLaughter). '** «** >"■ The motion was carried unanimously- ,-■ ■ .* ; * ■" : f% G '^%%. Hv 'business when he was reminded by the ehairnian ikat he washout ofr;prder. treneral btfsinlss' being pa*t debate. However, it was the unanimous wish of the council that he should be heard, and the councillor voiced his business. "Any further business?" enquired the. chairman. "Well, I leave the chair."." he said in emulating Mr Speaker in the Hous.' of Representatives.

"What about prayers?" asked another member. (Laxighter).