the debate continues the same as if this motion had not been made. The previous question can be called for simply on an amendment; and after the amendment has been acted upon, the main question is again open to debate.[1]
(b) An Order Limiting or Closing Debate. Sometimes, instead of cutting off debate entirely, by ordering the previous question, it is desirable to allow of but very limited debate. In this case a motion is made to limit the time allowed each speaker, or the number of speeches on each side, or to appoint a time at which debate shall close and the question be put. The motion may be made to limit debate on an amendment, in which case the main question would afterwards be open to debate and amendment; or it may be made simply on an amendment of an amendment.
In ordinary societies, where harmony is so important, a two-thirds vote should be required for the adoption of any of the above motions to cut off or limit debate.[2]
- ↑ As the Previous Question is so generally misunderstood, it would be well to read also what is said upon this subject in § 20.
- ↑ In the House of Representatives these motions require only a majority vote for their adoption. In the Senate, on the contrary, not even two-thirds of the members can force a measure to its passage without allowing debate, the Senate rules not recognizing the above motions.
