DEBATES

- a discussion on any subject for the purpose of elucidating the

truth or influencing action
- are a necessary part of parliamentary procedure because it is
only through the medium of a free and full discussion that the
members of an assembly may be able to decide intelligently.

Freedom of Debate

- every member is entitled to participate in the discussion of

any question brought before the assembly
- not absolute because of certain rules, which are based on
fundamental rules that serve to curtail it.

Debatability of Motions

Three types :

1) Undebatable Motions - those motions with high

priviledge
2) Motions with limited debate – motions that are discussed
to certain details only
3) Motions with full debate – debates in which unlimited
discussion is necessary for proper disposition

Two Basic Rules

Relevancy – All discussions must be related to the question

of the issue

Decorum- Everyone must exercise good courtesy in speech

and propriety of action