Is the Previous Question allowed in committees?

Is the Previous Question allowed in committees?

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Only with majority vote
• D. Only if the chair approves

Answer: (B)

The concept tested is how debate is handled inside a committee. The Previous Question is a motion used to stop debate on the current matter and move straight to a vote. In a committee, the goal is thorough discussion and possible modification before a decision, so cutting off debate there would shortcut the committee’s work. Because of that, the motion to call the Previous Question isn’t in order in most committee settings. Instead, committees advance by reporting, adopting, postponing, or other motions that fit the committee’s rules, leaving final decisions to the larger assembly after the committee’s deliberations.

The concept tested is how debate is handled inside a committee. The Previous Question is a motion used to stop debate on the current matter and move straight to a vote. In a committee, the goal is thorough discussion and possible modification before a decision, so cutting off debate there would shortcut the committee’s work. Because of that, the motion to call the Previous Question isn’t in order in most committee settings. Instead, committees advance by reporting, adopting, postponing, or other motions that fit the committee’s rules, leaving final decisions to the larger assembly after the committee’s deliberations.