Which motion ends debate on the pending motion and restricts the discussion of other subsidiary motions except lay on the table?

Which motion ends debate on the pending motion and restricts the discussion of other subsidiary motions except lay on the table?

• A. Previous Question
• B. Amend
• C. Refer to a Committee
• D. Postpone Definitely

Answer: (A)

The motion to bring the debate to a close and move directly to a vote on the current question is designed to end discussion on what is being considered and on any amendments, so the assembly can decide quickly. When this motion passes, debate on the pending motion ends, and discussion of other related subsidiary motions is limited, preserving only the option to lay the matter on the table as a postponement tactic. This is why it best fits the description: it clears away extended debate on the main issue and its amendments and narrows further discussion to a narrow set of procedural choices, rather than allowing continued debate on the various subsidiary motions. Other options would modify, delay, or send the matter to committee, but they do not terminate debate in the same way.

The motion to bring the debate to a close and move directly to a vote on the current question is designed to end discussion on what is being considered and on any amendments, so the assembly can decide quickly. When this motion passes, debate on the pending motion ends, and discussion of other related subsidiary motions is limited, preserving only the option to lay the matter on the table as a postponement tactic. This is why it best fits the description: it clears away extended debate on the main issue and its amendments and narrows further discussion to a narrow set of procedural choices, rather than allowing continued debate on the various subsidiary motions. Other options would modify, delay, or send the matter to committee, but they do not terminate debate in the same way.