Key Motions: Previous Question, Recess, Suspend the Rules
Motions are the procedural tools that control the pace and structure of a session, and knowing when to use them is a real strategic skill. This lesson covers the three motions that come up most often in competitive rounds.
Previous Question (PQ)
A motion for the Previous Question ends debate on the current bill and moves to a vote, if it passes by the required majority (typically two-thirds). Use it strategically when your side has made its strongest points and further debate risks giving the opposition more speeches than you — but be aware that calling PQ too early can anger competitors who haven't had a chance to speak, hurting your reputation.
Motion to Recess
A recess is a short break in proceedings, often used to allow for prep time, resolve procedural confusion, or let the Parliamentarian consult on a ruling. Competitors sometimes use a recess strategically to regroup prep time when a session is running long or a surprise amendment needs response.
Motion to Suspend the Rules
This motion temporarily sets aside a standing rule (like normal speech time limits or debate order) usually requiring a high threshold (often two-thirds) to pass. It's used sparingly — for example, to extend debate time on a particularly important bill, or to allow a non-standard format like extended asking questions back.
A bill has had 8 speeches (4 aff, 4 neg) and the arguments have started repeating. Ten minutes remain in the session.
A competitor who has already spoken and sees clash exhausted moves 'Previous Question.' The chamber votes; if it clears two-thirds, debate ends and the chamber votes on the bill immediately, freeing time for a new bill before the session ends. If it fails, debate continues and more speeches occur, using up remaining session time on a bill that may not have new ground left to cover.
1. What does a successful motion for the Previous Question do?
Answer all 1 to check.
Previous Question ends debate for a vote, Recess pauses proceedings, and Suspend the Rules temporarily overrides a standing rule — each requires reading the room before using.