Objection to the consideration of a question
Objection to the consideration of a question is a method in parliamentary procedure of preventing a motion from coming before the assembly.[1] It is often used to prevent an embarrassing question from being introduced and debated in the assembly.
Explanation and Use
| Class | Incidental motion |
|---|---|
| In order when another has the floor? | When another has been assigned the floor, until debate has begun or a subsidiary motion has been stated by the chair |
| Requires second? | No |
| Debatable? | No |
| May be reconsidered? | Negative vote (sustaining objection) only |
| Amendable? | No |
| Vote required | Two-thirds against consideration sustains objection |
Robert's Rules of Order Newly Revised (RONR)
It requires a two-thirds vote to be sustained and is not debatable. It is classed as an incidental motion. This objection may be applied only to an original main motion, that is, a main motion that brings a new substantive issue before the assembly, as opposed to an incidental main motion. The objection may be raised only before debate has begun on the motion, as the purpose is to completely suppress debate on the motion.
The Standard Code (TSC)
This motion is not recognized in The Standard Code of Parliamentary Procedure and is criticized for being confusing. The Standard Code offers alternative motions for accomplishing the same purpose.[2] Some organizations have bylaw provisions specifying that an objection to the consideration of a question is not in order at any time.
Legislative Use
Mason's Legislative Manual states that the purpose of the objection to consideration is to bar from discussion or consideration "any matter that is considered irrelevant, contentious or unprofitable, or that, for any reason, is thought not advisable to discuss."[3] In the United States, particularly in the Senate, a motion to table is more common due to the fact that it only requires a simple majority.
