Amendments to the Content of Bills / Report Stage

Infringing on financial initiative of the Crown

Journals pp. 217-8

Debates pp. 2149-50

Background

At the outset of report stage consideration of Bill C-202, an Act to amend the Old Age Security Act, the Speaker expressed doubts as to the acceptability of two motions in amendment:  one by Mr. Godin (Portneuf); the other by Mr. Rynard (Simcoe North). The first sought a universal monthly payment to every Canadian aged 60 years or older, while the second proposed to alter the payment of old age security benefits. In the view of the Speaker, both motions appeared to propose the introduction of financial provisions exceeding the limits of the Royal Recommendation. Before ruling, the Speaker invited comments from Members.

Issue

Do the proposed motions in amendment infringe upon the financial initiative of the Crown?

Decision

Yes; consequently they are out of order.

Reasons given by the Speaker

Both motions in amendment go beyond the provisions of the Royal Recommendation, which defines the terms and conditions of the financial liabilities that may be proposed in the House.

Sources cited

Beauchesne, 4th ed., p. 207, e. 246(3).

References

Debates, December 17, 1970, pp. 2148-9.