Introduction and First Reading of Bills / Subject Matter Improper for a Public Bill

Subject matter improper for a public bill

Journals pp. 795-6

Debates p. 8481

Background

On October 17, Mr. Leggatt (New Westminster) tried to introduce a bill entitled An Act for the parole of Dr. Henry Morgentaler. The Chair expressed some reservations about allowing the bill to be introduced under a proceeding reserved for public bills (Routine Proceedings — Introduction of Bills) and recommended that it be presented as a private Member's private bill.

Issue

Can a bill of personal exemption to a general law be considered a public bill?

Decision

No.

Reasons given by the Speaker

Considering the purpose of the bill, it is clear that this is not the proper subject matter of a public law nor an alteration of the general law. It is an alteration or exception for one person of the application of the law, and is, thus, the subject matter of a private Member's private bill.

Authority cited

Beauchesne, 4th ed., p. 337. cc. 459-60.

References

Debates, October 17, 1975, pp. 8304-5; October 23, 1975, p. 8480.