Statements by Members / Application of Rule

Parliamentary Secretaries permitted to make statements

Debates p. 4003

Background

During Statements by Members, Mr. Speaker recognized Mr. Gingras (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development). Mr. Hnatyshyn (Saskatoon West) pointed out that Mr. Gingras was a Parliamentary Secretary implying he should not be allowed to make a statement. After Mr. Gingras' time had expired the Speaker interrupted and made a short statement.

Issue

Is a Parliamentary Secretary permitted to make a statement under Standing Order 21?

Decision

Yes. A Parliamentary Secretary can make declarations under Standing Order 21.

Reasons given by the Speaker

The rules are quite clear that Parliamentary Secretaries can make declarations under Standing Order 21; when the Standing Order was adopted this was explicitly stated.