Special Debates / Emergency Debates
Leave refused: gasoline prices; debate held by unanimous consent
Debates, pp. 8023-4
Context
On September 26, 2005, Randy White (Abbotsford) rose in the House to request that an emergency debate be held, pursuant to Standing Order 52, on the fluctuations and unpredictability of gasoline prices. Mr. White argued that recent price increases had affected the costs of goods, transportation and home heating. He maintained that the debate was necessary to provide Canadians with information on a number of related issues, including who was profiting from the price increases and what the role of the House of Commons should be in this regard. Paul Crête (Montmagny–L’Islet–Kamouraska–Rivière-du-Loup) then spoke in support of Mr. White’s request.
Resolution
The Speaker ruled immediately that, while the matter was one of some interest, it did not appear to meet the exigencies of the Standing Order and that he would not, therefore, grant leave for an emergency debate.
Decision of the Chair
The Speaker: The Chair has considered this matter, and while I am sure the matter is of some interest, whether it is a matter that meets the exigencies of the Standing Order at this time the Chair has some doubts. Accordingly, I am inclined to disallow the application at this time.
Postscript
Immediately after the Speaker had delivered his ruling, Mr. Crête sought the unanimous consent of the House for a motion that an emergency debate on gasoline prices be held that evening in accordance with the provisions of Standing Order 52. Consent was given and the debate took place later that day.