Rules of Debate / Miscellaneous

Reading from a newspaper

Debates pp. 2589-90

Background

During discussion of a question of privilege [Munsinger case] relating to the account in certain newspapers of statements made by the Minister of Justice, Mr. Caouette (Villeneuve) proposed to read a newspaper article. Mr. Nielsen (Yukon) rose on a point of order to object to this action. After hearing Members' comments, the Deputy Speaker ruled.

Issue

Is it permissible to read in the House an extract from a newspaper article criticizing commenting on or denying what has been said in the House?

Decision

No; it is out of order.

Reasons given by the Deputy Speaker

A Member "would not be in order in reading statements of other people ... which he would not make on his own responsibility in the House". Further, the authorities and precedents are clear that "it is not in order to read articles in newspapers, letters or communications emanating from persons outside the House and referring to, commenting on, or denying anything said by a Member, or expressing any opinion reflecting on proceedings in the House".

Sources cited

Beauchesne, 4th ed., pp. 132-3, c. 157(3), (5) and (6).

References

Debates, March 11, 1966, pp. 2588-9.