Section outline

  • In this final module we will look at how and when moving motions.  

    Remember that every Conference needs to be managed in an orderly way, allowing for debates, the moving of motions. Let us now look at how motions are moved.

    Moving a Motion:

    Each Local Council within each Division must move their respective Motions. A Motion is moved by a speaker, who must announce their name, local council and office they hold before speaking on the motion and dressing conference. The mover of the motion always speaks first and will be limited to a time constraint. It is not necessary to second motions included in a standing orders report which has been adopted by Conference. However, if you are supporting or opposing a motion, the same process is followed.

    Opposing a Motion:

    If someone opposes the motion, the mover of the motion can reply at the close of the debate. At Conference a motion can only be withdrawn by the proposer with the approval of Conference. Only a delegate, an Official or a member of Standing Orders can address Conference unless authorised by the NEC. Objections and concerns around motions submitted can be raised at the local councils. A point of Information can only be allowed by the President.

    If the President rises to call a member to order or for any purpose connected with the proceeding, the member speaking will resume their seat and no other member should rise unless the President resumes their seat.

    In certain circumstances, the President’s ruling can be challenged by not less than 10 delegates. In the event of this happening, the President normally vacates the Chair to the Vice President or an NEC member to allow the debate take place. 2/3rd of the delegates present must vote against the motion, otherwise the Presidents ruling stands.

    Voting

    Voting is normally done by a show of hands, however any delegate can demand an aggregate card vote in advance of the vote, but this proposal must be supported by a 3rd of the delegates and is carried out in line with the Unions rules.