5. A motion to amend may be amended. It is not superseded by the previous question, or a motion for indefinite postponement, but is by a motion to postpone till a time certain, or to commit.
It is very important that the order of these secondary questions be carefully observed, as there may be many of them pending at once.
DEBATE.
Debate in a society organized for the purpose of discussion, and in a deliberative body are quite different. In the former reply is expected, and may be bandied back and forth several times. In the latter the object is supposed to be giving information, and each member is limited to one speech, unless special permission is received to speak again. The chair must not take part in debates.
1. When a member wishes to speak, he obtains the floor in the same manner as if to offer a motion. The mover of a resolution is usually allowed the floor first, but this is a matter of courtesy rather than right.
2. When a speaker gives up the floor for any purpose, he loses his right to it, though as a favor he is often allowed to continue his speech.
3. No names are to be used in debate, but when it becomes necessary to designate an individual, some description may be used, as, the gentleman on the right, etc.
4. Every member must stand, when speaking, unless sick or disabled.
5. Motions to adjourn, to lay on the table, for the previous question, or the order of the day cannot be debated.
6. No member shall use abusive language against any of the acts of the assembly, or indulge in personal denunciations of other members. Wrong motives must not be attributed to any one. If a speaker digresses widely from the subject, and appears to misunderstand its nature, he may be called to order.