Conservative MP Dan Albas on that "freedom of speech" issue

In his most recent report to his constituents, first-term Conservative MP Dan Albas writes,

…contrary to what you may have heard in the media, Parliamentary practice is clear in recognizing that Whips of arespective party have long been involved in the process of determining the speaking order during Members Statements. Much of this current debate is in questioning to what extent a whip should and by extension a party be involved in what individual Members of Parliament can or cannot say within the House of Commons. This is largely the more important subject and one that I would like to address in my report today.

Read the rest of what he had to say on this issue here (it’s interesting) MP Report –  Dan Albas MP, Okanagan- Coquihalla.

The evolution of the SO31: From happy thoughts to political mud fights

Before every Question Period in the House of Commons, there is a 15-minute period where MPs are allowed to rise and deliver a one-minute “Member’s Statement” on just about any subject they want. These “Members’ Statements” are provided for under Standing Order 31 of the House of Common procedural rules. So, you’ll often hear an MP say, “I’m giving an ess-oh-thirty-one (SO31) today …” In Parliament Hill shorthand, SO31 is used a noun to refer to these one-minute-long member’s statements. 

Continue reading The evolution of the SO31: From happy thoughts to political mud fights