Ruling
May 29, 1973
Unparliamentary language
Hon. Lucien Lamoureux
Speaker of the House
Ruling Text
It is "difficult to agree with the proposition that so-called unparliamentary language would be irregular when it refers to the conduct or statements of Members inside the House, but that the same so-called unparliamentary language would be acceptable when relating to events outside the Chamber". The Standing Orders stipulate that no Member shall use offensive words against either House or against any Member. "It should be possible for Members to express strong views and to oppose other Members vigorously without using offensive expressions which by long-established practice and tradition and by the common consent of Members, are not acceptable in debate... If Members believe that the rules relating to the use of so-called unparliamentary language [are no longer relevant]... it is up to the Members themselves to make these changes."
Edit Metadata
Holding
"The prohibition on using offensive or unparliamentary language against another Member applies equally to their conduct and statements made both inside and outside the House of Commons."
AI Summary
The Speaker rules that the prohibition on unparliamentary language applies equally to a Member's conduct and statements made both inside and outside the House.
AI Analysis
- Outcome
- Other
- Tone
- Educational
- Procedural Stage
- Not specified
- Significance
Low
High