Ruling
June 7, 1972
Subject-matter beyond jurisdiction of Parliament
Hon. Lucien Lamoureux
Speaker of the House
Ruling Text
Although the right to petition the House of Commons is fundamental, there is a precedent to the effect that the House will not receive a petition dealing with a matter that falls within the jurisdiction assigned to another body. The petition filed by the Member is more in the nature of a remonstrance or a grievance than a petition, and should not replace other, probably more effective remedies. It also includes statements that are charges of a very strong character against a Minister and a senior departmental official, and for all these reasons, the document is not a petition that meets the requirements of the practices and usages of the House of Commons.
Edit Metadata
Holding
"The petition is inadmissible as it addresses matters outside the jurisdiction of the House, is framed as a grievance, and contains improper charges against a Minister and an official."
AI Summary
The Speaker ruled a petition inadmissible because it was outside the House's jurisdiction and contained improper charges.
AI Analysis
- Outcome
- Denied
- Tone
- Neutral
- Procedural Stage
- Routine Proceedings
- Significance
Low
High