154  Communicating a resolution

A motion may be moved at any time, without notice, that any resolution of the Senate be communicated by message to the House of Representatives.

Amendment history

Adopted: 19 August 1903 as SO 326 but renumbered as SO 322 for the first printed edition

1989 revision: Old SO 336 renumbered as SO 154; expression streamlined

Commentary

Outgoing messages are registered in a book kept in the chamber

Based on NSW Legislative Assembly standing order 226, SO 154 reflects the idea that the ability to initiate communication with the other House should be unrestricted by the usual requirement for notice. There are also no restrictions on when or by whom a motion may be moved.

Some resolutions may include the despatch of a message to the House within their terms. In other cases, such as in relation to the composition of joint committees, the requirement for a message is inherent in the nature of bicameralism which presupposes certain courtesies of communication. Thus when the Senate discharges or appoints a member of a joint committee, a message is automatically sent to the House.