Robert’s Rules of Order Revised > Subject Index > Page 233

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Henry M. Robert (1837–1923). Robert’s Rules of Order Revised. 1915.

Page 233

that of the assembly [64]. If the committee finds itself without a quorum, it can only rise and report the fact to the assembly, which in such case must adjourn.

In large assemblies, such as the U. S. House of Representatives, where a member can speak to any question only once, the committee of the whole seems almost a necessity, as it allows the freest discussion of a subject, while at any time it can rise and thus bring into force the strict rules of the assembly. In small assemblies it is usually more convenient to substitute for it either the “Quasi (as if in) Committee of the Whole,” as used in the U. S. Senate, or “Informal Consideration,” as frequently used in ordinary societies. These are explained in the next two sections.

56. As if in (or Quasi) Committee of the Whole

is used in the U. S. Senate instead of the committee of the whole, and is more convenient in small assemblies. The motion should be made in a form similar to this: “I move that the resolution be considered as if in committee of the whole.” This being adopted, the question is open to debate and amendment with all the freedom of the committee of the whole. The presiding officer, however, retains the chair, instead of appointing a chairman as is done when the assembly goes into committee of the whole. If any motion is adopted, except an amendment, it puts an end to the quasi committee of the whole. Thus, the motion to

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