Mr. Chair, this is fun and procedurally nerdy for me. The motion that was brought forward did not specify a deadline for the committee to conclude the business. The motion adopted by this committee specifically states, “And immediately following the conclusion of the testimony, that the committee devote one hour of business to determining the action it intends to take on this meeting, and that the questions raised be put to the vote before the meeting is adjourned.”
This motion gives us an hour to discuss the action we intend to take. It does not impose a deadline on these discussions. It simply states that we cannot adjourn until any questions raised have been put to a vote.
Standing Order 116 clearly states:
Standing Orders apply generally.
(1) In a standing, special or legislative committee, the Standing Orders shall apply so far as may be applicable, except the standing orders as to the election of a Speaker, seconding of motions, limiting the number of times of speaking and the length of speeches.
End of debate.
(2)(a) Unless a time limit has been adopted by the committee or by the House, the Chair of a standing, special or legislative committee may not bring a debate to an end while there are members present who still wish to participate. A decision of the Chair in this regard may not be subject to an appeal to the committee.
I just wanted to bring that to your attention and to note that.