Speaker’s Rulings — Debate—Reading of Speeches

Before I call the next order of business, I just want members, particularly those more recently elected members, to refer to Speaker’s ruling 47/1: “Where possible, members should not read speeches… However, no member, other than the Speaker, may interrupt a member who is speaking to suggest a breach of this convention, and the Speaker may allow speeches to be read in some circumstances. Such circumstances may relate to the technical nature of the material under discussion, or the relative experience of the member concerned.” I send a message particularly to newer members. Have your notes at all times if they help you, but you will make a substantially better contribution, particularly to a debate like a general debate, if you can refrain from actually reading your speeches.