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Previous Question

1. When any question is before the association, any member may move that the main question be put; and this is termed moving the previous question. If the motion pass in the affirmative, the main question is put immediately, and no further debate is allowed upon the matter at issue. 2. This is frequently styled "the gag law," because its adoption cuts off all debate. When a subject in the judgment of the majority has been exhausted, or when personalities have been introduced, and disorders are threatened, it is a very proper and wise thing; but it should not generally be brought to bear so long as members who desire to speak are unheard.