A vote by Members of Parliament in which they indicate their preference for or against a particular proposal. Voting is structured through a process of giving, proposing, debating, amending and deciding motions before the Speaker “puts the question” and the House decides on a result. Mechanisms such as closure and time allocation limit debate duration, ensuring that decisions are made promptly.
The first step in the process of adopting a bill. It follows the granting of leave to introduce a bill (except for bills originating in the Senate which do not require presentation) and is deemed to have been carried without a division.
The deciding vote accorded to the Speaker (or, in committee, to the chair) in the event of a tie. The Speaker or chair votes only to avoid a deadlock; traditionally, they vote in such a way as to maintain the status quo.