There are currently 17 definitions in this directory beginning with the letter M.
Mace
A large, heavy and richly-ornamented staff which is the symbol of authority of the House. When the Speaker/President of the Senate takes the Chair, the Marshal of the Parliament places the Mace on the Table to signify the House is in session.
maiden speech
The first speech made in the House by a new Member. By tradition, the Speaker/President of the Senate recognizes a Member rising to make such a speech in preference to others, and the Member may read from notes on this occasion.
main motion
The principal question before the House or a committee. A proposed modification to it, or an attempt to supersede it, is considered a subsidiary or secondary motion.
Compare: subsidiary motion.
majority government
A government formed by the party or the coalition of parties holding the majority of seats in the House.
Compare: minority government.
mandatory instruction
An instruction which directs the work of a committee in an express and precise manner. The committee is obliged to follow a mandatory instruction from the House.
marginal note
A short explanatory note inscribed in the margin of a bill to serve as a title for each paragraph. Marginal notes are not officially part of a bill and cannot be amended by motion, though they may be changed by the Chief Parliamentary Counsel if amendments to the clause require it.
message
A formal communication between the House and the Senate that accompanies bills or conveys a request. The President may also communicate with the Parliament or either House by message.
ministerial responsibility
The principle that ministers are responsible to Parliament for their actions and those of their departmental officials.
money Bill
A Bill which contains provisions dealing with matters such as the imposition or regulation of taxation, the imposition or variation of charges on the Consolidated Fund or any public fund, grant of money to the Government, appropriation and investment of public money, and the raising or guarantee of any loan.
motion
A proposal moved by a Member, for the House to do something, or order something done or express an opinion with regard to some matter. In order to be placed before the House for consideration, a motion by a private member must be duly moved and seconded. No seconder is required for government motions. Once adopted, a motion becomes an order or a resolution of the House.
mover
A Member presenting a motion in the House or in committee. When debate is permitted, the mover speaks immediately following the proposing of the question to the House.