"Madam Speaker, I would like to raise a point of order and seek your clarification on an issue.
Earlier, before the finance minister spoke, the member for Sherwood Park—Fort Saskatchewan was called out for wearing a button that was deemed to be a prop. Madam Speaker, you intervened immediately, advised members that they are not to violate the House order in that respect and outlined the consequences if they do not follow the rules. However, I was confused about the procedure.
Earlier in the day during Statements by Members, the member for Battle River—Crowfoot was making a statement in the House. It was noted that he was sporting a flag that was also deemed to be a prop. The Speaker at the time allowed the member to finish his statement before advising him that he should not be violating the House rules by wearing what is a political statement.
I am not clear on what the rules and procedures are, and I wonder if the Speaker could provide clarity for me. When members are called out or someone has noted that they are violating the rules with buttons and such, should they be stopped immediately and not be allowed to proceed until they remove a political button, or can they wait until they have finished their speeches? I would love to get the Speaker's clarity on that, just to make sure that every member of the House knows what the rules are and follows them accordingly."
The Assistant Deputy Speaker Carol Hughes (NDP)
"I will certainly consider all of the information the hon. member has put before the House. I was not in the chair during Statements by Members. The Speaker who was here ruled on that, but we need to make it very clear that unless an item has been approved by the House, such as an item for the Moose Hide Campaign or the White Ribbon campaign that we wear in the House, no buttons or props should be used in the House.
I remind members that if they want to wear some type of button or ribbon, they should discuss it with others as well, but the issue will be addressed during the Speakers' meetings.
Resuming debate, the hon. member for Abbotsford."
