If three motions are pending and you want to stop debate on all of them, what form would you use?

• A. I move to end debate on all pending questions
• B. I move to suspend the rules on all pending motions
• C. I move the Previous Question on all pending questions
• D. I call for a vote on all pending motions

Answer: (C)

The move to end debate and move straight to voting on pending matters is accomplished with the Previous Question. When you state I move the Previous Question on all pending questions, you’re instructing the assembly to stop discussions on every motion currently before them and proceed to a vote on each one in turn. This is exactly what you want when you’re aiming to conclude debate across multiple items and move quickly to decisions.

Think of it as saying, let’s close the floor on all open questions and get to the ballots. It’s a standard tool for expediting business, and it applies to all current motions, not just the one you’re addressing. In practice, this motion needs a second and is decided by the group, typically requiring a two-thirds vote to adopt, after which voting on each pending motion follows.

The other options don’t achieve that broad, debate-ending effect. Suspending the rules can bypass certain procedural restrictions but doesn’t automatically end debate on all pending questions. Calling for a vote on all pending motions skips the formal step of closing debate and moving into the voting process. The specific form to stop debate on everything currently under consideration is the Previous Question on all pending questions.