Which of the following is a valid example of a subsidiary motion that the Previous Question can affect?

• A. Postpone Definitely
• B. Commit or Refer
• C. Recess
• D. Amend

Answer: (D)

The main idea being tested is how the Previous Question works as a subsidiary motion. When you call the Previous Question and it is adopted, the assembly ends debate on the motion currently under consideration and on any amendments that have been properly moved, and it moves straight to a vote on the main motion and those pending amendments. That’s why an amendment fits the scenario: it is a motion that alters the main motion and remains part of the same question while under debate. The Previous Question effectively cuts off further discussion on that amendment and requires a vote on it along with the main motion.

Recess, by contrast, is a separate, privileged motion to interrupt business for a time and isn’t treated as part of the main question’s debate in the same way. Postpone Definitely is another way to delay action, but it’s a distinct path rather than a modification to the main motion, so it isn’t the best example of the kind of subsidiary motion the Previous Question would affect. Commit or Refer also follows its own route to sending the motion to a committee, which isn’t the direct amendment that the Previous Question would typically end debate on.