Which order is correct when the Previous Question is ordered on a Main Motion, Postpone Definitely, and an Amendment?

• A. Amendment, Postpone Definitely, Main
• B. Main, Amendment, Postpone Definitely
• C. Postpone Definitely, Amendment, Main
• D. Amendment, Main, Postpone Definitely

Answer: (A)

When the Previous Question is ordered on multiple related motions, it ends debate on all of them and then they’re disposed of in a fixed order. The correct sequence is to first vote on the amendment to the main motion, then on the motion to postpone the matter, and only after those decisions is the main motion itself voted on. This order reflects the subordinate role of amendments to the main motion: you determine whether the amendment should stand or be rejected before deciding whether to delay action and before ultimately voting on the main motion as it would stand if the amendment is adopted or rejected. If the amendment is adopted, it alters what you’ll vote on for the main motion; if it’s rejected, you still decide whether to postpone and then proceed to the main motion as originally drafted.