What does Roberts Rules of Order say about “Decorum in Debate?
” Robert’s Rules of Order are designed to promote debate in a smooth and orderly manner. They specifically provide that “when a question is pending, a member can condemn the nature or likely consequences of the proposed measure in strong terms, but [s/he] must avoid personalities and under no circumstances can [s/he] attack or question the motives of another member. The measure, not the member, is the subject of debate.”Robert’s further provides that the chair normally should first warn the member who isn’t abiding by these rules, but with or without such warning, the chair or any other member can “call the member to order.” Sometimes it’s hard to believe, but when used properly and in good faith, red card points can actually improve the flow of the proceedings instead of bringing them to a grinding halt. May the process be with you.
