Resolutions
Declarations of Opinion, Statutes & Substantive Intent
PART I — BY ORIGIN
THE BACKBENCHER
Private Member's Resolution
- Moved by a **Private Member** (an MP who is not a minister).
- Discussed only on **alternate Fridays** and in the afternoon sitting.
- If a private member's resolution is not adopted, it simply lapses without threatening the government's survival.
THE EXECUTIVE INITIATIVE
Government Resolution
- Moved by a **Minister**.
- Can be taken up on any day from **Monday to Thursday**.
- Represents the official stance or policy of the ruling government. Defeat of a crucial government resolution indicates a loss of majority support.
PART II — BY NATURE
INDEPENDENT PROPOSAL
Substantive Resolution
INDEPENDENT
- A self-contained, independent proposal drafted to express the decision or opinion of the House.
- It does not depend on any other motion or previous proceeding.
- *Note: All resolutions are a specific type of Substantive Motion. Every resolution must be voted upon (unlike general motions which may just be discussed).*
DERIVED AUTHORITY
Statutory Resolution
- Can be moved by either a **private member or a minister**.
- It is always tabled in pursuance of a **provision in the Constitution** or an **Act of Parliament**.
- *Example:* A resolution to approve the President's Rule under Article 356, or to remove the Vice-President.
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