What is a parliamentary inquiry?

• A. A member asks the chair how a rule applies to a situation or what the procedure is
• B. A motion to adjourn
• C. A motion to lay on the table
• D. A motion to postpone

Answer: (A)

A parliamentary inquiry is when a member asks the presiding officer how a rule applies to a specific situation or what the correct procedure is. It’s a request for information about the rules or how to proceed, not a proposal to take action. The chair answers using the organization’s parliamentary authority, helping everyone stay on the proper track and avoid procedural mistakes. It’s not a motion, so it isn’t debated and doesn’t require a vote. In contrast, the other options describe motions that end, delay, or otherwise affect the agenda, which is why they don’t match the idea of an inquiry for rule interpretation or procedural guidance.