What is the purpose of the motion 'call for the question' (end debate)?

• A. To halt debate and proceed to a vote on the pending motion
• B. To reopen debate
• C. To refer to committee
• D. To postpone

Answer: (A)

Ending debate and moving to a vote on the current motion is what calling for the question does. When someone makes this motion, the group is signaling that discussion should stop and the assembly should immediately vote on the motion that is currently on the floor, along with any pending amendments that have already been considered. It’s a procedural lever to prevent further argument and hasten decision.

This is why the choice that describes halting discussion and proceeding to a vote matches best. It’s not about reopening discussion, sending the matter to a committee, or postponing the decision—those are different motions with other purposes. In practice, calling for the question often requires a second and then a vote; if the motion to end debate passes (often by a two-thirds vote, depending on rules), the chair immediately puts the main motion to a vote.