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As using a casting vote affects decisions in the House, it is important for the Speaker to exercise a casting vote appropriately.
| Precedents developed over time. Neither the Constitution Act 1975 or the standing orders give any guidance as to how a casting vote should be used. Three broad principles have emerged, which are usually followed by Speakers of the Assembly. | |
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The Speaker votes to allow further discussion where possible. |
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Where no further discussion is possible, decisions should not be taken except by a majority. For example, the third reading stage is the last opportunity for the House to consider a bill. A casting vote following this principle would be a vote against the third reading, rather than a decision to pass the bill. |
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A casting vote on an amendment to a bill should be against the amendment, ie, to leave the bill in its existing form: see Fact Sheet 17 - Amendments to Bills - A Practical Guide. |
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