What does it mean when a member of an assembly calls for the previous question?

When a member of an assembly calls for the previous question, it signifies a motion to end the current debate on a particular issue and move directly to voting on that issue. This action is intended to prevent prolonged discussion and is often used when members feel that enough debate has occurred or when the conversation has become repetitive.

By invoking the previous question, the assembly can streamline the decision-making process and maintain a more focused agenda. This is particularly relevant in larger meetings where lengthy debates can detract from time-sensitive decisions. The correct interpretation aligns with standard parliamentary procedure, where members can expedite the decision-making process when it is deemed appropriate.

The options that suggest postponing discussion or changing the agenda do not accurately reflect the purpose of calling for the previous question since such actions involve delaying or altering the current focus rather than concluding it. Similarly, a request for a vote without debate is related but does not encapsulate the procedural nature of the motion, which explicitly includes concluding debate before proceeding to vote.