Which motion is used to temporarily suspend the consideration of a pending question?

• A. Tabling motion
• B. Postpone indefinitely
• C. Adjournment
• D. Amendment

Answer: (A)

The motion used to temporarily suspend the consideration of a pending question is the tabling motion. This motion is designed to set aside the matter currently under discussion so that the assembly can focus on other business. When a tabling motion is adopted, the item being tabled can be brought back for consideration at a later date, making it a flexible and useful tool for managing the flow of discussion in a meeting.

In contrast, postponing indefinitely removes the item from consideration without the possibility of its immediate return, reflecting a more permanent decision. Adjournment simply ends the meeting and does not apply to any specific pending questions. An amendment, on the other hand, is used to modify the terms of a motion rather than suspend or set it aside. Thus, the tabling motion serves the purpose of temporarily halting a discussion, allowing for the efficient management of a meeting's agenda.