Plain-English definitions of the parliamentary terms you'll see on Parliament Audit.
Recorded DivisionA formal vote in Parliament where each member's individual vote (Yea, Nay, or Paired) is recorded by name. This is what Parliament Audit tracks.First ReadingThe introduction of a bill in Parliament. This is usually a formality — there is no debate or vote at first reading.Second ReadingThe first major debate on a bill. MPs debate the general principles of the bill. If it passes second reading, it goes to committee for detailed study.Committee StageA parliamentary committee studies the bill in detail, hears witnesses, and may propose amendments. The committee then reports the bill back to the House.Report StageAfter committee study, the full House considers any amendments proposed by the committee or by individual MPs. Multiple votes may occur at report stage.Third ReadingThe final vote on a bill in one chamber. If it passes, the bill is sent to the other chamber (Senate or House). Third reading votes are among the most significant.Royal AssentThe final step. After both the House and Senate pass a bill in identical form, the Governor General grants Royal Assent, and the bill becomes law.AmendmentA proposed change to the text of a bill or motion. Amendments must be voted on separately before the main question.Time AllocationA government motion that limits the amount of time for debate on a bill or motion. Often controversial, as opposition parties may view it as cutting off debate.ClosureA procedural motion that ends debate and forces an immediate vote. Similar to time allocation but more abrupt.Supply / AppropriationVotes that authorize government spending. Supply votes are traditionally considered matters of confidence — if the government loses one, it may trigger an election.Ways and MeansA motion that authorizes the government to introduce tax legislation. Must be passed before a tax bill can be introduced.Confidence VoteA vote where the government's ability to continue governing is at stake. Losing a confidence vote typically triggers an election or a change of government.PairedWhen two MPs from opposing sides agree not to vote, cancelling each other out. This allows MPs to miss a vote without affecting the outcome.Private Member's BillA bill introduced by an MP who is not a cabinet minister. These bills have limited debate time and a lower chance of becoming law, but some do pass.Concurrence MotionA motion asking the House to agree with (concur in) a committee report or an action taken by the Senate.HansardThe official transcript of everything said in Parliament. Named after the British printer Thomas Hansard.JournalsThe official record of decisions and proceedings of the House of Commons (similar to meeting minutes).SittingA single day's session of Parliament. Multiple votes can occur in a single sitting.SessionThe period from the opening of Parliament (usually with a Throne Speech) until prorogation or dissolution. A parliament can have multiple sessions.ParliamentThe period from one general election to the next dissolution. We are currently in the 45th Parliament of Canada.