Parliament Simulation Third Reading Before beginning the session: Distribute Confidential Memos #22-26 and Memos #27-28 if there are absences

Agenda: Question Period Caucus meeting to discuss final amendments to proposed legislation Voting on the final version of each bill Question Period: It is likely that several members of the Governing party will cross the floor as scandals come to light. The Ministers who cross the floor must turn over their portfolios (if they have them) to either their junior minister, the PM or the deputy PM. They must then move to sit with the government. If they opt to sit as an independent, they will vote according to the information in their constituency profile. If they opt to join one of the other parties (Conservative or Socialist) they will vote with those parties. They should ignore any side deals they made while a Liberal. Caucus: Refer to this as an “emergency recess” in light of recent scandals. Chance for Liberals to reorganize (reassign a portfolio if necessary) Confirm that Opposition parties will still vote with them. Voting: Minister responsible for legislation reads out the final draft of the bill. Each member of the House must then rise and vote either in favour (yea) or against (nay). Continue until government is defeated or until all legislation is passed. At this point the Official Opposition may move for a vote of non-confidence. Depending on attendance and/or the support of the Socialists, this motion will either pass or fail and determine the winner of the scenario.

Debriefing Begin this immediately following Third Reading or wait for a subsequent class depending on timing of simulation wrapping up. Begin by asking if any questions about the workings of government remain.

Two Final Tasks: Reflection: Letter to Constituents: Complete the reflection worksheet. Use point form where bullet points are present and sentences everywhere else. Letter to Constituents: Write a formal letter to your constituents reporting on your performance in the most recent session of parliament. Explain how you worked to promote your community’s interests in regards to the proposed legislation. Justify any lack of success/action on any items of importance to your constituents. Letters should be typed and double-spaced and 1-1.5 pages in length. The formal letter should be a minimum of three paragraphs long and should include an appropriate greeting and sign off. Formal language must be employed. Students do not need to address every piece of legislation, but must address those identified as “PRO” in their constituency profiles. Letters should be typed and double spaced and no longer than 1.5 pages. If a whole class is dedicated to this activity, reflections are due by the end of class and letters are due the following class. If only a portion of the class is used for this purpose, reflections are due the following class and letters are due the class after that.