Question

Difficulty: EasyLegislative Functions, Law-Making Process, and Controls

During the formal passage of a legislative bill, at which stage are its general principles, core policy aims, and overall merits debated by lawmakers?

  1. Second ReadingAnswer
  2. B
    First Reading
  3. C
    Committee Stage
  4. D
    Third Reading

Answer

The stage at which the general principles and overall merits of a bill are debated is the Second Reading.
During the Second Reading stage, members of the legislature discuss the fundamental objectives, benefits, and overall principles of the bill. If approved by a majority vote at this stage, the bill advances to a specialized committee for detailed examination.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the purpose of each stage in the statutory law-making process.
The First Reading formally introduces the title; the Second Reading opens the floor for debate on general principles; the Committee Stage examines individual clauses; and the Third Reading provides final voting.
Legislative procedure requires broad agreement on policy principles during the Second Reading before committing time to detailed clause-by-clause drafting.

Key Concept

Stages of Law-Making Process in Parliament/Legislature
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