Page:Robert's Parliamentary Practice.djvu/157



The ordinary method of voting is by voice, or viva voce as it is called, described on page lo. In some organizations the vote is taken by "show of hands." The chair in this case says, "As many as are in favor of the motion will hold up their right hands. Down. Those opposed will signify it in the same way [or, will hold up their right hands]. The affirmative has it, and the motion is adopted." The affirmative vote is always taken first.

Another method of voting is by rising. The chair puts the question in a similar way, replacing "hold up their right hands" by the word "rise," and replacing the word "Down" by "Be seated." This method is used whenever a "Division" is called for, and whenever there is difficulty in deciding from the sound which side has won.

These formal methods of voting are frequently avoided and much time saved by asking for "General Consent." When a member wishes to have something done that he thinks all will agree to, he obtains the floor, states what he desires to have done, and asks Rh