An Act respecting the administration of oaths of office
Bill C-1 (An Act respecting the administration of oaths of office) is the ceremonial pro-forma bill introduced at the start of every Parliament. The text states only that the Speaker shall administer the oath of allegiance under section 128 of the Constitution Act, 1867. C-1 is never debated, never amended, and never proceeds past first reading. It exists to assert the House of Commons's independence: by introducing its own piece of legislation before turning to the government's Throne Speech, the Commons demonstrates that it sets its own agenda. The convention dates to the 1604 Standing Order in the British House of Commons.
Status
Quick learn
A ceremonial bill introduced at the start of every Parliament. It asserts the House's right to set its own agenda before turning to the government's Throne Speech. C-1 is never debated and never proceeds. It exists only to mark that independence.
Issues this bill touches
- Democratic Renewal & Electoral Reform
Pro forma session-opening bill.
Legislative history
- Introduced
Tabled in the originating chamber by the sponsor.
View source - First reading
First reading in the House of Commons.
View source - First reading
Bill formally introduced; printed text becomes available.
View source
Sponsored by
Mark CarneyLIBERALOfficial source
Read full text on Parliament of Canada