“One minute speeches” refers to a procedure that allows members of a legislative body, such as a parliament or congress, to speak briefly on a particular matter.
This is typically done when the body is considering a motion or bill, and members are given a short time to express their views on the issue.
One minute speeches are usually limited to a specific time period, often one minute, and are meant to provide an opportunity for members to quickly express their thoughts on a matter without taking up too much time.
These speeches are typically not formally part of the debate on the motion or bill, but rather are a way for members to voice their opinions informally.
One minute speeches are often used in parliamentary procedure, and are typically allowed at the beginning or end of a debate on a motion or bill.
In some cases, the chair of the legislative body may call for one minute speeches from specific members, or may allow any member who wishes to speak to do so.
During a one minute speech, a member will typically stand at their desk and speak for the allotted time period, addressing the chair and the rest of the body.
The member may use this time to make a brief argument in favor of or against the motion or bill, or to ask a question or raise a concern.
One minute speeches are not meant to be in-depth or comprehensive, and are not subject to the same rules of debate as longer speeches.
They are simply a way for members to quickly express their views on a matter before the body.
As noted in the CRS Report One Minute Speeches: Current Practices:
The usual position of one minutes at the start of day means they can be covered by broadcast news organizations in time for evening news programs …. Some Representatives have made one-minute speeches a regular part of their media and communication strategy.
In some cases, one minute speeches may be followed by longer speeches from selected members, or by a formal debate on the motion or bill.
For instance, House leaders can exercise the “magic minute” to deliver longer speeches.
However, the use of one minute speeches is generally a matter of custom and procedure, and may vary depending on the rules and traditions of the particular legislative body.
Examples of “one minute speeches” in a sentence.
- At the beginning of the debate, the chair called for one minute speeches from members on both sides of the issue.
- After several one minute speeches, the chair recognized the member from the finance committee for a longer speech on the economic impacts of the bill.
- As the debate came to a close, several members took advantage of the remaining time for one minute speeches to make their final arguments.