What is the purpose of a subsidiary motion in parliamentary procedure?

A subsidiary motion serves to modify or impact the main motion currently under consideration in a parliamentary procedure. This type of motion is crucial because it enables members to refine the main motion by making adjustments, proposing changes, or adding specific elements. For example, if there is a motion on the floor to allocate funds for a project, a subsidiary motion might be made to increase or decrease the amount being proposed, effectively altering the original intention of the main motion.

This process of amending motions allows for more nuanced debate and ensures that members can present their perspectives effectively, aligning the final decision more closely with the group’s goals. By permitting this type of modification, parliamentary procedure encourages thorough consideration and democratic participation, allowing all members to weigh in on the matter at hand.

The other options reflect functions that do not pertain specifically to subsidiary motions. Introducing new business is a separate motion type, terminating debate relates to a different procedural action, and suspending rules involves temporarily bypassing established rules, rather than altering a main motion directly.