Which motion can be made to stop debate on a main motion?

Stopping debate on a main motion is achieved through a specific parliamentary procedure, which in this case is the "Previous Question." This motion is used to bring the assembly back to a focus on the main motion by ending discussion. When a member makes a motion for the Previous Question, they are essentially requesting that the assembly proceed directly to a vote on the issue at hand, thereby halting any further debate.

Using the Previous Question is a standard practice in Robert’s Rules of Order, which governs the conduct of meetings. This motion requires a second and must be adopted by a majority vote. Once passed, the assembly can move forward to vote on the main motion being debated.

Other options, such as a motion to amend, motion to reaffirm, and motion to refer, serve different purposes within meeting procedures. A motion to amend is intended to modify the main motion without halting debate. A motion to reaffirm seeks to restate support for a previously adopted motion, while a motion to refer aims to send a matter to a committee for further consideration, which also does not stop current debate but rather postpones decision-making. Therefore, using the Previous Question is the appropriate and effective method to stop debate on a main motion.