Historical Spanish legislative procedure 1876-1936

Abstract

This article describes the main features of the procedure for discussion and adoption of laws in the historic Spanish parliamentary system, with particular reference to two significant periods: the monarchical restoration 1876-1923, heavily influenced by the earlier practices, and the second Republic 1931-36. The aim is to elucidate how the procedure worked in reality, apart from the constitutional provisions and internal rules of procedure. For this purpose the ups and downs of various laws of both periods have been followed. Notwithstanding other important differences, these two periods offered a clear similarity, manifested in the easiness to introduce proposals and amendments and to have the floor during the debates. On the other hand, the political debate was focused on plenary sittings, during which the relevant committee played an important role. Main bills were discussed article by article and then voted in its entirety.