Why must debate be confined to the merits of the pending question?

Debate must be confined to the merits of the pending question to ensure order and relevance within the discussions taking place. When debates focus specifically on the issue at hand, it maintains a structured environment that allows participants to engage constructively and efficiently. This focus prevents discussions from straying into unrelated topics, which could dilute the importance of the matter being debated and result in misunderstandings among members. By concentrating on the merits of the question, all arguments can be evaluated based on their relevance to the specific issue, making it easier for members to assess the situation clearly and make informed votes. This structured approach not only enhances the quality of the debate but also promotes a more orderly decision-making process.