Who can withdraw a motion once it has been made?

The correct answer is that the member who made the motion has the authority to withdraw it. This principle is rooted in parliamentary procedure, where the individual who proposed the motion retains the right to retract it before it is voted upon. The ability to withdraw a motion is based on the idea that the proposer has the best understanding of the intent and purpose of their motion.

When a motion is made, it is a formal proposal for discussion and consideration by the group. However, circumstances may change, or the member may reconsider their stance. In such cases, allowing only the member who made the motion to withdraw it ensures that there is clarity and control over the proposals being discussed. This prevents confusion and maintains order in the meeting.

In contrast, allowing any member or a majority of members to withdraw a motion would complicate the rules of order and could lead to disagreements and disorder within the meeting. The presiding officer's role is to facilitate the discussion and ensure that procedures are followed, but they do not have the authority to withdraw motions made by other members.