ROBERT'S BOOK aka ROBERTS RULES OF ORDER

I came across the term "Roberts Book of Rules” (can’t remember where) and I said to myself “Hold on… I know that term!” but couldn’t bring it to mind.  I looked it up, as one does these days on Google, and, indeed, it is something I learned at school namely, it is the book of rules for parliamentary procedure.

"Robert's Rules of Order" is the name of the standard manual for parliamentary procedure, ensuring meetings are conducted smoothly, fairly, and efficiently. Originally written by General Henry M. Robert in 1876, the book provides a guide to conducting meetings, the duties of officers, and the proper way to handle motions and debate.” [|Widipedia]

"The book is about procedures for meetings and not about what is "legal" (i.e. it is not a law book)."  

Now I drink coffee regularly with Iain’s classmates from school (Lenzie Academy).  They are all professional people.  They had never heard of this; they had certainly never learned anything like this at school.  My recollection is that we spent quite a bit of time on this topic at school.  And I also recall that if there ever was a problem in a meeting one could interrupt proceedings stating  “Get the Roberts Book so we can sort this out!”

Somehow I assumed it was British.  I suppose I thought of the UK parliament and that there must be a manual on how to conduct a meeting.  Well it is American.  A military man Henry Roberts put it together in 1876 after attending meetings which were disorderly.  In the UK the House of Parliament meetings are still disorderly, well... at least... noisy in the chamber!  I think it's fair to conclude they have never heard of the 'Robert's Book'!   

It is still on the go; now in its 12th edition (2020).