Mr. Speaker, on a point of order, I was here when the question and comment period was first brought into being. Although it may not be in the Standing Orders, my understanding is that the Chair is expected to recognize people from other parties who want to question the member. It is only when no one else is rising that people are entitled to softball questions from their own colleagues.
In the House of Commons on February 2nd, 2005. See this statement in context.