Ethics and Helpful Hints  - Helpful Hints - (2) April 2011

QUESTION ASKING

When may I ask a question?

A player may ask for the meaning of a call:

A  at any time when it is his/her turn to call during the auction

B  before selecting the opening lead if on lead

C  after the opening lead is face down if partner is on lead

D  before the opening lead is faced if he is declarer

E  at his/her turn to play if she/he is declarer or a defender

Declarer may ask about the Defenders card play agreements

A  before the opening lead is faced

B at her/his turn to play throughout the play of the hand

IT IS REQUIRED THAT THE OPENING LEAD BE MADE FACE DOWN

Consequences of asking questions

A player who asks concerning a call which was not alerted and then passes has shown an interest which may well restrict her/his partners subsequent choice of action.   Although an ALERT reduces the likelihood that a question would appear to show interest the possibility is not excluded.

Every player should recognise that, where the answer to a question will not affect her/his immediate action, you are advised to defer your enquiry until the auction has concluded. 

Also if partner is on lead you should wait until your partner has made the opening lead facedown.

Please note you should make your face down lead THEN write the Contract on your card.

MADELINE LAWSON

Chief Director