hestitate v.i. Show, speak with, indecision
unmistakable that cannot be mistaken or doubted, clear
Applying the above dictionary definitions to "unmistakable hesitation" as used in Law 16B1(a) suggests a different situation from one in which a player simply takes time to consider his options, perhaps in a complex or unusual auction, before taking decisive action, even if that action is to pass.
For there to be a potential problem there needs to be a call or play that the unmistakably hesitation could be suggesting eg a slow penalty double that could suggest bidding or a protracted choice of lead that could suggest honours in other suits.
Unmistakable hesitations place constraints upon partner. Partner may not choose from among logical alternatives an action that could demonstrably have been suggested over another by the unmistakable hesitation. (Demonstrable: capable of being shown or logically proved)
When needing to determine whether extraneous information may have been used (because an advantage may have been obtained) the Director will consider what the majority of players of the same standard would call or play in an even tempo auction or play period using the same methods as the partnership in question. Usually the director will survey a number of players.
Jan Peach
QBA Director Accreditation
Article Posted: August 19, 2009