Virtual House of Commons: End of week one

The House of Commons is not exempt from this, and, at the end of a historic week it is time to take a step back and note the procedural and technological changes that have occurred and look ahead to those around the corner.

Hybrid proceedings

• The motion allows for the introduction of so-called hybrid proceedings, giving MPs the chance to participate either in person or remotely, using Zoom.
• To maintain continuity and tradition, however, the symbolic and historic Mace is still placed on the table whenever the House is sitting and a socially distanced Speakers processing still takes place.
• A maximum of 120 MPs at any one time may take part in virtual proceedings, using Zoom to join proceedings from their home.
• Prime Ministers Questions featuring First Secretary Rt Hon Dominic Raab and newly elected Leader of the Opposition Sir Keir Starmer MP also took place using hybrid proceedings, as did the ministerial statement on Covid19 from the Health Secretary Matt Hancock MP.

Broadcasting, digital and procedural innovation

• The work could not have been done without the hard work, expertise and innovation of the Parliamentary Broadcasting Unit, the Parliamentary Digital Service and colleagues from across the House service, including procedural experts, Speakers Office Hansard and not forgetting the facilities team who have adapted the Chamber.
• The procedural and technological changes in the Chamber built on the work done by the Select Committee teams, with more committee hearings taking place during recess than ever before.
• In the coming week the House is expecting to support 17 select committee evidence sessions.

Next steps and remote voting

• Following the successful introduction of hybrid proceedings, MPs approved a motion to extend this to further House business, including legislation.
• This will allow MPs to debate key legislative business, including the Finance Bill, Domestic Abuse Bill and the Fire Safety Bill.
• Crucially, MPs have also approved a motion to bring in remote voting.
• Rigorous testing is currently taking place and guidance is being given to MPs on how to use the system.

Democracy continues