Speaker outlines new voting measures

Government motion on Proceedings during the Pandemic The Government tabled its motion on Proceedings during the Pandemic this morning.

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UK ParliamentUK Parliament
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http://www.parliament.uk/business/news/2020/june/speaker-outlines-new-voting-measures/http://www.parliament.uk/business/news/2020/june/speaker-outlines-new-voting-measures/
Retrieved on: 
Tuesday, June 2, 2020
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Westminster system, Parliamentary procedure, Political systems, Motion, Division of the assembly, Speaker of the House of Commons, Government, Political philosophy
Summary
Key Points: 
  • Government motion on Proceedings during the Pandemic The Government tabled its motion on Proceedings during the Pandemic this morning.
  • I believe it will be helpful for the House to come to separate decisions on virtual participation and then on the future method of voting.
  • Voting on the motion In advance of the final decision by the House on its future voting method, I have had to devise a voting system for the Government motion and amendments to it.
  • I attach a link to the guidance/ ( PDF 122 KB) for Members which explains how voting will work tomorrow: I urge all colleagues who will be present tomorrow to read the guidance before the first vote.
  • I also ask Members to be patient during this process, and in particular to observe the requirements of social distancing.
  • The resolution of 21 April only set out a framework of general principles which underpinned specific orders of the House.
  • 38 (Procedure on divisions): (a) If the opinion of the Speaker or the chair as to the decision on a question is challenged, the Speaker or the chair shall declare that a division shall be held.
  • (4) The Speaker or chair may limit the number of Members present in the Chamber at any one time and Standing Orders Nos.
  • 7 (Seats not to be taken before prayers) and 8 (Seats secured at prayers) shall not apply.
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