Constitutional implications for Parliament of COVID-19 – evidence session
The House of Lords Constitution Committee will hear from two leading Peers and other experts tomorrow (Wednesday 24 June from 10.15 a.m.) as it continues to explore the constitutional implications of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The committee will hear from:
At 10:15 am
Baroness Smith of Basildon, Shadow Leader of the House of Lords
Lord Newby, Leader of Liberal Democrat Peers
Possible questions and topics of discussion include:
- How well has the House of Lords adapted to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic?
- What are the benefits, drawbacks and challenges of virtual proceedings for the House of Lords?
- How effectively has the Government engaged with Parliament during the pandemic?
- What aspects of virtual or hybrid proceedings should be retained after the end of social distancing?
At 11:00 am
Dr Hannah White, Deputy Director, Institute for Government
Sir David Natzler, Former Clerk, House of Commons
Professor Meg Russell, Director, Constitution Unit
Possible questions and topics of discussion include:
- How well has Parliament responded to the challenges of COVID-19 in terms of how it operates?
- What should Parliament prioritise during such a crisis?
- What does Parliament need to do to operate – and be seen to operate – effectively in the short-term?
- What questions does the pandemic pose for Parliamentary ways of working in the longer term?
- The session will be broadcast live on Parliament TV.
