As the country is settling down to the “new normal” under the restrictions designed to halt the spread of the Coronavirus, the National Assembly for Wales has also changed how it works and a series of emergency provisions have been put in place so that essential business relating to COVID-19 can carry on.
For the immediate future, the full Plenary will be replaced by smaller “emergency Senedd” meetings which would include fewer Members. Political groups and independents will decide who attends.
If required, these meetings will be held on Tuesdays and include statements by the First Minister and a chance for opposition AMs to ask questions.
If the COVID-19 situation changes, steps have already been taken to allow the Assembly to adapt.
Standing Orders have been amended so that only 4 AMs are needed for votes at Plenary meetings to be valid and such meetings can also be held online through video conferencing.
And as previously announced, the Assembly has nominated an Acting Chair of Plenary meetings and designated Temporary Presiding Officer, who can act in the absence of the Llywydd and Deputy Presiding Officer.
The Assembly and Commission staff will continue to review the situation and respond to the latest guidance by Public Health Wales.
