Parliaments are faced with sometimes conflicting imperatives during a crisis: they must make rapid but well-thought-out decisions including on emergency powers; ensure continuity of constitutional governance and a balance of powers in the face of crisis; protect their own staff and visitors from health risks such as social distancing; and set an example by observing broader public health requirements like work stoppages. This is the context for a new report published by the INTER PARES project (funded by the European Union and delivered by International IDEA) which explores how different parliaments responded during the coronavirus pandemic. It documents best practice examples from across the world and looks at what lessons can be drawn for future crisis preparedness.
As the UK’s parliaments work on behalf of our citizens to check/challenge/make effective laws and shape policies, it is crucial that they are able to operate effectively in times of crisis. This is why the two Houses are working hard to keep functioning, as they continue to debate key issues and take evidence in the face of challenges to their work. This week, the Assisted Dying Bill has its Second Reading in the Lords, and MPs question a host of Ministers during First Minister’s Questions. Commons select committees begin their examination of bills on English devolution, the Diego Garcia Military Base and British Indian Ocean Territory, renters’ rights, bus services and pensions; while Peers examine Border Security, Planning and Children’s Wellbeing Bills and a Ten Minute Rule Bill on extending Universal Credit to families with more than two children.