Committees

Committee hears from Leader of the House and Chief Whip on Parliament during the pandemic

28 July 2020

The Constitution Committee holds its final evidence session before the summer recess on the Parliament strand of its inquiry into the constitutional implications of COVID-19. The Committee hears from the Rt Hon Baroness Evans of Bowes Park, Leader of the House of Lords and the Rt Hon Lord Ashton of Hyde, Chief Whip, House of Lords.

Background


The Committee's inquiry was launched to consider the significant constitutional implications of the pandemic and the Government's response to it. This includes the ability of Parliament to hold the Government to account, scrutiny of emergency powers and the operation of the courts.

Witnesses

Wednesday 29 July at 10.30am

  • The Rt Hon Baroness Evans of Bowes Park, Leader of the House of Lords
  • The Rt Hon Lord Ashton of Hyde, Chief Whip, House of Lords

Possible questions

  • How well has the House of Lords has adapted to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic?
  • Has Parliament been able to scrutinise the Government's use of emergency powers adequately during the pandemic?
  • What are the benefits, drawbacks and challenges of virtual and hybrid proceedings for the House of Lords?
  • Do ministers miss being able to sense the mood of the House and respond to it?
  • Should the Lords retain online voting after the end of the pandemic and social distancing?

Further information