Committee hears from experts on the use and scrutiny of emergency powers during the COVID-19 pandemic
The Constitution Committee continues with its inquiry into the constitutional implications of COVID-19. On Wednesday 11 November the Committee holds its first evidence session on the emergency powers strand of this inquiry, looking into the use and scrutiny of emergency powers during the pandemic.
Meeting details
At 10:00am: Private discussion
Inquiry
Constitutional implications of COVID‑19
At 10:15am: Oral evidence
Inquiry
Constitutional implications of COVID‑19
Director and Head of Research at Hansard Society
Associate at Institute for Government
Law and policy commentator at Financial Times
Possible questions
- The Government’s initial legislative response to the pandemic was the introduction of the Coronavirus Bill. Was this the right approach? Does this legislation strike the right balance between powers for the Executive and parliamentary oversight and approval?
- To what extent has Parliament been able to scrutinise effectively the Coronavirus-related statutory instruments laid by the Government during the pandemic?
- The Government’s guidance documents and statements have often been more restrictive than the law. What issues are raised by differences between the law and guidance?
- The Coronavirus restrictions have required individuals to make significant changes to their lifestyle, often at great economic and personal cost. With no clear end in sight, and the risk of lockdown fatigue, what principles should guide the Government in seeking to secure continued compliance with the such restrictions?