UK and Canada in conversation: How the parliaments have adapted to Covid-19 - a podcast by CPA UK

In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, the Canadian and UK parliaments have introduced significant changes to the way they conduct their proceedings. CPA UK hosted a discussion between two parliamentarians to look at the impact of these changes. The Rt Hon John Spellar MP from the UK Parliament and Mr Bruce Stanton MP from the Parliament of Canada met over video conference, to share their thoughts on these adapted procedures.

The UK Parliament introduced historical changes under its hybrid model, which included the conducting of virtual PMQs and chamber debates, with majority of MPs participating via video link, and remote voting through a specialised portal for members. Canada adopted a mixed approach, with some members meeting in person and additional virtual proceedings for wider participation including for oral questions to ministers, as well as a number of virtual committee hearings.

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