Meetings

Business Committee noted the paper and agreed guidance to be issued to Members on the procedure for nominating a new First Minister.

Business Committee considered and noted a paper outlining the procedures for Stage 2 proceedings on the Senedd Cymru (Members and Elections) Bill.

The Llywydd proposed that a break of approximately 30 minutes be taken between the end of Plenary and the start of the Committee proceedings, which was agreed by Business Managers. The Committee agreed a rough cut-off time for proceedings on Tuesday evening of 21.00.

Business Committee agreed that Plenary would begin at 13.00 on Tuesday and that further consideration will be given to whether an earlier start to proceedings (at 12.30 or 13.00) is required on Wednesday, following the conclusion of tonight’s proceedings.

Tuesday

The Trefnydd informed Business Managers of the following changes to Tuesday’s agenda:

·       Statement by the Minister for Education and Welsh Language: Education update on RAAC (30 mins)

·       Statement by the Minister for Climate Change: Independent Review and Natural Resources Wales reports into flooding 2020-21 (30 45 mins)

·       Statement by the Deputy Minister for Climate Change: 20mph default speed limit on restricted roads (45 mins)

·       Motion to suspend Standing Orders (5 mins)

·       LCM on the Energy Bill (30 mins)

·       Motion to suspend Standing Orders (5 mins)

·       LCM on the Non-Domestic Ratings Bill (15 mins)

·       Motion to suspend Standing Orders (5 mins)

·       Debate on the General Principles of the Environment (Air Quality and Soundscapes) (Wales) Bill (60 mins)

Darren Millar and Heledd Fychan requested an update on RAAC in other types of building. The Trefnydd indicated that she would consider further written or oral statements.

·       Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.

·       Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.00pm.

Wednesday

The Llywydd informed Business Managers of a minor change to Wednesday’s agenda:

• Debate on petition P-06-1337 Sycharth, the home of Owain Glyndŵr,
• should be bought to safeguard the site for future generations (30 mins) re-ordered to item 6
• Debate on the Equality and Social Justice Committee report: Unsustainable debt fuelled by the rising cost of living (60 mins) re-ordered to item 7

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.10pm.

Tuesday

• Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 5.45pm.

Heledd Fychan requested Government statements on the School Essentials Grant and the School Holiday Enrichment Programme prior to summer recess. The Trefnydd indicated that she would raise this with the Minister for Education and Welsh Language and that updates would likely be provided in the form of written statements.

Wednesday

Business Committee agreed to table a motion to propose that the Senedd elect Buffy Williams as a member of the Economy, Trade, and Rural Affairs Committee in place of Sarah Murphy. The Llywydd drew attention to this and the following additions to Wednesday’s meeting:

• Motion to suspend Standing Orders (5 mins)

• Motion to amend Standing Orders: Wales Covid-19 Inquiry Special Purpose Committee (5 mins)
• Motion to elect a Member to a committee (5 mins)
• Motion to suspend Standing Orders (5 mins)
• Motion under Standing Order 16.3 to establish a committee: Reform Bill Committee (5 mins)

Business Committee agreed that the Llywydd will invite nominations for the Chair of the Reform Bill Committee from the Labour group at Wednesday’s meeting.

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 8.00pm.

Tuesday

• Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.35pm.

The Trefnydd informed Business Managers that she will answer FMQs today in place of the First Minister.  

Business Committee agreed to propose that the Senedd elects the following Members to committees, and for the motions to be considered following the Business Statement and Announcement:

-          Mabon ap Gwynfor to replace Rhun ap Iorwerth on the Health and Social Care Committee

-          Heledd Fychan to replace Sioned Williams on the Children, Young People & Education Committee

-          Luke Fletcher to replace Mabon ap Gwynfor on the Local Government and Housing Committee

-          Llyr Gruffydd to replace Heledd Fychan on the Culture, Communication, Welsh Language, Sport & International Relations Committee

-          Adam Price to replace Peredur Owen Griffiths on the Legislation, Justice & Constitution Committee

-          Peredur Owen Griffiths to replace Luke Fletcher on the Petitions Committee

-          Adam Price to replace Mabon ap Gwynfor on the Public Accounts Committee

Wednesday

The Llywydd drew attention to the following change:

• Motion to note the annual report on the Senedd Commission's Official Languages Scheme for 2022 – 23 (30 mins) Postponed until 20 September

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.10pm.

Tuesday

The Trefnydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the following changes: 

• Statement by the Minister for Climate Change: Government Response to the ‘Developing the UK Emissions Trading Scheme’ Consultation (30 mins) Postponed until 4 July 
• Agriculture (Wales) Bill: Signification of His Majesty’s Consent (5 mins) 

• Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.55pm.

Wednesday

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.40pm.

Tuesday

The Trefnydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the following changes: 

• Statement by the Minister for Climate Change: The Warm Homes programme (30 mins) 
• Statement by the Minister for Climate Change: Securing greater nature, environmental and community benefits through sustainable drainage systems – publication of the Welsh Government review and way forward (30 mins) Postponed 
• Report Stage for the Agriculture (Wales) Bill (90 30 mins) 

• Voting Time will take place after Report Stage of the Agriculture (Wales) Bill
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.30pm.

Wednesday

The Llywydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the following change: 

• Debate on a Member's Legislative Proposal – Adam Price (30 mins) Postponed until 28 June

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.40pm.

Tuesday

There are no changes to this week’s business.

·       Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.

·       Plenary is unlikely to run past 5.50pm.

Wednesday

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.10pm.

The Trefnydd informed Business Committee that, with the agreement of the Llywydd, both the Minister for Education and Welsh Language and the Deputy Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing will respond to the debate on the Children, Young People and Education Committee’s report on Mental Health support in Higher Education on Wednesday 14 June, following a request made by the Committee.

Tuesday

The Trefnydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the following changes:

·         Statement by the Minister for Rural Affairs and North Wales, and Trefnydd: Government response to the second phase of the Sustainable Farming Scheme co-design (30 mins) Postponed until 11 July

·         Motion to suspend Standing Orders (5 Mins)

·         Motion to suspend Standing Orders (5 Mins)

·         LCM on the Retained EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Bill (30 mins)

·         Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.

·         Plenary is unlikely to run past 5.55pm.

The Llywydd informed Business Managers that she will pay tribute to former Secretary of State for Wales, Lord John Morris, at the start of Plenary and will also invite the First Minister to make a tribute.

Wednesday

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.10pm.

Business Committee discussed again the practice of opposition groups tabling two motions for debate during a single block of allocated time, in light of the subject-matter of the motions tabled by the Welsh Conservatives for debate on Wednesday 7 June. The Llywydd noted the potential high demand for speaking time and indicated that she would seek to ensure an appropriate balance of views was able to be accommodated during the debate. The Llywydd requested that Business Managers remind Members of their groups that the time allowed for individual contributions is restricted during debates scheduled for 30-minutes.

Tuesday

The Trefnydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the following changes:

• Statement by the Minister for Rural Affairs and North Wales, and Trefnydd: Strengthening our ties with Ireland and the North-West of England (30 mins)
• Statement by the Minister for Social Justice and Chief Whip: Celebrating Volunteers (30 mins)
• Debate: Stage 4 of the Agriculture (Wales) Bill (15 mins) 

• There will be no Voting Time.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 5.30pm.

Wednesday

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.10pm.

Tuesday

The Trefnydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the following change:

• Statement by the Deputy Minister for Social Services: National Care Service – Expert Group Report Implementation Plan (Stage 1) Publication (30 mins) Postponed 

• Voting Time will take place before Stage 3 proceedings of the of the Agriculture (Wales) Bill.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.30pm.

The Llywydd confirmed that a short break will be taken before the start of Stage 3 proceedings to facilitate final preparations, and that the bell will be rung 5 minutes before the resumption of proceedings.

Wednesday

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.10pm.

Tuesday

The Trefnydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the following change:

• Statement by the Deputy Minister for Social Services: Update on the Delivery Plan for Age Friendly Wales: Our Strategy for an Ageing Society (30 mins)
• Voting Time will take place as the last item.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 5.35pm.

Wednesday

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.10pm.

Tuesday

The Trefnydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the following change:

• Statement by the Minister for Education and Welsh Language: Students as Citizens An update on Higher Education (30 mins) 

• There will be no Voting Time.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 5.15pm.

Wednesday

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.10pm.

The Llywydd informed Business Managers that there will be BSL interpretation on Senedd TV for the debate on the Health and Social Care Committee report - Connecting the dots: tackling mental health inequalities in Wales on Wednesday.

Tuesday

The Trefnydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the following changes:

• Statement by the Minister for Economy: Shared Prosperity and Levelling Up (30 mins) Re-ordered to item 6 
• Statement by the Deputy Minister for Social Services: Historical Adoption Practices (30 mins) 
• The Construction Contracts (Exclusion) (Wales) Order 2023 (15 mins) 

• Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.05pm.

The Llywydd informed Business Managers that she has agreed to a request from the BBC to film in the public gallery during the statement on Historical Adoption Practices.

Wednesday

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.40pm.

Tuesday

The Trefnydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the following changes:

• Statement by the Minister for Economy: The Freeport Programme in Wales (30 mins) 
• Statement by the Deputy Minister for Climate Change: Update on the Taxi and Private Hire Vehicle White Paper (30 mins) Withdrawn
• Motion under Standing Order 12.24 to debate items 11 and 12 together but with separate votes (30 mins)
• LCM on the Procurement Bill – motion 1
• LCM on the Procurement Bill – motion 2

• Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.00pm.

Wednesday

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.30pm.

Tuesday

The Trefnydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the following changes:

• Statement by the Minister for Climate Change: Building Safety (30 mins)
• LCM on the Retained EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Bill (30 mins) Postponed until 28 March

• Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.15pm.

Wednesday

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.10pm.

Tuesday

The Trefnydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the following changes:

• The Packaging Waste (Data Collection and Reporting) (Wales) Regulations 2023 (15 mins) Withdrawn
• LCM on the Retained EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Bill (30 mins) Postponed until 21 March

• Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.05pm.

The Llywydd reflected on the variable experience of the hybrid debates last week, noting the success of the Stage 3 debate on the Social Partnership and Public Procurement (Wales) Bill but that several Members had expressed dissatisfaction with technical issues and interventions between the Siambr and Zoom participants during the debate on the Roads Review.

Tuesday

There are no changes to this week’s business.

The Trefnydd informed Business Managers that the Deputy Minister for Social Partnership will be participating remotely during Stage 3 proceedings on the Social Partnership and Public Procurement (Wales) Bill The Minister for Social Justice will be in the Siambr and able to take over in the event of technical difficulties.

The Llywydd confirmed that there will be a short technical break before the start of Stage 3 proceedings to allow final preparations to be made.

The Llywydd also notified Business Managers that a photographer be present in the public gallery at the beginning of today’s Plenary meeting to take photographs of participants of the LeadHERship event.

• Voting Time will take place before Stage 3 proceedings.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 8.30pm.

Wednesday 

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.10pm.

Tuesday

The Trefnydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the following changes:

• Statement by the Minister for Economy: The Innovation Strategy (30 mins)
• Statement by the Minister for Health and Social Services: Dental Reform (30 mins) postponed until 14 March
• Statement by the Minister for Health and Social Services: Escalation and further intervention to improve the quality of services in Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (60 mins)

• Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.55pm.

Wednesday 

The Trefnydd requested that the opposition debates be re-ordered to enable the Minister for Education and Welsh Language to respond to the Conservative debate on the Welsh language. Subsequently, the following changes were made:

• Questions to the Senedd Commission (30 15 mins)
• Plaid Cymru debate: Industrial relations (60 mins) Re-ordered to item 6
• Welsh Conservatives debate: The Welsh Language (60 mins) Re-ordered to item 7

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.25pm.

Tuesday

The Trefnydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the following change:

• The Packaging Waste (Data Collection and Reporting) (Wales) Regulations 2023 (15 mins) Postponed until 14 March

The Trefyndd confirmed that she will be answering FMQs on behalf of the First Minister this week.

• Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.15pm.

Wednesday 

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.40pm.

Tuesday

• Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.30pm.

The Trefyndd confirmed that she will be answering FMQs on behalf of the First Minister this week.

The Llywydd informed Business Managers of her intention to offer the Senedd’s condolences at the beginning of Tuesday’s Plenary meeting to Carolyn Thomas following the death of her son. The Llywydd also notified Business Managers that there will be a camera crew from ABC Australia filming in the public gallery at the start of Tuesday’s meeting.

Wednesday 

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.10pm.

Tuesday

• Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.20pm.

The Trefnydd informed Business Managers that she will answer FMQs today in the absence of the First Minister.

The Llywydd informed Business Managers of her intention to express condolences to the First Minister on behalf of the Senedd at the start of this afternoon’s meeting.

Wednesday 

No scheduled business.

Tuesday

• Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.30pm.

Wednesday 

The Llywydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the following changes:

• Questions to the Senedd Commission (30 10 mins)
• Motion to elect a Member to a committee (5 mins)

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.55pm. 

Tuesday

The Trefnydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the following changes:

• Statement by the Minister for Climate Change: Flooding (30 mins)
• Statement by the Minister for Health and Social Services: Update on meeting with NHS trade unions (30 mins)
• Statement by the Minister for Social Justice: Update on Ukraine (30 mins) Postponed until 24 January
• LCM on the Social Housing (Regulation) Bill (15 mins) Postponed until 14 February

• Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.30pm.

Wednesday 

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.10pm. 

Tuesday

The Trefnydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the following change:

• Statement by the Minister for Health and Social Services: NHS Winter Pressures (30 45 mins)

Siân Gwenllian asked that consideration be given to extending the time allocated to the above statement further, in light of the pressures experienced in the NHS over the Christmas period. The Llywydd indicated that she would be flexible on the timings to ensure a sufficient number of Members are able to be called to make contributions.

• There will be no Voting Time on Tuesday.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 5.30pm.

Wednesday 

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.15pm. 

Tuesday

The Trefnydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the following change:

• The Non-Domestic Rating (Chargeable Amounts) (Wales) Regulations 2022 (15 mins) re-ordered to item 5

• Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 5.45pm.

Business Managers noted a letter sent by the Legislation, Justice and Constitution Committee to the Minister for Rural Affairs and North Wales, and Trefnydd, and the Deputy Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing on 12 December, and which had been copied to the Business Committee, concerning two sets of Regulations due for debate in Plenary this afternoon: The Trade in Animals and Related Products (Amendment and Legislative Functions) and Animal Health (Miscellaneous Amendments) (Wales) (EU Exit) Regulations 2022; and, The Food and Feed (Miscellaneous Amendments) (Wales) (EU Exit) Regulations 2022.

The Trefnydd acknowledged the concerns that have been expressed about the number of reporting points that had been raised on the two sets of Regulations. She would be meeting the Chair of the LJC Committee ahead of Plenary to discuss this matter further and will provide an update to the Business Committee following that meeting.

The Llywydd reminded Business Managers that today’s statement on the draft budget has been allocated 90 minutes and will take the form of a debate, in line with practice since 2017. There will not be a vote.

Wednesday 

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.10pm. 

Tuesday

The Trefnydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the following changes:

• Statement by the Deputy Minister for Climate Change: Bus Reform (30 mins)
• Debate: Stage 4 of The Environmental Protection (Single-use Plastic Products) (Wales) Bill (15 mins)

The Llywydd informed Business Managers that there will be a short break prior to the start of the Stage 3 proceedings, with the bell rung 5 minutes before the resumption.

• Voting Time will take place before Stage 3 proceedings.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.50pm.

Wednesday 

• Questions to the Senedd Commission (15 30 mins)

The Llywydd informed Business Managers that BSL interpretation is being arranged for Mark Isherwood’s MLP debate, with the intention that this can be provided live on Senedd.tv.

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.55pm. 

Tuesday

The Trefnydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the following changes:

• Statement by the Deputy Minister for Social Services: The publication of the Child Practice Review into the death of Logan Mwangi (30 mins)
• Statement by the Minister for Social Justice: International Day of Disabled Persons (30 mins) re-ordered to item 8

The Trefnydd informed the Committee that the Minister for Social Justice will deliver her statement remotely.

• Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.05pm.

Wednesday 

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.45pm. 

Tuesday

There are no changes to this week’s government business. The Trefnydd informed the committee that she will answer questions on behalf of the First Minister today.

• Voting Time will take place as item 5.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 5.40pm.

Wednesday 

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.55pm. 

There are no changes to this week’s government business.

• Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.30pm.

Wednesday 

The Llywydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the following changes:

• Motion to approve the Senedd Commission’s Budget for 2023-24 (30 mins) withdrawn and rescheduled for 23 November
• Motions to elect Members to committees (5 minutes)

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.10pm. 

The Trefnydd informed Business Managers that she would be answering First Minister’s Questions today as the First Minister is unwell.

The Trefnydd also drew Business Managers’ attention to the following changes:

Tuesday

• Statement by the Minister for Finance and Local Government: Response to the UK Government’s Financial Plan and Economic Forecasts (30 mins) Postponed until 22 November
• Statement by the Minister for Rural Affairs and North Wales, and Trefnydd: Avian Flu (30 mins)
• LCM on the Northern Ireland Protocol Bill (45 mins) Postponed until 22 November

• Voting time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.00pm.

Wednesday 

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.40pm. 

The Trefnydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the following changes to Tuesday’s business: 

• Statement by the Deputy Minister for Climate Change: Closure of the Menai Bridge (30 mins)
• Statement by the Deputy Minister for Arts and Sport, and Chief Whip: National Contemporary Art Gallery (30 mins) Withdrawn
• Debate: The Welsh Language Commissioner’s Annual Report 2021-22 (60 mins) Postponed until 15 November

• There will be no voting time.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 5.15pm.

The Llywydd noted that a photographer will be in the Siambr at the start of Tuesday’s proceedings to take new photos for use on the Senedd website.

Wednesday 

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.  

• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.45pm. 

The Trefnydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the following changes:

Tuesday

• Statement by the Minister for Finance and Local Government: Welsh Government's response to the Chancellor's statement on the Medium-Term Fiscal Plan (30 mins)
• The Marine, Fisheries and Aquaculture (Financial Assistance) Scheme (Wales) Regulations 2022 (15 mins) Withdrawn

• Voting time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 5.40pm.

Wednesday 

The Trefnydd requested the Business Committee’s agreement to schedule a debate on an LCM on the Energy Prices Bill on Wednesday 19 October, with a suspension of Standing Orders to enable the debate to take place. The request was agreed in light of the accelerated timetable for the passage of the Bill at Westminster, with the Bill have been introduced on 12 October and an intended date of Royal Assent on 25 October. As a result of the lack of time available, Business Committee agreed not to refer the LCM for committee scrutiny.

Consequently, the following items have been added to Wednesday’s agenda:

• Motion to suspend Standing Orders (5 mins)
• LCM on the Energy Prices Bill (30 mins)

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 8.25pm. 

Tuesday

• Voting time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.00pm.

Wednesday 

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.10pm. 

The Llywydd informed Business Managers that she intends to end the use of a break prior to voting time, effective from this week’s Plenary meetings. She asked Business Managers to remind Members of their groups that it will be their responsibility to ensure that they are present and prepared to vote prior to the start of voting time, and noted that this can be earlier than the indicative timings on the agenda.

The Trefnydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the following changes:

Tuesday

• Statement by the Minister for Economy: Regional Economic Development (3045 mins) moved forward from 11 October
• Statement by the Minister for Climate Change – Biodiversity (30 mins)

• There will be no voting time.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 5.00pm.

Wednesday 

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.20pm. 

The Llywydd noted that, as only one question was tabled, the time allocation for Commission Questions has been reduced to 10 minutes.

A break will be taken before Voting Time on Wednesday to enable Members to further familiarise themselves with new voting procedures.

The Trefnydd notified Business Managers that she will answer questions on behalf of the First Minister this week and drew Business Managers’ attention to the following changes:

Tuesday

• Statement by the Minister for Finance and Local Government: Response to the UK Government Financial Statement (45 mins) 
• Statement by the Minister for Rural Affairs and North Wales, and Trefnydd: The Agriculture (Wales) Bill (60 mins) – re-ordered from item 3 to item 8
• Statement by the Deputy Minister for Arts and Sport, and Chief Whip: World Heritage in Northwest Wales (30 mins) – postponed until 4 October 

• There will be no voting time.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.30pm.

Wednesday 

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.10pm. 

The Llywydd informed Business Managers that she will make a short tribute to former Member Mick Bates, who passed away recently, at the start of today’s meeting.

Business Committee agreed that Plenary business postponed from 13 and 14 September owing to the period of National Mourning for Her Majesty The Queen would be rescheduled for 20 and 21 September, including the Oral Questions and motions for debate already tabled. The Trefnydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the following additions to Tuesday’s business: 

• Statement by the First Minister: Update on the Cost of Living (45 mins)
• Statement by the Minister for Health and Social Services: Update on Covid and Winter Pressures (30 mins)
• Statement by the Minister for Education and Welsh Language: Update on Free School Meals (30 mins)

• There will be no voting time.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.15pm.

Wednesday 

The Llywydd explained that as a full window for tabling amendments to Wednesday’s debate motions had not previously been possible, the Table Office will accept amendments tabled today. Consequently, a Motion to suspend Standing Orders will be added to Wednesday’s agenda to enable any amendments that are tabled to be debated.

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.  

• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.15pm. 

The Llywydd informed Business Managers of several changes to voting procedures in Plenary from the start of the autumn term, following previous discussions in Business Committee and amendments made to Standing Orders at the end of the summer term. She also indicated the intention to cease the practice of a break before voting time, once Members have had an opportunity to familiarise themselves with the new arrangements.

Updated guidance on hybrid and virtual proceedings will be considered further by Business Committee and the Chairs’ Forum shortly, prior to being provided to Members.

The Trefnydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the following change:

Tuesday

• The Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 (Consequential Amendments) Regulations 2022 - withdrawn

• Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.50pm.

Wednesday 

Business Committee noted that the Labour group intends to change its member on the Health and Social Care Committee from Mike Hedges to Sarah Murphy. The Llywydd therefore drew Business Committee’s attention to the following addition to the agenda for tomorrow’s meeting:

• Motion to elect a Member to a committee (5 mins)

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.55pm. 

Tuesday

The Trefnydd drew Business Committee’s attention to the following change:

• Debate: Stage 3 of the Welsh Tax Acts etc. (Power to Modify) Bill (120 90 mins)

• There will be no Voting Time separate to Stage 3 proceedings of the Welsh Tax Acts etc. (Power to Modify) Bill.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.30pm.      

Wednesday 

• Voting time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.10pm. 

Tuesday

• Voting time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.30pm.      

The Trefnydd noted that the Government has re-ordered Tuesday’s business and that the debates and voting time will be taken at the end of session, following the postponement of a constitutional lecture previously planned for this evening.

Wednesday 

• Voting time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.10pm. 

The Llywydd confirmed the timings of the Public Accounts and Public Administration Committee Chair’s Statement, including that the first speaker from the Labour group will have up to five minutes for their contribution.

• There will be no Voting Time separate to Stage 3 proceedings of the Tertiary Education and Research (Wales) Bill.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 9.30pm.

Wednesday 

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.  

• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.40pm. 

The Trefnydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the following changes to Tuesday’s business: 

• Statement by the Minister for Climate Change: Building Safety Update (30 mins) – Withdrawn
• Statement by the Minister for Social Justice: Cost of Living Update (30 mins)

The Trefnydd indicated that the Building Safety Update will likely be issued as a Written Statement later this month.

• Voting time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.05pm.

Wednesday 

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.  

• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.40pm. 

The Trefnydd drew Business Committee’s attention to the following change:

Tuesday

• Statement by the Minister for Health and Social Services: Update on Covid-19 – Withdrawn
• Statement by the Minister for Health and Social Services: Update on Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (30 mins)

• Voting time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.00pm

Wednesday 

Business Committee noted that the Conservative group intends to change its member on the Legislation, Justice and Constitution Committee from Peter Fox to James Evans. The Llywydd therefore drew Business Committee’s attention to the following addition to the agenda for tomorrow’s meeting: 

• Motion to elect a Member to a committee (5 mins) 

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.40pm. 

The Llywydd reminded Business Committee of her intentions regarding speaking time allocations for Members during tomorrow’s 120 minute debate on the report of the Special Purpose Committee on Senedd Reform.

Face coverings

Business Committee received an update on the position regarding the wearing of face-coverings on the estate. As the wearing of face coverings is now no longer required whilst moving around the building, though building users are encouraged to continue to do so in higher risk situations, the Committee agreed that the use of face coverings in the Siambr would now be a matter of individual choice for Members. It was agreed that a general update on the use of face coverings on the Estate would be circulated to Members.

The Trefnydd drew Business Committee’s attention to the following change to Tuesday’s meeting:

• Statement by the Counsel General and Minister for the Constitution: Justice in Wales (30 45 mins) 

• Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 5.45pm.

Business Committee noted that Labour group intends to change its member on the Local Government and Housing Committee from Alun Davies to Jane Bryant. The Llywydd therefore drew Business Committee’s attention to the following addition to the agenda for Wednesday’s meeting:

• Motion to elect a Member to a committee (5 mins)

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.40pm. 

Tuesday

The Llywydd informed Business Committee that the First Minister will be answering FMQs remotely due to travel on official business.

• Voting time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 5.45pm.

Wednesday 

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.10pm. 

Business Committee noted that only nine questions were tabled to the Minister for Climate Change for answer this week.

Business Committee agreed to a request from members of the Culture, Communications, Welsh, Language, Sport and International Relations Committee  to change the order of debates on Wednesday so that Members can contribute to the Plaid Cymru debate on Women’s Health, before travelling to North Wales for committee business. Business Committee would return to the discussion of the principles of Members absence from Plenary in order to attend other Senedd business at a future meeting.

The Trefnydd stated that she had raised the issue of Ministers being present in the Chamber in good time for their items of business at Cabinet.

The Trefnydd drew Business Committee’s attention to the following changes:

Tuesday

• Statement by the Minister for Finance and Local Government: Local Government Elections (30 mins)

• Voting time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 5.15pm.

Wednesday 

Business Committee noted that Plaid Cymru intend to change their member on the Public Accounts and Public Administration Committee from Cefin Campbell to Rhys ab Owen. Business Committee also agreed to schedule a Motion to suspend Standing Orders to enable the Short Debate to take place as the topic for the debate was not tabled by the deadline.

The Llywydd therefore drew Business Committee’s attention to the following addition to the agenda for tomorrow’s meeting:

• Motion to elect a Member to a committee (5 mins)
• Motion to suspend Standing Orders (5 mins)

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.20pm. 

Tuesday

• Statement by the Minister for Economy: Border Controls (30 mins)

• Voting time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 5.30pm.

Wednesday 

• Questions to the Senedd Commission (30 15 mins)
• Short Debate: Llyr Gruffydd (North Wales) (30 mins)

• Voting time will take place as the last item of business.

• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.10pm. 

The Trefnydd drew Business Committee’s attention to the following changes:

Tuesday

• Statement by the Minister for Health and Social Services: Update on Covid-19 – Withdrawn
• Motion to Suspend Standing Orders (5 mins)
• The Allocation of Housing and Homelessness (Eligibility) (Wales) (Amendment) Regulations 2022 (15 mins)
• The Health Protection (Coronavirus Restrictions) (No. 5) (Wales) (Amendment) (No. 9) Regulations 2022 (15 mins)

• Voting time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 8.05pm.

Wednesday 

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.10pm. 

The Committee discussed the position regarding the wearing of face-coverings. The Llywydd stated that the use of face-coverings will be encouraged within the Siambr.

The Trefnydd drew Business Committee’s attention to the following changes:

Tuesday

• Statement by the Minister for Health and Social Services: Update on
• Covid-19 (30 mins) - withdrawn
• Statement by the Minister for Social Justice: Homes for Ukraine refugees scheme update (30 mins)
• Statement by the Minister for Climate Change: Building Safety Update (45 mins) – withdrawn
• Motion to suspend Standing Orders (5 mins)
• Proposal under Standing Order 12.24 to debate the following items

together but with separate votes (30 mins)

o   The Coronavirus Act 2020 (Alteration of Expiry Date) (Wales) Regulations 2022

o   The Health Protection (Coronavirus Restrictions) (No. 5) (Wales) (Amendment) (No. 7) Regulations 2022

o   The Health Protection (Coronavirus Restrictions)

• Voting time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.55pm.

The Deputy Presiding Officer reminded Business Managers that the timing of FMQs has been changed due to the First Minister’s attendance at a Thanksgiving Service for Prince Philip in London. It will take place as item 2 following the Business Statement and Announcement.

Wednesday 

The Trefnydd informed Business Committee that the Deputy Minister for Climate Change will answer oral questions on behalf of the Minister for Climate Change.

Business Committee noted a request from Plaid Cymru to change their member on the Standards of Conduct Committee from Heledd Fychan to Peredur Owen Griffiths. Darren Millar indicated that the Conservative group may also seek to make a change to their membership of the Standards of Conduct Committee at the same time and that this would be confirmed outside of the meeting.

The Deputy Presiding Officer therefore drew Business Committee’s attention to the following addition to the agenda for tomorrow’s meeting:

• Motion to elect a Member to a committee (5 mins)

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.10pm. 

The Deputy Presiding Officer asked Business Managers to remind their Members that as agreed last week they are expected to continue to wear face coverings in the Chamber this week, other than when speaking. A note will also be circulated to all Members.

The Trefnydd drew Business Committee’s attention to the following change:

Tuesday

• Statement by the Counsel General and Minister for the Constitution: Taking forward the recommendations of the Commission on Justice in Wales and the Law Commission report on Welsh tribunals - Postponed

• Voting time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.00pm.

The Llywydd reminded Business Managers that a fixed seating grid is now in operation in the Chamber and that Members should only use the seat allocated to them. Additionally, Business Managers were asked to remind their Members not to adjust the microphones and to ensure they stand directly in front of them, so that their contributions can be heard.

The Llywydd also indicated that the expectation on Members to wear face coverings in the Chamber, other than when speaking, will remain in place until at least the Easter recess.

Wednesday 

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.10pm. 

Tuesday

• Voting time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.05pm.

Wednesday 

• Questions to the Counsel General and Minister for the Constitution (45 30 mins)
• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.55pm. 

Business Committee discussed further the possibility of making 30 minutes the default scheduling for government statements. The Trefnydd stated that the government has shortened the time allocated to some statements in coming weeks and would be keeping this under review until the Easter recess.

Tuesday

The Trefnydd drew Business Committee’s attention to the following changes to Tuesday’s business:

• LCM on the Commercial Rent (Coronavirus) Bill Withdrawn
• Motion to suspend Standing Orders (5 mins)
• LCM on the Commercial Rent (Coronavirus) Bill (15 mins)

The Trefnydd explained that the Welsh Government had laid a Supplementary LCM (No. 2) on the Commercial Rent (Coronavirus) Bill on 3 March, after the original motion for the debate had been tabled. Therefore, to ensure clarity for the Senedd, the motion was withdrawn and replaced on 7 March and a motion to suspend Standing Orders is required to enable the replacement motion to be debated.

• Voting time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 8.00pm.    

Wednesday 

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.10pm. 

Tuesday

• Voting time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.05pm.  

•   Statement by the Deputy Minister for Social Services: The New Learning Disability Action Plan (45 mins) – Withdrawn
• Motion to suspend Standing Orders
• Proposal under Standing Order 12.24 to debate the following items together but with separate votes (15 mins)
• LCM on the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill – motion 1
• LCM on the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill – motion 2

Following correspondence received from the Trefnydd, the Llywydd indicated that she had given her agreement, in accordance with Standing Order 33.8, that the Motion to Suspend Standing Orders could be considered by the Senedd today in light of the timescales around the consideration of the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill at the UK Parliament.

The Llywydd confirmed that she had accepted an Emergency Question to be asked at the start of Plenary on Ukraine.

The Llywydd also stated that a photographer would be briefly present in the Siambr at the start of Questions to the First Minister.

Wednesday 

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.40pm. 

Plenary format

The Llywydd confirmed that a fixed seating plan will be in operation for Plenary meetings from today, following the removal of restrictions on the number of Members able to attend the Siambr at any time.

Tuesday

Business Committee agreed that the Llywydd will lead tributes to Aled Roberts at the beginning of Plenary on Tuesday with the First Minister and party representatives called to make contributions.

• Voting time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.25pm.      

Wednesday 

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.50pm. 

Tuesday

• Voting time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.55pm.      

Wednesday 

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.05pm. 

Tuesday

• Voting time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.35pm.      

Wednesday 

The Llywydd drew Business Committee’s attention to the following change to Wednesday’s business:

Short Debate – James Evans (Brecon and Radnorshire) (Withdrawn)

• Voting time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.50pm. 

Business Committee discussed the resumption of hybrid Plenary proceedings and the arrangements in relation to breaks and interventions. The Llywydd asked Business Managers to remind their Members that they are strongly advised to wear masks in the Chamber other than when speaking, and to take Lateral Flow Tests before attending the Senedd estate.

The Llywydd also asked Business Managers to remind their Members to keep to time limits for contributions in Plenary.

Tuesday

The Trefnydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the following changes to Tuesday’s business:

• Motion to Suspend Standing Orders (5 mins)
• Legislative Consent Motion on the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill (15 mins)

• There will be no Voting Time.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 5.45pm.      

The Llywydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the amendment tabled to the Member Debate, and said that she would make a decision on selection tomorrow.

Wednesday 

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.00pm. 

Retrospective declarations of interest

The Llywydd asked Business Managers to remind Members that it is their responsibility to make any necessary declarations during their contributions.

Plenary format

A majority of Business Committee agreed that Plenary should return to hybrid meetings with a maximum of 30 Members at a time in the Chamber from 1 February if, as expected, the requirement to work from home has been lifted.

Business Committee agreed to return to discuss the arrangements which should apply, including a possible increase to 60 Members, after the half-term recess at a future meeting. The Trefnydd asked for sight of the Risk Assessment for plenary meetings.

The Trefnydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the following addition to Tuesday’s business:

• Statement by the Minister for Health and Social Services – Update on Covid-19 (45 mins)

• Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.30pm.      

Wednesday 

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.10pm. 

Plenary format

A majority of Business Committee agreed that Plenary should continue to be held virtually during the week commencing 24 January and return to hybrid meetings from 1 February if, as expected, the requirement to work from home is removed before then.

Tuesday

The Trefnydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the following changes to Tuesday’s business:

• Motion to suspend Standing Orders (5 mins)
• Proposal under Standing Order 12.24 to debate the following items together but with separate votes (45 mins):
• The Health Protection (Coronavirus Restrictions) (No. 5) (Wales) (Amendment) (No. 22) Regulations 2021
• The Health Protection (Coronavirus Restrictions) (No. 5) (Wales) (Amendment) (No. 23) Regulations 2021
• The Health Protection (Coronavirus Restrictions) (No. 5) (Wales) (Amendment) (No.25) Regulations 2021
• LCM on the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill (15 mins) - Postponed until 18 January

The Trefnydd also agreed to extend the time allocated to the Debate on a Statement: The Draft Budget 2022-23 from 60 to 90 minutes.

• Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.20pm.      

Wednesday 

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.15pm. 

Business Committee agreed to table a motion to elect Sioned Williams as a member of the Children, Young People and Education Committee in place of Sian Gwenllian, following her appointment as a Designated Member.

Plenary format

Business Committee discussed the format of Plenary meetings for future weeks. A majority agreed that Plenary will remain virtual next week, with the position for future weeks to be kept under review.

Tuesday

• Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 8.15pm.

Darren Millar asked that the time for the Curriculum for Wales Relationships and Sexuality Education Code to be extended, given the number of Members potentially wishing to speak on it. The Llywydd stated that she will use her discretion to seek to ensure that all Members who wish to speak are able to.      

Wednesday 

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.45pm. 

Virtual plenary

The Llywydd stated that, following consultation with group leaders, she had determined that Plenary meetings will be held in a virtual format this week due to the current position in relation to Coronavirus, but that Members and their staff remain able to access Tŷ Hywel for business purposes, where there is a wellbeing need or if their circumstances are not conducive to working effectively at home.

The Llywydd asked Business Managers to inform Members that no breaks have therefore been scheduled during proceedings and that interventions in this week’s virtual plenary will remain the same as they have been in recent hybrid proceedings – Members should raise a physical hand to indicate when they wish to intervene.

Recall

The Llywydd indicated that any recall of the Senedd that is required over the Christmas recess would take place virtually.

Tuesday

·         Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.

·         Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.40pm.

The Trefnydd drew Business Committee’s attention to the following change to Tuesday’s agenda:

·         Statement by the Deputy Minister for Climate Change: Renewable Energy Deep Dive (45 mins) – written statement to be issued this week with an oral statement potentially to follow in the New Year once Members have had an opportunity to read the full report

The Llywydd informed Business Managers that an artist will be sketching Plenary from the public gallery as part of a project about ‘what democracy looks like’.  This is not a Commission project.

Wednesday 

·         Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.

·         Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.50pm. 

Tuesday

• Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.15pm.

The Trefnydd drew Business Committee’s attention to the following additions to today’s agenda:

• Statement by the Minister for Health and Social Services – Update on Covid-19 (45 mins)
• Statement by the Minister for Social Justice - International Day of Disabled People (45 mins)

The statement on ‘A Healthier Wales’ and the LCM on the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill have both been postponed to 11 January.

Wednesday 

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.20. 

The Llywydd informed Business Managers of her intention to announce the Welsh Youth Parliament election results at the start of Plenary on Wednesday, before formal business is called.

The Llywydd noted that the Co-operation Agreement between the Welsh Government and Plaid Cymru is due to begin on 1 December. The Llywydd informed Business Managers that she has been in correspondence with the First Minister about the details of the agreement and has requested that information about how it will work in practice be shared with Members of the Senedd at the earliest opportunity. Once this information is available, the Llywydd stated her intention to make a statement to Plenary on any impact that the arrangements may have on the operation of Senedd Business.

Tuesday

• Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 8.00pm.

Wednesday 

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.00pm. 

The Trefnydd drew Business Committee’s attention to the following additions to today’s agenda:

• Statement by the Minister for Climate Change - Second Homes and Affordability (30 mins)
• Statement by the Minister for Education and Welsh Language - The Welsh Language Communities Housing Plan (30 mins)

Darren Millar informed Business Committee that he will be asking Party Leaders’ questions on behalf of the Conservative group leader today.

Tuesday

• Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.25pm.

Wednesday 

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.55pm. 

The Trefnydd drew Business Committee’s attention to the addition of the Statement on COP26, which will be delivered by the Deputy Minister for Climate Change. A statement on Second Homes and Affordability and a statement on the Welsh Language Communities Housing Plan previously added to today’s agenda, have been postponed.

Breaks

The Llywydd asked Business Managers to remind Members to leave the Chamber during the breaks, so that staff can carry out the necessary preparations whilst keeping a suitable distance.

Member Bill – use of the casting vote

The Llywydd informed Business Committee that in the event of a tied vote on the motion seeking the Senedd’s agreement to introduce a Member Bill this week, the casting vote would be used in favour in line with current guidance. The Llywydd intends, however, to review the guidance to ensure that it is consistent across all types of motions and will make Business Managers aware of any revisions.

This Week’s Business

Tuesday

• Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.15pm.

Wednesday 

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.20pm. 

Business Committee noted security arrangements for potential protests this afternoon concerning the latest amendment to Coronavirus Regulations, relating to the proposed extension of Covid passes to additional settings.

Tuesday

• Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.30pm.

Wednesday 

• Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.
• Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.20pm. 

The Trefnydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the reordering of the statement by the Minister for Economy: A greener economy and the statement by the Minister for Education and Welsh Language: Implementation of net zero carbon and the 21st century schools and colleges programme.

The Trefnydd also drew Business Managers’ attention to the following additions to Tuesday’s agenda:

Tuesday 2 November 2021

·         Motion to suspend Standing Orders (5 mins)

·         Supplementary Legislative Consent Motion on the Environment Bill (15 mins)

·         Voting Time (15 mins)

The Llywydd noted that a government statement on the Tertiary Education and Research (Wales) Bill has been scheduled on Wednesday. The Trefnydd explained that this was due to the length of Tuesday’s agenda, and that the government would continue to avoid scheduling items on a Wednesday unless absolutely necessary.

Tuesday

·         Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.

·         Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.50pm.

Wednesday 

·         Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.

·         Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.55pm. 

The Llywydd informed Business Committee that she intends to make a statement of condolence following the death of Sir David Amess MP at the start of Plenary today followed by a minute’s silence. Business Committee agreed that Party Leaders and Jane Dodds will also pay tribute following the minute’s silence.

Tuesday

·         Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.

·         Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.25pm.

Wednesday 

·         Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.

·         Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.25pm. 

The Llywydd drew Business Committee’s attention to the addition of the following item on Wednesday, to allow Labour to change their member on the Legislation, Justice and Constitution Committee:

·         Motion to elect a Member to a committee (5 mins)

The Llywydd informed Business Committee that the First Minister will be answering First Minister’s Questions virtually today, and that the Trefnydd will be on standby in case of technical problems.

Business Committee noted that Paul Davies is acting as Interim Leader of the Conservative Group. Darren Millar advised that question 5 to the First Minister today would be withdrawn, in line with Business Committee’s previous agreement that party leaders do not enter the ballot for FMQs. Paul Davies will also temporarily remove himself from the ballot for FMQs whilst Interim Leader.

Plenary last week

The Llywydd asked Business Managers to remind Members of the Guide to Virtual and Hybrid Plenary, particularly in relation to voting time. 

The Llywydd asked the Trefnydd to remind Ministers to be present in time for their items, following a suspension that was required prior to an item of business the previous week.

Tuesday

·         Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.

·         Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.55pm.

Wednesday 

·         Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.

·         Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.20pm. 

The Trefnydd drew Business Committee’s attention to the change to the title of an item on Tuesday:

·         Statement by the Minister for Social Justice: Response to the Public Accounts Committee Report ‘Delivering for Future Generations: The Story so Far’ Well-being of Future Generations national implementation  (45 mins)

The Llywydd informed Business Committee of her intention to allow the Chair of the Public Accounts and Public Administration Committee additional time to contribute during the item, in light of the fact that the statement contained reference to a report by the Public Accounts Committee of the Fifth Senedd.

Tuesday

·         Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.

·         Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.25pm.

Wednesday 

·         Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.

·         Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.20pm. 

Following confirmation that the government has laid the Health Protection (Coronavirus Restrictions) (No. 5) (Wales) (Amendment) (No. 17) Regulations 2021 and scheduled a debate and vote on 5 October, Darren Millar informed Business Committee that the Conservative group will not move their motion on COVID passes tabled for debate on 29 September. Business Committee agreed to extend the Conservative debate on Transport on that day to an hour.

Tuesday

·         Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.

·         Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.10pm.

Wednesday 

·         Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.

·         Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.40pm. 

The Llywydd asked Business Managers to ensure that if Members will be present in the Chamber before and after the break, that they remain in the same seat.

The Llywydd asked Business Managers to remind Members of the requirements to declare relevant interests, where appropriate, before contributing to proceedings. Table Office will also issue a note to all Members.

The Llywydd also informed Business Committee that the result of the first Member Bill Ballot of the Sixth Senedd will be announced at the start of Plenary on Wednesday.

Tuesday

·         There will be no Voting Time.

·         Plenary is unlikely to run past 5.10pm.

Wednesday 

·         Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.

·         Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.30pm. 

The Trefnydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the following changes to Tuesday’s agenda:

·         Statement by the Minister for Social Justice: Afghanistan (45 mins)

·         Statement by the Minister for Health and Social Services: Update on Covid-19 (45 mins)

·         Statement by the Deputy Minister for Social Partnership: Update on the Social Partnership and Public Procurement (Wales) Bill (45 mins)

·         LCM on the Environment Bill (45 mins) - postponed until 28 September

Business Committee agreed that breaks would take place after the statement on Afghanistan on Tuesday, and after 90 second statements on Wednesday.

Business Managers noted that a maximum of 30 Members are now able to be physically present in the Siambr during proceedings, and that Members are encouraged to wear face coverings when entering and leaving the Siambr and strongly encouraged to take a Lateral Flow Test prior to attendance. Business Managers also discussed practicalities around the introduction of interventions in hybrid sessions and the reduction of breaks to one per session. The Llywydd agreed that this week should serve as a test run, and the Committee should return to these matters next week.

This Week’s Business

Tuesday

·         Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.

·         Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.05pm.

Wednesday 

·         Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.

·         Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.50pm. 

Business Managers again raised concerns about significant Welsh Government policy announcements being made to the media rather than to the Senedd.

The Llywydd reiterated that it was her long-held view that significant policy announcements should be made in Plenary, and that she would continue to use her discretion to accept Topical Questions relating to such matters.

The Trefnydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the addition of two statements to Tuesday’s agenda:

·         Statement by the Minister for Climate Change: Affordability, Second Homes and the Welsh Language (45 mins)

·         Statement by the Minister for Education and Welsh Language: Curriculum Reform – Next Steps (45 mins)

The Trefnydd also drew Business Managers’ attention to the fact that she would be answering First Minister’s questions this week, and the statement on the Legislative Programme would be delivered by the Counsel General, in the absence of the First Minister.

Tuesday

·         There will be no Voting Time.

·         Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.05pm.

Wednesday 

·         Voting Time will take place before the first Short Debate.

·         Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.30pm. 

The Llywydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the addition of the nominations for committee chairs to Tuesday’s agenda.

Tuesday

·         Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.

·         Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.05pm.

Wednesday 

·         Voting Time will take place before the first Short Debate.

·         Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.30pm. 

Backgrounds on Zoom

The Llywydd asked Business Managers to remind Members that backgrounds should be plain so that Members contributing from the Chamber and via Zoom are treated equitably. The guidance issued to Members also asks Members to ensure they have a plain background, free from distractions, for technical purposes.

BSL interpretation

The Llywydd informed Business Committee that BSL interpretation will be available on Senedd.tv for questions to the Minister for Social Justice on Wednesday, initially as a trial. The interpretation will be added to the recording ‘as live’ for publication to Senedd.tv the following day, as happens currently with First Ministers Questions.

Public gallery – breaks

The Llywydd reminded Business Managers that the public gallery will be open for the first time this week, and asked them to inform Members that they will need to be aware of the fact that they can be seen and heard during breaks. 

The Trefnydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the addition of the following statements:

Tuesday 22 June 2021

·         Statement by the Minister for Health and Social Services: Update on Coronavirus (45 mins)

·         Statement by the Deputy Minister for Climate Change: Roads Review (45 mins)

Tuesday

·         There will be no Voting Time.

·         Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.05pm.

Wednesday 

·         Voting Time will take place before the first Short Debate.

·         Plenary is unlikely to run past 7.00pm. 

The Llywydd informed Business Committee that she will divide the Chamber into 4 ‘blocks’: Ministers, Labour backbenchers, Conservatives and Plaid/Jane Dodds. If one Member in any block is changing during a break, then the Llywydd will ask the whole block to leave, and no Members should then enter the Chamber until the bell has been rung.

This Week’s Business

The Trefnydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the addition of the following statements:

Tuesday 15 June 2021

·         Statement by the First Minister: The Programme for Government (60 mins)

Wednesday 16 June 2021

·         Statement by the Deputy Minister for Climate Change: Climate Change (45 mins)

Tuesday

·         Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.

·         Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.50pm.

Wednesday 

·         Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.

·         Plenary is unlikely to run past 5.45pm. 

Business Committee agreed to start Wednesday’s Plenary at 12.30 and to postpone Jack Sargeant’s Short Debate to next Wednesday.

The Trefnydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the addition of the following statements:

·         Statement by the Minister for Health and Social Services: Update on Coronavirus (45 mins)

·         Statement by the Minister for Social Justice: EU Settled Status (45 mins)

·         Statement by the Deputy Minister for Social Services: Respite and short breaks fund for unpaid carers (45 mins)

The Trefnydd agreed to reinstate the length of the BSA to 30 minutes from this week onwards.

Tuesday

·         There will be no Voting Time.

·         Plenary is unlikely to run past 5.10pm.

Wednesday 

·         Voting Time will take place before the Short Debate.

Plenary is unlikely to run past 6.30pm. 

The Trefnydd drew Business Managers’ attention to the addition of the following statement:

·         Statement by the Minister for Education and the Welsh Language: Renew and reform: supporting learners’ well-being and progression (45 mins)

The Trefnydd agreed to extend the coronavirus regulations item to 30 minutes.

Business Committee agreed to the one proposed changeover. The Llywydd asked Business Managers to remind Members to leave the Chamber quickly, and those coming in not to do so until the bell has been rung.

The Llywydd informed Business Committee that Members will continue to have 1 minute per supplementary question, and party leaders will have 3 x 1 minute for their questions, as previously,

Wednesday 

·         Voting Time will take place as the last item of business.

·         Plenary is unlikely to run past 4.30pm.