The Socialists and Democrats have led the way in updating internal rules to allow Parliament to function as normal and ensure people’s voices are always represented, even under extraordinary circumstances. The final vote on the update to the Rules of Procedure in extraordinary circumstances took place earlier today. 

Gabriele Bischoff, leading the update to the Rules of Procedure, said:

“The Covid-19 virus brought different areas of our lives to a halt, but throughout the pandemic unprecedented efforts meant citizens continued to have a voice in the European Parliament. People depend on us. When we are faced with challenging circumstances, it is more important than ever that the European Parliament remains open, operational and capable of carrying out its responsibilities. This week, we are updating the Rules of Procedure to make them fit-for-purpose in an uncertain world, to allow Parliament’s legislative and scrutiny work to carry on and to guarantee people have a voice, no matter what.”

Note to editors

The changes to the Rules of Procedure mean emergency measures can be put in place by the president, with consent from political group leaders. Measures can include the postponement, displacement or remote organisation of activities. Extraordinary measures can only be in place for a specific amount of time and only for exceptional circumstances. MEPs will be able to participate equally, freely and in their native language and through secure electronic means.