Hansard

All the changes that are proposed sit on an iterative basis, because we will never achieve the perfect chamber. It is always going to be a journey—it will be a voyage—and it is for all members across the chamber to contribute to that by adding their ideas and opinions. I know that the committee and others across the chamber are always happy to debate proposals. I merely took the stance that I did with the previous intervention because I think that it lays an accusation for which there is no real evidence.

I take this moment to thank you, Presiding Officer—I hope not in any embarrassing way—for your substantial support, contribution and assistance with regard to this matter, which has been gratefully received by me and the committee.

The practical operation of the proposed proxy voting system will remain as set out in the Presiding Officer’s scheme. As detailed in the committee’s report, we gave consideration to some of the practical aspects of the scheme. I understand that the scheme has been finalised and, if it is endorsed by the chamber today, it will be able to be published on 22 December.

The only real difference between the temporary system that has been in operation and the permanent system that is being proposed is that we will set out in standing orders the grounds on which a proxy vote can be requested.