Arrangement of Business

13 Feb

Lords Chamber

The session in the House of Lords, titled "Arrangement of Business," primarily focused on the announcement of future recess dates. Lord Kennedy of Southwark, acting as the Government Chief Whip, presently headed the discussion. One of the main points conveyed was the commitment to transparency and advance notice regarding parliamentary recess schedules.

End of conference season 2025

Recess schedule announced up to this timeframe

Lord Kennedy reiterated the administration's previous commitment and provided specific dates for the Christmas Recess, aiming to aid Members in planning their engagements. This aligns with the administrative priorities of foreplanning and maintaining work-life balance for the House members and the assisting staff.

Christmas Recess: Thursday 18 December to Monday 5 January

Specific recess dates provided

Lord Kennedy also mentioned a broader context—extending notice to the end of the conference season 2025, indicating a strategic foresight in parliamentary scheduling. The gesture suggests an appreciation of cross-party and administrative needs—ensuring Members can syndicate with their committees, constituents, and personal obligations efficiently.

Outcome

The session concluded with an affirmation of aligned schedules up to 2025 and an emphasis on easing communication on upcoming recesses. It reinforced the culture of collaborative planning within the parliamentary framework, benefiting both Members and administrative staff.

Key Contributions

Lord Kennedy of SouthwarkCaptain of the Honourable Corps of Gentlemen-at-Arms and Chief Whip

Lab Co-op

Committed to timely announcements of future recess dates to aid both Members and staff.

Original Transcript

Captain of the Honourable Corps of Gentlemen-at-Arms and Chief Whip

Lord Kennedy of Southwark

Lab Co-op

My Lords, when I became Government Chief Whip in July of last year, I assured the House that I would make timely announcements of future recess dates, as I am firmly of the opinion this is good for Members of the House and the Administration and staff who serve the House so well.

Therefore, as a treat before the February Recess, I am delighted to be able to provide the House with an update on recess dates. I have already announced the current plan for recesses up until the end of the conference season 2025.

There is a notice in the Royal Gallery and the Printed Paper Office. In addition, I can now confirm that, subject to the progress of business, the current plan is for the House to rise for the Christmas Recess on Thursday 18 December and to return on Monday 5 January.

I hope this gives noble Lords plenty of time to plan holidays and spend time with family and friends. I will shortly email around the full list of anticipated recess dates this year to assist the House. Finally, I wish all Members and staff a relaxing and enjoyable February Recess.

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