Tablet devices recommended for use in House of Commons

A parliamentary committee has recommended the use of tablet devices and smartphones during debates in the Commons, according to a report published yesterday.

MP’s will also be allowed to access Twitter from the chamber using the devices, although this usage is dependant on individuals “using their good sense and behaving with courtesy”.

However, the use of laptop PCs would remain prohibited under Commons rules.

Report recognises no difference between “allowing a member to consult his or her speaking notes or necessary documents either in hard copy or on an electronic device.” It also acknowledges that such devices are “ubiquitous now in a way that even four years ago was not the case.”

“Banning them from the chamber might make the House appear out of touch with modern life,” the report continues. “And would mean that those in the chamber would be the last to know of breaking news widely available on the internet”.

The committee’s recommendation would allow members to use electronic handheld devices – read: tablets and smartphones – for “any purpose” whilst the member is not speaking, obviously within the bounds of etiquette. Many believe that this will enhance the role that online information facilities like Twitter play in the world of politics and current affairs.

The news of the committee’s report follows an announcement that the House of Lords would be trialling the use of electronic devices in their chambers for the period of one year.

Several other institutions are also trialling the use of Twitter within their proceedings, after journalists were allowed to post to the site directly from the extradition hearing of WikiLeaks founder, Julian Assange.

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