New rules in Parliament: Limiting debate time and oversight of ministers

Main changes in the organization of the 52nd National Assembly

Parliament is reviewing key changes to the Rules of Organization and Procedure of the 52nd National Assembly. The proposed adjustments concern the conduct of debates and parliamentary control.

The changes aim to optimize time, but raise questions regarding the transparency of the institution.

Key restrictions in debates:

• Reduction of speaking time from 3 to 1 minute.
• Limiting the time for rejoinders to 2 minutes.
• Change in the voting of bills – no reading of texts to which there are no objections.

Changes in parliamentary control:

One of the most debated proposals allows ministers and the Prime Minister to postpone answers to questions an unlimited number of times. Also, the obligation for personal appearance before MPs in case of non-compliance with legal deadlines is removed.

Structural changes:

• The number of standing committees is reduced from 25 to 24.
• The President of the National Assembly is granted the right to change the agenda unilaterally, without the need for consultations with the Council of Chairmen.