Commons Transport Committee reschedules Shapps COVID-19 meeting

Coronavirus: MPs will discuss pandemic with transport secretary via Skype

A House of Commons Transport Select Committee evidence session with the Transport Secretary Grant Shapps, scheduled to take place on 25 March, will no longer be a public evidence meeting.

The change in the meeting's status follows the strengthening of the Government's advice in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

However, the meeting will go ahead a later as an informal meeting over Skype between the Secretary of State and the committee members. This is in preparation for the Committee being able to operate remotely under new powers expected to be granted by Parliament.

Committee chair Huw Merriman MP said: “While this means the session will not be public, a summary note of the discussion will be taken which we aim to publish by close of business on Thursday 26 March.”

Merriman said he has considered the wish of committee members to maintain scrutiny and explore ways to continue the committee’s work along with the resourcing of Parliament and the public health advice.

“Moving the meeting to Skype will also enable as many Members as possible to take part, including some who are currently self-isolating,” said Merriman.