The last week before a recess is usually filled with plenary and committee meetings. The House of Representatives wants to handle several topics, including votes, before the break. Therefore, there are many so-called two-minute debates this week. Also on Thursday, the last meeting day.
The Speaker usually concludes the last meeting before the recess late at night. Sometimes there is also a speech in which the Speaker reflects on the past months and wishes the members a good recess.
What is a two-minute debate?
A two-minute debate is a short debate where each political party gets two minutes to speak. Such a short debate is used to conclude a topic that members have previously debated in a committee. During the two-minute debate, members can submit motions. Submitting motions is not possible in committee meetings.
Votes
The House concludes the discussion of (draft) proposals with votes on motions or amendments, if they have been submitted. Therefore, there are many votes on the eve of recesses. On Thursday, July 3, there will be two votes: around 1:30 PM on all topics up to and including Wednesday, July 2 and at the end of the meeting, late in the evening, on the remaining topics.
Work Visits
The summer recess runs from Friday, July 4 to Monday, September 1. Members use the recess, in addition to vacation, to make work visits. During these work visits, members deepen their knowledge of the topics they are dealing with. This happens on an individual basis or in committee.
Live Follow
- Follow the debates and votes of Thursday, July 3 from 10:15 AM via the livestream and External link:Debate Direct. Via Debate Direct, the meetings can also be replayed.
- View the current meeting schedule.