The Presiding Officer

The Rt Hon the Lord Elis-Thomas AM, Presiding Officer

The Presiding Officer, the Rt Hon the Lord Elis-Thomas PC AM, is appointed under Section 25 the Government of Wales Act 2006. His role is set out in detail in the Assembly’s Standing Orders.

Standing Order 2.15 states that:

The functions of the Presiding Officer are:

(i) to chair plenary meetings;

(ii) to determine questions as to the interpretation or application of Standing Orders; and

(iii) such other functions conferred by any enactment, by the Assembly or by these Standing Orders.

One of his most high profile duties is to chair Plenary meetings, ensuring that order is maintained at all times and that the rights of Assembly Members are protected, a role which is similar to the role of the Speaker in the House of Commons. He also represents the Assembly at many events and hosts visits to the Senedd, including Royal visitors, elected representatives from other parliaments and foreign dignitaries.

In accordance with Section 27 of the 2006 Act, the Presiding Officer also Chairs the Assembly Commission and in that role he has special responsibility for promoting democratic engagement, excellent leadership, developing the Assembly’s future legislative powers and external