The Storting resumed its core parliamentary activities after Easter, and has been dealing with regular political issues as well as matters relating to the coronavirus in the weeks since.

“The MPs are working virtually as normal, with sittings in the Chamber and committee meetings. We’ve also had our first online hearings,” President of the Storting Tone W. Trøen said last week.

 Infection control considerations mean that until further notice there will still only be 87 MPs in the Storting Chamber when sittings open and for votes.

 “These are unprecedented times, and the Presidium hasn’t yet made a final decision about when the last sitting will be before the summer recess. This will be finalized within the next few weeks. The Storting will be on standby this summer so that we will be able to deal with matters of importance for the coronavirus situation if and when necessary,” Trøen said.

The following measures will remain in place in the Storting until further notice: 

• Only 87 MPs are required to be present in the Storting Chamber when sittings open and for votes.
• As far as possible, committee meetings to be conducted by means of videoconferencing. 
• Hearings to also take place online, or by written submissions.
• International parliamentary work to be conducted digitally.
• All MPs are urged to severely restrict the number of visitors they receive to the Storting until the end of June.
• Access to the public gallery is for limited numbers only.
• The administration’s service provision is adjusted to the level of activity in the Storting.
• All hygiene measures to be continued.