Smart glasses can be used for speeches in the Senedd, presiding officer says

Smart glasses can be used in the Senedd's debating chamber, the parliament's presiding officer has ruled, after a Reform member prompted debate by using them to make a speech.

Huw Irranca-Davies, who maintains order in the Welsh Parliament as its Speaker, said the devices could be used as a "teleprompter" provided he was given advanced notice.

Reform Senedd member Jason O'Connell said he was pleased that the Senedd was "forward looking" in allowing the technology.

A wider review at the parliament will continue into the wider use of the glasses at the parliament.

In a letter to committee chairs, Irranca-Davies - who goes by the title of Llywydd - said his ruling "was made on the basis that the glasses are used solely to assist the delivery of speeches".

"The existing restrictions on filming and recording continue to apply," he said.

Irranca-Davies said it was up to committee chairs whether the glasses were used in their own hearings.

He added: "The wider use of smart glasses and developing technology across the Senedd estate is being considered further. Guidance for committees and witnesses will be updated in light of this work."

O'Connell, who represents Pontypridd Cynon Merthyr, previously told BBC Wales that he had used smart glasses with an in-built autocue feature - but without a camera - to help him make speeches in the Senedd.

He said he had started using them to improve his oratory skills, and to avoid looking down at his notes.

On Thursday he said: "I'm really pleased the Llywydd and the Senedd commission have been really forward looking in their adaptation of new technology in the chamber."

He said that Members of the Senedd (MSs) that want them should "go buy a pair".

"They're paid very well already. And they need to use that salary to go and invest in whatever technology they need to be able to use their jobs."

Jane Dodds, the Welsh Liberal Democrat Senedd member, had called for a ban until new rules were in place, and that MSs should have equal access to the technology.