Greek Parliament approves “Time-cutting” system for speeches – What changes in the rules

The Greek Parliament has approved, by majority vote, the proposals of Parliament Speaker Nikitas Kaklamanis to amend several provisions of the Parliamentary Rules of Procedure.

How the Parties Voted

In principle: Yes – New Democracy (ND), PASOK; Present – SYRIZA, Greek Solution, Niki; No – KKE, New Left, Course of Freedom.

Article 1 (electronic monitoring of speech time): Yes – ND, PASOK, Niki; Present – SYRIZA, Greek Solution; No – KKE, New Left, Course of Freedom.

Article 2 (defining the time frame to raise objections of unconstitutionality): Yes – ND, PASOK, KKE, Greek Solution; Present – SYRIZA, Niki; No – New Left, Course of Freedom.

Article 3 (explicit ban on speaking under dual capacity): Yes – ND, PASOK, KKE, Greek Solution; Present – SYRIZA, Niki; No – New Left, Course of Freedom.

Kaklamanis Announces Broader Review of Parliamentary Rules

Speaker Nikitas Kaklamanis informed the plenary that a broader consultation on a more comprehensive revision of the Parliament’s Rules would take place next year.

Regarding the current amendments, he clarified that the 25% tolerance beyond the allotted speaking time would apply equally to all MPs, with exceptions only for rare debates such as budget discussions or votes of no confidence.

Key Changes Introduced

Under the newly adopted rules:

Electronic enforcement of speaking time:
Speech durations will now be monitored electronically and automatically through a dedicated application. Once a speaker’s allotted time expires, the system will automatically cut off the microphone.

Limit on interventions:

Ministers and parliamentary group leaders may take the floor up to three times in addition to their allotted time.

Clarification on objections of unconstitutionality:

The reform defines the exact time frame within which MPs may raise objections concerning the constitutionality of a bill, law proposal, or amendment during a unified debate (covering the principle, articles, and whole).

Ban on double capacity speeches:

No member may take the floor under dual capacity (e.g., both as MP and committee chair) during any parliamentary session.

The so-called “time-cutter” system aims to ensure discipline and equality in parliamentary debates, though opposition parties warned it could limit parliamentary expression and reduce flexibility in debate.