DUDLEY North MP Marco Longhi made history today when he became the first parliamentarian to ask a question via web link in the virtual Parliament.
The MP asked the first question in Wales Questions this morning via video conferencing app Zoom, as MPs alter the way they work in light of the lockdown.
His question to Simon Hart MP marked the first time a Parliamentarian has asked an official question virtually in Parliament's history.
The virtual Parliament allows MPs to ask questions and hold the government to account remotely to ensure social distancing rules are followed during the coronavirus lockdown.
Mr Longhi's history making virtual debut also coincides with his birthday.
What a way to mark my birthday! I thought I was making history by becoming the first ever Marco to sit in Parliament, as I mentioned in my maiden speech, but today marks a huge new development.
— Marco Longhi MP #StayHomeSaveLives (@marcolonghi4dn) April 22, 2020
Making history asking the first Q virtually in the chamber. pic.twitter.com/tM2XCwJ5Tb
Speaking before the question, Marco Longhi said: “I thought I was making history by becoming the first ever Marco to sit in Parliament, as mentioned in my maiden speech, but today marks a huge new development.
"I am very excited to be asking a question about strengthening the Union during Wales Questions this morning, virtually in the House of Commons Chamber. I’m hoping the technology all goes to plan.
"I’ll be celebrating this milestone this evening by tucking into some birthday cake with my family.”
Today will also see the first ever virtual Prime Minister's Questions take place, with new Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer expected to grill Dominic Raab over the government's handling of the coronavirus crisis.
MPs passed a motion on Tuesday to support Parliament functionally virtually from Wednesday so Commons and Lords debates can be held via video conferencing.
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