The Chamber is the focal point for the Scottish Parliament’s business. It is where Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs) meet to debate topical issues and decide on new laws. It is also where MSPs question the First Minister, Cabinet Secretaries and Ministers on a regular basis, and where statements are made on policy developments and key events.
A parliamentary year normally runs from May to May. When Parliament is sitting, meetings of the full Parliament normally take place in the Chamber on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons and from 11.40am on Thursdays.
The first meeting of the fifth Session of the Scottish Parliament took place on Thursday 12 May 2016.