That hand-held electronic devices (not laptops) may be used in the Chamber, provided that they are silent, and used in a way that does not impair decorum; that Members making speeches in the Chamber or in committee may refer to electronic devices in place of paper speaking notes; and that electronic devices, including laptops, may be used silently in committee meetings, including select committees.
"The rules adopted in 2007 which allow MPs merely to keep up to date with emails whilst in the Chamber have been overtaken by developments in technology. New devices are much smaller and more discreet than in the past. The committee is persuaded that a Member should be allowed to use a device for any purpose for which paper communications are currently allowed.
We also recognise that that it is impractical to police activity on an electronic device and trust to the good sense of MPs to act in accordance with the central principle that devices must be used with discretion and with due regard to decorum. We know that we can count on the Chair to intervene if there is a serious breach of this rule."