A Reform UK politician thought to have used smart glasses to prompt him during a speech in the Senedd has led to a debate on the rules around their use.
Fellow politicians say they saw glimpses of light on Pontypridd Cynon Merthyr MS Jason O'Connell's glasses as he gave a speech in the chamber during a debate on 20mph.
How the glasses work
Several manufacturers make versions of smart glasses. Some include cameras to allow the wearer to film what they're seeing. Others allow hands-free calling or music. And several models allow text or map prompts to appear on the inside of the lens to prompt the user.
Footage of the debate on Senedd.tv shows flashes within Mr O'Connell's glasses during a debate in the main plenary session on Wednesday, September 30 when a Reform UK-led debate on the 20mph default speed limit was being discussed.
Reform UK's response
Mr O'Connell makes the whole speech opening the debate without notes and other politicians said he appeared to be using a teleprompter feature in the glasses to assist with his contribution.
Senedd Members are allowed to use notes on a laptop or on pieces of paper to prompt them during their speech.
Reform UK was asked if guidance had been sought ahead of their use by the Pontypridd Cynon Merthyr Senedd member.
A spokesman said: "There's nothing unusual about seeing parliamentarians reading speeches from tablets or phones. This is likely the next step in that journey".
The party would not confirm which make or model Mr O'Connell's glasses were but said they did not have a camera. The glasses he was wearing appear to resemble those made by a company called MemoMind which retail for $399 (£300) and which boast of showing "immersive yet subtle AR information that keeps useful details in your view."
Senedd's stance
A Senedd spokesperson said: "The Llywydd would expect any member intending to use this type of technology in the chamber to discuss it with him first".
In relation to smart glasses being used to film on the Senedd estate, the spokesperson said: "There are strict rules in place around filming in non-public spaces on the estate, and permission to do so must be sought in advance from the Llywydd."
"We are always open to discussions with members about any concerns they may have and on ways we can improve security," the spokesperson said.
