Diolch, Llywydd. I move the motion to amend the Standing Orders on political groups. After much discussion and debate, this amendment seeks to make clear not only the threshold for the formation of groups, but also the underlying principles. It sets out that a political group is a group of at least three Members belonging to the same registered political party that won at least one seat at the previous Senedd election—or, three or more Members not satisfying those criteria who have notified the Presiding Officer of their wish to be regarded as a political group and satisfied the Presiding Officer that exceptional circumstances apply. At their core, what these changes seek to uphold are the principles of democratic accountability and stability in our Senedd, which are critical to the way our institution is perceived and operates. The changes do not prevent new groups being formed, but they do offer a more robust system of checks and balances. 

Being recognised as a group brings significant privileges, and in the interests of the integrity of this institution, it is only right that there are at least some minimum tests in place. If this motion is agreed, the Presiding Officer must issue guidance to Members under Standing Order 6.17 on the interpretation and application of Standing Order 1.3(ii).