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Our Associate Ben Taumoepeau worked hard during the recent UK election campaign and is now enjoying the pageantry and rich tradition that accompanies the start of a new government. Here's his report from London: Today, the King's Speech from the Throne took place, marking the formal opening of the parliamentary session in the United Kingdom and unveiling the new Labour Government's legislative agenda. It's an important day for Parliament, Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the new government. It’s an event steeped in tradition, with many interesting historical quirks and traditions: 🚪 Black Rod’s Summons: The Gentleman or Lady Usher of the Black Rod is sent to summon the House of Commons to the House of Lords. The doors of the House of Commons are slammed shut in Black Rod's face, symbolizing the independence of the Commons. 🚗 State Coach and Procession: The monarch travels to the Palace of Westminster in the State Coach, accompanied by a grand procession. 🎩 Cap of Maintenance and Sword of State: The Cap of Maintenance is carried by a senior peer and the Sword of State is carried before the monarch as they enter the House of Lords. 👑 Royal Robes and Crown: The monarch wears the Robes of State and the Imperial State Crown, which are brought to the House of Lords in separate carriages. 📜 Reading of the Speech: The monarch reads the speech prepared by the government, outlining its legislative agenda. 👥 Hostage MP: As a precaution dating back to the English Civil War, an MP is held "hostage" at Buckingham Palace to ensure the monarch's safe return. Labour MP, Samantha Dixon holds this role. 🚫 Absence of the Sovereign in the Commons: Since King Charles I attempted to arrest five members of Parliament in 1642, no monarch has entered the House of Commons. If you’d like to know more about what was set out in the King’s Speech and what this means for Government and Britain, please get in touch. #KingsSpeech #Parliament #UKTraditions #HistoricalQuirks #LegislativeAgenda #StateOpening

Tom Round

Lecturer at Southern Cross University

3mo

But does he persuade Colin Firth to swear, though?!

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