Having previously posted a picture of my desk in the Lords, I thought it may be helpful to give a view of the office as a whole. Here is an action shot, showing three of my colleagues at work. From the left: Baroness Fookes, Baroness O’Cathain and Baroness Knight. Not all colleagues were in that morning: Baroness Miller of Hendon, for example, whose desk is next to that of Baroness O’Cathain. All four Baronesses are among the regular attenders in the House. Shortly after the picture was taken, Baroness O’Cathain left to undertake election observation in Azerbaijan.
Rooms are allocated according to party (or cross-bench) grouping, so this is a Conservative room. My desk is in front of Baroness Knight’s. Baroness Knight appears to be in the shade because the light above my desk was on the blink. Let’s just say that getting it replaced involved an element of bureaucracy. We were told it would necessitate the use of scaffolding!
It’s an excellent working environment and invaluable for sharing political intelligence. Of offices overlooking Old Palace Yard, it is among the last for the lights to go off in an evening.
I am delighted that Lord Norton is able to share a room with three very wise and kind Ladies. May I also wish Baroness Trumpington a very happy birthday and we all hope to see her in the house for many years to come!
May I echo Tory Boy’s comments about these ladies? They are three of my favourite peers and this photograph is going to be printed out and put on my desk to brighten future days in the office.
May I also echo the birthday greetings to Baroness Trumpington, a truly magnificent member of the Upper House? Here’s to many more years of her stimulating contributions!
Howridiculous.
I bet they make you go on the ‘tea-run’ all the time, Lord Norton !
Or do you still have that Great British institution, the tea-trolley?
Bedd Gelert: Neither. I fear we have to go some distance to get a cup of tea. It is rare for anyone to bring a hot drink in. I have done it occasionally, but the normal practice is to go to one of our dining outlets for a cup – or, in my case, pot – of tea.
This photo turned some familiar names into real people for me – you should post some more!
What admirable quiet industry & dedication in the face of amazingly cramped offices (given their responsibilities). I’m impressed & heartened. 🙂
Michael Kruger: Thanks for the encouraging response. I will certainly try to do some more shots to illustrate life in the House.