On Tuesday, some parliamentarians may have been surprised when the Commons were summoned to the Lords not by Black Rod but by his deputy, the Yeoman Usher, Colonel E. Lloyd-Jukes. The reason was that Black Rod was taken seriously ill at the beginning of the week and his deputy had to stand in at the last minute. Given the ceremonial involved, which is quite detailed, he coped extremely well. Black Rod’s illness means that the Yeoman Usher will also have to take over for the State Opening of Parliament next week.
Black Rod, Lt-Gen. Sir Freddie Vickers, is a very popular officer of the House and his sudden illness came as a great shock to members and staff. Everyone hopes that he makes a speedy recovery.
The picture is of Sir Freddie’s predecessor, Lt-Gen. Sir Michael Willcocks, summoning the Commons.
Oh dear. I didn’t realise it was quite so serious.
I had a brief exchange with Sir Freddie last year, while you were collecting my Lords goodie bag, and he seemed a very nice chap indeed.
Hope Sir Freddie gets well soon.
Thanks for this note. I had wondered what had happened to the usual Black Rod. I thought there couldn’t be a new Black Rod as the incumbent only took over recently – I remember Dennis Skinner exclaiming, “It’s a new one!” at the last State Opening.
Jonathan: Not only is the current Black Rod relatively new, the Yeoman Usher is even newer, having been appointed only a few months ago. In the circumstances, he has coped extraordinarily well.
Lord Norton,
When is the last time Black Rod could not serve? Will The Yeoman Usher use the Black Rod of his superior Black Rod’s office to knock?
Frank W. Summers III: Good question. I have not yet been able to establish the last occasion when Black Road was unable to serve. Yes, the Yeoman Usher used the Black Rod to summon the Commons. The rod is made of ebony and so can absorb shock when banged forcefully against a door. When Sir Freddie Viggers spoke to my students last year, he demonstrated this by banging it against the committee room door. They were impressed.
I am interested to know what the ‘day’ job is of Black Rod and his deputy.
Before Speaker Martin resigned I had no idea what his job involved – and probably still don’t!
Thnak you.
ladytizzy: Black Rod is responsible for security, including admission to the Lords, and as such line manages the Doorkeepers, Attendants and security staff. He also has various ceremonial duties and is the representative of the Crown for those parts of the Palace that remain within the control of the sovereign (primarily the Royal Gallery and Westminster Hall). He also serves as secretary to the ancient order of Knights of the Garter.
I wish Lt-Gen. Sir Freddie Vickers a speedy recovery and I`m certain Colonel E. Lloyd-Jukes will do a fine job in his absence.
I hope everybody will enjoy this splendid
Spring day of 2010, new hope for everybody!
Commiserations to all central London Drivers;
get a push bike, folder best of all.
It is an amazing and honorable tradition. I’m proud to be a descendant of loyalists both in the New World and the Old World whenever I am researching the matter and come across unique traditions like the Black Rod and the Yeoman Usher. Hope all is well.
Please pass on my best wishes
Sir Freddie gave a talk to the Launceston U3A in February which everyone enjoyed and appreciated. I am sure all our members would wish him a speedy recovery.
He is such a charming man and has a delightful wife.
Sincere wishes
Rita Willing, Secretary to the Launceston and District U3A