State & Ceremonial

Former Conservative Party Leader Iain Duncan Smith, singer & actress Olivia Newton-John and film director Sam Mendes are among those being recognised by The Queen in the 2020 New Year Honours list. Sir Iain Duncan Smith is being knighted for political and public service. The 65-year-old has been the Member of Parliament for Chingford since 1992 and has held many Cabinet positions, most…

The Queen has once again taken a Conservative Member of Parliament as hostage at Buckingham Palace whilst she delivers her speech at the Palace of Westminster. Stuart Andrew, MP for Pudsey, is being ‘held captive’ at the Palace and will be released once the Monarch has been safely returned from the State Opening of Parliament. Mr Andrew arrived at Buckingham Palace before The Queen…

The Queen has approved the appointment of Sir Lindsay Hoyle as the 158th Speaker of the House of Commons following the retirement of John Bercow last week. Sir Lindsay was elected to the role on Monday evening after a series of votes by MPs, with Speaker Hoyle receiving 325 votes in the third ballot. Labour MP Chris Bryant finished in 2nd place having secured the backing of 213 MPs. Other…

People all over the world will be familiar with the Imperial State Crown and all that it represents. With almost 3,000 precious stones making up the headpiece, it is only seen at State Openings of Parliament and Coronations of the Monarch. But what about the other two items of royal insignia which are also only present at the most regal of events? The Great Sword of State and the Cap of…