Appointment of Black Rod
Published
The Queen has been pleased to approve the appointment of Miss Sarah Clarke as Lady Usher of the Black Rod, Secretary to the Lord Great Chamberlain and Serjeant at Arms of the House of Lords.
Miss Clarke succeeds Lt Gen David Leakey, CMG CBE, who has served as Gentleman Usher of the Black Rod since 2011.
Background information
Black Rod carries out ceremonial duties for Parliament and has additional duties in the House of Lords. At the State Opening of Parliament, Black Rod is sent from the Lords Chamber to the Commons Chamber to summon MPs to hear The Queen's Speech.
Media queries concerning the appointment and role should be directed to the House of Lords Press Office on 020 7219 8550.
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