New Parliament
4 July 2024
The new Parliament began on Tuesday 9 July as members of both Houses returned to Westminster following the general election.
Business began at 2.30pm when members of both Houses attended the Lords chamber to hear a Royal Commission from the King to hold the new Parliament.
The House of Commons elected a Speaker, while members of the Lords began to take an oath of allegiance or make a solemn affirmation to the Crown.
The State Opening of Parliament will take place on Wednesday 17 July. The King’s Speech, written by the government, will be read from the Throne in the House of Lords chamber. Members of both Houses then get straight down to work debating the contents of the speech over several days.
Catch up
Watch proceedings in either chamber of Parliament online:
- Watch the House of Commons.
- Watch the House of Lords.
Find out more
- Read about swearing in and oath taking.
- Find out more about the State Opening of Parliament.
