Speaker News: Lookback at the week commencing 14 October 2024

Speaker in the Chair

On Monday 14 October, the Speaker started the week’s Chamber business with the Oral Questions to the Secretary of State for the Ministry of Defence.

Also on Monday, the Speaker made a statement in the Chamber about the death of former MP, former Leader of the SNP, Leader of the Alba Party and former First Minister for Scotland – Alex Salmond.

At midday on Wednesday 16 October, the Speaker chaired Prime Minister’s Questions in the Chamber of the House of Commons. This weekly session provides Members the opportunity to put questions directly to the Prime Minister and use this time to hold the government to account.

Beyond the Speaker’s Chair

As an international representative of the House, the Speaker hosted members of the Asian diplomatic community this week. Meetings such as this help facilitate an opportunity to work collaboratively on topics and challenges in the region – exchanging knowledge and strengthening bilateral parliamentary ties. The Speaker also held bilateral meetings with Kazakhstan’s Ambassador, HE Magzhan Ilyassov and the Bulgarian Ambassador, HE Tihomir Stoytchev to further develop inter-parliamentary ties.

The Human Trafficking Foundation hosted their Anti-Slavery Day Awards in Speaker’s House. The Speaker presented awards and spoke recognising the incredible work of organisations and individuals going above and beyond in the fight against Modern Slavery.

On Wednesday, the Speaker hosted a Black History Month Reception for Members, parliamentary staff and special guests in Speaker’s House. At the reception guests heard speeches from the Speaker of the House of Commons, Rt Hon Dianne Abbott MP and Hon. Josh Babarinde OBE MP. Attendees were able to experiences some of the best of British performing arts in the form of ‘Just My Imagination’ – the Temptations Tribute act.

This month offers an opportunity to unite in reflection but also to learn about the culture and history of those in the community, past and present.