New appointment to the post of Black Rod
30 April 2009 (updated on 22 April 2010)
At the start of business today, Sir Freddie Viggers will formally succeed Sir Michael Willcocks as Gentleman Usher of the Black Rod in the House of Lords.
- Video & Audio: Lords Chamber - watch the Black Rod handover
- Parliament News: Appointment to the post of Black Rod
- About Parliament: Black Rod
- House of Lords: Guides to business
- FAQs: Who is Black Rod and what does he do?
Sir Michael Willcocks will enter the Lords Chamber as usual in the Lord Speaker's procession before the start of business at 11am.
After prayers, at about 11.05am, the Leader of the House of Lords, Baroness Royall of Blaisdon, will announce the appointment by the Queen of Lieutenant-General Sir Frederick Viggers KCB CMG MBE to be Gentleman Usher of the Black Rod, in succession to Sir Michael Willcocks KCB CVO.
Sir Michael Willcocks will leave his box, bow and leave the Lords Chamber. Sir Freddie Viggers will enter the Lords Chamber from Peers' Lobby, bow at the Bar and take his place in his box.
The Leader will then begin a series of tributes to Sir Michael Willcocks.
The post of Black Rod combines security responsibilities with Royal and ceremonial/events duties within the House of Lords.