Lord Speaker marks year end
23 December 2010 (updated on 23 December 2010)
‘As we come to the end of a busy year, I would like to send my best wishes to all Members of the House and particularly to those who have given such generous support to the House of Lords outreach programme during 2010.
The fourth annual House of Lords Chamber Event on 10 December saw 200 young people from state schools and colleges across England and Wales come together on the red benches to debate with knowledge and passion the future of the House of Lords – they did tremendously well and it was an inspiring afternoon. 2010 has also been an exceptionally busy year for my Peers in Schools programme - with over 540 requests received for this academic year and around 100 Members taking part. In 2011, we will continue our efforts to widen understanding of the House of Lords’ role and activities and engage public interest in the House’s work.
I suspect many of us are looking forward to a relaxing recess; not so Lord Forsyth of Drumlean, who on December 28 is setting off to climb Mount Vinson, the highest peak in Antarctica, in support of two charities – CINI and Marie Curie. He has so far raised the staggering sum of £330,000 and you can follow Lord Forsyth's progress on his demanding climb.
I look forward to seeing him, and all other Members, safely back in the House in January for what will, I am sure, be a demanding year in Parliament.’
Baroness Hayman, December 2010