davepickering

Intercontinental Edinburgh The George and Edinburgh College of Art unveil winning artwork in tribute to Susan Ferrier

InterContinental Edinburgh The George Hotel has unveiled a commissioned artwork in celebration of one of the city’s great literary figures, Susan Ferrier, on the bicentenary of her novel The Inheritance.

The initiative, in collaboration with Edinburgh College of Art (ECA), the University of Edinburgh has culminated in a beautiful piece that will be permanently displayed in the new Ferrier Suite at InterContinental Edinburgh The George Hotel.““

Following a competitive selection process involving numerous talented students from ECA, Ella Williams’ standout piece entitled ‘Studies from Ferrier’s The Inheritance’ was chosen as the winning entry. The piece stood out for its creativity, depth and heartfelt homage to Susan Ferrier’s ‘The Inheritance’ and its contribution to Scottish literature, 200 years after being first published.

The work by Ella Williams, a third-year Fine Art student, features a collection of smaller narrative paintings that portray key elements and scenes from the novel, focusing on Ferrier’s critique of marriage in the novel.

Her work laid bare the realities of the marriage market or the alternative of being an unwed women in 1824, the year of its publication.

The paintings also reference Ferrier’s connection to Edinburgh, specifically the InterContinental Edinburgh The George Hotel townhouse itself, where she once lived. The collected images seek to imply a narrative while remaining ambiguous to inspire curiosity amongst its audience about Ferrier’s work.

Williams’ intention was to illustrate the novel’s protagonist, Getrude St. Clair, and her journey largely through symbolism, representing the strong female character navigating the constraints of the period setting. Leaning into aspects of romantic imagery, Williams was intrigued by Ferrier’s use of the romance genre as a subversive means to comment on the position of women in society.

Williams explained: “Several of the paintings illustrate key settings within the novel, while others represent Gertrude’s journey of self-discovery in pursuit of a suitor that is her equal, symbolised by the clasping of hands and elements of romantic imagery such as roses.”

The figurative paintings are framed to exclude the faces of each subject, avoiding too literal an interpretation of the characters and allowing the viewers imagination to take precedence, deciding if Ferrier or Gertrude in the subject.

Williams continued: “I sought to nod to Ferrier’s residency in the building portraying elements of the hotel that would be recognisable to guests such as Ferrier looking out the window of the suite and a tea set that matches those available to guests.

“I’m delighted to have won this art project and can’t wait to see my piece displayed within the hotel and being enjoyed by visitors to the city.”

Jonathan Dawson, General Manager at InterContinental Edinburgh The George Hotel, said: “We are thrilled to showcase Ella Williams’ stunning piece within the hotel.

“Her work not only honours Susan Ferrier’s literary achievements but adds another piece to our already rich cultural heritage. This partnership with Edinburgh College of Art has been incredibly rewarding, and we looking forward to seeing how Ella’s work will inspire our guests.”

Susan Mowatt, Head of Art, Edinburgh College of Art, said: “Ella Williams’ artwork is a testament to the talent and creativity nurtured at our institution. We are proud to support initiatives that connect our students with the community and celebrate our city’s historical figures.”

As well as becoming part of the hotel’s heritage, Williams also received a purchase price of £3,500 for her artwork, an overnight stay in the Ferrier Suite and dinner in the hotel’s restaurant Le Petit Beefbar.

Artistic runners up from ECA include Chengyi Xu Xu and Amy Sema who each won an overnight stay and dinner in Le Petit Beefbar.

‘Studies from Ferrier’s The Inheritance’ will be displayed in InterContinental Edinburgh The George’s Club InterContinental lounge over the summer, before being put on permanent display in the hotel’s Ferrier Suite in celebration of the author’s unique connection to the hotel.

BBC ALBA celebrates 25 years of Skipinnish with a special broadcast of Edinburgh Castle concert

BBC ALBA is giving viewers the chance to relive a special concert celebrating 25 years of Skipinnish with the broadcast of Skipinnish Aig A’ Chaisteal.

As part of the summertime Castle Concerts series, Scotland’s celebrated Celtic rock band Skipinnish played a stunning set at Edinburgh Castle to celebrate their 25th anniversary. Supported by Scottish folk singer Karen Matheson OBE, and with guest appearances from long-time collaborator Rachel Walker, Runrig legend Malcolm Jones and The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Pipes and Drums, the open-air concert paid homage to the band’s journey, emerging from the heart of the Scottish Highlands and Islands to become a household name across the nation.

Recorded at Edinburgh Castle in front of thousands of fans, BBC ALBA is giving audiences across the country the chance to revel in the musical highlights of the momentous concert.

Viewers have the opportunity to watch the band perform some of their best loved songs, including fan favourites Walking on the Waves, Alive and The Island, just a week after the live event, on Friday (19 July.)

Angus MacPhail, founding band member said “This was the gig of a lifetime. The majestic setting, our friends and heroes Malcolm Jones, Karen Matheson and Donald Shaw joining us, the power and presence of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Pipes and Drums, the sheer number of our amazing fans and the sound of them cheering and singing – even the weather was on our side!

“Our families were there with us to celebrate and importantly it’s been captured for posterity by BBC ALBA.”

Calum McConnell, Commissioning Executive at BBC ALBA, said: “Being at Edinburgh Castle last Friday, basking in the glorious summer sunshine and witnessing an incredible musical performance from Skipinnish was a moment that will live long in the memory.

“Their longstanding success is testament to the growing popularity of Scottish traditional music. It’s great to be able to share such an iconic concert with BBC ALBA viewers – giving both those who were unable to be in attendance, and the fans who made their way to Scotland’s capital, a chance to relive a magical night.”

Alongside the music that made the band famous, an additional programme will broadcast on BBC ALBA later this year, featuring exclusive interviews with members and co-founders Angus MacPhail and Andrew Stevenson.

Don’t miss Skipinnish Aig A’ Chaisteal, premiering on BBC ALBA and BBC iPlayer on Friday 19 July at 9pm (in Gaelic with English subtitles). Watch live or on demand: BBC ALBA – Skipinnish Aig A’ Chaisteal

Forth Green Freeport appoints Chief Executive

Forth Green Freeport (FGF) has announced that it has appointed Sarah Murray as the first Chief Executive of the public/private consortium.

FGF officially opened for business last month (12 June) with a commitment to deliver an ambitious green growth strategy to re-industrialise Scotland, bringing economic and net zero benefits for the country as a whole and the local communities in Fife, Falkirk, Leith and beyond.

Sarah is a highly professional leader who brings to the role considerable relevant experience working with multiple layered organisations (public and private sector) developing skills and infrastructure that drive economic activity. She also has considerable stakeholder engagement experience and collaborative successes which are seen as being particularly relevant.

Sarah is currently the Director of Local London, a sub-regional economic growth partnership of nine London boroughs, and was previously Head of Regulation for the City of London Corporation (2016-2021).

Sarah spent 16 years working in Brussels in various senior roles, including leading the East of England Brussels Office, Lancashire Brussels Office and as Deputy Director at the Channel Islands Brussels Office. Sarah has also been an Executive Director of the Thames Estuary Growth Board (2021-2023) and has recently been included on the Net Zero 50 list for 2024.

Sarah was appointed following an exhaustive recruitment process led by independent recruitment specialists and involving a recruitment panel and a two stage interview process. She will take up her role as CEO on 27 August.

Welcoming Sarah to the role, Dame Susan Rice DBE, Chair of Forth Green Freeport, said: “The position of CEO of Forth Green Freeport is core to our success. We conducted a robust recruitment process to ensure that we got the right person for the job and we’re thrilled to have appointed Sarah.

“She brings with her a host of qualities and professional experience which are vital for the role as CEO of the Forth Green Freeport and we’re looking forward to working with her to deliver this exciting long-term programme for Scotland.”

Commenting on her appointment, Sarah Murray said: “This is an exciting opportunity for me personally and for Scotland to deliver significant economic and environmental benefits, both nationally and for local communities.

“Throughout my career I have gained a wealth of experience of working with multilayered partnerships and I understand the importance of good, transparent stakeholder engagement. I am looking forward to getting started in August and to begin building on the excellent start that the consortium has already made.”

The Forth Green Freeport officially “opened for business” on 12 June 2024 following approval from the Scottish and UK Governments of its Outline Business Case and the designation of its three tax sites, located in Grangemouth, Rosyth, Mid-Forth (Leith and Burntisland).

The public / private consortium will attract new businesses and new jobs into the FGF area, aided by a suite of financial incentives to deliver major economic and net zero benefits for Scotland as a whole and for the local communities in Fife, Falkirk, Leith and beyond.

Focusing on the key target sectors of offshore wind, hydrogen, sustainable fuels, modular manufacturing and logistics, FGF will support the re-industrialisation of Central Scotland and large-scale economic regeneration over the next decade.

The consortium is currently developing its Final Business Case which will be submitted to the Scottish and UK Governments later in the summer.

Young Brits warned of dangers of modern slavery abroad

Young people travelling to popular holiday destinations to work in bars and clubs have been given advice on the dangers of labour exploitation

Thousands of young people travelling to popular holiday destinations including Ibiza, Majorca and Menorca to work in bars and clubs have been given advice on the dangers of labour exploitation.

Border Force officers have been running Operation Karetu at 22 airports across the UK, targeting young people travelling to work in Mediterranean destinations who could be at risk of exploitation, criminality and illegal working.

The month long operation has so far seen officers engage with over 1,000 young Brits, providing them with leaflets and guidance on how to avoid the risks involved as unofficial public relations (PR) reps – work that involves touting people into clubs and bars.

Young holidaymakers who travel abroad every year to work in the hospitality industry risk being forced to work long hours for low wages. Risks include working illegally due to a lack of knowledge about EU employment regulations or being exploited by serious organised criminal gangs. 

Operation Karetu was initially launched in 2018 amid concerns over the welfare of young British nationals being exposed to different types of exploitation particularly labour and sexual exploitation. The Operation has had significant success and since 2022 there have been zero cases of labour exploitation reported to the British Consular in the Balearics.

However, many cases of Labour exploitation go undetected, and Border Force continue to run Operation Karetu every year as an important preventative operation to protect young people.

Home Office Minister, Seema Malhotra said: “Travelling abroad for a summer in the sun is an exciting prospect for thousands of young people across the country, but it’s important they’re able to do that safely.

“Operation Karetu is just one example of Border Force’s work to protect the British public, ensuring young people are kept safe from unscrupulous employers.”

This year’s operation was specifically targeting the Balearic Islands, which includes popular tourist destinations such as Ibiza, Majorca, and Menorca.

The operation began on 17 June and is running until 19 July this year, and is carried out in partnership with the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, the modern slavery charity, Unseen, and British embassies abroad.

Border Force carries out Operation Karetu annually as part of its Prevent and Protect strategies, to end involvement in exploitation and strengthen safeguards by protecting individuals, organisations and systems.    

Key advice from Border Force officers to people considering working abroad are:  

Working while a tourist in the EU is illegal. If you are not an EU national or legally resident in the EU, you need a job offer, work permit and visa. More information is available on Travelling to the EU and Schengen area – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).
Check you have a visa and a contract before starting your job.  
Ask about accommodation and find out the rent/costs. Do this before accepting accommodation as part of a job offer.  
Keep hold of your passport at all times. If it is taken, report it to police. You can contact the local British Consulate for help and advice. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.

The Border Force operation is supported by modern slavery charity Unseen, who operate the Modern Slavery Helpline. Anyone feeling vulnerable about their work or finances can contact the Modern Slavery Helpline, in confidence, on 08000 121 700. 

The operation is just one part of the work Border Force carries out to address modern slavery and trafficking. All front-line Border Force officers are trained to identify signs of modern slavery and make the necessary referrals. 

National RSV vaccination programme announced

The UK is the first country in the world to offer a national vaccination programme that uses the same vaccine to protect both infants and older adults from RSV
The vaccine will protect infants and older adults, easing winter pressures on the NHS
Eligible people urged to take up offer when rollout begins in September

The UK will become the first country in the world to have a national programme that uses the same vaccine to protect both newborns and older adults against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).

The rollout, which will start from 1 September in England, includes both a vaccine for pregnant women over 28 weeks to help protect their newborn babies, a routine programme for those over 75, and a one-off campaign for people aged 75 to 79.

These are the groups at the greatest risk from RSV, based on advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation.

Scotland will begin its rollout first, from 12 August, while Wales and Northern Ireland will also start their schemes in September.

Despite infecting around 90% of children within the first two years of life, RSV is relatively unknown among the public. It typically causes mild, cold-like symptoms. However, it can lead to severe lung infections like pneumonia and infant bronchiolitis and is a leading cause of infant mortality globally.

Each year in the UK, RSV accounts for around 30,000 hospitalisations in children aged under five and is responsible for 20 to 30 infant deaths. It also causes around 9,000 hospital admissions in those aged over 75. The RSV programme could free up thousands of hospital bed days and help to avoid hundreds of deaths each year.

Minister for Public Health and Prevention, Andrew Gwynne, said: “As someone who has seen the devastating effects of RSV firsthand. I am thrilled to see the UK leading in the way in tackling this devastating disease.

“My own grandson contracted RSV when he was just days old, leading to weeks in intensive care, and a lifelong impact on his health. I don’t want anyone to go through what he went through.

“Not only will this vaccine save lives and protect the most vulnerable, it will help ease pressure on our broken NHS, freeing up thousands of hospital beds as we head into winter.”

People aged 75-79 years old on 1 September 2024 will be invited to receive their RSV vaccination with their GP, and those turning 75 after this date will also receive an invitation from their GP once eligible.

Women that are at least 28 weeks pregnant should speak to their maternity service or GP surgery to get the vaccine to protect their baby.

These vaccination programmes will save lives and significantly reduce the burden on the NHS during the challenging winter months.

Steve Russell, NHS national director for vaccinations and screening, said: “RSV is a very serious illness, infecting up to 90% of children by the age of two and causing thousands of babies and older people to spend time in hospital over winter – so this rollout is a huge step forward and will undoubtedly save the lives of many of those most at risk.

“We strongly encourage those aged 75 to 79 to come forward for their vaccine when they are invited from September and for women who are 28 or more weeks pregnant to speak to their maternity service or GP surgery to ensure their baby is protected.”

Professor Jenny Harries, UKHSA Chief Executive, said: “This new vaccine offers huge opportunities to prevent severe illness in those most vulnerable to RSV, helping to protect lives and ease winter pressures for the NHS. UKHSA has provided critical scientific information to evidence the benefits of a national RSV immunisation programme and so the rollout of the vaccine is a truly positive moment for the public’s health.

“Having successfully procured an effective vaccine and designed a programme to protect both babies and older people, we are already working rapidly with our NHS and Local Authority colleagues to be ready to provide vaccinations from September – please do come forward if you are eligible.”

The vaccine has been developed and produced by Pfizer. The programme follows the advice from the independent Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) published in September 2023.

Over £22 million worth of drugs seized from Scotland’s streets this year

More than £22 million worth of drugs have been removed from Scotland’s streets so far this year.

This follows a number of significant seizures across the country.

In January, officers recovered cannabis valued at £3,600,000 in Greenock and £2,250,000 in Dundee.

Cannabis worth £1,700,000 was recovered in Falkirk in February, and £2,300,000 worth was located in Galashiels in March.

In Glasgow, cocaine worth £1,800,000 was seized in June.

There were also large recoveries in Ayrshire, Aberdeen, Dumfries and Galloway, Lothian and Borders, Fife and Lanarkshire.

Arrests have been made in connection with the majority and enquiries remain ongoing into the other cases.

Detective Chief Superintendent Dave Ferry said: “These seizures highlight our dedication to tackling drug crime in Scotland.

“Controlled substances are dangerous and cause real harm to individuals, families and communities. They are illegal for that very reason.

“Working closely with our partners, we remain focused on targeting individuals and organised crime groups, who selfishly exploit vulnerable people solely for their own financial gain.

“This shows our commitment to the Serious Organised Crime Taskforce and the country’s Serious Organised Crime Strategy.

“Results like these rely on the public and anyone with information or concerns about drugs should contact Police Scotland on 101 or make a call anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Building a sustainable future for Ferguson Marine

Business plan to improve productivity at the shipyard

Ministers have agreed to support new proposals aimed at enabling Ferguson Marine Port Glasgow (FMPG) to improve productivity and build a sustainable future.

As Glen Sannox and Glen Rosa approach completion, the Scottish Government has been working with the company on a long term business plan which positions the shipyard to bid for and secure new work.

Up to £14.2 million will be invested over two years subject to the plan passing detailed legal analysis and independent financial and commercial assessments, which should be complete by the Autumn.

Separately, talks are at final stages with BAE Systems about FMPG securing further work on the Type 26 Frigate programme.

Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes stressed that delivering productivity improvements and securing commercial contracts were vital components in ensuring the shipyard’s long term future.

Ms Forbes said: “Now that Glen Sannox is approaching handover, our focus is on the next phase for FMPG’s future. That requires change and investment to target new opportunities.

“The Board has developed a business plan that it believes has the potential to secure a competitive future. Subject to independent legal and commercial analysis, the Scottish Government will provide significant new funding to support the yard’s modernisation and improve productivity.

“Additional funding goes hand in hand with winning new commercial contracts, and it is extremely good news that talks with BAE Systems to secure further work have reached this advanced stage.

“Extensive analysis and legal advice confirm that a direct award of the small vessels phase one contract to FMPG introduces substantial risks and uncertainties for the shipyard and the communities which rely on the lifeline vessels, due to the strict conditions imposed by the UK Subsidy Control Act.

“Instead, we will do everything which is legally possible to support the yard and the workforce to secure a long-term future, which is why we have come to an agreement on initiatives and funding to improve productivity.

“When the Scottish Government stepped in to save FMPG in 2019 we did so to preserve jobs and develop the next generation of shipbuilders on the River Clyde. That commitment remains unwavering. The company will of course be able to consider a bid, either individually or in partnership with other yards, but its long term future depends on winning work on a competitive basis.”

A spokesperson for BAE Systems said: “BAE Systems has a good working relationship with Ferguson Marine, which is a key local supplier of structural steelwork and has built two units for the Type 26 programme.

“We are in advanced negotiations with the company regarding further strengthening our partnership, the placement of additional work subject to agreement of terms and its continued involvement in the programme.”

2024 Green Flag Awards revealed

EDINBURGH LEADS THE WAY IN SCOTLAND

Eighty green spaces across Scotland have been presented with a Green Flag Award – and 36 of them are in Edinburgh.

Recognising the very best of our country’s outdoor areas, the International Green Flag Award acts as a benchmark for clean, safe and well-maintained parks and green spaces.

The Green Flag Award supports the opportunities that our green spaces provide to enable exercise, improve mental wellbeing and provide safe spaces for play.

Winners of the 2024 awards include parks managed by local authorities, community groups, universities and other organisations.

Edinburgh leads the way this year with 36 winners while there are nine in Aberdeen, eight winners in Dundee and plenty more across the country.

This year’s winners list also includes an impressive number of historically consecutive winners including Barnhill Rock Garden, Harrison Park and Braidburn Valley Park (18 years) and Duthie Park (12 years).

Jamie Ormiston, Keep Scotland Beautiful’s Training and Accreditation Coordinator, said: “Congratulations to all of our winners across Scotland. Receiving this prestigious award recognises all the hard work that has gone into maintaining and managing these precious green open spaces.

“What is most pleasing is the number of consecutive winners we have once again, showcasing the parks’ longevity and desire to continually be a welcoming and environmentally friendly place for all.

“Scotland is facing a biodiversity crisis, but these green spaces provide a space for everyone to reconnect with nature and I encourage everyone to do just that this summer.

“Green spaces are so important for our physical and mental wellbeing and it’s fantastic to see such a wide range of parks and green spaces across the entire length of the country.”

A total of 80 green spaces in Scotland have won a Green Flag Award for 2024. Across the UK there were 2,228 winners, a record number and up 11 from 2023’s total of 2,216.

Find a winning green space to visit now.

Granton Gasholder Park: Public Art Design Exhibition

THURSDAY 18th – SATURDAY 20th JULY

Everyone is welcome to visit the Granton Gasholder Park public art design exhibition opening this Thursday 18th July 9am at Granton Station.

Running until Saturday 20th July 3pm.

On view will be proposal from the six shortlisted artists and artist teams who have been developing ideas alongside the local community in Granton for this permanent art installation opportunity.

Only one artist proposal will go forward. Come along to see all the options available. To be decided by selection panel only.

Free, Granton Station Building.

King’s Speech to unlock growth and “take the brakes off Britain”

Improving living standards for working people through economic growth will be the central focus of new laws set to be unveiled by His Majesty The King today

King’s Speech set to unveil a raft of bills to unlock growth and improve living standards for working people
Ambitious legislative agenda will drive forward delivery of the government’s first steps and missions to rebuild Britain
New laws deliver manifesto commitments to provide better transport, more jobs and turbocharge building of houses and infrastructure

Improving living standards for working people through economic growth will be the central focus of new laws set to be unveiled by His Majesty The King today [Wednesday 17 July].

In the first State Opening of Parliament under this government, The King’s Speech is expected to unveil over 35 bills and draft bills which will support delivery of the government’s first steps and missions to rebuild Britain.

The package of bills will focus on growing the economy through better transport, more jobs and turbocharging building of houses and infrastructure – helping to make every part of the country better off.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “Now is the time to take the brakes off Britain. For too long people have been held back, their paths determined by where they came from – not their talents and hard work.

“I am determined to create wealth for people up and down the country. It is the only way our country can progress, and my government is focussed on supporting that aspiration.

“Today’s new laws will take back control and lay the foundations of real change that this country is crying out for, creating wealth in every community and making people better off – supporting their ambitions, hopes and dreams.”

Transport

New legislation will be introduced to create a simplified rail system by bringing rail services into public ownership once their contracts expire or if operators fail to deliver on their commitments. This approach will avoid the burden falling on taxpayers to cough up for compensation to operators for taking services into public ownership.

Transferring operations to the public sector will save the taxpayer millions of pounds currently paid out in fees to private operators each year. It will end the fragmentation of our railways, establishing a more efficient and reliable rail service for passengers – helping to get people to work on time and boosting productivity.

The government will also introduce legislation to establish a new public body, Great British Railways (GBR) which will be focused on improving services and creating better value for money for passengers.

With Great British Railways, the fares and ticketing system will see simplified fares, discounts, and ticket types. Once established, the new body will also ensure that ticketing innovations like automatic compensation, digital pay-as-you-go and digital season ticketing are rolled out across the whole network.  

The King’s Speech is also expected to feature a Better Buses Bill to deliver the government’s manifesto commitment to reform the bus system by delivering new powers for local leaders to franchise local bus services and to lift the restriction on new publicly owned bus operators.

This will help bring an end to the postcode lottery of bus services and will give local communities throughout England the power to take back control of their bus services. It will mean local leaders can decide to introduce better bus networks, at pace, which reflect the needs of the local communities that rely on them.

Building

Getting Britain to build more housing and infrastructure, including through planning reform, will also be central to the Government’s plans to strengthen economic growth.

The Bill will speed up and streamline the planning process to build more homes of all tenures and accelerate the delivery of major infrastructure projects.

By enabling democratic engagement with how, not if, homes and infrastructure are built – the major brakes on the planning system will be addressed to support sustainable growth.

Empowering local communities

As part of the government’s plans to empower local leaders to deliver change for their communities, the King’s Speech is also expected to unveil the English Devolution Bill. This will deliver the Government’s manifesto commitment to transfer power into local communities and recognising the vital role local leaders play in supporting growth by establishing local growth plans that bring economic benefit to communities and households across the country.

The speech will build on the first fortnight of the government’s mission of national renewal.

From the launch of a National Wealth Fund to strengthen UK investment, to a new Mission Control tasked with turbocharging the UK to clean power by 2030, to opening the recruitment of a new Border Security Command, and the Deputy Prime Minister’s pledge to kickstart a new devolution revolution to transfer more powers out of Westminster and into the hands of local people – the Government is hitting the ground running and wasting no time in its work to change the country.

What is the King’s Speech and what does it mean for me?

All you need to know about the State Opening of Parliament

The King’s Speech is a speech written by the government and delivered by the Monarch at the State Opening of Parliament.

It marks the beginning of a new parliamentary year, or session, and is an opportunity for the government to set out its legislative agenda for the coming months.

In the speech, the government will typically set out bills which it intends to introduce to Parliament in the session ahead, as well as other policy priorities which do not require legislation.

When is the State Opening of Parliament?

The State Opening of Parliament takes place on the first day of a new parliamentary session.

Each parliamentary session begins with the State Opening of Parliament and runs for around 12 months.

Sessions are not a specified length, but there are normally five sessions in each Parliament. This means there are typically five sessions between each general election. A new parliamentary session will begin after every general election.

When a parliamentary session comes to an end the House is prorogued, which means the parliamentary year has formally ended until the next State Opening of Parliament.

What happens during the State Opening of Parliament?

The State Opening of Parliament begins with the Monarch’s procession from Buckingham Palace to Westminster.

The Monarch arrives at the Sovereign’s Entrance to Parliament and subsequently leads the Royal Procession to the chamber of the House of Lords.

A senior officer in the House of Lords known as Black Rod will then summon members of the House of Commons into the Lord’s Chamber to listen to the speech.

Before entering the Commons chamber, the door is shut in Black Rod’s face and the official will strike the door three times before it is opened. This practice dates back to the Civil War and symbolises the Commons’ independence from the monarchy.

When the Monarch leaves the chamber, a new parliamentary session begins.

Members of both the House of Commons and House of Lords will then debate the content of the speech for a number of days before the speech is voted on.

Did you know?

Traditions around the Monarch’s speech and the State Opening of Parliament can be traced back to the 16th century.

Before the Monarch arrives, the Yeomen of the Guard search the cellars of the Palace of Westminster for explosives to commemorate Guy Fawkes’s gunpowder plot of 1605.

The custom of Black Rod banging on the door of the Commons dates back to 1642, when Charles I tried to arrest five MPs, and symbolises the right of the Commons to exclude royal messengers.

The Imperial State Crown has 2,868 diamonds, 17 sapphires, 11 emeralds, 269 pearls, and 4 rubies.