Pomp And Ceremony - The Queen’s Speech And The State Opening Of Parliament

The Queen travelled to Westminster this morning for the State Opening of Parliament - a 17th century tradition that sees Her Majesty set the government’s agenda for the coming year.

The Queen was carried down The Mall to the Houses of Parliament in a lavish carriage, surrounded by mounted cavalry.

She read out her Queen’s Speech - which is written for her by the government - outlining the key policies and pledges for the coming year.

Some bizarre 17th century traditions are still included in the ceremony. An MP is held prisoner for the duration, a ceremonial search of the cellars takes place and MPs can only enter when they have been summoned by a senior officer in the House of Lords known as Black Rod.