Pomp and Circumstance

Monday saw the return of British parliament to the House of Commons for the first time since the General election. It's a ceremonial affair, steeped in tradition and theatre. Black Rod summons politicians to follow him from the chamber to the House of Lords in order to hear the Royal Commission open parliament and demand the election of a new Speaker for the House of Commons. Tradition demands that the newly elected Speaker, in this case the re-elected incumbent, John Bercow, is "dragged" to his seat. Watching the coverage, it became evident that this session, the coalition government will be a colourful one, with neck ties now a serious political communications tool. Note the blue (conservative) and yellow (Liberal Democrat) plus a particularly natty canary coloured waistcoat that resonates allegiance. It's the prelude to what promises to be a difficult period. Created by a breakaway from the Labour Party, the LibDems do not lean naturally to the right and many see this 'marriage' as somewhat Las Vegas. Surfing blogs later on, the pithy sixtysecondview shows a scene from Blackadder that, following the recent expenses claims scandal, see earlier post, will be seen by many as one that neatly sums up the timeless preoccupations and prerequisites of a politician. Lets hope the new government goes some way to dispelling this image. See below and enjoy