Black Rod is actually a person who performs an important function in Parliament and will be seen in today's ceremony as the Government's plans are announced in the King's Speech
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Copyright House of Lords 2019 / Photography by Roger Harris
The Lady Usher of the Black Rod is a Royal Household member. She is appointed by the Crown by Letters Patent under the Great Seal of the Order of the Garter.
Black Rod, as she is known, is the Chief Lady Usher to the Sovereign and an officer of the Order of the Garter.
The primary duties take place at the Palace of Westminster where she is Serjeant at Arms in attendance upon the Lord Chancellor. She is accountable for discipline and security in the House of Lords.
Black Rod also executes ceremonial and other duties, and in 1971, the offices of Black Rod and Serjeant at Arms were merged.