Which official is responsible for security in the House of Commons?
Serjeant-at-Arms of the House of Commons (United Kingdom) traditionally the only person allowed to be armed (with sword or mace) inside the chamber of the House of Commons. Serjeant-at-Arms of the House of Commons (United Kingdom) The Serjeant at Arms of the British House of Commons is a parliamentary official responsible for order in the House of Commons. The office dates to 1415 and traditionally included responsibility for security. The role is now mainly ceremonial. The House of Lords also had a Serjeant-at-Arms (the title was often distinguished by the use of hyphens), dating also from the 15th Century. His duties were merged in 1971 with those of
House of Commons of the United Kingdom of Commons. Each year, the parliamentary session begins with the State Opening of Parliament, a ceremony in the Lords Chamber during which the Sovereign, in the presence of Members of both Houses, delivers an address outlining the Government's legislative agenda. The Gentleman Usher of the Black Rod (a Lords official) is responsible for summoning the Commons to the Lords Chamber. When he arrives to deliver his summons, the doors of the Commons Chamber are traditionally slammed shut in his face, symbolising the right of the Lower House to debate without interference. He then knocks on the door three times with