The moment parliament was suspended for five weeks amid Brexit crisis.

[OnDoutside]

[Nictuku]

1. I wish I had a better understanding of how Parliament works

I can't quite figure out what happened there.

I guess that is what I get for growing up in Hawaii.... instead of Civics and Social Studies, I had a couple years of Hawaiiana. (very interesting topic, but I don't ever recall having how Parliament works explained)

[OnDoutside]

2. Here you go

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-politics-49647756

What is the role of Black Rod?

Black Rod is best known for the State Opening of Parliament, knocking on the door of the House of Commons to summon MPs for the Queen's Speech.

When Black Rod summons MPs to the House of Lords to hear the Queen's Speech, she (or he) has the door to the Commons slammed in her face, and has to knock three times to gain entry.

Black Rod is the Monarch's representative in the Lords and the routine is symbolic of the Commons' independence from the Crown.

As well as organising ceremonial events, Black Rod, who can earn up to £93,000 a year, manages a team of 30 staff involved in the day-to-day running of the House of Lords.

Why is Black Rod in the news?

#BlackRod began trending on some social media sites this week following her role in the prorogation of Parliament.

The prorogation ceremony began when Lady Usher of the Black Rod arrived in the Commons late on Monday to lead Speaker of the House John Bercow to the Lords.

But the ritual was interrupted by some MPs shouting "no" when she asked them to make the trip.

A group of opposition MPs then made their way to the Speaker's chair to protest against the prorogation.

What are the origins of Black Rod?

The earliest known reference to the role of Black Rod as the Usher to the Order of the Garter is in letters patent - a written order from a monarch granting an office, right or title to an individual - from 1361.

There are thought to have been 60 holders of the position since then.

The title "Black Rod" comes from the staff carried by the holder - it is made of ebony and is topped with a golden lion.

[Nictuku]

3. Thank you!!!