![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
In case of emergency, implement procedure
Oct. 12th, 2004 09:49 pmAt the end of every day's session in the Lords, the speaker (i.e. whoever is perched on the Woolsack) puts the question to the House, that the House do now adjourn. They have a token straw poll, everyone murmurs yes, no-one says no, and they all shuffle off home.
But, thanks to Otis Ferry, that could all change.
If I hadn't done my security homework, that's exactly the kind of stuff I'd be coming out with as I vamped and blustered in the next lesson. "Strategies... er, will be activated... under relevant contingencies, sir." "Come on, boy, what kind of strategies?" "Er... you will be informed when appropriate as part of our procedures, sir."
The only concrete action they'll admit to is removing the burden from the Chairman of having to ask everyone if they all agree it's time to leave. Even then I revel in the thought of him trying valiantly to cry out "The House stands adjourned" as he's trampled underfoot by six hundred terrified peers. (And this lot trample slowly.) Perhaps it's constitutionally crucial that the House is officially adjourned, even in the face of an all-out assault—otherwise anythingthat was subsequently said in the Chamber might be legally binding.
Note, too, that the Chairman only has to "indicate" that the House is adjourned, presumably in the event of a gas attack or similar, in which case, as he collapses in a gurgling heap, he will still be able to draw proceedings to a close with a hand signal of his own devising.
But, thanks to Otis Ferry, that could all change.
ARRANGEMENTS IN THE EVENT OF EMERGENCIES IN THE CHAMBER
Following recent security incidents within the Palace of Westminster, I am writing to inform all Members of the arrangements which have been put in place in the event of such incidents occurring in the House of Lords.
Procedures have been developed to meet a range of contingencies. These will be activated as necessary and notified by announcements over the internal communication system. Appropriate instructions will be given to all Members and staff.
If an emergency arises when the House of Lords is sitting which requires the immediate evacuation of the Chamber, a member of the Government Front Bench will interrupt the business and advise Members to leave the Chamber following directions given by the Doorkeepers. The Lord on the Woolsack or the Chairman will then indicate (without putting the question) that "The House stands adjourned". Further announcements will be made over the internal communication system as required.
Brabazon of Tara
Chairman of Committees
11 October 2004
If I hadn't done my security homework, that's exactly the kind of stuff I'd be coming out with as I vamped and blustered in the next lesson. "Strategies... er, will be activated... under relevant contingencies, sir." "Come on, boy, what kind of strategies?" "Er... you will be informed when appropriate as part of our procedures, sir."
The only concrete action they'll admit to is removing the burden from the Chairman of having to ask everyone if they all agree it's time to leave. Even then I revel in the thought of him trying valiantly to cry out "The House stands adjourned" as he's trampled underfoot by six hundred terrified peers. (And this lot trample slowly.) Perhaps it's constitutionally crucial that the House is officially adjourned, even in the face of an all-out assault—otherwise anythingthat was subsequently said in the Chamber might be legally binding.
Note, too, that the Chairman only has to "indicate" that the House is adjourned, presumably in the event of a gas attack or similar, in which case, as he collapses in a gurgling heap, he will still be able to draw proceedings to a close with a hand signal of his own devising.
