Black Rod

David Cannadine continues examining the origins, symbolism and contemporary significance of the objects and emblems that underpin the British constitution.

In episode 4, he’s looking at Black Rod, which is unusual among our ‘materials of state’ for being both a person and an object.

Black Rod refers to both a senior parliamentary officer and the physical ebony staff carried by that officer. The role dates back nearly 600 years to King Edward III and the founding of the Order of the Garter. By the 16th century, the role became a fixture at the Palace of Westminster, responsible for access, order and discipline, functions that continue today. David meets the newly appointed Gentleman Usher of the Black Rod, Ed Davis, and a former Black Rod, David Leakey, to discuss what the role entails.

The most public and iconic part of Black Rod's duties is during the State Opening of Parliament. Dressed in ceremonial costume, Black Rod is sent to summon MPs from the House of Commons to listen to the Monarch’s speech in the House of Lords, but the door is traditionally slammed in their face to symbolise the Commons' independence from the Crown. The officer then knocks three times with the base of the rod before being admitted. Despite objections to this pomp and ceremony from people like Dennis Skinner MP, David concludes the role and tradition of both the person, and the object, remains secure for now.

Contributors in order of appearance:
Ed Davis, Gentleman Usher of the Black Rod
David Leakey, former Gentleman Usher of the Black Rod
Eloise Donnelly, Curator of Historic Furniture and Decorative Art at the Houses of Parliament

Presented by Professor Sir David Cannadine
Series Producer: Melissa FitzGerald
Series Researcher: Martin Spychal
Sound Mixing: Tony Churnside

The series has been made in association with the History of Parliament Trust

A Zinc Audio production for BBC Radio 4