This morning the Queen came to the Palace of Westminster to open the new session. Her speech can be found at http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk_politics/7080881.stm. Once this had been delivered the House adjourned until 3.30pm.
The first business this afternoon was the introduction of the new Clerk of the Parliaments, Michael Pownall. Then, as tradition dictates - the Select Vestries Bill was given its first Reading. The Lord Speaker advised the House of the Queen's Speech. A motion for a humble address was moved by Baroness Corston and seconded by Lord Hart of Chilton. These speeches from Labour backbenchers were entertaining, and in Lord Hart's case - a very amusing and impressive maiden speech.
Lord Strathclyde moved the adjournment of the House for the day - and both he (Conservative) and Lord McNally (Liberal Democrat) gave their parties response to the Queen's speech. Baroness Ashton replied and gave the government's position on the legislative programme that had been announced.
The appointments of the Chairman [Lord Brabazon of Tara] and Principal Deputy Chairman of Committees were moved before the House adjourned at 4.40pm.
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I'm looking for scholarly material providing additional history about the Select Vestries Bill and the Outlaries bill. Am familiar with the House of Commons factsheets, but am looking for more. Do you have any suggestions?
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