HOUSE OF LORDS - United Kingdom Parliament

Summoning the Commons
The presiding Commissioner commands the Gentleman Usher of the
Black Rod:
“Let the Commons know that the Lords Commissioners desire their
immediate attendance in this House [to hear the Commission read 1 ].”
Black Rod summons the Commons.
The Commons proceed from their Chamber and advance to the Bar
of the House of Lords, bowing three times, the first time at the step, the
second time midway between the step and the Bar, the third time at the
Bar. Each bow is acknowledged by the Lords Commissioners. Male
Commissioners raise their hats; women Commissioners do not.
Reading the Commission
The Commission is read by the Reading Clerk at the Table. He bows to
each Lord Commissioner as he is named, and the Commissioner
responds by raising his hat. Women Commissioners keep their hats on.
Departure of the Commons
The Commons withdraw, with three bows which are acknowledged as
on their arrival.
Departure of Commissioners
The Commissioners, led by the presiding Commissioner, leave the
Chamber by the door on the spiritual side near the Throne, and disrobe.
1 These words are added on the first day of a new Parliament, or if Parliament is to be
prorogued.
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