Gentleman usher of the black rod

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an usher belonging to the Order of the Garter, whose chief duty is to serve as official messenger of the House of Lords.

See also: Gentleman

References in periodicals archive ?

While The Queen sat on the throne in the House of Lords, the Gentleman Usher of the Black Rod summoned the House of Commons.

ASCEND HER VICTORIOUS; QUEEN'S SPEECH: FROM JAIL REFORMS TO... SPACEPORTS; Her Maj uses Westminster lift for first time in 64 years because of dodgy knees

He retired from the RAF in 1984 and, the following year, was appointed Gentleman Usher of the Black Rod and Secretary to the Lord Great Chamberlain, staying in these positions for the next seven years.

OBITUARY; Air Chief Marshal Sir John Gingell

Hence his quip at the Gentleman Usher of the Black Rod, otherwise known as the Sovereign's messenger boy, as this mighty official was summoning MPs to go to the House of Lords to hear the Queen deliver the so-called Gracious Speech during the Opening of Parliament ceremonies.