What is the State Opening of Parliament?
The State Opening of Parliament is a ceremony marking the start of a new session of the UK Parliament. The monarch travels to the Palace of Westminster and delivers the King's Speech, setting out the government's plans.
The ceremony usually takes place after a general election and at the start of each parliamentary session. It is one of the grandest events of the British political calendar.
The monarch travels in a state coach from Buckingham Palace, escorted by the Household Cavalry, and wears the Imperial State Crown and robes of state.
Ancient traditions
Before the ceremony, the Yeomen of the Guard search the cellars of Parliament, a tradition dating back to the Gunpowder Plot of 1605.
An official called Black Rod is sent to summon members of the House of Commons to the House of Lords. The door of the Commons is slammed in Black Rod's face to show the independence of the Commons. Black Rod knocks three times before members follow.
The King's Speech is written by the government, not the monarch. It lists the bills the government plans to introduce. A member of parliament is also held hostage at Buckingham Palace during the ceremony to ensure the monarch's safe return, a tradition from the time of Charles I.