Here’s a brief update on the Usher of the Black Rod in the House of Lords.
- The current holder is Lieutenant-General Edward (Ed) Davis, who took office on 8 July 2025, succeeding Sarah Clarke. This makes him the first Royal Marine to hold the post.[3][4]
- The role includes ceremonial duties (notably at the State Opening of Parliament) and day-to-day supervision of the Lords’ operations, with responsibility for maintaining order and coordinating access within the Lords’ chamber and precincts.[2][4]
- Media coverage around mid-2025 highlighted Ed Davis’s appointment and described the traditional duties, including the iconic door-knocking ritual at the Commons during the State Opening.[1][2]
If you’d like, I can pull the most recent official statements from Parliament’s site or BBC coverage to confirm ongoing activity or any changes in personnel.
Sources
The Gentleman Usher of the Black Rod, generally shortened to just Black Rod, is an official in the parliaments of a number of Commonwealth countries. The position originates in the House of Lords of the British Parliament. His equivalent in the House of Commons is the Sergeant-at-Arms.
www.pepysdiary.comSarah Clarke - the first female Black Rod in role's 670-year history - will leave Parliament in the summer after almost eight years in post. ITV National News
www.itv.comBlack Rod plays a key role in the State Opening of Parliament, as well as other traditional events.
feeds.bbci.co.ukThe Coronation Roll His Majesty King Charles III, 6 May 2024
www.coronationroll.gov.ukHistory of Black Rod, the personal attendant of the crown in the House of Lords.
www.britannica.comKing Charles and Queen Camilla will attend the State Opening of Parliament today
www.gbnews.comThe usher of the Black Rod is an official in the parliaments of several countries of the Commonwealth of Nations. The title is often shortened to Black Rod, and...
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