Black Rod, the crown and a hostage: the strangest traditions of the Queen’s Speech

Rituals surrounding State Opening of Parliament are among the most unusual UK customs

The Yeomen of the Guard
The Yeomen of the Guard parade through the Sovereign’s entrance ahead of the State Opening of Parliament today
(Image credit: Chris Jackson/Getty Images)

For the first time since 1963, Queen Elizabeth will not read the Queen’s Speech today.

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