Each year when Parliament opens it session for the first
time, an interesting and peculiar exchange occurs.
The King or Queen of England, whoever is the reigning
monarch goes to Westminster and addresses Parliament for the first day, a
tradition that goes back hundreds of years and plays out faithfully.
With this tradition that seems somewhat civil and almost
democratic in nature, there is a wrinkle that no one really knows about. It
seems that the Palace and Parliament didn’t always get along well together.
Seeping under the surface is some distrust and suspicion that made for some odd
and awkward accommodation.
Since the Palace feared for the safety of the Queen or King,
Parliament would have to send a member to the palace to wait for the monarch to
safely return to the palace after the opening speech! Yes, a hostage!
Parliament had to send a hostage to the palace until the Queen or King
returned!
That would be like sending John McCain to the White House
while the President gives his State of the Union Speech!
Civilized England, long live the Queen!
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