Former Governor of Gibraltar Ed Davis welcomed into House of Lords for first day as Black Rod

Former Governor of Gibraltar Ed Davis has been welcomed into the House of Lords for his first day in role of Black Rod. 

He takes over from Sarah Clarke, who retires after seven years as the first female Black Rod.

The Gentleman Usher of the Black Rod is responsible for controlling access to and maintaining order within the House and its precincts.

Leader of the House of Lords Baroness Smith of Basildon praised Sarah Clarke for her work and welcomed Ed Davis to the House.

The King appointed Ed Davis earlier this year. At the time, Mr Davis said he had no doubt that his association with Gibraltar greatly strengthened his candidacy for the appointment.