At the southern end of the Lords' chamber, facing the
Strangers Gallery, is its most striking feature: the Throne.
Like virtually every decorative detail of the chamber,
the Throne was designed by Augustus Pugin. It is used
only at the State Opening of Parliament - when the
surrounding brass rail is removed to allow the Queen
access to read the Gracious Speech, which sets out
forthcoming government legislation.
The Canopy above the Throne represents the Cloth of Estate -
to which lords bow on entering. When the House is sitting, certain distinguished persons - including the eldest sons of peers, bishops who are not members of the House, and the Queen's Privy Councillors - are allowed to sit on the steps of the Throne.
