Business as usual for both Houses

BOTH THE House of Commons and Lords will sit at their usual times the day after the assault at the Palace of Westminster, parliamentary authorities have announced.

Proceedings in the Commons were suspended yesterday as the drama unfolded outside and the House of Lords – which had been due to convene around 15 minutes later – did not sit at all.

An immediate return to normal sitting hours is likely to be seen as a sign of determination that the United Kingdom’s democratic processes will not be disrupted by what is believed to be a terrorist attack.

The Commons will sit at 9.30am for questions to International Trade Secretary Liam Fox and a statement from Leader of the House David Lidington, before debates on compensation for Equitable Life policy-holders, social mobility and an incinerator in the Hertfordshire village of Hoddesdon.

The Lords will convene at 11am for oral questions on nursery care, support for young carers, premium bonds and famine in Africa before debate on homelessness, science and Brexit.